We only stayed here for one night. It was a little pricey but it looked clean and we were tired after travelling so we took the room. We were told on arrival that this was a non-smoking establishment which we were happy to respect even though we are smokers. However the proprietor ( who reminded me of a strict school mistress) felt the need to insult our intelligence by repeating the "no smoking" policy several times. A simple statement would have suffcied. As a lecturer in education, I am an intelligent person and am quite capable of recognising "no smoking" signs. I did not feel that I needed it reinforcing over and over as if I were a child.

We were asked if we were smokers but before we could reply, we were told "Yes you are, I can smell it on you" accomanied by a very exaaggerated facial expression of disgust. I have much respect for people who are anti smoking but found this extremeley rude. This woman needs to learn some manners!

We assured her that we would not smoke but she did not seem to trust our word and asked for a credit card number as insurance. This was to cover the cost of the cleaning of the bedding, curtains etc if we did smoke. We were told this would cost between £30 and £70 pounds (even though it would cost virtually nothing to put them in the washing machine!?!)

We spent the rest of our stay creeping around the bedroom like naughty school children, not daring to make a noise. We did not sleep a wink in fear that we would be accused of smoking. It may have also something to do with the fact that the bed was terribly uncomfortable. We also had problems closing the window and flushing the toilet but did not dare report these as we feared we would be blamed and my credit card would be charged.

The only positive thing I can say about the place is that the breakfast was good. However we did rush it down as we were desperate to get out of the place!! We have stayed in much nicer accomodation and been made to feel MUCH more welcome for half the price we paid to stay at Hawksmoor. I'm sure you will find much more weloming guset houses in Windermere.