The Inn on the Lake

As its name might suggest, this smartly updated Victorian hotel basks in a spectacular Lake District setting in 15 acres of lawned grounds on the shores of lake Ullswater, with views of the magnificent Helvellyn range. The whole scene complete with pleasure boats and steamers gliding across the lake is the backdrop to meals in the plushly decorated traditional dining room. Breaking step with the Lake District country-house tradition of set menus, the kitchen here spoils diners for choice, offering a wide-ranging repertoire of straightforward modern dishes. Braised veal shin with mini potato rösti and sage and onion 'pesto' is a typical starter, while mains might take in a duo of local pork - braised belly and tenderloin - served with wild mushrooms, Pommery mustard potato purée and honey-roasted carrots. Finish with steamed treacle pudding with white chocolate sauce.