Past fields grazed by Hardwick sheep, Diana Lewthwaite’s guest house stands against the dramatic backdrop of the Lakeland fells. The white-painted Georgian house has been home to the Lewthwaite family for almost 200 years. Grand public rooms are filled with antique furniture and sumptuous fabrics, and have an original fireplace. Colour and pattern lend country character to the spacious, traditionally furnished bedrooms. Each has a separate, private bathroom with a throne loo and freestanding bath. Venture into the large grounds, designed as a series of ‘garden rooms’ in bloom throughout the year: there are terraces, a croquet lawn, a walled garden and an ‘oasis’ with a palm tree. 4 miles from town; beaches nearby.