Raise View, Grasmere, Lake District

Tucked on the edge of chocolate-box-pretty Grasmere means it's away from the touristy centre but still within walking distance (10 to 15 minutes) of its attractions, including gift shops, cafes and Wordsworth-connected sites. It's also just off the main A591 route through the Lakes - but not within hearing distance.

By car: The hotel is 2 hours from Manchester, around 3 hours from Edinburgh and 5 hours 15 mins from London. Free private parking is available 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 a 45-minute taxi ride from the station. Book trains to Oxenholme Lake District.

With boutique hotel design standards, this large, three-storey Victorian cottage is a well-above-average B&B. There is smart, houndstooth-pattern carpeting, Farrow and Ball colours, a large dining-room with bright, contemporary-striped chairs and a welcoming sitting room with sleek, modern gas fire, wool-upholstered sofa and armchairs. Bedrooms reflect the same standards.

Apart from the spaciousness - with a separate sitting room and dining room plus a small garden with table and chairs - what makes this place is Jacky's warmth, friendliness and efficiency. She can suggest walks, lend maps, organise guided walking, make packed lunches and recommend tried-and-tested restaurants.

• Breakfast room
• Lounge
• Honesty bar
• Garden
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Much thought has gone into making the rooms stylish yet comfortable, with a pale colour palette jazzed up with Designers Guild feature wallpapers, smartly upholstered armchairs, soft carpets and luxurious throws. All have good views - those at the rear the best - while bathrooms are sleek and modern, some with underfloor heating.

Room types: Wordsworth, Easedale, Helm Crag, Rothay Suite, Silver How Suite

Key amenities: ensuite shower room, king size bed, tea and coffee facilities, towels, TV, free Wi-Fi

It's breakfast-only, with a quality cold selection - including fresh fruit salad, fruit smoothies, granola and Greek yogurt - followed by cooked-to-order hot dishes. These range from eggs how you want to smashed avocado on toast to the full works including locally made sausages and cured bacon.

Raise View: traditional Lakeland cooked breakfast, cereals, fresh fruit, juices and smoothies. Breakfast included in room rate.