Fodor's Expert Review No. 1 York

Built in the early 19th century, this elegant yet comfortable boutique hotel in a Regency townhouse brings a fresh, unfussy take on traditional country house style. The tasteful bedrooms are light and bright, with quirky touches like tea and coffee stations disguised as dollhouses and vinyl turntables (there's a free record lending library). Some have fireplaces and four-poster beds. There are complementary pantries in each hall while the excellent all-day restaurant emphasizes locally sourced ingredients. Dogs are welcome and there's a cozy spa in what was the cellar.