The Devonshire Fell Hotel at Burnsall

Situated in an idyllic Yorkshire Dales location on a hillside above the small village of Burnsall, not far from Grassington, the boutique little sister to the nearby Devonshire Arms offers a more intimate setting than the larger hotel, with just 16 boutique-style guest rooms. It's a small, originally Edwardian hotel, and we love the feel here since it's so unexpected, switching from traditional exterior to contemporary interior in the blink of an eye.

First the rooms, which are a thoroughly modern experience all round – 'city chic in the countryside' they say – with bold colours, vibrant designs and stylish furnishings contrasting with the timeless rural views. Little extras make you feel special, from herbal teas to hot-water bottles in each room, and all rooms – from the entry-level 'Classic' to  'Superior' and 'Luxury' – all come with flatscreen Freeview TVs, Bluetooth speakers, king-size beds, contemporary bathrooms with posh toiletries, tea and coffee-making facilities and complimentary biscuits. More expensive rooms are on the whole more spacious with slightly better views and maybe a walk-in shower as well as a bath, while the open-plan Fell Suites are large enough for a family of four, with a spacious seating area, sofa bed and two bathrooms. All rooms are dog-friendly, which is just as well, given the countryside – and country walks – on offer from your doorstep.

Downstairs there's a bar and a conservatory where you can enjoy afternoon tea, while the two AA-rosette Fell restaurant serves a terrific, well-priced menu based around the estate's local produce. Bear in mind too that if you drive down to Bolton Abbey you can use the Devonshire's health club and spa facilities there – very indeed if you've made the most of the walks on offer – to Grassington, or the Craven Arms pub in Appletreewick.