The Sunday Express - 21st January 2007

Setting: This 14th century former manor house stands high on the banks of the River Hodder in the beautiful Forest of Bowland – and right in the middle of the Duchy of Lancaster estate which covers thousands of acres of sunning Lancashire hill country, known as Little Switzerland.

What’s it like? Conjure up an image of your perfect country house hotel and the Inn at Whitewell will probably surpass it… think centuries-old flagged floors, peat fires, sturdy beams, expensive antiques and gnarled old oak tables. It has recently been given a £1.5million refurb and now boasts 23 bedrooms, including a huge suite. And you can enjoy the fruits of a great kitchen while drinking in the spectacular views from the dining room.

Talking point: The in-house wine shop carries vintages galore and guests enjoy fishing rights along seven miles of rushing river.

Expect to see: The Queen and Prince Philip enjoyed lunch in the restaurant last year – and Her Majesty once told a biographer that if she ever retired, she would love to put her feet up here. And you might even glimpse a hobbit: Tolkien drew his inspiration for Middle Earth from holidays hereabouts.