Final Prize Options

Option 1 – the North of England

Enjoy a 2-night stay at the Drunken Duck Inn www.drunkenduckinn.co.uk near Ambleside in Cumbria’s picturesque Lake District.  With breathtaking views of the surrounding fells, it is perfectly situated for exploring, within a few minutes drive of Tarn Hows, Coniston Old Man and the Langdale Pikes.

Its location within 60 acres of private land on a crossroads high above Lake Windermere provides a stunning setting for this quite extraordinary Lakeland Inn. The Duck has been under the same family ownership since it was bought in April 1977 and the present day Inn is an unstuffy mix of old and new, constantly evolving, but always sticking to the basic philosophy of offering good service, comfortable accommodation, excellent food, wine and beer in a relaxed friendly atmosphere.

You can also enjoy the use of the extensive leisure facilities at the Langdale Spa Country Club during your stay.

Saturday: The micro brewery operated by the Inn will form a great late morning tour, with tastings and a chance to see how the brewery creates the unique character of the place.

Take lunch at the world-famous, and Michelin-star-holding Sharrow Bay hotel (www.sharrowbay.co.uk), over-looking Lake Ullswater. Opening its doors in 1949 the hotel’s internationally renowned kitchen, led by Colin Akrigg, uses the finest local ingredients to produce some of the best ‘British’ cuisine you are likely to find. Nico Chieze and his prodigious Sommelier team are always on hand to share their knowledge. The cellar has a growing international reputation for fine and rare wine picked from the very best vineyards in the world. Under the guidance and expertise of Restaurant Manager Alan Farkins, the service is so good that you won’t even notice it.

Nestled in twelve acres of private gardens and woodland and surrounded by magnificent fells, Sharrow Bay provides the perfect starting point for a gentle stroll or more invigorating walk during the afternoon.  Take in the spectacular Aira Falls, or go for a cruise on the lake’s steamer or just take it easy after a helping of their sticky toffee pudding (this is where it was invented!) in the comfort of the hotel.

Return to the Drunken Duck for a fabulous meal in their restaurant on Saturday evening.

Sunday: lots of options for things to do and visit after your ‘Walkers’ Breakfast’ at the Duck – explore the local hills and fells on foot if you have the energy and then take in a foodie experience on your way home perhaps.  An artisan baker at Staff of Life Bakery in Kendal www.artisanbreadmakers.co.uk; or perhaps visit Richard Woodall www.richardwoodall.com, a long-established family business in Walberthwaite, famous for its traditionally cured hams and bacon, hung from the ceiling of the old village post office; or stop by the Sticky Toffee Pudding shop in the beautiful village of Cartmel if you didn’t get enough yesterday!

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