The Borrowdale Hotel, Borrowdale, Lake District

We love having the ability to start walks right from the doorstep, including climbing Catbells on the other side of the lake, and gentler ambles along the pretty River Derwent.

Lake cruises are a 10-minute walk away and the Honister Slate Mine a 20-minute drive.
By car: 2 hours 15 minutes from Manchester, 3 hours from Edinburgh and 5 hours 30 minutes 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 an hour taxi ride from the station. thetrainline.com

This hotel is perfect for walkers who like their comforts and fine food, plus guests who want a countryside hotel but not fancy country-house style. We love sitting in one of the lounges or in the bar having a nightcap.

The low-key, relaxed atmosphere is very calming; a real treat for hot-wired, frazzled brains. Several bedrooms allow dogs, and beds and bowls can be provided. They're allowed throughout the hotel apart from the restaurant; owners with dogs can take their meals in the conservatory or lounges.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Garden & terrace
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi
• Pet-friendly

The lack of clutter makes a refreshing change, and as most rooms aren't overlooked you can sleep without drawing the curtains if you like. Front rooms have the finest views towards the lake but rear rooms are often larger.

Standard, Classic, Prestige
Facilities include: ensuite bathroom, luxury toiletries, tea and coffee facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service

The wine list is knowledgeable but not over the top, with unexpected finds as well as the classics. Ask to have breakfast - which includes eggs Benedict and waffles, as well as the full Cumbrian - in the conservatory with its garden views.

The restaurant: AA Rosette, silver service, modern British cuisine, local ingredients. Breakfast 7.30-10am, dinner 6-9pm, Sunday lunch 12-2pm. Three courses £29.95.
The lounge and conservatory: relaxed, sandwiches and nibbles, fully stocked bar. Serving drinks from 10am-9pm. Afternoon tea served 2.30-5pm, £24.95 per person.