Howard's House by Jamie Dunford Wood

Howard's House is a picture perfect village house in a picture perfect Wiltshire village - one which remains almost feudal even today, owned almost entirely by the Keating family. The descendent of the family who sold the village to the Keatings 300 years ago, an American called Tom, is a frequent visitor to sleepy Howard's House.

The draw here, other than the village and quintessial english rural setting, is the homey feel - with just nine rooms, Howard's House has preserved its feeling of a private home. As well as a small, cosy sitting room there's a wonderful south facing garden, for eating out in summer, views of the village church, and a restaurant which attracts diners from all over the county. The hotel is often taken exclusively, both for weddings and shooting parties. Riding and fishing can also be arranged.

The rooms themselves are of a good size and light, with attractive mullioned windows. Top floor rooms have vaulted ceilings. The décor is pretty if plain and a little dated, but the emphasis here is on comfort rather than trend, which keeps rates modest and company congenial and unpretentious. A jewel of a place in wonderful rural surroundings, Howard's House has a loyal repeat following.