Lovelady Shield Country House Hotel, Alston

This Georgian country house has lovely gardens, countryside views and 2 AA Rosettes for its food. It is on the Pennine Way between Newcastle and the Lakes.

Lovelady Shield Country House Hotel is by the River Nent, on the former site of a 13th-century convent. It is 2.5 miles from Alston, and ideal for visiting the Lake District and Hadrian's Wall.

The bedrooms at Lovelady Shield are modern and cosy. They feature free wireless internet, bathrobes and a DVD player.