Amy Moore visited the three-star accommodation, which boasts a simplistic stay near the centre of town. On September 4, GTW visited the Belgian Province of Ypres, with its neat, cobbled town and antique wartime heritage. The Albion Hotel is tucked away on a little side street, a short walk to the vibrant meetings of the market square and the In Flanders Fields Museum.

The antique building has been beautifully restored.

Guests can conveniently purchase tickets at the hotel for the attraction, which has been built into the former town hall. Coach access is limited, but there is free parking nearby. The Albion Hotel houses 23 guest rooms that fill up fast, with nine additional rooms added in April 2014. For larger groups, it might also be worth booking into the modern Novotel opposite.

The Albion Hotel beautifully moulds into the surrounding landscape, juxtaposed to its fresh and contemporary rival. It has been historically restored, with its original foundations dating back to before 1914. After check-in, I was greeted by a soft and spacious double bed, with a generous selection of lemon sherbets resting on one pillow.

The double bed was soft and spacious, with lemon sherbert's on each pillow.

This gesture was sweetened by a personalised view of the hotel’s illuminated sign, observed through the window on my far left, which was shrouded by a sheer curtain.

It had been a hot and muggy day; therefore I was relieved to discover a complementary desk fan, which welcomed relaxation after a long day. The bathroom was pristine, characteristic of a stand-in shower, which was certainly generous with space and boasted a wet look effect on the transparent panels. My only qualm was that there were very little toiletries available, with the assumption that some couples might stay. There is a bar on-site, which is open from 1600hrs to 2300hrs.

It might also be worth venturing further across the narrow street to one of the hotel’s local pubs – ideal for immersing oneself in the local culture. The following morning, our group enjoyed a continental buffet breakfast set within a petit, cosy lounge and joint dining area, serving a selection of soft pastries, sliced cheeses and warm tea. Breakfast is served weekdays from 0700hrs to 1000hrs, Saturday from 0730rs to 1030hrs, and Sunday from 0730hrs to 1030hrs.

Fast and complementary WiFi was included in the stay, made freely available in the lounge area and all guest rooms. Those travelling from overseas should also be aware that power adapters are available for loan at reception. There is no restaurant, yet The Albion Hotel offers pre-packed lunches, ideal for groups on the go. This service must be organised at least one day in advance. A guidebook, professionally wrapped in a brown leather casing, should be able to provide guests with more information upon arrival, which has been translated into multiple languages for convenience. Special rates are available for pre-booked packages. For more information visit www.albionhotel.be