Hillthwaite

At the top of a steep road stands a handsome goat statue, marking the entrance of the driveway to the Hillthwaite Hotel. Built around the turn of the 20th century, the property is a pleasant country house mixing natural stone, whitewashed plasterwork, and slate roofing with a few more modern touches. Major renovations were last completed in 2015, resulting in an updated contemporary take on traditional styling throughout. Original architectural features such as molded coving, fireplaces, and dado rails are complemented by floral wallpaper, elegant chandeliers, and a scattering of smart-yet-comfy seating. The family-run property comprises the main house plus smaller buildings holding further accommodation. The atmosphere is relaxed and peaceful, and a lounge with a crackling log fire adds a cozy country feel. An elevated hilltop position ensures plenty of lovely views over the surrounding countryside, which is the main draw for guests who tend to be weekending couples of all ages. 

The hotel is one of one of area's most elevated, affording spectacular panoramas over the surrounding Lake District. Its position on the edge of the town of Windermere means it's about a five-minute drive (or a pleasant 20-minute walk downhill and tough uphill slog back) to England’s largest natural lake. The pretty, historic town of Ambleside is also just 15 minutes' away by car at the north end of Lake Windermere, while golfers can find the Kendal Golf Club 20 minutes away. Families with kids can enjoy The World of Beatrix Potter theme park, a 15-minute walk away in the nearby lakeside town of Bowness. The nearest major airport is Manchester, at around an hour and a half by road. 

There are a total of 34 individually styled rooms, most of which were renovated in 2015. Standard updated rooms feature smart, muted decor with cozy and contemporary furnishings, while more premium rooms offers extras such as glitzily decorated antique-style pieces, four-poster beds, or striking patterned wallpaper. Rooms awaiting an update are drab in comparison, while some of the "Cosy" rooms are tiny. Views can also vary wildly, plenty providing stunning lake or countryside vistas, but some none at all. Standard amenities include little beyond flat-screen TVs and coffee- and tea-making facilities, though suites add a range of high-end extras such as iPod docks, DVD players, and Egyptian cotton sheets. Most bathrooms are impressive and contemporary, though all different, with either just walk-in showers, shower/tub combos, or separate showers and tubs (some jetted); all come with high-end bath products.

Breakfast is served in the bright and tastefully modernized dining room, with a continental buffet plus a la carte items such as Eggs Benedict, grilled kippers, and, of course, the Full English. Breakfast is always included in room rates, and the prime seating is by the bay windows with glorious countryside views. A dinner of refined country fare is also served in this room, while a lunch menu is available in the Poet's Bar & Lounge, with smart booths and a decent cocktail list. A heated indoor pool makes for a pleasant addition, together with a sauna and steam room. Wi-Fi is also available throughout the hotel, though it's only free up to a limited data allowance and then then there's a fee (and connection can be spotty).