THE Lake District - an area of outstanding beauty, tranquillity and romance.

Or should that be murder, sex and violence?

I don't know how Lakeland hoteliers are reacting to the excellent TV series The Lakes, but as controversial as it was, it certainly hasn't tainted the breathtaking region for me - especially after spending a couple of nights at the fabulous Glenridding Hotel on the shores of Ullswater where some of the series was filmed.

I didn't discover anything untoward whatsoever - just a superb hotel in a spectacular setting that obliterates any thoughts of the office, washing up, or paying the gas bill.

Facilities at the Best Western hotel include two restaurants, cocktail lounge, library, billiards room, indoor heated pool and spa, two conference suites and a traditional Lakeland pub. There's even a visitors' book for pets!

Officially rated a three star and four crown highly commended hotel the award-winning Glenridding prides itself on a total commitment to quality of service. It didn't let itself down.

From a quick drink in the bar in front of the log fire to an excellent meal in the wonderful restaurant and a relaxing hour in the private, indoor heated pool and spa bath, everything was first class.

The main building has 40 bedrooms, all en-suite, with TV and radio and satellite channels and tea and coffee making facilities.

The hotel's comprehensive library was renovated and re-opened in 1995, dedicated to Donald Campbell - and the forgotten World Water Speed Record he achieved on Ullswater on July 23, 1955.

Its Kilners Cafe bar was renovated in 1997 and reopened in memory of the original owners, the Kilners of Patterdale.

And Ratchers Tavern has also been refurbished and is now an informal bistro restaurant with extended hours, serving meals such as pizzas, pastas and char grills.

I can understand why people return to stay at the Glenridding - the scenery is stunning, the service excellent and the staff warm and welcoming.

There's a whole range of special breaks on offer until May 14. There are Sunday Specials, too. You stay for two nights, Friday and Saturday on the Getaway Break rate and pay just £35 for the third night, Sunday.

Though its setting is purely rural, the Glenridding is easy to get to. It's just a 30 minute drive over the fabulous Kirkstone Pass from Windermere. Penrith to the north is just a 20 minute drive away. By Gordon McCully

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.