Barton Hall Country House.
Pooley Bridge, Penrith, Cumbria.
Built in 1710, this Queen Anne country house sits just outside Pooley Bridge at the head of Ullswater in the Lake District. Traditional features have been carefully preserved so a stay here is like stepping back in time.
Barton Hall lies in 3.5 acres of secluded grounds including a croquet lawn for grown-ups and ample playing area for children.
B&B accommodation includes a full English breakfast including a choice of cereals, fruit and yogurts. In addition there is a guest kitchen for preparing sandwiches, simple meals etc.
The guest sitting room is everything you would expect of a traditional country house. There are lots of plush sofas and chairs, long heavy curtains, a carved fire surround and a gilt-framed mirror reflecting the view of the garden through the full-length windows. In addition there is a small sunroom with benches and sun chairs.
Barton Hall has 8 very traditional bedrooms, 3 en-suite and 5 with private and shared bathrooms. All rooms still have original fireplaces and grates, and a lot of the original features that are evident throughout the house. The bedrooms are spacious, each with at least a double plus single bed, tea/coffee making facilities, TV and free wi-fi.
The Lake District is a walker's heaven. The Ullswater Way is a 20 mile circuit of the lake which can be taken in stages if required, using an open top bus or steamer to start or end the journey. Helvellyn is not far from the southern end of Ullswater, or for something more leisurely just take a trip on a lake steamer or visit houses and gardens such as Lowther Castle and Dalemain Mansion.