A couple of years ago, I had a bit too much to drink and rather cleverly fell asleep on a night bus.

In the midst of an outstandingly grim nightmare, the driver shook me awake to an even more disturbing reality: I was in Chingford, Essex.

It has taken me this long to recover.

So it was with some apprehension that my gf and I ventured back into England's least-loved county, and only then on the weight of a strong recommendation – to stay at the gorgeously refurbished Sun Inn in Dedham, a short 60 mile drive NE from London, just past Colchester off the A12.

From the complimentary bedside brandy in each individually appointed room, to the cozy pub with its four working fireplaces, great pints, wines, books and games, to the gourmet Mediterranean restaurant featuring roast partridge, Tuscan sausage and baked cod, proprietor Piers Baker has fashioned the Sun Inn into London's perfect weekend getaway destination. And the surrounding countryside, made famous by the paintings of Constable, is just waiting to be rambled.

The Sun also smartly offers all-inclusive deals, with a three-course dinner for two, bed and breakfast, for just 75 quid/pp on weekends (even cheaper during the week!).

Who needs Ibiza when Essex's Sun shines 60 miles away all year round?