A quintessential English break

Many of us are opting to holiday in Britain this year due to poor exchange rates and the current economy. So what better time to cherish a quintessential English break than by combining a stay at Holbeck Ghyll, a historic country house hotel in Britain’s beautiful countryside, with some traditional English pastimes and local events.

Situated in the heart of the Lake District, Holbeck Ghyll boasts a prime position overlooking Lake Windermere. What’s more, the boutique hotel is offering an excellent Best of British package to coincide with some unusual, time-honoured events such as Westmorland wrestling and sheep dog trials. The package also showcases the best of British summers with croquet on the lawn and free afternoon tea on the terrace or a picnic with fine views.

Local events to Holbeck Ghyll include:

Windermere Air show (July 25-26): Avoid the crowds and enjoy watching the RAF’s death-defying feats from the comfort of Holbeck Ghyll’s sun-drenched dining terrace whilst savouring mouth-watering Michelin-star cuisine and a glass of Champagne. Boasting an elevated position with spectacular, uninterrupted views of the lakes, it’s the ultimate ring-side seat for watching the Red Arrows.

Ambleside Traditional Sports (July 30): Just a short drive from Holbeck Ghyll, this has been one of the region’s major events for the past 200 years. Enjoy a truly British day out and witness Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling, gruelling fell races, hound trails, various track and cycle races and visit the number of marquees with traditional arts and crafts amongst others.

Lake District Summer Music (July 31 – August 16): Hear leading international artists and emerging talent from some 20 countries perform a variety of live classical concerts at numerous different venues, be it daytime, evening or intimate late night concerts.

Lake District Sheep Dog Trials at Ings Nr Windermere (August 6): See the skills of dogs and handlers herd reluctant and stubborn groups of sheep across a field and into small enclosures. The event also hosts other traditions such as fox hounds trails, Cumberland & Westmorland wrestling and craft displays.

The two-night Best of British package starts from £325 per person (based on two sharing) during midweek and includes a luxury lake view room on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis, and either a complimentary afternoon tea or picnic lunch as well as full use of the hotel’s facilities including croquet lawn, tennis court and health spa.

For more information visit holbeckghyll.com.