The Lion Hotel Shrewsbury

The Lion Hotel Shrewsbury is a 16th-century coaching inn on Wyle Cop, in the middle of historic Shrewsbury. Past guests are said to include Charles Dickens and Charles Darwin, and the building keeps its Elizabethan decor and a Tudor fireplace.

The renovated rooms are each furnished differently and retain original features; every one has a private bathroom, a TV and a hot-drinks tray. Internet access is available throughout, and all rooms are non-smoking.

There is a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, parking and contactless check-in. Central shops are 5 minutes away on foot and the station about 15, so it suits history lovers.