Unrivalled in character and charm, step into a realm of romance this Valentine’s Day at Laura Ashley Hotel, The Belsfield.

Overlooking the largest body of water in the Lake District: Lake Windermere, The Belsfield is a mere five minute stroll from the small, buzzing town of Bowness-on-Windermere which boasts millions of visitors each year. Only two miles from the home of iconic writer, Beatrix Potter, this landmark hotel sits in the most enviable location above the lakeside shores of Windermere.

The Belsfield has been a hotel since the late 19th century and, expectantly, the Laura Ashley group, who acquired it in 2014, have curated a captivating light, modern-country-house look.

Understated yet elegantly furnished, from deep velvet bucket chairs, and crystal chandeliers to typical floral wallpapers, the 62 rooms, not all with lake views, are designed to feel like you’re stepping straight into the latest Laura Ashley catalogue. This Valentine’s Day, indulge in a four poster room and you’ll receive floor-to-ceiling windows with breathtaking views, whether they be mist filled mysteries of beyond or glorious reflections of the panoramic surroundings. It’s near impossible to not admire the stylish  decor without indulging in the thoughts of a home renovation.

Experiencing warmer temperatures or becoming wrapped in crisp northern air, a garden terrace, set between the lake and the hotel, provides unbeatable, non-obtrusive views where tea, coffee and bites to eat are available throughout the day.

Awarded World Heritage Site status, the timeless building, which is painted box-fresh white and ice cream vanilla, leaves no detail unturned. From Roman-arched windows with views of nothing but the Windermere lakeshore to an all-glass reception area filled with the latest classic furniture pieces, this enticing boutique hotel has been restored to give the two hundred year-old building an ambience of uncompromised luxury.

As the day begins to wind down, there’s no better place to watch the sun set than from the delightful drawing room with your favourite tipple from the extensive bar menu, made up of many new-world wine options.

As darkness closes its curtains on Windermere for the day, retreat to the award-winning AA rosette dining room for a five course à la carte dinner where it’s all about local ingredients, including dishes such as Cumbrian lamb rack with a goat curb and herb bon-bon, before succumbing to the must-have peanut butter parfait served with malted banana ice cream. Retire to the warm and intimate lounge area, nestled within a glowing marblesque bar, for an after dinner liquor served with first-class service and a warming smile.

If you’re spending your out-of-office days climbing to the ridged top of Catbells or taking a boat cruise to the islands, allow yourself to sink into the contemporary luxury that is The Belsfield this Valentine’s Day; the idyllic choice for those of us who are seeking a quiet and charmingly romantic break.

The Lake District is a wild and magical retreat, a bolthole from everyday life and The Belsfield is a hotel that should be on your wishlist this, and every Valentines to come.

Prices start from £159 per night. Check out the exclusive last-minute Valentines package online now. https://www.lauraashleyhotels.com/hotels/the-belsfield/special-offers

Laura Ashley The Belsfield, Kendal Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3EL.