HOTEL OF THE WEEK
STORRS HALL LAKESIDE SUITES Windermere
WHERE AND WHY: Set back from the shores of England’s most famous lake, it’s hard to imagine a more stunning location for these luxury suites aimed at couples. All the facilities of a top-class hotel – one of the 101 Best in the World according to Tatler magazine – are a stroll away in the main building and room service is available. Each suite has a huge double bed and large walk-in bathroom with bath and shower. Outside, there’s a cedar Japanese heated tub to unwind in – while brave souls can even take a dip in the lake itself.
ON THE MENU: The hotel’s Lake Edge restaurant offers mouth-watering dishes such as roast partridge breasts (£23.95) or slow-cooked pork cheeks with cauliflower purée (£21.95), all beautifully presented. The Tower Bar, with its stunning wooden and stained glass bar salvaged many years ago from Blackpool’s most famous landmark is more like a fantastic pub, where you can still enjoy some wonderful food. We took breakfast in the main restaurant, from where the view across the lawns to the lake really sets you up for the day.
WHILE YOU’RE THERE: You can stroll through the 17 acres of grounds including woods and along the shore – make sure you visit the little folly out on the water. Bowness is just a 10-minute drive away, or you can head to Coniston, Ambleside or Grasmere. You can also head up to nearby Gummer’s How from where you can look down on Windermere far below.
WAKE-UP CALL: Lakeside Suites cost from £595 per night, while a room in the Main House is from £200 (both B&B). There is generally a two-night minimum stay but one night is sometimes available. See storrshall.com