Number 31

A discreet plaque outside an elegant locked gate on a tiny side street is your only clue that what lies beyond is an award-winning guesthouse. It's actually two converted buildings -- one a grand Georgian town house, the other a more modern coach house -- with nice touches, like a sunken living room where seating is arranged around a peat-burning fireplace. In the main house, rooms are large and simply decorated, while in the coach house rooms are elegant and modern. Handmade beds are enveloped in natural linens. Unfortunately, the rack rate doesn't reflect what's available -- there's no restaurant, no bar, no room service, and no air-conditioning. Breakfast here is some consolation -- cooked to order for you, with organic, seasonal ingredients, and choices ranging from mushroom frittatas to fresh-baked cranberry bread. And keep an eye out for discounted rates.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.