Driving through Lavenham, The Swan is unmissable. The hotel fronts the village's main street and comprises three medieval-style houses, the oldest dating back to the late 14th Century.

I arrived on a particularly blustery snowy night but stepping into the hotel was an instantly warming experience. The Swan's low ceilings and cosy nooks and crannies, reminiscent of the original building, along with a roaring fire gave the place an overwhelming feeling of cosiness.

Like Lavenham itself, the hotel is steeped in history and is known for its place in the early wool trade and later aviation. The hub of the hotel is its historic Old Bar, which was once the documented haunt of British and American servicemen stationed in Lavenham during World War Two. Memorabilia from the era remains scattered around the building adding to its historic charm.

The rooms: The Swan has 46 rooms, and I finally arrived at mine after what seemed like an epic journey through a maze of snaking corridors and doorways - characteristics of the original structures. As the porter left, I wondered if I would be able to find my way back to the reception area and restaurant for dinner, but plenty of time to worry about that later. For now, I was taking in the comforts of the room.

I stayed in one of The Swan's standard rooms but it was more than adequate. While not massive, the bed was extremely comfortable and ensuite spacious. The furniture is sympathetic to the era of the building but without feeling old-fashioned or jaded. And to match the old-world charm the hotel has also maintained some old-fashioned pleasantries like leaving chocolates on your pillow. Rooms increase in size and grandeur from the standard, from a feature bedroom to a suite. Some of these boast more traditional features such as exposed oak beams and inglenook fireplaces.

Sampling the fare: The Swan's main fine dining Gallery Restaurant is renowned for its elegance and good food and has been awarded an AA two Rosette rating. Executive chef and master chef of Britain David Ryan constructs his menus seasonally around the availabililty of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The food is of a very high standard. My baked goat’s cheese soufflé, with roasted beetroot and petit salad was cooked to perfection and quite possibly the best I have ever had the pleasure of eating. The restaurant also features a green menu, or full vegetarian option.

Star quality: Extremely friendly and attentive staff and fine dining restaurant.

Access all areas: There is a small car park at the rear of the hotel, with further outside on the street. The hotel restaurant is wheelchair accessible from the car park.

Added attraction: The snaking corridors, uneven ceilings and cosy hideaways, give this hotel experience some real old-world charm.

What we think: An extremely comfortable hotel, which is good value for money given the hotel's amenities and level of service. Great for an exploration weekend away, where you can learn a little of the history of eastern England.

Bottom line: Double rooms are priced from £75 a night based on a bed and breakfast basis; superior doubles and feature rooms from £85 per night up to suites, which start at £125 per night. The hotel also does special package deals including dinner in the Gallery Restaurant.

Details: The Swan Hotel, High Street, Lavenham, Suffolk, CO10 9QA. Phone: 01787 247477

For more information and bookings visit The Swan Hotel website.

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