Bingham Riverhouse, Richmond, London

The hotel is on the banks of the River Thames between Richmond and Petersham. Walk along the riverfront to find some lovely pubs, bars, restaurants and cafés. While Richmond Park is on your doorstep, boat trips to Hampton Court and Kew Gardens are possible.

Although Richmond train station is only 20 minutes from Waterloo, you're well away from the hustle and bustle here.

By car: over 4 hours from Manchester and 2 hours 30 minutes from Bristol. On-site parking costs £18 per day.

By train: Richmond station is a 15-minute walk away. Book trains to Richmond.

Made up of two Georgian townhouses, this boutique hotel has great style - from the marble-topped tables, subdued greens and a flash or two of gold in the inviting restaurant, to the fabulous artworks, glowing open fire and antique baby grand in the high-ceilinged lounge-bar. Guest rooms display a similar panache.

Service is friendly and efficient. The focus here is on good food, rather than lots of facilities - but as well as the restaurant and bar, there's a good-sized garden. At a nearby wellness centre, a sister company offers complimentary access to yoga and fitness classes. Bikes can be hired, and boat trips and horse riding can also be arranged.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Terrace
• Free bicycles
• Pet-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi

Characterful rooms are spacious, with comfortable beds, a desk area, a sofa and easy chairs. Some rooms have fireplaces and balconies. Rooms are pleasingly decorated, with earthy light grey walls and curtains, light hardwood floors, and splashes of purple and maroon.

Room types: Cosy, Double, Large Double, River, Large River, Best River

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with monsoon showers, tea and coffee-making facilities, radio, flat screen TV, mini-bar, free Wi-Fi

Overlooking the river, the restaurant is decked out in restful shades of green, with expensive contemporary art (for sale) on the walls. Serving Modern British cuisine and helmed by MasterChef: The Professionals winner Steven Edwards, the dishes are complex and original. The quail with burnt apple, swede, bacon and sherry vinegar is delicious.

Steven Edwards at Riverhouse: elegant dining room, local produce. Open daily for lunch, Mon-Sat for dinner. Tasting menus from £40.