Conveniently close to the village for shops, pubs, restaurants and local buses, Victorian House is also a great base for walking the fells straight from the doorstep. Inside, the villa’s hand-picked furnishing and stone floors make relaxing areas for poring over a guide book or for sharing small plates or tapas dishes (Fri, Sat nights). A lawned garden overlooks the river. A selection of neat bedrooms (some are in a cottage or a shepherd’s hut) would suit a couple, a family, or star-gazers. Dog-friendly room have hard flooring, outdoor access and a tap for washing muddy paws. The hotel takes part in a tree-planting scheme for guests arriving by public transport.