The Pier at Harwich, Harwich

Proudly overlooking the quay, the smart blue and white Pier Hotel and Restaurant at Harwich is in poll position for views over the Stour and Orwell estuaries. The hotel is actually made up of two buildings, one of which was built in 1850s and houses two landmark restaurants the Ha'Penny and The Harbourside plus seven luxury bedrooms. The other, the former Angel public house dating back to the 1700s, extends the hotel and has a further seven bedrooms. Rooms are large, very tastefully decorated in neutrals and some have sofa beds for accompanying children (we love the one with picture windows and a telescope with which to study the boats). The hotel also operates a great little offer with the nearby Electric Cinema, a 1911 original silent screen gem in the town that shows an eclectic mix of films.