Handsome, partly 18th century hotel next to the Town Bridge over the Great Ouse, an important hotel and conference centre. The magnificent staircase is one of the few surviving artefacts from the ruined Houghton House near Ampthill. There is an award winning restaurant and an outdoor terrace overlooking the river. Real ale is available in the new Pen & Cob River looking out acroiss the river. An annual Beer and Food Festival is usually held in November.