The 10 best super B&Bs

No 1 Sallyport, Berwick-upon-Tweed

Old meets new at 1 Sallyport, a pretty 17th-century townhouse with six stylish suites. All are decorated with great attention to detail and have Bose stereos, Crabtree & Evelyn toiletries and fresh flowers. The town centre has 260 listed buildings, while nearby Bamburgh Beach is one of Britain's best. There are scenic hikes on St Abbs cliff top, and Harry Potter fans will love Alnwick Castle and Gardens - Hogwarts School in the films. Lindisfarne Island is also nearby.

The owner: Elizabeth Middlemiss oversees all the interior decoration and is a mine of local knowledge for visitors.

What makes it so special? It's the ultimate boutique B&B and perfect for a romantic retreat. Most of the rooms have access to a kitchen, where you can make tea and coffee and munch on homemade shortbread.

Where to eat: A new dining room offers a daily changing menu featuring the finest local produce, for £39.50 per person.

Cost: Rooms from £110 per night; ask about children's rates). Visit www.sallyport.co.uk; call 01289 308827.