The Lake District hotel, in Glenridding, Ullswater, was taken on by the Lake District Hotels Ltd group 11 years ago and was previously known as the Ullswater Hotel. After a name change to Inn on the Lake and a large investment in renovating most of the interior, the hotel soon became well known for its great hospitality paired with unrivalled views.

Now 11 years on it is getting a fresh new look, which began with phase 1 being completed in November 2011. The Lake View bar lounge and the Glenridding function room were decorated in luxurious fabrics with a mulberry colour running throughout. By the end of February 2012, the main Lake View restaurant, lake view lounge and reception and lobby will also be complete.

And that’s not all the refurbishment work that has already been carried out in 2012. To welcome in the New Year, the Borrowdale Hotel and Skiddaw Hotel are excited to announce 10 new bedrooms have been refurbished.

Lake District Hotels are proud of the fact they consistently invest money into updating and refurbishing their bedrooms, hotel interiors and exteriors. The Inn on the Lake Hotel Ullswater had balconies added to four of its Lake View bedrooms in 2011. The Lake balcony rooms overlook Ullswater giving guests that extra space to their bedroom, and get every opportunity to breathe in the fresh Lake District air. All the balcony rooms have also been refurbished to the Lake District Hotels Ltd usual high standard.

The Kings Arms Hotel Keswick, has also had several of its rooms refurbished in 2011. The comfortable rooms have a cosy feel and mix modern and traditional textures and patterns.

To view the new rooms and keep informed with all the news regarding refurbishment and offers, visit http://www.lakedistricthotels.net

It’s not too late to book a romantic Lake District valentines break at the Applegarth Villa Hotel in Windermere. The last few rooms remain and what a treat is in store.

One the weekend of the 10 and 11 February, Applegarth Villa is offering a dinner bed and breakfast package starting at £105 per person per night.

Added extras can also be ordered including chocolates, roses and champagne for those more romantically inclined!

As a finale guests can book a ninety minute luxury champagne cruise aboard Mistress, the Applegarths privately owned motor yacht around Lake Windermere. Voted one of the most romantic things to do in the Lake District the cost of this exclusive cruise is £50 per couple and is only available to guests of the Applegarth Villa.

Applegarth Villa Hotel in Windermere has seen extensive refurbishment recently and now offers some of the most luxurious hotel rooms in Windermere. Combine that with their award winning restaurant serving locally sourced food, a well stocked bar with local real ales from the Watermill at Ings and even a whiskey bar.

For more information on the Lake District valentines break and for all the information on this luxury Lake District hotel, visit http://www.lakesapplegarth.co.uk

The Castle Inn Hotel near Bassenthwaite is holding special Valentine’s themed dinners on 11, 14 and 18 February where for just £25 per person where guests can enjoy a delicious four course candlelit dinner.

Surprise your other half with a romantic Valentine’s meal in the lovely setting of Ritson’s Restaurant within this Keswick hotel. Diners will be treated to a delicious menu which features choices such as chicken liver parfait with red onion marmalade and toasted olive bread or rosemary and courgette soup to start followed by a palate cleansing champagne sorbet.  Main dishes include seabass on a bed of spring onion mash with sweet peppers, pak choi, tiger prawns and herb oil or beef medallions with dauphinoise potatoes, glazed carrots and courgettes and a marsala wine sauce.  There are also vegetarian options for starters and mains.

The deserts are equally tempting from the naughty chocolate fondant or blueberry crème brulee through to a lighter passion fruit panacotta.  Cumbrian cheeses are also available.

This lovely dinner costs just £25 per person.  Guests can also upgrade their dinner to include a glass of sparkling wine, a single red rose and a selection of canapés for a further £26 per couple.

The Castle Inn has recently been awarded the ’PLUS’ status by the Best Western group. This Lake District hotel is one of the first in the country to gain the new ‘Best Western Plus’ status from the Best Western group after it was launched to the nation earlier this month. Castle Inn is one of only 10 hotels in the Great Britain and is the only hotel in Cumbria to have been awarded.

For more information including a full menu and reservations for the Castle Inn Hotel Lake District visit http://www.castleinncumbria.co.uk or call 017687 76401.

Reserve your Lake District cottage property by 29th Feb 2012 and benefit from the Lakeland Cottage Company Early Bird Discount on many properties.

All you have to do to find the great savings is to tap in your dates, duration and property size in the availability search box on the Lakeland Cottage Company website, where a list will be displayed of both availability and the cost.

The months of January and February are ideal times to book a holiday or short break. Booking early in the year gives time to organised annual leave if necessary and importantly, gives you something to look forward to later in the year. For families, it enables parents to select holidays and short breaks in school holidays.

Along with the Early Bird Booking discount, Lakeland Cottage Company will automatically enter you into a super iPad 2 raffle when you make a reservation for any holiday in 2012 and placed by 29th February 2012, when shortly after the draw will take place using their super random name selector – the office bin.

