I was recommended this hotel by some friends during a weekend stay in Gloucestershire; and I was very grateful for the tip.

I stayed twice midweek at this property while on business in York. It is a stunning Queen Anne building, close to the racecourse but a good ten minute cab ride into the town centre. The Grange is a similar style property if this is unavailable, or try the more contemporary Hotel du Vin if you need to be closer to town.

Don't be put off by the price tag; some great rates (under £110 including supper) to be had during off season in January, though do make sure supper is included in your rate as the set menu is £40 per head. Trust me, the quality and surroundings justify that price tag.

Again, call up if you are booking last minute and see if you can negotiate a competitive rate.

I stayed once in the stable block, and once in the main house. Didn't notice much difference between the two; both felt homely and were of a high standard, so don't be put off booking the less expensive rooms, but do spring for the main house if you can to get the view.

The four poster in the main house had superb views past the Cedar of Lebanon over the rolling lawn, though I did notice the roar from the distant main road at the edge of the grounds in the morning, so the more secluded stables won on that front. Less of a problem at weekends.

Bathrooms are OK, but nothing special, a little dated now and with the poor water pressure endemic to York meaning a bath takes a good ten minutes to run. Crabtree and Evelyn combi shampoo and conditioner was adequate, but best to bring your own.

Beds, sheets and pillows were all top quality, and the turndown service was a nice touch. The Roberts radio by the bed tempted me to a little Radio 3, not normally my cup of tea but the surroundings made it very relaxing and appropriate.

There is an indoor pool and spa across the road, though on popping my head round the door it did look slightly outdated, though adequate.

All room have TVs with DVD players, though best to spend your day walking the grounds (note the walled garden and lake), potter back for Afternoon Tea in the library by a roaring real fire, and evenings sitting in the Drawing Room with the newspapers enjoying a drink before supper.

The candlelit Dining Room is the main event here; food is of the highest quality and every dish both tasty and innovative. It is expensive, but the cost is absolutely worth it for a special event. One evening I invited some colleagues and had the small dining room to ourselves, with candelabra, which would be great for a private party.

Morning Tea is provided complimentary, though has to be brought to your room as there is no kettle there. Home made biscuits and Hildon water is provided.

Breakfast is another superb triumph, with everything homemade and tasty, though can take a while to be freshly prepared so book ahead if in a hurry.

At all points during my stays the staff were faultlessly helpful, genuinely friendly and - above all - had a great pride in being part of this very special hotel.

VERDICT: More of a weekend retreat than a business hotel, with some of the best food I experienced in York and certainly the most impressive architecture and surroundings of any UK hotel, Middlethorpe makes a nice change from cookie cutter chain hotels.