Address: Penally, South Pembrokeshire, Wales, SA70 7PY, Tel. 01834 843033 (near Tenby)
The inn sits among woods in an elevated position on the Ridgeway, and the part-Victorian house is indeed surrounded by the intruiging ruins of an old abbey in well-tended terraced and walled gardens.The lovely, quiet beach is a 10min walk away. The hotel has only 12 rooms, but its interior is tastefully decorated and the lounge very comfortable. Dishes based on local produce- lamb, fish and duck - are delicious.
Walks along fine beaches and in Pembrokeshire National Park.
Double rooms from £75 including breakfast.

Address: Ferrensby, nr Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, HG5 OQB, Tel. 01423 340284
The inn used to be an old 18th century coaching inn. Its name come sfrom Sir Banastre Tarleton (1754-1833), barrister, soldier and MP. The pub has old oak beams, rough stone walls, wine list and menu chalked up on a blackboard and the covered courtyard, where breakfast is served. Food and drinks are excellent. A three-course meal is not cheap - it is to be had at £25.
Double rooms £65, English braekfast £9.95 extra.

Adddress: 17-21 The Bank, Barnard Castle, Co. Durham DL12 8PH, Tel. 01833 690130
Barnard Castle is a haven of civilisation in the wild and bleak North Pennines. It is a historical market town with the typical layout of a wide street with shops and pubs. The Bank is a steep road down from the market place where The Old Well nestles. The 10 rooms are large and tastefully decorated. bathrooms are separate and rooms feature a TV, phone and a welcome cafetiere. The fruit-crumble cheesecake is home-made and the pub serves lunches or can make you up a packed one.
Excursions can be made to Teesdale, Scotch Corner or the north Pennines.
Double room is £52 including breakfast.