Now in their 20th year, Lakeland Cottage Company have the choice of some 90 of the best examples of Lake District self catering properties. With an emphasis on quality not quantity combined with extensive knowledge of each property and the area they are located in means their customers always find the perfect cottage in the Lake District.

Full terms and conditions on the Lake District cottages Early Bird Discount and ipad raffle can be found at http://www.lakeland-cottage-company.co.uk/  along with all the information you will need in order to select you perfect cottage in the Lake District.

“The Eternal City Break” has been created by The Grange Hotel, one of the leading hotels in York, to attract TV viewers who are expected to tune into this new legal drama in their millions.

The drama has been created by the writers behind the award-winning “Ashes to Ashes” and “Life on Mars” and was filmed in and around the city of York last summer.   Telling the story of angels who are sent to Earth as lawyers with the task of doing good, “Eternal Law” will showcase York’s numerous attractions including York Minster, Stonegate, The Shambles, St William’s College, York Art Gallery and the National Railway Museum.

According to actor Samuel West, the City of York is “beautiful in every sense and is a major character in the drama”.  Greg Dyke, the former BBC Director-General, has gone further and described York as “the Dubrovnik of the North”.  Other attractions, such as the City Walls, the Jorvik Viking Centre and the Castle Museum (which is actually located opposite the city’s main Law Courts), are also expected to benefit from the coverage that the city will get on ITV over the coming weeks.

The “Eternal City Break” is available at The Grange hotel in York between Sundays and Fridays until the end of March, and includes two nights’ accommodation, and dinner on one evening in either the hotel’s AA 2-rosette Ivy Brasserie or the more informal New York Grill & Cafe Bar.  Also included in the York hotels package is a one day York Pass which gives free admission to many of the attractions which feature in “Eternal Law”, and an exclusive Locations Information Sheet, which highlights other films and TV series which have been shot in York.

The Eternal City Break at The Grange one of the leading luxury hotels in York costs from £165 per person, and reservations can be made by ‘phoning the hotel on 01904 644744 or visiting its website at http://www.grangehotel.co.uk

Goosemire Cottages, based in Kendal, know all too well that New Year celebrations and plans can often be overlooked due to the organisation of Christmas festivities. But there needn’t be any worry of what to do for New Year as Goosemire Cottages are not only offering discounts on the remaining Lake District cottages available for the New Year week but short breaks are available on selected properties too.

Even though Christmas has fallen on a weekend this year meaning many people in employment have the enjoyment of over a week off work, with family commitments and parties it isn’t always possible to be away for a whole week. Get the best of both worlds with a New Year short break in one of Goosemire’s stunning Lake District cottages. The Lake District is a year round destination but it really comes into its own over the festive period due to its great hospitality and stunning views. What better than to walk off those days of over indulgence on the endless paths and fells throughout this region.

It’s simple to check availability for the New Year period through Goosemire’s live availability charts and booking system. Short breaks are clearly marked and can either be booked online or by telephone.

Goosemire have a varied selection of Lake District cottages to choose from including rustic 17th century cottages through to modern interior barn conversions. What they all have in common are high standards and spectacular locations such as within the Eden Valley across to the Western Lake District in the Wasdale area. Being a small, family business, Goosemire Cottages are able to offer low prices without any slip in standard of property or service. As well as offering low prices, Goosemire also have a “Pets Go Free” policy in most of their Lake District cottages meaning even Fido can join in the New Year celebrations. A note regarding the properties allowing pets can be found next to each cottage description.

For further information on the full range of services and cottages in the Lake District available from Goosemire as well as New Year availability visit http://www.goosemirecottages.co.uk

Guests at the Lodore Falls Hotel ‘Black and White Charity Ball’ followed the black and white dress code and dined on black and white food at the event which raised over £2,900 in aid of Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research.

Head Chef Mike Ward created a colourful black and white themed menu which included Halibut served on Black Squid Ink Tagliatelle and a dessert called Ebony and Ivory – white and dark chocolate mouse with a duo of chocolate sauces.

As well as music and dance, there were casino tables and a charity auction and raffle which included breaks at the hotel, the Selkirk Arms in Scotland and a tour of the M-Sport factory at Dovenby.

Tanya Sentance, Sales Manager at the Lodore Falls Hotel part of the Lake District Hotel Ltd group said “It was fun to dress the Garden Suite in such a dramatic way. We had black and white candles and table décor; people really go into the spirit of the theme. Everyone was very generous, the atmosphere was fantastic and we were thrilled to raise so much for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research – it is such a worthwhile cause and one close to our hearts because our General Manager Stephen Johnson, lost his bother to the terrible disease earlier this year.”

