GRAYTHWAITE HALL GARDENS

Newby Bridge, LA12 8BA. Tel 015395 31273. The gardens date from 1889, when Thomas Mawson of Windermere was commissioned to design six acres around Graythwaite Hall. The resulting garden, still much as he designed it, is a spring phenomenon with rhododendrons, azaleas and spring flowering shrubs. An arboretum has been planted to the west of the pond to commemorate family births and marriages. The formal gardens have sundials and handsome gates by local architect Dan Gibson, who also designed Brockhole. The extensive woods were a favourite haunt of the young William Wordsworth. The woods also provided settings for Beatrix Potter's 'The Fairy Caravan'. Pony Bill is shown trotting through the woods startled by roe deer. The house is not open to the public. The gardens are open April 1st to June 30th, daily, 10am - 6pm.

SWAN HOTEL

The stylishly furnished bedrooms and suites on three individually themed floors are elegant and spacious and the height of comfort and luxury. The rooms enjoy beautiful views, to the front the river, and at the rear the wooded hillsides. All rooms are en-suite with bath and shower, and include mini bar, modem points, hospitality tray, trouser press, iron and ironing board and TV with satellite. The six suites have king-sized beds, Jacuzzi bath, two large TVs with satellite, sitting room area with sofa bed and a safe. Guests to the suite will be welcomed with a platter of fruit, lakeland spring water and a box of sugared almonds on arrival, and the use of a deluxe bath rode.

THE RESTAURANT

A warm welcome awaits you in one of the traditional lounges in front of superb open fireplaces with roaring fires to beat off those winter chills. Indulge in an aperitif whilst you peruse the sumptuous choice of dishes available on the menu. Alternatively, enjoy a drink and some local company whilst you soak up the atmosphere in our adjoining 17th Century Swan Inn. The beamed ceiling and traditional decor reflects charm and character creating the perfect setting for an intimate meal. soak up the fabulous panoramic views of the waterside whilst enjoying the excellence of the hotel's cuisine. Superb, local fresh produce, classical dishes and a wonderful choice of wines served in a totally relaxed atmosphere.

LAKESIDE AND NEWBY BRIDGE

Perhaps the jewel in the Lake District Peninsulas' crown is the fascinating collection of attractions at Lakeside and Newby Bridge - the southernmost tip of Lake Windermere. At the National Trust's Fell Foot Park you can relax in an 18 acre Victorian Park with lawns right down to the water, exciting Adventure Playground and Athletic Trail, a boathouse café and clinker built wooden rowing boats for hire, just the thing to inject a little Swallows and Amazons into your holiday.