Countryside
Both genteel and wild, there’s nothing quite like the English countryside for rural escapes with its patchwork hills, dramatic dales, ancient woodlands and winding country roads. All well and good, but what is there to do in England’s countryside exactly? Quite a lot, actually. Admire the grand interiors of a stately home before catching a play in the surrounding gardens, travel back in time with visits to ancient stone circles and crumbling castles, or step into a chocolate box of quaint villages and market towns and live like a local, trying farmhouse cheeses, cream teas and real ales along the way.
Create your own goodies at The Chocolate Factory Hawkshead
Take the family on a sweet adventure with a hands-on experience at the Lake District's own Chocolate Factory.
Location: Hawkshead, Cumbria
Take in 'Swallows and Amazons' landscapes on a relaxing cruise
Take a trip around the landscape used in the film ‘Swallows and Amazons’ and discover what inspired Arthur Ransome to write his famous book.
Location: Derwentwater, Cumbria
Cosy up in a private hot tub on a romantic retreat
Treat your loved one and yourself to a new level of luxury with your very own hot tub suite at Applegarth Villa, nestled in the heart of Windermere.
Location: Windermere, Cumbria
Enjoy fine dining at The Samling
Top grub and sweeping views of Lake Windermere.
Location: Windermere, Cumbria
Breathtaking views and an incredible menu at Holbeck Ghyll
Plan that perfect foodie break to a gorgeous country house hotel set against a perfect Cumbrian backdrop.
Location: Windermere, Cumbria
Drive through the Lake District in a classic car
Explore the Lake District in style. Only the sexiest sports car will do, the top has to be down, and the roads have to be winding.
Location: Lake District, Cumbria
Enjoy a family break in the artistic surroundings of Nelson Barn
Ramble around the Cumbrian countryside with the whole family and get a good night’s sleep at Nelson Barn.
Location: Kaber, Cumbria
Visit poet William Wordsworth's most famous home
See where the author of ‘Daffodils’ was inspired to write most of his work and take a guided tour of Dove Cottage, his home.
Location: Grasmere, Cumbria