Charity events are becoming a regular fixtures on the calendars of the six hotels in the Lake District Hotels Ltd group. With their excellent attention to detail and stunning settings, their hotels are the perfect locations for supporting such worthwhile causes as Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research, Keswick Mountain Rescue and North West Air Ambulance.

Anyone interested in finding out more about organising charity events at the Lodore Falls Hotel or any of the other Lake District Hotels Ltd group of hotels can visit http://www.lakedistricthotels.net for more details.

Due to the amazing response to their earlier ‘Dinner on the Villa’ offer of a free dinner for two, Applegarth Villa has now extended this fantastic deal to the 16th February 2012.

This stunning offer grants bed and breakfast guests in double rooms a four course dinner on each evening of their stay.  Valid for stays between Sunday and Thursday and available from now until 16th February 2012 excluding the Christmas and New Year period.

Knowing that everyone is feeling the pinch on the run up to Christmas, the chance to get away from the stresses and strains of everyday life without the financial worries is something everyone dreams of.

After extensive refurbishments to the main entrance and to 3 guest bedrooms, taking the opportunity of the “Dinner on the Villa” offer is a must both for new and returning guests. The Villa restaurant serves locally sourced food which the owners of Applegarth Villa, now complete with a 5 star accommodation rating, know is of upmost importance as well as the overwhelming confidence that Cumbrian produce is some of the best in the United Kingdom.

Applegarth Villa hotel in Windermere is truly a rare find in the very heart of the Lake District. Offering individual luxury Windermere hotels accommodation of the highest standard, this magnificent Villa is unique to Windermere. Having both an Award winning Lake District restaurant serving only the best locally sourced regional produce and a cosy oak panelled bar with roaring fire and one of the finest Whisky selection in the area, this is the perfect place to spend the evening after enjoying a day walking the fells and taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Please mention the “Dinner on the Villa” offer when booking to ensure the offer is received. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer advertised and excludes the Christmas and New Year period. Visit http://www.lakesapplegarth.co.uk for more information and to check availability.

Following the nationwide launch of the new ’PLUS’ status by the Best Western group, the Lord Mayor of Allerdale formally announced that the Castle Inn Bassenthwaite had been awarded this prestigious status.

This Lake District hotel is one of the first in the country to gain the new ‘Best Western Plus’ status from the Best Western group after it was launched to the nation earlier this month. Castle Inn is one of only 10 hotels in the Great Britain and is the only hotel in Cumbria to have been awarded.

This new ‘Best Western Plus’ status has been awarded to these selected hotels as they offer increased levels of luxury and service including larger beds, higher quality bed linen, extended choices and offerings at breakfast time and technology in rooms that create comfort as well as at atmosphere to be able to work for business guests.

The hotel owner, Peter Wells was one of the first hoteliers globally to apply and after passing rigorous standards and quality assessments the hotel has been granted with the title and as such changes its name to Best Western Plus Castle Inn.

Peter Wells, Best Western Plus Castle Inn, general manager/ owner, said: “We are delighted to be one of the first hotels worldwide to be awarded the Plus status. It is a great testament to the hard work and dedication of the team here.”

Best Western has properties throughout the country ranging from country manors, castles and coaching inns to stylish town houses, super modern retreats and sumptuous secluded getaways, there is a hotel to suit every personality and type of British break.

For more information on the Best Western Plus Castle Inn hotel in the Lake District, visit http://www.castleinncumbria.co.uk

‘The Art of Cooking’ is a series of themed culinary demonstrations by their talented Chef, Dale Blacow, including live cookery demonstration, detailed recipes and an insight into the professional ‘know how’ of cooking with fresh local ingredients.

With Cumbria having such high quality local ingredients, Dale is always keen to promote them and knows chefs up and down the country would long to cook with such fine local produce.

The first three dates announced are November 2nd 2011 ‘A Taste of Cumbria’, December 7th 2011 ‘A Christmas Feast’ and January 25th 2012 ‘A wee dram for Burn’s night’.
The  ‘Demo’ and dinner is a snip at £30.00 per person which includes a special three course dinner and a glass of house wine. Should you wish to make a night of it then a special offer of the ‘Demo’ dinner and stay at the Hilthwaite House Hotel in Windermere is from £55.00 per person. This offer includes special three course dinner, a glass of house wine, accommodation in a house double/twin room with full English breakfast, subject to availability.

Being on holiday in the Lake District is synonymous with delicious cuisine – especially when you are staying at Windermere hotels such as the Hillthwaite House Hotel, one of the finest luxury hotels in the Lake District. Their team will spoil you with their award-winning menus using a wide variety of local produce. With menus changing daily, an extensive choice of excellent wines and their Lake District restaurant’s stunning elevated views towards Lake Windermere and the distant fells you are bound to experience a real feast for both the eyes and the pallet. Whether its breakfast or dinner, they cater for every taste from Sunday roasts and imaginative vegetarian dishes to special diets and plain, simple options.

