Hotel review: The North Lakes Spa and Hotel

The North Lakes Spa and Hotel, Penrith, Cumbria.

Telephone: 01768 868111

Undisputedly, the jewel in the crown of this otherwise fairly ordinary spa (facilities consist of steam room, sauna, whirlpool and generous swimming pool) at this Shires hotel are the Hydrotherm treatments, which are beyond splendid.

Using a special heated water-mattress to provide the therapist easier access to those knotted balls of tension, Michelle was the wonder-woman behind my Ultimate Experience massage (1 hour 55 minutes, £91.00, including an Ayuverdic consultation). It truly took me into another world for its duration, followed by my deep reluctance to head back to reality.

While the outside appearance of North Lakes is reminiscent of a large block of holiday chalets and the surrounding views aren’t the best, the internal décor has a laid-back plushness to it and the rooms are comfortable with quirky touches (huge colourful mugs for drinks instead of hotel-standard unbreakables). Do make an effort to eat there - the Cumbrian 'hors d'ouvres' selection at the restaurant is spectacular.

The hotel is also well-placed for nearby Lake District attractions such as the award-winning Rheged (www.rheged.com).