Occupying a prime spot in what is arguably the Lake District’s most picturesque valley, Hazel Bank has ‘stunning mountain views’, walks from the doorstep, and the chance of spotting a red squirrel. Sitting above Rothswaite village in Borrowdale, the Victorian house – fictional home for ‘Rogue Herries’ in Hugh Walpole’s novels – is a classic country house on an intimate scale. Owners Gary and Donna MacRae are ‘friendly and attentive hosts’, ensuring ‘a cheerful, warm atmosphere’ and ‘a luxury welcome’, with sherry, home-made biscuits and fine chocolates in bedrooms. The latter are elegant, with pretty wallpapers, comfortable armchairs, valley views and a top-notch bathroom, including under-floor 
heating and L’Occitane toiletries. And then 
there’s the food. Donna and MasterChef finalist Darren Cornish cook ‘outstanding’ evening 
meals that might include teriyaki mackerel with roasted watermelon followed by seared Cumbrian beef with smoked potato. There is a ‘comprehensive, sophisticated wine list’. Served by the MacRaes in the garden-view dining room, ‘all diners felt themselves to be suitably spoilt’. (Carolyn Speirs, DD-L)