Linthwaite House

In a 'great location', this timbered, creeper-covered, white and stone house has 'amazing views' over landscaped gardens to Lake Windermere. Public rooms have oriental rugs, potted plants, cabin trunks, memorabilia, and an enclosed veranda faces the water. The owner, Mike Bevans, tells us that five new bedrooms have been added, including a suite which has a sliding roof 'for stargazing'. This year's praise: 'As good as ever.' 'Friendly staff provided excellent service throughout. Our room, which overlooked the garden, was large, with a comfortable bed, good sitting space and well-equipped bathroom.' Rooms 14 and 15 (each with king-size bed and lake views) are liked. The cooking of chef Richard Kearsley, who arrived in late 2008, is liked too. His modern dishes might include crispy ravioli of rabbit confit; steamed fillet of sea bream, caramelised chicory, orange and star anise sauce. One guest found the restaurant service 'very formal'. 'Delicious scones at teatime.' (John and Jean Saul, Nigel Davies, Gordon Hands)