WITH the superb sun gracing us with its presence recently, reporter Grace Walton had the most perfect weekend getaway as she explored up north.

Lancaster House Hotel - which has been marked on TripAdvisor as number one out of six hotels in Lancaster and has an excellent 4.5-star rating - was probably one of the best hotels I have stayed in.

The stunning white front in contrast with the green grass which surrounds the hotel certainly stands out.

Upon arrival, my companion and I made our way to reception to check in where we were greeted by a friendly member of staff.

After checking in, we headed to our home for the weekend, and I must say, I was pleasantly surprised by the size and style of the room.

It was an open-plan room overlooking the car park and hotel grounds.

As you entered the room, there was a lounge area, with a sofa bed. This led into the bedroom, which was a cosy area. I soon realised how comfortable the super king size bed was as I flopped onto it, as you do when you stay somewhere new.

Resting on the Egyptian Cotton bed sheets were fresh towels, Sam the dog (which is a teddy bear) and a lavender oil spray for the pillows. I thought this was a wonderful addition.

The hotel includes its own spa facilities, but you can also enjoy a little pamper in the freedom of your room.

The bathroom was immense. It was a huge room with gorgeous smoky black tiles, included a large free-standing bath in the middle and a separate shower. Bath salts were provided too, which I enjoyed in a steaming hot bath one night. These extra luxury touches really enhanced my stay.

As it was the evening when we arrived, the majority of guests were dressed up in fancy frocks and headed to dine at The Foodworks Restaurant.

A pianist was playing by the entrance to the restaurant which added a nice feel to the place.

Admittedly, I felt a little underdressed in my casual work attire, however, the restaurant was rather laid back, so I didn’t feel so embarrassed that I hadn’t made more of an effort with my outfit.

The restaurant was incredible and showcased a collection of local produce of Lancashire.

I was intrigued to experiment and dazzle my taste buds and try things that I hadn’t ever before.

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For a starter, I tucked into braised pig cheek, with colcannon mashed potato and smoked bacon sauce - it was to die for. The pig cheek practically melted in my mouth. The texture was incredible and unlike anything else I had tasted.

As for the main course, I adored the waitress’ recommendation – pan-fried seabass fillet, served with chorizo, black pudding, spinach, potato pearls with pesto dressing drizzled over. This meal was bursting with flavour, and I could have happily ordered a second heaping.

To finish off, I indulged in the apple crumble deconstruction with vanilla ice cream and custard. It didn’t look like your ordinary crumble; the presentation was a bit quirkier than your average dish.

The following morning, we enjoyed a typical breakfast buffet, which us Brits love. There was so much on offer. From pastries, overnight oats, fruit and a fry-up - with all the trimmings.

One thing I’d like to highlight was the wonderful staff and how attentive they were in the restaurant. Nothing was too much for them, as they made sure we were having the most enjoyable time during our stay.

I’d highly recommend using the Sandpiper Health Club. If I lived closer, it would certainly be a place I’d enjoy being a member of.

With its array of activities to choose from, you have the option to relax in the jacuzzi or outdoor hot tub, have a swim in the heated indoor pool, soak up some steam in the steam room, cleanse in a sauna or train in the fitness suite.

I made the most of the vast attractions surrounding the hotel.

We spent Saturday sightseeing around Morecambe Bay, where we were lucky with the weather.

That evening, we worked up an appetite after our trek around the coast and decided to try somewhere different.

We accidentally found a South African eatery, The Mad Hunter, which is based in the town centre.

I must admit, the experience was unforgettable and it oozed culture.

Very quickly, I soon learned how the cuisine isn’t your usual grub.

After much thought and consideration, my date and I ordered a variety of dishes from the menu to share.

For a starter, we ordered the boar bobotie spring rolls. Bobotie is a traditional minced dish made with fruit, egg and spices – and it was scrumptious.

We also ordered the North African fritters as another starter. This was made up of pea, feta and spiced fritters, served on creamy humus, rose harissa, yogurt dip, tomatoes with toasted pistachios.

As for a main, we wanted to try something a bit exotic. We went for Kangaroo - which was served with sweet potato, roasted baby carrots, apricot puree, and a rich apricot and game jus.

As well as this, we ordered wild boar stuffed with pheasant and damson berries.

It was a feast!

The interior of the restaurant was unusual. The decoration heavily focused on animal themes with its array of patterns.

As you can tell, I think Lancaster House Hotel is a fabulous hotel, with its fantastic onsite facilities, based near the centre of historic Lancaster with also so many places to explore nearby.

It’s the perfect location for a short stay and is situated adjacent to the university campus and can be accessed from Green Lane, just off the A6.

The hotel is part of the English Lakes group.

See englishlakes.co.uk/lancaster-house for more information.