Brathay Lodge
Ambleside, Cumbria

Inspired by the need to 'get away', the Brathay Lodge is more than just a place to stay, it is a unique break in itself. It is a place in which you can totally relax and relish your surroundings, both indoors and out. The newly restored Brathay Lodge is very clear in its intentions. You will be struck by the attention to detail that affects your comfort and demeanour. The idea is to seduce and relax each guest into a sense of escape. The high specification of the furniture, flooring, beds, bedding and towels becomes delightfully apparent as you relax into your break. An extensive Continental buffet breakfast is available each morning and can be enjoyed in the lounge, or in the total privacy of your room.

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Ambleside, at the heart of the southern Lake District, is beautiful but busy. Its scenic setting, one mile north of Lake Windermere, guarantees its popularity. Grey stone houses, B&B's, hotels, galleries, and shops catering to the tourists abound. A short walk from Ambleside's centre is the location of the 70ft. (21m) waterfall, Stock Ghyll Force, which used to power several mills. The old Corn Mill-there was a mill on the site as early as 1335-now houses shops. Near Ambleside is Rydal Mount, home to William Wordsworth from 1813 until his death in 1850. It is little changed since that time and houses memorabilia of the poet. There are beautiful landscaped gardens and a walk on the property. The view over Rydal Water is said to have inspired Wordsworth's poetry.