The Sail Loft, Southwold, Suffolk

The Sail Loft sits within walking distance from the town centre, the main beach and the pier but is also a short walk from the town's harbour, with its fish stalls, lifeboat museum and the historic foot ferry to Walberswick. Take to the seas on a high-speed rib that leaves for tours of Sole Bay from Southwold's harbour throughout the year.

Nestled in a fantastic location, bang opposite the dunes and beach.

By car: The hotel is 3 hours 20 mins from London, 2 hours from Cambridge and 3 hours 30 mins from Nottingham. There is free private parking on-site.

By train: London Liverpool Street to Darsham (via Ipswich) takes 2 hours 30 mins. The hotel is a 20-minute taxi ride from the station. Book trains to Darsham.

The five beautifully designed guest rooms have a seaside theme that feels thoroughly appropriate. With rustic furniture, bare floorboards and an infectiously relaxed and informal air from the bar to the restaurant to the outside terrace, you'd be forgiven for feeling like you've fallen asleep and woken up in a seaside shack in the Hamptons or New England.

The most striking thing about the Sail Loft is the location; with the dunes and beach opposite, the atmosphere is deliciously relaxed, with unhurried and friendly service. Along with occasional live music, they run frequent special food nights in the restaurant, the best of which is their 'Curry-tastic' night.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Garden
• Beach access
• Free Parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Five clean and contemporary decent-sized rooms sit upstairs, one boasts its own terrace with a view over the marshes while the others have sea views. Amenities include powerful showers in the bathrooms and an assortment of refreshments.

Room types: Double, Twin, Superior Double with Sea View

Key amenities: ensuite shower room, luxury toiletries, hairdryer, TV, tea and coffee facilities

Chef Jonny sometimes uses product from foragers, like tasty mushrooms, samphire and other 'found' ingredients. Along with burgers, steaks and chicken and plenty of other earthy fares that also suit the beachside vibe, the menu has a seafood focus, with mussels, scallops and all sorts of fish and seafood dishes.

The Sail Loft: all-day dining, international dishes, fresh seafood, breakfast and brunch. Open daily. Mains from £11.95.