Richard Purden

In some ways it's closer to entering an art gallery. The hotel works with several British artists and works such as Chris Levine's "Lightness of Being" a holographic portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. It's a striking image to view on arrival. A bronze artwork behind the reception desk features Westminster and the River Thames in miniature scale under London's cityscape. Perhaps the artwork that attracts the most attention is The House Always Wins which presents 150 characters including Batman and King Kong opposing each other in the House of Commons.

The clue is in the name for this Victorian gothic mansion surrounded by trees, hills and greenery. Driving in on a winter's night the spectacle of the 4-star hotel on first sight is quite breathtaking. Situated in the heart of Wordsworth country, the Forest Side hosts a roaring fireplace that delivers an immediate sense of atmosphere as you look out onto grazing cattle and no shortage of wildlife. SLEEPING MATTERS We took our two children Ryan (13) and Christina (11) the hotel provided two rooms with an interconnecting door. The lush interiors are designed by James Mackie offering a timeless feel. Specially made beds provide a cosy and comfortable sleep while the washroom is furnished with a large bath and toiletries by Bramley. A look out onto the stars and a breath of fresh air all helped with a good night's sleep.

A short walk from the city centre of Birmingham this boutique hotel and red sandstone Victorian building in the Jewellery Quarter features some arresting artwork and murals giving it a zeitgeist energy.

Conservatorium Amsterdam is situated in the Museum Quarter and is a few steps away from the Van Gough Museum. It is also an ideal spot to stay during the tulip season in Amsterdam.

For more information on Bonnie Badger, visit bonniebadger.com

STYLE AND SUBSTANCE

STYLE AND SUBSTANCE

Visitors to Liverpool are offered an endless array of Beatles tours and activities. Some are predictable; others tacky. But Strawberry Field provides an imaginative and memorable experience within its cafe and garden. Within these grounds, you can sit in the tree where John Lennon used to ruminate, or stand by the iconic red gates which, although a replica of the originals, are still profoundly evocative for those who visit this magical place.

Queen front-man Freddie Mercury casts a shadow over Lake Geneva’s shoreline in front of the Swiss Mountains. Like a rock superhero, the statue portrays the singer in his most iconic pose – with one arm held aloft, standing tall in the famous yellow military jacket he wore at Wembley Stadium in the mid-1980s.

STYLE AND SUBSTANCE