‘A winning example of the small “hands-on” country house genre’, the Fordyce family’s 18th-century manor house on the Solway coast is ‘charmingly run’ with old-fashioned joie de vivre. Angus Fordyce, the ‘hospitable host’, is ‘an all-round good egg’, Guide readers say. Fans like the ‘peaceful location’, ‘restful atmosphere’, ‘good food’ and ‘friendly, smiling’ staff. (The traditionally decorated sitting rooms, with paintings, log fires, a grand piano, and books to browse, are also liked.) Overlooking the gardens and countryside, ‘immaculate, comfortable’ bedrooms are individually styled. ‘My large room had space to sit and enjoy the view. In the bathroom: a bath for a giant.’ Angus Fordyce’s frequently changing market menu is praised at dinnertime. Resident guests choose any three courses from the menu, perhaps pan-fried scallops, lime, vermouth; venison haunch steak, redcurrants. Oenophiles, take note: the host is happy to conduct a tour of the small private wine cellar. Wake up to a ‘particularly good’ breakfast, with ‘plenty of choice and well-presented cooked dishes’, then roam the extensive grounds. Further afield, coastal walks are steps away. (DP, Brian Knox)