All demonstrations will commence at 6.30pm prompt. To find out more about the ‘The Art of Cooking’ series and for all the detail of this hotel in Windermere, visit http://www.hillthwaite.com

The event was organized in conjunction with Hilary Cookson from the renowned dress shop Maureen Cookson at Whalley in Lancashire and Lancashire magazine. Whilst there were a number of ladies from Lancashire and beyond, there were also tables of local ladies from Cockermouth, Patterdale and Penrith.

The fashion show was presented by Hilary Cookson who owns the fashion house. She entertained guests during the fashion show by recanted humorous tales of fashion faux pas and highlighting the new range of clothing for the autumn which this year, included a mix of practical and glamorous outfits for a range of ages and sizes.

General Manager of the Inn on the Lake part of the Lake District Hotels Ltd group, Gary Wilson said “This is the third year our hotel group has worked with Maureen Cookson – and it is the second year here at the Inn on the Lake – it was good to see new faces from outside Lake District experience what we have to offer. The Victorian gazebo made a wonderful backdrop for pictures so we hope the magazine will show what we have to offer in its full glory.”

With such a stunning backdrop and setting, it isn’t hard to understand why the Inn on the Lake has been choosen for the second year running to host this event.

One table of guests included members of the Workington NSPCC committee, who took time out of their busy fundraising year to enjoy a ladies day. Kath Palmer, one of the committee members said “It was a stunning early autumn drive and the location was absolutely lovely. Hilary Cookson was fun to listen to and the clothing range had something for everyone.”

Head Chef Frazer Soutar was congratulated on his menu by many of the guests who enjoyed the delicious Crab and Lobster Tian starter followed by local lamb. But the star of the menu was the Iced Raspberry and Elderberry Parfait with Mascapone Ice-cream that stole the show.

Anyone interested in finding out about events at the Inn on the Lake part of the Lake District Hotels Ltd group can contact Lorraine Barr on 017684 82444 or visit: http://www.lakedistricthotels.net

Enter the world of Ballroom and Latin American dancing with the dance specialists “Holiday & Dance”. Enjoy a full and fun packed weekend with a difference where dancers of all ages and abilities can dance, learn, improve and meet new people.

Holiday & Dance provide a wide range of dance holidays including short social dancing holidays and breaks, festivals, dance holidays overseas. Join Improvers and Learn to Dance sessions or more intensive workshops.

Arrive on Friday and enjoy dinner followed by social dancing. Saturday and the “Holiday & Dance” instructors will provide a “Learn and Improve Workshop” for early stage and experience dancers followed by a Bucks Fizz reception, Gala dinner and Dance night. Sunday continues with a further “Learn and Improve Workshop”, a tea

dance, dinner and a farewell dance for all. And to top it off, all this is being held in one of the most beautiful parts of the country on the edge of Bassenthwaite Lake.

The Castle Inn Hotel Keswick is offering a special room rate offer for the dancers of £90 per person per night based on double occupancy dinner, bed and breakfast. Stay a 3rd night for just £50 per person dinner, bed and breakfast.

The Gala Dinner on Saturday 19 November 2011 with Bucks Fizz reception, dance night for all plus ‘Young dance Stars in Cabaret’ costs just £39.50 per person.

Call the Castle Inn Hotel Lake District now on 01768 776401 or visit http://www.castleinncumbria.co.uk

Any remaining full weeks for any Gosoemires cottages in the Lake District will be subject to a 20% saving, that’s a staggering one fifth off a summer holiday!  Couple that with Goosemire’s “Pets Go Free” as standard and not only can 20% be saved but expensive boarding kennel fees are also eradicated.

Goosemire Cottages new online booking system not only allows fast, clear and efficient bookings but it is the only online booking system in the Cumbria and the Lake District area that enables visitors to book short breaks online too.

Goosemire Cumbria Cottages are a small family run agency offering holiday cottage accommodation in the Lake District, UK (with just a few exceptions) an all-inclusive rental price. Their limited overheads mean low prices and they pride themselves on a value for money approach. They are open all year round and offer out of season or last minute breaks.

Goosemire Lake District Cottages have available 44 traditional self-catering holiday homes for discerning visitors (Ranging from 1 to 7 bedrooms, sleeping up to 10).  Most are rustic 17th or 18th Century Lakeland cottages or lovely barn conversions, where antiquity and modern comforts have been beautifully combined. Goosemire Cottages also have a large selection of dog and pet friendly cottages.

For more information on all of Goosemire’s Lake District cottages, visit http://www.goosemirecottages.co.uk

Fraser Soutar, Head Chef at the Inn on the Lake had first hand opportunity to test some of Cumbria’s finest ingredients when he was invited to be Chef for the Cumbria leg of the Food North West Fine Food Awards. Known for his love of local ingredients, Fraser saw it as an opportunity to unearth some new local flavours.

