They're serious about their food at this idyllic manor house hotel on the outskirts of Ambleside, with walks from the door and superb facilities for both humans and their four-legged friends. It has received strong reader approval. 'One of the best hotels we have stayed in,' reads a typical report. Some main-house bedrooms, which mix a country-house style with contemporary elegance, have fell views from the veranda; most have a bath and monsoon shower. Eight 'very impressive' dog-friendly Pavilion rooms, each with a courtyard garden, are 'small suites, all very stylish and modern' yet 'in keeping with the Lakes'. In the restaurant, chef Aaron Lawrence’s modern British cuisine draws inspiration from Cumbrian produce, such as Lakeland beef with potato rosti, buttered carrot and Bordelaise sauce. Guests who fancy something simpler can dine from a bistro menu. After exploring the Lakes with your best friend, a warm shower, Bramley's dog wash and cosy canine robes await, before tea by the fire. (Stephen and Pauline Glover, and others)