Ees Wyke Hotel

Ees Wyke Country House, Near Sawrey, Hawkshead, Ambleside, Cumbria, Lake District

For some, the fact this was once the holiday home of Beatrix Potter, a stone’s throw from where she wrote Peter Rabbit, would be reason enough to visit. Throw in the cuisine on offer in the 16-cover restaurant and room views over some spectacular Lake District scenery and it makes for a pretty special destination. The walks are world-class, so you’ll be ravenous by the time you sit down for one of Ees Wyke’s five-course daily dinners. Influences vary, so expect anything from duck with five spice, star anise, honey and soy to roasted sea bass with pancetta, red onion and tarragon. Doubles from £91.