The three-pearl Hillthwaite Hotel is a bed-and-breakfast with a prime elevated position overlooking the gorgeous Lake District on the edge of Windermere town. Most of the property was renovated in 2015 with a tastefully modern take on traditional styling, including the majority of guest rooms. The 34 rooms vary considerably, however, between having stunning lake views or none at all, from polished and spacious to tiny and drab. Breakfast is excellent and always included, plus lunch and dinner are available on-site. Additionally, there are a heated indoor pool and cozy lounge with a log fireplace. Travelers looking to be closer to the lake may enjoy the Cragwood Country House Hotel, though some rooms have dated decor.

Langdale Chase Hotel is a three-and-a-half-pearl stunner of a hotel in the beautiful Lake District, right on the banks of Lake Windermere. The 29 rooms are classically elegant, with period furniture and lovely views in many. Apart from the Boat House, the rooms have nothing on the gorgeous lobby, with its huge oak fireplace, antique furniture, and multiple oil paintings. Amenities are limited to a restaurant that gets mixed reviews and a couple of meeting rooms. While there's no spa or fitness center, there is an opportunity to jog around the lake. Dogs are welcome, for a small fee, and allowed in many of the common areas. Travelers shopping around may want to also consider the pet-friendly Damson Dene Hotel, which has a spa and gym, though it's not on the lake. 

This lovely mid-range waterfront hotel situated between Windermere and Ambleside looks the part of a perfect Lake District escape. The huge fitness center with a large pool as well as the water-sports center are among the many activities available. Guests seeking a more relaxing holiday can enjoy the spa. Quaint rooms vary in size and decor but are clean and comfy with big bathtubs, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and electric kettles. There are three restaurants on-site and lots of additional eating options in the neighboring towns. 

The 160-year-old Cedar Manor Hotel and Restaurant is an intimate and historic property in a pretty Lake District setting with lovely gardens and an ancient cedar tree. Design in the restaurant and the fireplace bar is chic and stylish. There are 10 rooms total -- including an elegant coach house -- which are modern and offer thoughtful touches such as chilled milk in mini-fridges and welcome notes on the beds. The restaurant is of high quality and service is top-notch, though some guests note that the classic rooms are small. The Applegarth Villa and Restaurant’s rooms are reportedly more spacious.

The 23-room Cragwood Country House Hotel is a secluded Edwardian estate on 22 acres near scenic Lake Windermere. The dog-friendly hotel features sitting areas on sprawling lawns that overlook the lake, three lounges with log fireplaces, a dining room, and a contemporary bar. Rooms have classic furnishings, flat-screen TVs, and (in some) views of the lake. Some of the decor, though, is outdated. The Cedar Manor Hotel, which has modern rooms, is a stylish alternative. 

Everything about the upper-range Gilpin Hotel & Lake House is elegant. Situated in Lake District National Park, this family owned-and-operated property is built into two luxury country houses. Guest rooms are spacious with huge picture windows and exceptionally tasteful decor. Flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, Nespresso coffeemakers, and stocked minibars add modern conveniences to this country escape; private hot tubs and patios can be found in some suites, and an on-site spa is available as well. A made-to-order free breakfast is offered daily, but the highly-rated restaurant (open for dinner only) is pricey.