An elegant, friendly, relaxing hotel set in 22 acres of country gardens, moors and woodland in the heart of the English Lake District, Gilpin Hotel is perfectly situated, far from the crowds, but a stone’s throw from the breathtaking lakes and fells, and almost opposite Windermere Golf Club, “the miniature Gleneagles”. A member of Relais & Chateaux with 4 red stars, Gilpin Hotel is privately owned and run by two generations of the same family, and is a haven of tranquillity.

For the ultimate luxury, along a quiet country lane nearby, enter through electric gates to discover a Lake District sanctuary – with just six suites, the Lake House is set on a stunningly beautiful four-acre private lake with boat-house, sauna, indoor swimming pool, outdoor cedarwood hot tub and 100 acres of private gardens, countryside and woodland.

The Head Chef ensures exquisite cuisine in the 3 AA Rosette restaurant, which in turn is complemented by over 200 wines in the recently updated wine list. The cuisine is modern English with an emphasis on the finest ingredients, beautifully presented without unnecessary fuss, and passionate about local suppliers.

Relaxed and unhurried, there are no weddings or conferences or children under the age of seven to disturb the peace at Gilpin Hotel, just warm smiles, fresh flowers, real fires and friendly, unpretentious service. This is the art of relaxation – perfected.

The sumptuous bedrooms have crisp white linen, luxurious bathrooms, exquisite fabrics, wonderful upholstery and delicious art, and each of the Garden Suites has its own garden complete with cedarwood hot tub. Enjoy a massage in the privacy of your room, in front of the fire, then stroll out into your garden and sink into your hot tub, with surrounding ponds and water features made from traditional Lakeland stone. As dusk falls, enjoy the evening light and natural features – plants have been chosen to create interest day and night, and also during winter, as they are used all year.

Whether relaxing by your fire, listening to music or enjoying one of the in-room spa treatments, the suites are a haven of serenity and calm.

Leave the M6 at junction 36. Take the A590 dual carriageway, which becomes the A591, following signs for 'South Lakes'. At the roundabout just north of Kendal, take the first exit - the B5284 (Crook Road), signposted 'Hawshead via Ferry and Crook'. Gilpin is 5 miles along on the right hand side, clearly signposted on the road.