Book Irton Hall in Holmrook, Lake District

Irton Hall offers Bed & Breakfast rooms inside a former 14th-century tower and the converted ballroom, in addition to separate self-catering cottages and apartments spread across the grounds. Each B&B room includes a flat-screen TV, iPod dock, tea/coffee making facilities, and a spacious modern bathroom. Self-catering units such as the Clock Tower and Pele Cottage provide private kitchens, wood-burning stoves, and dedicated outdoor spaces including balconies and BBQ areas.

The on-site bar serves local ales alongside a range of beverages, while the restaurant offers a menu that changes daily using locally sourced produce. Full English breakfasts are served each morning in the lounge bar, with lighter continental options also available. Guests can collect free freshly laid eggs from the hotel's own hens at reception.

The hotel grounds are home to free-ranging peacocks, chickens, geese, turkeys, pigs, and sheep that guests can watch from the lawns and walking paths. Behind the main hall, a small wooded area provides a steep walking trail where dogs can be let off the lead. The property also features a slow electric vehicle charging point that requires no subscription.

Irton Hall sits at the foothills of the western Lake District fells, between Wasdale and Eskdale, a 20-minute drive from the Scafell Pike trailhead at Wasdale car park. Muncaster Castle with its owl sanctuary and the Ravenglass Miniature Steam Railway are both a 10-minute drive away. The hotel provides a list of local walks and family-friendly attractions, including steam railways, pram-friendly paths, and swimming spots.

All B&B rooms and self-catering cottages accept pets, and dogs are allowed inside the bar area of the main hall. The grounds feature a range of animals - including rescued pigs, chickens, geese, and cats - which children can observe during their stay. The Grey Lady Suite on site offers a dedicated space for weddings and bespoke events, with indoor and outdoor areas for receptions.

History: 14th-century Pele Tower rooms and converted ballroom

Accommodations: Self-catering cottages (Clock Tower, Pele Cottage, Broughton House)

Dining: Freshly laid eggs from hotel hens, daily-changing menu with locally sourced produce

Grounds: Free-range peacocks, rescued pigs, electric car charging point

Location: 20 min to Scafell Pike, 10 min to Muncaster Castle & Ravenglass Steam Railway

Pets: Dogs allowed in rooms and bar