Location: Amid 100 acres of woodland near Oxenholme in the English Lake District.
Why go: To enjoy the great outdoors in utmost comfort and luxury.
What's the story: The Lake House, as the name suggests, sits on the banks of a lake called Knipe Tarn. The house has been in the Cunliffe family since it was built in 1919, and is still very much a family affair. John and Christine Cunliffe opened the house as a six-suite lodge to complement their other hotel, Gilpin, in 2010. The interiors, designed by Christine, are plush (hand-printed Knowles & Christou wallpaper, heavy Mulberry curtains and Colefax and Fowler textiles) and furnished with antiques. There's a communal living room, dining area and spa. And did we mention the wooden hot tub on the terrace?
The room: We stayed upstairs, in the Gertie Suite, which is beautifully decorated in all manner of golds, with a huge bed and plumped-to-perfection pillows to really sink into (we had one of our best night's sleep here!). The fabulous sky window in the bathroom meant bathing under the stars; the bedroom window looks out over the Lyth Valley.
Eating and drinking: While breakfast and afternoon tea can be taken at the lodge, dinner is served just up the road at Gilpin Hotel (a chauffeur service takes guests). Service is top-notch and welcoming; staff, somehow, don't seem to get sick of hearing about that day's ramble.
Out and about: Walk up to 'Cat's Crag', the viewpoint within the grounds, follow one of the many walking and cycling routes that run across the hills, or go boating on Lake Windermere, two miles away by car. Indoorsy types can avoid the British weather and simply enjoy a wine-tasting experience.
What's the crowd: Urbanites escaping the city for the weekend.
Pack: Sturdy walking boots, waterproofs and something chic to wear to dinner.
Rate: £320 per night based on two people sharing; includes dinner and breakfast.
Like this? Then you'll love: The Swan Hotel & Spa
City Secret: Plan a walk that stops by the Brown Horse Inn, a good ol' country pub with its own micro-brewery and a wide selection of hand-pulled ales.
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Gilpin Lake House, Windermere, The English Lake District, Tel:
015394 88818. gilpinlodge.co.uk
