Tuddenham Mill promotes itself as 'rustic chic' and I fail to think of a better turn of phrase to describe this hotel. The converted mill is the epitome of modernity, but its decor manages to complement to perfection the charming characteristics of the building's original features.

Evidence of a mill at Tuddenham dates back to pre-1068 and since its inception the building has evolved, been extended and its use changed from a working mill into the current contemporary building.

The original structure and main mill building was erected in 1775, but today it houses an open and welcoming reception area with warm fires and a lounge/bar, where you can sit for a relaxing drink.

The outstanding feature of this building, however, is the magnificent water wheel. Encased in glass and complemented by clear floor panelling, which reveals the running stream beneath, the wheel pays magnificent homage to the origins of the building. In the evening you can kick back in this room with a wine from the bar's extensive list and feel calmed by the underlying sounds of the running stream, while atmospheric lighting on the wheel adds to its grandeur.

Throughout the rest of the building, including three upstairs bedrooms, exposed roof beams and original wood structures have been retained, helping to extend the mill's atmosphere of old-world charm, despite the thoroughly modern decor.

Outside the reception is a large seating area situated alongside the mill stream, which has been re-excavated to create a natural haven for local wildlife, and has become the home-place for a couple of resident swans.

A few steps further afield stand two semi-detached buildings. Lush green fields border these buildings, which make up the bulk of the hotel's accommodation. Aside from the three main mill rooms, the hotel has eight standard rooms and four loft-style suites.

The rooms: The rooms are extremely light, airy and carefully planned to make the most of the surrounding views, while maintaining privacy.

I stayed in one of the loft suites, which was enormously spacious. White-washed wooden walls and floors create a feeling of space and openness, while a fireplace keeps the place feeling cosy and warm. From the huge double-ended stone bath in the middle of the room, to the walk-in shower, atmospheric lighting and king-size bed, comfort and relaxation offset by luxury is definitely the priority here. Quality-wise nothing has been skimped on. The bathrobes are designer Missoni, the generous-size toiletries Jo Malone and the furniture Italian-sourced. You might think this all sounds a little pretentious but, in fact, it feels quite the opposite. I have never felt more comfortable in a hotel than I did during my stay at Tuddenham.

The thing that impressed the most, however, was the acute attention to detail. Touches like freshly-squeezed orange juice in the fridge, a decanter of port by the bedside table, fresh fruit and hand-made biscuits in the tea area and cotton buds in the bathroom, really made this feel like a home away from home.

All rooms are equipped with Bose sound systems, huge flat screen TVs and a DVD collection to rival that of a small rental shop. My room even had a telescope for admiring the stars through the loft window on a clear night.

Staff do a turndown service, drawing the curtains, lighting the fire and spraying the bed linen with lavender scents. It is a lovely welcome back from an evening out and a fantastic prelude to what was the best night's sleep I had had in ages.

Sampling the fare: Tuddenham Mill restaurant turns out fine-dining cuisine in an intimate yet relaxed and casual atmosphere. Scottish-born Gordon McNeill heads up a team of seven chefs and is the inspiration behind the Scottish fayre sprinkled throughout the menu. Food is hearty and traditional, but presented in an innovative way, with several well-balanced but individual dishes served up on one plate. If you are game and in search of a trip down memory lane, order the Memories of the Fun Fare pudding. It is a visual delight as much as a culinary feat, featuring a mountain of candyfloss, miniature toffee apples, chocolate puff candy, warm popcorn and crackle, finished off with ice cream. I didn't order it, but someone on an adjacent table did. When it was paraded from the kitchen the smiles it put on their faces, even before the floss hit their lips, seemed to make it well worth ordering.

Star quality: The attention to detail, from the designer Missoni bathrobes to the exclusive toiletries by Jo Malone. Staff are particularly friendly and helpful, ready to attend to any need, while not being intrusive.

Access all areas: The hotel has a large area between the main building and the detached rooms for parking. The standard rooms are accessible by wheelchair.

Added attraction: Tuddenham is a picturesque village, which allows access to various walking paths around the local area. Head off into the vast rural acres of the Brecklands and Thetford Forest, or sample the stillness of the Fens, with their waterways, rich wildlife and idyllic views. It's the perfect base for a weekend of country cycling or walking.

What we think: With every comfort and convenience imaginable, this is the closest you will get to a home away from home. The hotel exudes luxury, character and charm, but maintains a friendly, unpretentious and relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for a romantic weekend away, special occasion or relaxing break when you need to get away from the buzz of city life without compromising on comfort.

Bottom line: Standard mill rooms are priced from £195 room per night; while the mill rooms located in the main building are from £225 and the loft room suites from £345.

Details: Tuddenham Mill, High Street, Tuddenham, near Newmarket, Suffolk, IP28 6SQ. Phone: 01638 713552

For more information and bookings visit the Tuddenham Mill website.

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