Address: North Street, Chichester, West Sussex PO19 1NH

Tel: 01243 778000

Web address: www.shiphotel.com.

First impressions: Paintings celebrating our glorious naval past, grand (and very old) staircase with wrought-iron railings. Helpful and charming staff. You have to negotiate a warren of corridors to reach your room.

What are the rooms like? All rather old-fashioned, some quite tight on space, others huge. Heavy on floral wallpaper, swags and borders.

The bed test: Firm and comfortable, with crispy white sheets. Just one blanket, though, although the room was warm. Pillows were a bit limp.

The bathroom test: Small but spotless. Complimentary smellies were flowery rather than trendy.

The restaurant: Décor was a bit inhibiting - intensely floral wallpaper and carpet. Highly starched linen napkins and tablecloth. Food was delicious and well presented. Good choice, though vegetarian dishes by request rather than listed on menu. Yummy breakfast. A restaurant where people whisper rather than talk.

What is there to see within walking distance? The Chichester Festival Theatre, the cathedral, a couple of local museums, lots of quaint shops, some pleasant parks and the ancient city walls.

What is there to see within a 10-minute drive? The sea - the Witterings for beaches, and Bosham and Chichester Marina for boats. The Roman Palace at Fishbourne, the fantastic open-air museum at Singleton and loads of rolling countryside and ancient hostelries.

How much a night? Single rooms from £69 per night B&B, doubles from £95. Good value is dinner, B&B deal from £119 per night for a couple staying at least two nights.

Would you go back? Definitely with retired colonel uncle. Probably not with loud teenage children or for passionate weekend.