Mercure Castle Hotel

This well established hotel and restaurant dating back to the 16th century stands proudly in the heart of Windsor, opposite the castle. Once a coaching inn, today's muted colours of aubergine and grey, plus a comfortable bar and lounge, and a sharp modern restaurant, give it a bit of 21st-century swagger. Restaurant Eighteen offers a short and well put-together menu with its roots in the classics, with added contemporary flourishes. Seared Atlantic scallops, for example, with ginger and Granny Smith apple purée is one way to start, before main-course seared salmon with tomato risotto, bok choy and sesame seeds. To finish, perhaps pistachio soufflé with vanilla ice cream and pineapple salsa.