As part of his duties, Fraser had to cook the raw ingredients for the tasting panel to sample. It included black puddings, venison, beef and sausages. It was also an opportunity to try the jams, pickle and cheeses that were also entered for the awards.

This is the first time Fraser has acted as chef for the day and he received excellent feedback from the Food North West team who said the whole preparation process was very smooth. “We were really lucky to have Fraser cook for us at the Fine Food Awards Cumbria heat. Producers who enter trust us to take care of their products and present them to the judges in their best possible light, with Fraser in the kitchen we were certainly able to do that.”

Fraser earmarked his favourites quite early on in the day and enjoyed what he described as “a very special black pudding” and some very interesting sausages. Summing up his day as chef he said “Here in Cumbria we are privileged to have wonderful, locally reared produce on hand all year round – this competition only goes to

highlight the wide variety on offer. I have certainly tasted some very unusual products and some that I am already following up on to include on the menu at Inn on the Lake.

With over 400 products entered, I was pleased to see some Cumbrian favourites winning awards – the Pork & Mr Vikki’s Chilli Jam Sausage from Dales Butchers was excellent – as was the venison loin steak from Deer n Dexter, I am glad to see they both won recognition.”

Anyone interested in finding out what local ingredients are used on the menu at Inn on the Lake Hotel Ullswater part of the Lake District Hotels Ltd group can visit http://www.lakedistricthotels.net

Want to see Brit Award winning music sensation Ellie Goulding live in concert and then hop into the hot tub of one of the UK’s most glamorous spa terraces?  Well you can on the 25th of June, courtesy of Mercedes Benz World and the Brooklands Hotel in Weybridge, Surrey.

Fresh from her starring role singing the first song at the Royal Wedding last month, Ellie will be performing exclusively inside the atrium at Mercedes-Benz World for this exclusive one-off evening event. The Hereford-born singer-songwriter has sold over a million singles, sold out every UK date she played last year and her version of Elton John’s classic Your Song, sold over half a million copies.  Ellie’s debut album ‘Lights’ was also both the biggest and fastest selling debut album of 2010 and has sold over 500,000 copies.

Not only will guests get to experience this great opportunity to see Ellie Goulding live in this intimate venue, but they will also enjoy luxury accommodation at the Brooklands Hotel Surrey, just a 20 second walk away from the neighbouring concert venue. Nominated for UK residential spa of the year in the Professional Beauty Awards earlier this year, and with its iconic, art deco inspired interior, the world’s most historic motor racing track running through the reception, and some of the biggest bedrooms and super suites of any UK hotel, the new Brooklands Hotel & Spa in Weybridge, Surrey has to be seen to be believed.

The Brooklands Hotel in Surrey ‘Ellie Goulding Package’ is priced at £109.50 per person based on double occupancy* (or £165pp based on single occupancy) and includes:
~ A concert ticket per person
~ Luxury overnight accommodation in one of the finest hotels in Surrey with a choice of Full English or Continental breakfast
~ Complimentary use of the critically acclaimed spa facilities

Brooklands is the home of one of Britain’s most famous racing heritage circuits – in fact it was the world’s first purpose built real race track – and was the scene of the earliest motor racing in the country during the 1920s and 1930’s.  In addition it was also a centre for aviation development. The circuit is no longer in operation however there is an extensive museum in which there is a wide range of exhibits from the earliest racing cars and aircraft of the era up to the first prototype Concorde. Also within the perimeter and adjacent to the hotel is Mercedes-Benz World, a multi-purpose motor car and commercial centre for one of the world’s most iconic brands, offering driving experiences for adults and children alike.

Terms & Conditions
Valid for Saturday 25th June 2011 only.  Full prepayment required at time of booking.  Non refundable and non transferable.  Rates include VAT.  Offer is subject to availability.  Tickets will be supplied by the Brooklands Hotel for the Concert.

Please visit the website of the Brooklands Hotel in Surrey at http://www.brooklandshotelsurrey.com for more information.

Saturday 8th October 2011 will see murder at The Castle Inn in the form of a murder mystery evening. Picture the setting, its 1928 and you have been cordially invited to attend the wedding reception of Georgina-Willoughby-Mott to Binky Brinkley in the grand Best Western Castle Inn Hotel. But alas this special occasion takes a turn for the worst when traces of death linger in the air. Can you solve the Murder at the Castle?

Come and join the team at The Castle Inn Hotel Keswick for an evening of love, laughter and mysterious goings on. The evening includes a delicious three course wedding breakfast, a complimentary glass of bucks fizz and canapés and entertainment supplied by Murder Most Horrid and all for only £34.00 per person.

Should attendees wish to make a night of it and stay over at The Castle Inn Hotel Lake District then a special rate of only £50.00 per person per bed and breakfast is being offered.

