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About the award

Introduced in 1992, this award is the AA’s ultimate accolade for hotels in the UK. It is awarded to hotels that are recognised as being outstanding examples in their particular market.

Forest Side, Grasmere, Cumbria 

Set on the edge of Grasmere village, this former mansion house has been lovingly converted into a charming and relaxing hotel. A stone terrace forms an extension to the dining room, letting in plenty of light and creating a superb modern dining space, perfect for Paul Leonard’s cuisine. The kitchen team work closely with local suppliers, grow produce in the walled garden, and forage the local area.

The bedrooms have stunning views of the hills and countryside beyond and have been designed by James Mackie, using the same luxurious materials in every room. Wallpaper, curtains and many of the fabrics used are by Zoffany, while paint throughout is Farrow and Ball. Beds are from Harrison Spinks and bathrooms are equally luxurious. The vast maze of small underground rooms provides plenty of space for hundreds of bottles, and at some point in the not too distant future, a tasting room.