A gong announces the no-choice dinner at this charming hotel at the far end of Ullswater’s southern shore. It might be fruit juice followed by cod in parsley sauce with sponge pud or ice cream for afters. There’s no Wi-Fi or email here, you can’t pay by credit card & the place has only just got its own website – so why do people keeping coming back to Mrs Baldry’s quirky hotel? Well, for its time-warp simplicity, its delightful garden, its antique & chintzy interior, its plush red residents’ bar & its quaint walkers’ bar – but, most of all, for its priceless location just a stroll from the Ullswater landing stage under the shadow of Hallin Fell. Add to that the fluffiest of scones set on a lacy tray with a silver teapot, milk jug & sugar tongs, & you’re in Lakeland heaven. (Note: open April to November. Booking essential.)