The Talbot Hotel (Oundle, United Kingdom)

The ghost of Mary Queen of Scots is said to haunt the Elizabethan Talbot Hotel. The oak staircase- and other parts of the building- were brought from the ruins of Fotheringhay Castle. It was down these steps that she walked to her execution. If all this sinister historical association puts you off- you neednt worry- Queen Mary hasnt been sighted for over a week now. The hotel boasts oak beams- open fires and transomed windows. The intimate restaurant and cosy bar offer traditional British cuisine- fine wines and real ales. The Talbot has recently been fully refurbished- keeping its charm and character while bringing the facilities bang up to date. The four new feature suites are a wonderful addition. With 4 meeting rooms- the hotel can cater for 100 conference delegates or 80 wedding guests- and holds a civil wedding licence. There is ample free car parking adjoining the hotel. Around and About Oundle is a stone-built town with plenty of Georgian architecture to admire and a 14th century church. Also nearby is Lyveden New Bield- the shell of an unfinished lodge begun in 1595- designed in the shape of a cross. If youre looking for some modern life- Peterborough and its shopping centre is just 10 miles away.