Set overlooking some of England’s highest fells and Bassenthwaite Lake, the Castle Inn Hotel Lake District is in a beautiful location, just 8 miles from Keswick. Ideally situated for those wishing to explore Bassenthwaite, Keswick and the Lake District, the Best Western Castle Inn Hotel is one of the finest Keswick Hotels offering a warm welcome and the ideal location for relaxing after a busy day discovering the beauties of the Lake District.

Booking is essential for murder mystery evening so please call the Castle Inn events team on 017687 76401 or visit http://www.castleinncumbria.co.uk. Be very careful who you trust!

A cool and tempting offer has arisen at the Lakeland Cottage Company. Book a holiday or short break in one of the Lakeland Cottage Company’s portfolio of luxury cottages and receive the benefit of prices frozen at the 2011 FRP.

Whether it is for a romantic weekend in autumn or winter or a main summer holiday, the price freeze offer benefits any early birds out there. With rising costs in labour, taxes and goods, increased costs for self catering property owners are unavoidable. However, many understand that a reward and a thank you must go to those guests who book in advance.

Having some of the highest quality Lake District cottages on offer, the Lakeland Cottage Company are leading the way in luxury self catering accommodation. For even greater confidence in making a reservation, all of their properties are inspected by Visit England, the UK official accommodation quality and standards organisation with many being 5 star gold award properties. A choice of some 85 Lake District cottages of varying sizes and in unrivalled locations are further reasons why the Lakeland Cottage Company are at the forefront of self catering agencies in this region.

This offer may not be used in conjunction with other offers or incentives the Lakeland Cottage Company may be publicising, nor applied to any reservation already made and confirmed prior to publication of offers, or after the period of the offer date. The Lakeland Cottage Company and or the owners of individual properties reserve the right to remove the offer at any time, or to extend or revise the offer beyond any dates published on this website, any amendments or changes cannot be used against reservations already made and confirmed.

To browse cottages the Lake District on offer and take advantage of the special price freeze offer, visit http://www.lakeland-cottage-company.co.uk/

Recent surveys suggest the Lake District will be one of the most popular UK destinations to head for a break this summer and we don’t think there’s a better place to base yourself here than Windermere Marina Village.

And here’s the proof…Close enough to walk to the restaurants, shops and attractions of Bowness but far enough from the noise or crowds, means guests can have a relaxing and peaceful stay on this friendly but private Marina complex directly on a “secret” cove on England’s longest lake.

Windermere Marina Village have invested over £3 million into improving the décor and facilities inside their stunning Lake District self catering cottages and waterside apartments to an exceptional standard – offering guests the choice of three, four or seven day breaks and it’s easier than ever to book.

With a friendly and fully-stocked on-site Marina shop selling everything from bangers to local beers, get a room with a balcony and watch the sun go down. There are gentle walks from the site along the lakeside which are “buggyable” if with small children, and onsite there’s a sheltered cove and cooking pit for a summer’s night barbecue down by the water.

Guests can bring their own boat and see the Lake from a different perspective and the marina offer all the facilities such as electric hook-ups, advice and security.

Remember, it’s not compulsory to bring a boat here and if guests fancy getting out on the water, there are plenty of opportunities. Marina guests can choose a cruise with nearby Windermere Lake Cruises, hop on the cross-lake ferry next door to us with a bike or car, or even hire a wooden rowing boat out at Bowness Bay, just a 10-minute walk from the Lake District cottages door.

The towns of Windermere and Ambleside are just a short drive away if you prefer to get out and about but if you prefer staying closer to home, then you can. Bustling Bowness and its shops, cafes, gift shops, restaurants and attractions are literally next door.

For guests up for an adventure, then they’ve found the right place. Head a mile up the road to activity centre Lakes Leisure Windermere where couples, families and groups can try introductory lessons to canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing and sailing, or a multi-activity days with specially trained instructors. Alternatively, head to Grizedale Forest around 20 minutes away with its tree-tops Go Ape course and zip slides, a range of mountain biking trails and indoor and outdoor art exhibitions.

It all goes to make Windermere Marina Village Lake District cottages the cherished place to spend the summer. Windermere Marina Village is the Lake District’s premier Inland Marina and Windermere and Lake District self catering resort. For more information visit http://www.wmv.co.uk

In celebration of Fathers Day, the George Hotel in Penrith is holding a Dads Rule evening with Russell Shaun on Friday 17th June, 7pm. Russell will be taking guests through the rat pack era while they enjoy a hot and cold carved buffet. Tickets are still available £23.50 and it is sure to set the Father’s Day weekend on a good footing. If you haven’ thought up a pressie for Dad – this could do the trick.

The George Hotel, Penrith guarding the entrance to the Northern Lakes, with spectacular Lake Ullswater only 4 miles away, the Historic town of Penrith was once the capital of the old county of Cumberland, providing a vital trading link between North and South. As times have changed so has Penrith, now no longer the capital of modern day Cumbria it is none the less just as vital and even more accessible by all major forms of transport (M6, and main line railway station). Penrith is that ideal evolution a modern day market town retaining all the Old World charm of a time gone by.

