The Swan Hotel and Spa, Newby Bridge, Lake District

Just off the junction of the A590 and A592 - the former leading to the M6 (15 minutes) and the latter to the central and northern Lakes - it's both easily accessible and well-connected. The roads are busy but are separated by river and fields so don't generally disturb. However, there are no towns or villages within walking distance. The pier for cross-Lakes cruises is a five-minute drive away.

By car: 1 hour 30 minutes from Manchester, 3 hours 15 minutes from Edinburgh and just under 5 hours from London. There is free parking on-site.

By train: trains run from Manchester Piccadilly (just over 1 hour), London Euston (3 hours) and Edinburgh (2 hours) to Oxenholme Lake District station. The hotel is a 25-minute taxi ride from the station. Book trains to Oxenholme.

The traditional white-washed exterior gives no clue to the bright and breezy modern interiors. Boldly patterned wallpapers and soft furnishings - think hot pinks, blues and tangerines - are set against exposed-slate walls, stone-flagged and stripped-wood floors to produce a refreshingly different rustic-chic look.

Almost a mini-resort, the hotel punches above its weight with activities. The indoor/outdoor spa spoils not only with superb, ethically based products - Comfort Zone, OTO and Ground - but with spacious relaxation areas, including a steam room and vitality pool plus spa garden with Finnish sauna and hot tub. Staff are young and energetic, and always around to help.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Indoor/ outdoor ppa
• Finnish sauna
• Swimming pool
• Terrace
• Playground
• Games room
• Free parking

Bedrooms are bright with bold statement wallpapers, headboards and chairs. They range from compact 'Cosy' rooms to generous 'Splendid' rooms (with great views) and spoiling suites, all with the same quality finish. Most offer shower and bath, though bathrooms can be compact in the smallest rooms.

Room types: Cosy, Lovely and Fabulous rooms, Loft, Family, Beatrix & Potter suites, The Dormouse, The Hedgehog, The Mallard, The Owl Nest and The Love Nest cottages

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom, king size beds, individual design, room service, free Wi-Fi

The food is crowd-pleasing and straightforward, from pizzas, burgers, salads, and fish and chips in the bar area to smarter dishes such as steaks and risottos in the restaurant. The cooking is more about being filling than offering finesse.

The Swan Inn: relaxed all-day dining, comfort food. Open for lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. Mains from £14.50.

Cygneture Brasserie: formal fine dining, modern British cuisine. Open for dinner. Mains from £15.50.