On the outskirts of Ambleside, Andy and Chrissy Hill’s former hunting lodge is a B&B like no other, its three house suites and stand-alone pavilion styled with tremendous pizzazz. 'Be prepared for a big surprise,' says a Guide insider of these 'huge, colourful, slightly whacky, slightly bohemian, definitely spoiling and wonderfully private' rooms. They have pitch pine flooring, hand-built wooden king-size beds, antique, upcycled and contemporary pieces as well as 'generous treats' such as prosecco, beer, fresh flowers and home-made biscuits. Bathrooms are huge with L'Occitane toiletries. Dawson has a nickel bateau bath and large walk-in shower. Rococo Vallelay has a double-ended slipper bath, gothic-arched glass doors to a courtyard. Best of all is the stand-alone hexagonal Juniper House, a jeu d’esprit with larky touches such as reclaimed industrial shelving bearing labels for ‘kilts and sporrans’ and ‘string vests’, a copper bath, sublime views from wraparound decking. Breakfast, brought to your suite, has 'deliciously unexpected' choices that include kedgeree, croissants with brie and pancetta, a ‘trifle’ of berry compote, honeyed yoghurt, toasted granola. The inventiveness continues at the Hills’ restaurant, The Jumble Room, in Grasmere, where Chrissy cooks dishes such as roast chicken breast stuffed with apricots, pumpkin seeds, almonds, and orange blossom honey.