THE FACTS ABOUT LUXURY LODGE IN THE LAKE DISTRICT

England Lake_District

Explore the south lakes from Gilpin Lodge, a large, Edwardian house set in 20 acres of grounds outside Windermere. There are 14 rooms in three categories: Classic (the least expensive), Lodge and Master. One of the Lodge rooms has a four-poster; among the Master rooms a good choice is split-level Buttermere, with a king-size four-poster, Jacuzzi and large French windows leading onto a private patio. The most exotic is Thirlmere, in dramatic blacks and golds, while Troutbeck is the largest, with windows on three sides so you can watch the sun rise to its peak, then set. X-FACTOR The hotel doesn't host wedding parties or conferences; it's geared towards individual guests and has an excellent restaurant (the four-course dinner costs £42.50 per person). CONTACT Gilpin Lodge, Crook Road, nr Windermere, Lake District, Cumbria (015394 88818; www.gilpin-lodge.co.uk). Classic rooms £230; Lodge rooms £260; Master rooms £290. Three-night breaks from £570 half board