The Crab at Chieveley, Berkshire

The Crab is "delightfully different", says the Times. You couldn't ask for more traditional charm: isolated on the edge of "lovely" cornfields near the pretty village of Chieveley, it is an "ancient" inn where Oliver Cromwell once stayed.

But its 13 themed suites could scarcely be more flamboy­ant. Bora Bora – named after the Polynesian island – is bright pink, with bamboo furniture, light fittings shaped like palm fronds and a private terrace with a hot tub. It’s a bit disconcerting, but undeniably "fun".

The restaurant downstairs attracts diners from miles around with its "fabulous", well-priced seafood.

Doubles from £95, b&b. 01635-247550crabatchieveley.com

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