Situated in the attractive town centre of Penrith, amongst the mix of traditional shops and charming arcades, stands The George Hotel part of the Lake District Hotels Ltd group of hotels. This proud building steeped in over 300 years of History, provides the ideal base from which to explore the Lake District and Eden Valley.

To enter through The George Hotel’s revolving doors is to experience Tradition and Quality in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of a gentler time. So step in, and share the experience.

For more information on The George Hotel Penrith’s Father’s day celebration visit http://www.lakedistricthotels.net/georgehotel/index.php

In fact, not only have Applegarth Villa gained their 5th star but The AA has also made these star yellow. Yellow Stars indicate that an establishment is acknowledged by the AA for providing Highly Commended accommodation above the standard black stars.

The AA 5 star guest accommodation rating stands for the following as quoted on The AA’s website:

“Awareness of each guest’s needs with nothing being too much trouble. All bedrooms are ensuite or have a private bathroom. Excellent quality beds and furnishings. Breakfast includes specials/home-made items, high quality ingredients, and fresh local produce.”

After extensive refurbishments at Applegarth Villa which include the main entrance to this exquisite example of arts and crafts architecture and guest bedrooms, this new accolade is much appreciated. Now offering 15 luxury, individually designed guest bedrooms which can be chosen specifically through their website allowing guests to request the same room as previously or try a different one.

Applegarth Villa is truly a rare find in the very heart of the Lake District. Offering individual luxury Windermere hotels accommodation of the highest standard, this magnificent Villa is unique to Windermere. Having both an award winning restaurant serving only the best locally sourced Cumbrian produce and a cosy oak panelled bar with roaring fire and one of the finest Whisky selection in the area, this is the perfect place to spend the afternoon or evening after a day out exploring  a day the Lakes.

For more information on this 5 star guest Windermere hotels, visit http://www.lakesapplegarth.co.uk.

The deadline is usually April 8th but this year, Goosemire are pleased to extend this deadline meaning even more visitors can take advantage of great Lake District cottages short breaks deals.

Short breaks have been growing in popularity for self catering holidays and none more so than in these challenging economic times where tourism operators are needing to work twice as hard at enticing guests. “The ability to rent a Lake District cottage or self catering property for a short break was almost unheard of 10 years ago but we are all having to move with the times” says Martin Wardle owner of Goosemire Cottages. “Short break bookings have increased year on year so it is proving positive and shows what visitors are wanting”.

With Goosemire Cottages new online booking system which not only allows fast, clear and efficient bookings but it is the only online booking system in the Cumbria and Lake District area that enables visitors to book short breaks online too.

Goosemire Cumbria Cottages are a small family run agency offering holiday cottage accommodation in the Lake District, UK (with just a few exceptions) an all-inclusive rental price. Their limited overheads mean low prices and they pride themselves on a value for money approach. They are open all year round and offer out of season or last minute breaks.

Goosemire Lake District Cottages have available 44 traditional self-catering holiday homes for discerning visitors (Ranging from 1 to 7 bedrooms, sleeping up to 10). Most are rustic 17th or 18th Century Lakeland cottages or lovely barn conversions, where antiquity and modern comforts have been beautifully combined. Goosemire Cottages also have a large selection of dog and pet friendly cottages.

For more information on all of Goosemire’s Lake District cottages, visit http://www.goosemirecottages.co.uk

Nigel has set his sights on a rosette for the Borrowdale Hotel restaurant spending many years developing his skills just down the road at the Lodore Falls Hotel under the tutelage of Head Chef Mike Ward.

“It is very rewarding to see someone progress so well.” Comments Kit Graves, Managing Director of Lake District Hotels Ltd.

Nigel has developed a real passion for traditional English dishes with a creative twist, and the restaurant’s famous carving trolley, local cheeseboard and unique silver service are still key favourites. Hosting the prestigious Cumbria Life Dining Club last month Nigel excelled and local celebrity chef John Crouch concluded “The dishes were very flavoursome because Nigel’s menu let those flavours shine – everyone really enjoyed it. He is a skilled young chef with a great potential.”

And keeping on with chef and foodie news from Lake District Hotels Ltd, Mike Wrad, Head Chef at th Lodore Falls Hotel has become somewhat of a radio superstar.

Head Chef Mike Ward first appeared on BBC Radio Cumbria to talk about the monthly Pudding Evenings held at the Lodore Falls Hotel. If you are a pudding lover, the second Thursday every month is just the night to have dinner in the restaurant – there are seven delicious puddings to choose from.

Following his first appearance Mike built up quite a listener fan base and has a monthly pudding slot on the morning show. His choice of pudding is interesting and he always picks one that his audience will be able to make at home.

