Albion House, Ramsgate, Kent

From its lofty perch on East Cliff, Albion House (and all but two of its bedrooms) delivers sweeping views of Ramsgate's Royal Harbour, East Pier and beaches, all of which are within five minutes' walk. For longer outings, you can walk 40 minutes along the coast to Broadstairs or hop on a train to Margate (ten minutes). Visit Peter's Fish Factory on Harbour Parade, the go-to address for fish & chips.

By car: Albion House is an hour and 40 minutes by car from London (42 miles) and just under two hours from Brighton (67 miles). Paid and free parking available nearby.

By train: Kings Cross St Pancras to Ramsgate takes an hour and 15 mins. London Victoria and Charing Cross services are also available. The hotel is a £12 taxi or a 20-minute walk from the station. Book trains to Ramsgate.

Dating to 1791 and awash with original Georgian and Regency features, Albion House has served alternately as a gentleman's club, recuperative residence for Princess Victoria, boarding house and council offices. The Irvines have harnessed this rich heritage and brought the property bang up to design speed with vivid heritage paint colours, contemporary lighting and bold textiles.

The Irvines are very much hands-on, leading the way by example with their informal yet enthusiastic approach. The property feels more like a lively restaurant and bar with rooms than a hotel, lending it a refreshingly casual feel. On-street parking is free but limited - grab 24-hour parking vouchers (£3) from reception if needed.

• Townley's restaurant
• Townley's Bar
• Little Dining Rooms
• Royal Harbour views
• On-street parking
• Free Wi-Fi

All but two rooms offer sea views, many with original wrought-iron balconies. Whether you splurge on the suite, complete with wraparound balcony and gas fire, or stay in Little Victoria's room - where Princess Victoria convalesced in 1835 - you'll enjoy comfy organic beds and smart marble bathrooms.

Room types: Cosy Suites, Queen Rooms, King Rooms and Super Kings

Key amenities: en-suite bathroom with bath or shower, hairdryer and bathrobes, TV, seating area, desk, ironing facilities, free Wi-Fi

Townley's restaurant and bar is the epicentre of Albion House, with its virtually all-day dining making it a local's favourite. Menus change seasonally and champion local produce with crowd-pleasing favourites like pork belly with mash and gravy, chicken Kiev and half a kilo of mussels.

Townleys at Albion House: Seasonal produce and seafood dishes. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner. Mains from £12.95 to £24.