Rampsbeck is one of those gracious lakeside houses of which the north shore of Ullswater has its fair share. Nearer the water's edge than some, it has spectacular views across the lake to the south-eastern hills of the Lake District and affords a degree of comfort and elegance which is aspired to by many hotels, but truly achieved by only a few. To dine there by candlelight as day blends into dusk across the lake brings comfort to the mind and body in equal measure.

Baked goats' cheese and roast loin of hare would lay the right foundation for some roast halibut with pommes Carlos, oxtail tortellini, griddled leeks and braising jus. The hot Bramley apple soufflé served with toffee apple ice cream would combine memories of fellside and lakeside conservatory into a pleasant transition towards coffee on the verandah as the moon appears in the starlit sky from behind the black bulk of the fells opposite.