For more information on upcoming foodie events, for reservations and menus at all of the Lake District Hotels Ltd restaurants, visit http://www.lakedistricthotels.net

The booking system is unique amongst the Cumbria and Lake District self catering businesses and website. This new booking system allows the visitor to book short breaks online as well as full weeks. When booking with other self catering companies, a short break booking or availability enquiry requires the customer to phone. Booking hotel rooms, holidays and self catering properties is so widely used that having to telephone can sometimes put potential guests off. Full online booking facilities also allow guests to book out of office hours, great for those who work shifts.

Short breaks have been growing in popularity for self catering holidays and none more so than in these challenging economic times where tourism operators are having to work twice as hard at enticing guests. “The ability to rent a cottage or self catering property for a short break was almost unheard of 10 years ago but we are all having to move with the times” says Martin Wardle owner of Goosemire Cottages. “Short break bookings have increased year on year so it is proving positive and what guests are wanting”.

Goosemire Cumbria Cottages are a small family run agency offering holiday cottage accommodation in the Lake District, UK (with just a few exceptions) an all-inclusive rental price. Their limited overheads mean low prices and they pride themselves on a value for money approach. They are open all year round and offer out of season or last minute breaks.

Goosemire Lake District Cottages have available 46 traditional self-catering holiday homes for discerning visitors (Ranging from 1 to 7 bedrooms, sleeping up to 10). Most are rustic 17th or 18th Century Lakeland cottages or lovely barn conversions, where antiquity and modern comforts have been beautifully combined. Goosemire Cottages also have a large selection of dog and pet friendly cottages.

For more information on all of Goosemire’s Cumbrian cottages, visit http://www.goosemirecottages.co.uk

This stunning offer grants bed and breakfast guests in double rooms a five course dinner on each evening of their stay.  Valid for stays anytime between now and April 21st 2011, the “Dinner at the Villa” is extremely tempting.

Knowing that everyone is feeling the pinch after Christmas, Applegarth Villa are offering the chance to get away from the stresses and strains of everyday life without the financial worries. To top that, the first lambs in South Lakeland have just arrived and the daffodils are sprouting up everywhere, spring is within touching distance.

After extensive refurbishments to the main entrance and to 3 guest bedrooms, taking opportunity of the “Dinner at the Villa” offer is a must both for new and returning guests. The Villa restaurant serves locally sourced food which the owners at Applegarth Villa know is of upmost importance as well as knowing Cumbrian produce is some of the best in the United Kingdom.

Applegarth Villa is truly a rare find in the very heart of the Lake District. Offering individual luxury accommodation of the highest standard, this magnificent Villa is unique to Windermere. Having both an Award winning restaurant serving only the best locally sourced regional produce and a cosy oak panelled bar with roaring fire and one of the finest Whisky selection in the area, this is the perfect place to spend the evening after enjoying a day in the Lakes.

Please mention the “Dinner at the Villa” Windermere hotels offer when booking to ensure the offer is received. Visit http://www.lakesapplegarth.co.uk for more information and to check availability.

Friday 4th March 2011 is the date for The Borrowdale Hotel to be transported to the hot climate of Chile both in terms of food and wine.

Nigel Harper the head chef at The Borrowdale Hotel has created a four course dinner which will be matched with a glass of Chilean wine with each course chosen by Stephen Wilcock Master Sommelier and manager of the hotel. The wines will be introduced by Mr Gabriel Fernandez from Torres Chile.

A fun entertaining and informative evening for only £38pp or for only £120pp with a bottle of Torres wine in your room compliments of The Borrowdale Hotel. A menu consisting of Spiced Chilean Sea Bass Fillet, followed by Sopa de los Andes then Chancho a la Chilena and finally Torta de maíz de Chile is sure to propel all guests to stunning Chile.

In addition to the fine food and wine tastings, learn about winemaking in Chile were the excellent climatic conditions make it ideal to grow vines. Chile has well differentiated seasons with spectacular temperature shifts, greater even than 20ºC. Also the absence of Phylloxera means that it is not necessary to graft vines onto American rootstock finally the oldest viticultural traditions on the American continent. Spanish missionaries planted the first vineyards. Later, in the 19th century they were re-planted with French varietals.

With over 25 years in the industry, Stephen Wilcock began his career under the tutelage of Francis Coulson and Brian Sack at The Sharrow Bay. He spent 15 years with them learning hospitality in the first establishment to coin the phrase Country House Hotel. Since then he worked at the Michelin star L’Enclume at Cartmel and The Samling in Windermere before joining the Lake District Hotels Ltd Group as Deputy Manager at the Lodore Falls Hotel.

For more information on the Torres Wine evening at The Borrowdale Hotel part of the Lake District Hotels Ltd group, visit http://www.lakedistricthotels.net/borrowdalehotel/index.php