The Lake District is well known for having inspired artists over the past three centuries, poets and painters alike. It’s green sprawling hills and vibrant waters have captured the imaginations of people like Thomas Allom, John Ruskin, and William and Dorothy Wordsworth. The Lakes are a place of exploration and beauty that needs to be seen to be believed.

There are a number of hotels that offer lakeside views that capture the endless sea of water nestled between the hills, home to wildlife and paddle boats.

Sharrow Bay in Ullswater offers the Pinkie Room, the only room with a private balcony. As per its name, the Pinkie Room features soft pink furnishings against white framing that allows the brilliant view of Ullswater and England’s third highest mountain to take centre stage.

If you are looking for somewhere closer to an artist’s rendering, try the Daffodil Hotel and Spa. Resting on the edge of Grasmere’s lake, this is the location that inspired William Wordsworth’s ‘I wandered lonely as a cloud’; crafted following his reading of his sister’s journal entry recalling the surprise of witnessing such a vast number of daffodils.

Alternately, try Cragwood Country House Hotel. With its views of Lake Windermere, you can witness a world of activity from the comfort of your own bed. Each room has plenty of windows, allowing the sunlight and the fresh lake air to filter in.

Be inspired to create by witnessing the beauty of the Lakes for yourself. Maybe you too can join the legends that have walked upon these lands.