The relaxed atmosphere and fell views make this handsome country hotel, between the Lake District and the North York Moors national park, a winner.

In a ‘wonderful location’, with uninterrupted valley and fell views, this Edwardian country house is an elegant retreat for outdoors lovers who appreciate their creature comforts.

In a quietly beautiful area of the Lake District – the lovely Lyth valley – this smart village inn has a deserved reputation for good food and cosseting bedrooms.

In an old market town, this dog-friendly historic inn by the river and church has quirky rooms, open fires and cheery staff.

‘The view and the tranquillity are just wonderful.

Ideally placed for exploring the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales, this laid-back roadside inn, in an 18th-century hostelry, has a modern rustic look: wide wooden tables and mismatched chairs, a wood-burning stove, sheepskin-covered bar stools under oak beams.

Between the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District – and just ten minutes from the M6 – Hipping Hall is a surprising foodie find with understated but luxurious bedrooms, a relaxed atmosphere and restful views.

On the Roman city walls, overlooking the River Dee, this handsome boutique hotel is ‘very well run’ by owners Michael Stephen and Tim Mills.

This Victorian Gothic mansion, one of Andrew Wildsmith’s small, sophisticated group (see also Hipping Hall, Cowan Bridge), manages to be stylish yet relaxed.

Grand from every direction, this ‘very smart’ Grade II listed hotel is in a ‘central location that can hardly be bettered if you’re keen to be in the thick of things’.

A gabled Arts and Crafts country house in extensive grounds with ‘tantalising’ views of Lake Windermere and Coniston Fells.

The views stretch to Windermere and the Langdale Pikes from this 19th-century stone-and-slate country house, which stands in large, landscaped grounds, in a green valley that leads to the rushing river.