L

og fires have always been romantic but throw in some sweeping views of Lake Windermere, low-lit candles and an excellent bottle of red, and love will definitely be in the – extremely fresh – air.

Located just above Lake Windermere, the luxurious Samling has just 11 rooms. But this only adds to the intimacy as far as we’re concerned; and besides, it has big ambitions – especially in the kitchen, which was awarded a Michelin Star in 2010.

While breakfast here is an informal affair (it’s usually taken in bed), dinner is where The Samling’s staff really get to flex their skills. The extensive á la carte menu includes Hawkshead Venison and sweet potatoes, Goosnargh Duck with celeriac gratin, and Herdwick Mutton.

And if you’ve got a soft spot for the vino, why not ask Head Sommelier Graeme to offer some suggestions.

After your coffee, keep the romance alive with a midnight stroll through the gardens, which are scattered with contemporary sculptures from the likes of William Pym, Charles Bray and Walter Bailey. Or you maybe you’d just prefer an early night.