Maybe it’s the warm lakeland welcome, or perhaps the curiously eclectic mix of ancient, Cumbrian and contemporary. It probably has a lot to do with the food (and the beer). Or perhaps its location, tucked away in the Troutbeck Valley, just 3 miles from Windermere.

Whatever it is that makes The Queen’s Head Hotel in Cumbria’s lakeland such a favourite with the regulars, you need to come and experience it first hand.

Rooms with fabulous four-posters and quirky walls from another century; textures and colours to relax the senses all combine to provide a welcome sanctuary, whether in the original Coaching Inn or the beautifully transformed ancient barn opposite. Don’t go home...sleep over!

Make no mistake, Troutbeck is real Lakeland. This undulating valley, riddled with a maze of footpaths linking ancient hamlets at times appears to lure you into their gardens.

Occasionally, Windermere Lake comes into view a few miles down the valley, tempting you away from the swathe of fell tops above. The best advice is to keep returning to ensure you haven’t missed anything. At least this way, you can eat your way through The Queen’s Head menu and stay in another gloriously comfortable room!