Linthwaite House – Windermere, Cumbria

Linthwaite House, built in 1900 as a sweeping private home, is in many ways the perfect Lake District hotel: understated, elegant and professional, but also warmly welcoming and deeply relaxing. And the views over Lake Windermere, with the sun slanting across the water, is simply unbeatable. The bedrooms are the last word in lakeside luxury and, for those wanting a more back-to-nature experience, there’s also a tarn with a secluded summerhouse and six Fell Suites in the wooded, gently sloping grounds. Back in the hotel, you’ll find a crackling fire in the hall’s carved mahogany fireplace, beyond which beckons an airy bar and conservatory, with those mesmerising views to drink in. Guests can dine in Henrock – both are overseen by much- admired, multi-Michelin-stared chef Simon Rogan who makes sublime use of the freshest Cumbrian ingredients and his farm in Cartmel, known as Our Farm. Add a croquet lawn, pétanque and outdoor chessboard, as well as bicycles and rowing boats to borrow, and you have a Lake District hotel that ticks all the boxes.

Doubles from £215

+44 (0)15394 88600; leeucollection.com/uk