Occupying a former textile mill, this upscale, ivy-clad hotel dates from the 19th century and is set in 100 acres of woodland overlooking Shaws Creek. The elegant, country-style rooms and suites in the main mill and manor house are individually decorated and come with Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces.

During World War I, thousands of Canadian and British troops were kept warm with Dods products produced in this place. Mill’s owner John Dods was a leading citizen of Alton, known for this generous treatment of employees and involvement in charitable works. Both the mill and the man were integral to Alton’s development.