The Waterhead, Ambleside, Lake District

Stepping distance from Lake Windermere, and opposite one of the landing stages for cross-lake cruises, the hotel offers enviable views. Sitting directly on the main A591 route through the Lakes, it's easily accessible, though the road is busy. On the other hand, it gives ready access for exploring all parts of the National Park. The shops and eateries of Ambleside - including fun Lucy's on a Plate and Michelin-starred The Stamp House - are a 15-minute stroll.

By car: The hotel is 1 hour 40 mins from Manchester, around 3 hours from Edinburgh and 5 hours from London. There is on-site parking which costs £12 per day.

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 a 45-minute taxi ride from the station. Book trains to Oxenholme.

With its pale wood floors, clutter free spaces and bold lighting - sparkly chandeliers in reception and lilac uplighters in the restaurant - it feels more city-chic than Lakeland-cosy, were it not for the gorgeous lake and fell views through the light-flooding windows. Modern abstract landscapes and eye-catching photography also give a keen sense of place.

Although it has limited space, apart from the bar and restaurant, and a small alcove of a lounge, the hotel makes up for it with a bright, responsive staff and a range of helpful extras including walking routes, bike storage and discounts for lake cruises. Guests are also given free entry to the leisure facilities at the sister hotel, Low Wood Bay, a five-minute drive away.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Lounge
• Terrace
• Garden
• Pet-friendly
• Family-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi

All rooms offer a bright, contemporary look of pale colours, neutral carpets, clean lined solid wood furniture, and pops of bright lilac and tangerine in headboards and throws. Nicely uncluttered, each has a striking photograph of a Lakeland waterfall.

Room types: House Room, Classic Lake View Room, Luxury Lake View Room

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with The White Company toiletries, TV, DVD Player and DVDs, tea and coffee facilities, iron, hairdryer

The bistro-style restaurant serves a mix of popular grills and Modern European classics such as Caesar salad, grilled steaks and pan-seared salmon, plus a range of stone baked pizzas from their wood fired pizza oven.

Bar & Grill Restaurant: light bites, sharing platters, wood fired pizzas. Open daily for dinner 6.30-8.30pm. Mains from £16.

Lounge & Bar: casual dining, sandwiches, British favourites. Open daily for lunch 12-6pm. Small plates from £7.