You are ensconced in the quieter part of the Lakes and have independence in this Elizabethan manor. Once a fortified Pele tower, it’s a fascinating historic house yet very much a lived-in family home with a wonderful atmosphere. The airy suites have a sitting room each with books, children’s videos, squashy sofas, pretty fabrics and whitewashed walls. Beds have patchwork quilts, windows have stone mullions and all is peaceful. Henry gives you sturdy breakfasts, and you can join him and Anna for convivial home-grown suppers by a roaring fire in the great hall. Children will have fun: hens and pigs to feed, garden toys galore and woods to roam.
We thoroughly enjoyed staying in the comfort of Kelly Suite at Johnby Hall. Henry and Anna are very welcoming, including to Baileydog. The location makes it a sumptuous stop off if en route north or south and is a great base from which to explore the northern Lakes.