I’ll never forget the drive up to Ambleside last month – we’d packed the car with enough snacks to feed a small army, but halfway through the Lakes, the sat-nav decided to have a midlife crisis and sent us down a narrow lane that was basically a sheep’s personal runway. Mud everywhere, and me reversing into a hedge while the kids laughed their heads off. Classic family holiday start, but by the time we pulled up to our cedar lodge just outside town, with that stunning view over Esthwaite Lake and the gentle stream gurgling alongside, all was forgiven. First impressions? Magic. Parked right beside it, stepped up onto the private decking, and cracked open a cold one while the sun dipped behind the fells. Felt like we’d stumbled into our own little slice of heaven.

From the off, it was all about the food – this place is a dream for anyone who loves a good feed without the faff. We arrived buzzing with anticipation for what Cumbria’s got on offer, and it didn’t disappoint. First morning, I wandered into Ambleside’s little market on the high street – proper local vibes, stalls groaning under jars of homemade chutney, venison pies still warm from the oven, and the freshest bread you’ll smell this side of the Pennines. Snagged some Cumberland sausage and a wedge of Mrs B’s sticky toffee pudding that had me hooked before breakfast. Back at the lodge, the kitchen’s a proper social hub, so we set about cooking up a storm. I fancied myself as the next Jamie Oliver, grilling those sausages on the decking with a side of new potatoes boiled in lake water (well, tap water, but it felt poetic). Turned out half-decent, though I did burn the edges – gentle reminder that I’m better at eating than cheffing.

Evenings were pub heaven. Strolled into The Drunken Duck up near Hawkshead – it’s only a short hop – for their roast, which was a proper Sunday treat even midweek: crispy spuds, Yorkshire puds the size of saucers, and gravy that could revive the dead. Washed it down with a pint of Hawkshead Bitter, chatting with locals about the best fishing spots on the lake. Next night, we hit Zeffirelli’s in Ambleside for pizza and a film – their margherita’s got that wood-fired char that makes you forget you’re on holiday diet. But the real gem was messing about in the lodge kitchen with market hauls: tried my hand at a Lakeland lamb hotpot, layering up tatties and scrag end from the butcher’s. Came out a bit gloopy, truth be told, but with a dollop of that toffee pud for afters, no one complained. Sat on the decking under the stars, plates balanced on knees, feeling all reflective – you know, one of those moments where you realise it’s not the fancy nosh that sticks, but the faffing and faffed flavours with the people you love.

Wandered to Stockghyll Lane for a cheeky lunch at Apple Pie, where their Bakewell tart lives up to the name – buttery, jammy perfection. Even squeezed in a picnic by the lake with cheese from The Cheese Emporium and crusty rolls. Left stuffed, happy, and plotting the next trip. If you’re after a spot where the eating’s as good as the views, this is it. Proper holiday bliss.