A trip to a boutique hotel in Windermere is less about muddy walks and more about the luxe side of the Lakes, says Joely Carey.

Where is it?

Linthwaite House is just minutes away from the bustling and sometimes too busy Bowness-on-Windermere but feels a world away, as it’s perched above the lake nestled in its own private grounds.

What’s the accommodation like?

This hotel rewrites the rules of a trad Lake District escape with stylish super-luxe interiors and exteriors that encourage you to slow down, switch off and recharge.

Take to the terrace with a G&T for uninterrupted views of the lake or explore the 14-acre grounds on a private walking trail whilst admiring some of the stunning sculptures.

All the rooms have a touch of luxe, those with a view really are worth the extra spend. We had a suite with a private hot tub overlooking a private garden and the lake beyond – absolute bliss.

For groups, check out the woodland lodges, some interconnect for family gatherings, and all have hot tubs.

Dog-friendly rooms are also available, check with the hotel.

What did you eat & drink?

The hotel is home to the legendary Michelin chef Simon Rogan’s Henrock restaurant.

There are three menus now on offer ranging from a full tasting menu with two shorter options, plus a headliner Sunday roast and what looked like an incredible afternoon tea.

We chose from the shorter menu, which featured local smoked trout on a buckwheat base, braised venison and black garlic with a creamed celeriac emulsion followed by a wonderful pink Herdwick hogget. Other dishes included dill-braised Duncan cabbage with coriander seeds and fermented Napa, Houghton Springs trout served with smoked whey, mooli and lemon verbena.

One of Rogan’s head chefs here is Mark McCabe, a familiar face to any Great British Menu viewers, and dishes have a distinct Asian influence whilst staying loyal to locally produced seasonal produce from both Rogan’s farm in nearby Cartmel and local food artisans.

Breakfast was a joyful selection of beautifully presented fruits, meats, cheese and preserves and pastries, although we went for the cooked options: eggs benedict – perfect eggs and a glossy hollandaise sauce – and poached eggs wobbling perfectly on creamy avo smeared thickly on some homemade sourdough.

What is there to do?

Walks aplenty, of course, and Bowness-on-Windermere is just a few minutes by car, but staying at Linthwaite House encourages a different lakes experience: wander the private grounds and woodlands, take out a rowing boat on their private tarn, play giant chess on the lawns, or simply relax and read within the hotel itself.

Lasting memory

Sitting reading in the cosy lake house at the hotel’s private tarn, with blankets and candles this is the most serene spot to unwind and relax, oh and there’s a button to call for any refreshments you might need. Perfection.

Sainsbury’s magazine insider tip:

Book a bike. The hotel has two bikes for guests use, explore the area on the quiet lanes away from the main roads, then take afternoon tea on the terrace on your return.