Hotel Du Vin, Exeter, Devon

It's fun to hire bikes and cycle the towpath from the quayside to the Turf Lock - a fabulous pub overlooking the Exe estuary with ample outdoor seating and delicious local food.

By car: Exeter is around 4 hours' drive from London, under 2 hours from Brighton and 1 hour from Plymouth. There is on-site parking for £15 per day.
By train: Exeter St David's is a 25-minute walk or short taxi ride from the hotel, reached in around 3 hours from London Waterloo, 1 hour from Bristol, and 3 hours 30 mins from Penzance. thetrainline.com

Perfect for city explorers, and anyone looking for a comfortable hideaway from which to discover historic Exeter and south Devon. The walled garden with its circular lawn and terrace offers a quiet oasis in the bustling city - perfect to soak up the sun with an ice-cold beverage.

We can't think of a better way to spend the day than relaxing in the neat indoor-outdoor heated pool, tucked away from the humdrum of the city.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Swimming pool
• Gym
• Library
• Garden
• Pet-friendly
• Parking at £15 per day
• Free Wi-Fi

Pet-friendly: wide selection of dog-friendly bedrooms, with bowl and blanket. Dogs are welcome in the bar area, where they'll find tasty treats on arrival. Maps are supplied with highlighted dog-walking spots in the area.

The spacious upper-floor Deluxe is the room for us - with its expansive city views towards the surrounding countryside, and luxurious stand-alone bath. The contemporary white-tiled bathroom with its double sink and stand-alone bath offers a luxurious element to the space.

Single, Cosy, Classic, Deluxe rooms, Junior Suite
Facilities include: ensuite bathroom, luxury toiletries, TV, free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee facilities

The herb-crusted cod with Brussels sprouts, confit potato écrasée and sun-blush tomato chutney was hearty and wholesome, followed by fresh, floral raspberry and elderflower trifle. We can't resist an indulgent afternoon tea - the perfect combination of sweet and savoury, washed down with a glass of champagne.

Bistro: classic French bistro menu. Open daily for breakfast and dinner. Mains from £7.95.
Bar: cocktails, bar food and (of course) wine. Open daily 12-11pm. Plates from £7.95.