The Gainsborough Hotel & Spa, Bath

Tucked down a quiet side street just off the main shopping drag means it's the perfect retreat for combining pampering with retail therapy. The hotel neighbours Britain's only natural thermal spa, while the original historic Roman Baths are two minutes' walk away, and the hotel's location means it can tap straight into the hot, mineral springs.

By car: the hotel is just 40 mins from Bristol, 2 hours from Southampton or Coventry, and 3 hours from London. There is some valet parking avaliable for a fee.

By train: Bath Spa station is a 5-minute walk away, serviced by trains from London Paddington (1 hour 30 mins), Portsmouth Harbour (2 hours 15 mins) and Cardiff Central (1 hour). Book trains to Bath Spa.

The contemporary interior design complements the Georgian-era building and its Roman history. A modern chandelier hangs down five floors in the lobby, magnifying its high ceiling. The spa mixes Roman columns and a mosaic with a glass roof, while a Georgian-style colour palette of blues and greys adorn the bedrooms.

The classic hospitality starts at the front entrance where guests are met by the concierge. Inside, you feel the refined sense of calm envelop you as you enter the light marble-filled lobby. The friendly staff provide first-class service throughout, from the tea room through to the cocktail bar and restaurant.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Spa & wellness centre
• Fitness centre
• Family rooms
• Parking
• Free Wi-Fi

A muted blue or grey colour palette provides a backdrop to the neo-Georgian furnishings. Modern accessories match the surroundings with Roberts Bluetooth radios and underfloor heating in the bathrooms. Deluxe rooms are more compact, while classic rooms and suites enjoy the high ceilings and tall windows of the original building.

Room types: Deluxe, Executive, Courtyard & Bath Spa rooms, Junior, Gainsborough, Two-Bedroom and Bath Spa suites, The Townhouse

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom, TV, tea and coffee-making facilites

The hotel's buzzy city restaurant is headed up by chef Dan Moon, who creates an innovative menu of modern fine-dining dishes topped with Asian flourishes. You can relax with afternoon tea and champagnes in the Canvas Room, while the cosy bar with a mixologist overlooks the spa pool.

Dan Moon at the Gainsborough Restaurant: Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Two courses for £52 or three for £62.

The Canvas Room: Relaxed, elegant. Afternoon teas serves 3pm - 5.30pm.