Hotel Scafell (Borrowdale, United Kingdom)

Guests fell in love with the gorgeous setting of this property in the upper Borrowdale village of Rosthwaite in the heart of the spellbinding Lake District National Park. The picture postcard scenery made a superb backdrop for walking, fishing and cycling with many trails into the mountains starting nearby. High Raise, Great End and Scafell Pike, England's tallest mountain, were among the nearest fells. Derwentwater and Buttermere were the closest lakes. Motorists liked the free parking and direct access to the B5289, making it easy to reach main roads, area attractions, market towns and dining options.

Travellers often expressed positive opinions about their rooms, describing them as clean, tastefully-decorated and well-equipped with modern en suite bathrooms.

The reportedly friendly, accommodating and helpful personnel attracted praise from reviewers as did the excellent restaurant food, which was reasonably-priced, locally-sourced, filling and delicious. Diners also praised the selection of tasty cooked and continental options at breakfast. At the bar, visitors loved the choice of real ales. Travellers accompanied by their pet pooches welcomed the dog-friendly policy.

For some guests, the remote valley location posed a few drawbacks such as poor mobile phone reception on several networks as well as limited TV reception.

Critics noted flaws in some rooms such as damp or musty smells, a lack of natural light and maintenance issues like aging carpets, hot water interruptions or weak water pressure. Furthermore, some guests remarked that certain rooms felt rather small.

The free Wi-Fi network at this property's rural location was a bonus. However, it disappointed some critics that the signal was patchy and had a limited range.