First impressions: a Georgian townhouse in the upmarket Unthank Road area, a few minutes’ walk from the Guildhall and marketplace at the heart of Norwich.

Why it’s special: once an Edwardian girls’ school, this well-proportioned and welcoming hotel combines period charm with contemporary comforts.

Hitting the sack: family rooms feature a sitting room with a sofa that converts into a double bed and a good-sized double next door.

Sampling the fare: Goodwin’s Restaurant on the ground floor offers an imaginative menu including Cromer crab and smoked salmon mousse with fresh guacamole; lamb leg steak cooked pink and served on puy lentils and roasted vegetables finished with rosemary jus; chocolate parfait with crème anglaise. One course with coffee £10.95; two courses £15.95; three courses £19.95.

Added attractions: the cathedral church of St John the Baptist, the Catholic cathedral of East Anglia.

Access all areas: steep stairs mean it is not designed for wheelchair access.

Bottom line: B&B doubles from £71, family suite from £120.

What we think: ideal base for a family trip to the Norfolk Broads.

Need to Know: The Georgian House Hotel (01603 615655, www.georgian-hotel.co.uk ), Unthank Road, Norwich.

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