The Charles Hotel

Sitting on a historic village green where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario, the Charles is all about outdoor living.

The bright, airy common rooms in this sprawling Georgian mansion flow out to tiered terraces and private gardens; just down the road are historic forts, parks, a golf course, and access to the waterfront pedestrian path – with views across the river to New York State.

You could spend a whole day al fresco here, taking your crab Benedict breakfast (massive, moreish) on the verandah facing the ninth hole.

It’s just as well: the (least expensive) deluxe rooms are a bit poky. Go for a larger premium-tier room if you plan on late lie-ins and evenings by the fireplace.