Howe Keld

In a perfect spot, mid-way between Keswick town centre and the lake of Derwentwater, this Edwardian-terrace guest house also has views to the fells on the far shores of the lake. Inside, it's unexpectedly crisp and contemporary in style with wood floors or pale-grey carpets, neutral paintwork and splashes of colour in velvet armchairs. Cool and uncluttered bedrooms continue the look with Scandi-style furniture and bold feature walls, and even standard rooms feel airy. Request a fell view room although other rooms compensate with the biggest bathrooms. Owners Laura and Jerome, with their young family, create a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. As keen outdoors-lovers they're a great source of information for local walking and cycling. Swiss-born Jerome is a trained chef and his breakfast offering certainly sets you up for a day's walking. And with some of the best coffee in town, too. And when you return, there are plenty of pubs and eateries within a five-minute walk.