Mercure York Fairfield Manor Hotel

Guests enter the Mercure York Fairfield Manor Hotel under a weather-worn arched portico -- a modern and slightly gauche addition to this Georgian manor house -- before passing rows of classical columns and entering the reception area. While there is plenty of evidence of the building's 18th-century origins in such features as ornately carved oak-wood paneling, balustrades, and doorways, the ambience is that of a typical, mid-range chain hotel whose trappings haven't been particularly well integrated into the period property. The hotel is surrounded by six acres of private gardens -- mostly pleasant lawns, clusters of trees, and a wooden bridge spanning a small stream -- enough for a short stroll around the estate's ground. The hotel predominantly attracts business travelers and tour groups.

The hotel is located just off a busy road surrounded by green fields and countryside just outside of the city of York. Over three miles from the center of York, it's poorly positioned for those hoping to explore the picturesque medieval city, although its roadside position does mean easy access by car to the center in around 10 minutes. It's worth noting, however, that parking in York's historic center is hard to come by. Alternatively, there is a park-and-ride service a few minutes' drive away to avoid taking a car into town. Poppleton train station -- five minutes away by car -- also connects to York's central station in four minutes. The hotel does have free parking.

The hotel's 89 rooms are divided between the original 18th-century manor house and the modern wing; the decor and furnishing are a blend of traditional styles and more contemporary touches with a chain-hotel feel (i.e. wooden furniture, patterned carpets, dated red chairs). Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms, and tea/coffee facilities and flat-screen TVs with on-demand movies come standard -- though TVs are on the small side. Higher category rooms also have Nespresso coffee machines, free movies, and bathrobes, while suites go a bit further with four-poster beds. The tiled bathrooms, in particular, feel dated and some are showing signs of poor maintenance; most have combination shower-tubs.

A hot and cold buffet breakfast is served each morning the hotel's traditionally styled Kilby's Restaurant -- though only included with certain rates. A menu of British classics, burgers, and grills are served for lunch and dinner, while a lounge bar serves drinks until late. Guests have free access to a health club a five-minute drive from the hotel, with pools, a spa, sauna, and steam room. For those who fancy a stroll around the grounds and surrounding countryside, Wellington boots are available to borrow at reception. Both Wi-Fi and parking are also available for free. The hotel also has meeting and event spaces.