AMAZING azaleas, perfect pansies and radiant rhododendrons have earned three Lake District hotels the praise of RAC hotel inspectors.

As well as Lindeth Fell Country House Hotel, at Bowness, expert inspectors from the motoring organisation have identified the grounds and gardens of Windermere's Gilpin Lodge Country House Hotel and Linthwaite House Hotel as the most attractive gardens in the UK and Ireland.

Claire Davenport, marketing manager at Linthwaite House, said they were "highly delighted" the 14-acre grounds had been recognised in the survey. "It reflects the fact that the Lake District is one of the most beautiful places in the country and the world. The gardens are very wildlife friendly."

While Linthwaite House offers a wild flower meadow, rare orchids and the opportunity to see red squirrels, Gilpin Lodge boasts 20 acres of country gardens, moors and woodland, and Lindeth Fell's gardens are open annually to the public, with colourful floral displays.

RAC spokesman Rob Maynard said: "Consistently improving standards in the UK and Irish hospitality industry are reflected in the care lavished on many grounds and gardens, with the setting and environment increasingly seen as integral parts of a guest's overall experience.

"These three beautiful gardens will give keen gardeners something to admire and aspire to and the rest of us a great deal of pleasure."