Inn on the Lake, Ullswater, Lake District

Lake District locations don't get better than this. Overlooking the shores of Ullswater and presided over by numerous fells, including the spectacular Helvellyn, it's an ideal base for hikers, casual walkers and anyone seeking water-based fun in the Lake District. Lovely Keswick is just a 25-minute drive away - ideal for a day trip. Take the Ullswater Steamers next door and alight at Pooley Bridge, a gorgeous little village with tea rooms, pubs and a vast gin shop.

By car: around 2 hours from Manchester, 3 hours from Birmingham and 5 hours 30 minutes from London. Free parking on-site.

By train: direct trains to Penrith Station from Glasgow Central (1 hour 30 minutes) and London Euston (3 hours). The hotel is a 30-minute drive. Book trains to Penrith.

A vast country house on the outside and an elegant yet cosy hotel inside, The Inn on the Lake is a homely base. There's no need for bold décor here, as the views outside are the main event, and so instead everything indoors is about making the most of the lakeside vistas with plush Chesterfield sofas and tartan armchairs perfectly placed in bay windows.

Despite its relatively large size, service is always personal at The Inn on the Lake. With two restaurants and a bar, there are various options for dining and drinking, and if you're heading out on a hike they'll also make you a packed lunch.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Garden
• Dog-friendly
• Family-friendly
• Pet-friendly
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

It's all about relaxing at this hotel, which means there's plenty of space to sit down and chill out in your room. Plush carpets, silky bedspreads and cosy armchairs make each room homely, and classic décor with regal touches of navy blue and burgundy brings a luxurious vibe.

Room types: Standard Room, Fell Room, Lake View Room, Lake View Feature Room

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes, hairdryer, tea and coffee facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi

With two AA rosettes, the Lake View Restaurant is the premier dining spot here. Expect seasonal menus and exquisite desserts in this white tableclothed setting, or opt for more casual dinners in the Rambler's Bar or Orangery, which serves flatbreads, charcuterie and chicken burgers.

Lake View restaurant: all-day dining venue, scenic views. Seasonal chef's menu from £31.

The Orangery: romantic restaurant. Flatbreads, small plates and mains. Open daily 11am-11pm.