The Hotel Reine Mathilde is housed in an old converted townhouse with an attached bar and brasserie, which is also a popular hangout with both locals and tourists. This small hotel is family-run and the tiny lobby area -- with its carved-wood reception desk and exposed beams -- has a simple rustic charm. The rest of the property has been largely modernized, with smart, functional corridors lined with colorful wall art. There is also an annex behind the main building by the river, which was opened in 2012 and is a converted barn housing some extra rooms.

The hotel features a prime location in the historical medieval center of Bayeux, situated just next to a small pretty river crossed by an old bridge. Bayeux's spectacular gothic Notre Dame Cathedral is just a one-minute walk away, while the museum holding the famous tapestry is less than five minutes on foot. There's little that isn't within walking distance of the hotel, though further afield the D-Day landing beaches are within 15 minutes' drive and the city of Caen is 25 minutes by car.

The hotel has 23 rooms in total -- 14 in the main building and a further nine, which are slightly better spec, in the converted barn annex. Interiors are a tasteful blend of smart, simple furnishings and neutral contemporary tones, and particularly well finished for this caliber of hotel though some are small. Amenities are good too, with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, while modern bathrooms include large walk-in showers and wall-mounted hair dryers. Many rooms have windows overlooking the river, while studios include kitchenettes, dining areas, and views of the cathedral.

The hotel's Le Garde Manger restaurant is open all day and serves traditional Normandy dishes in its cozy, rustic dining room or on the south-facing sun terrace with views of the cathedral. The bar also serves an excellent range of beers and is popular with locals and visitors alike. Breakfast is served each morning buffet-style, but it can also be taken in-room. Wi-Fi is free throughout, and although there is no parking on-site there is a nearby public car park.