This is the bit where we tell you something about ourselves and offer you some tips and advice on our favourite places to eat, drink and generally, be merry. And as we work and live in the Lake District, we'll let you in on where we love to spend our spare time.

Dear reader, the âttic was born in June 2008 when my role as buyer for a local interiors store came to an end. I had sourced many wonderful products on trips to Paris and knew if I could find the right location I could create a gorgeous shop oozing with nostalgia. And then the Grasmere shop found me (but that’s long story for another day). So at the start of a recession I had my first year of trading and it proved to be a successful one.

When Ambleside was mentioned in passing I thought NO, then I went to have a look and thought YES! Tucked away down the ‘Slack’, when you happen upon it you feel you've made a real discovery. I thought two shops were quite enough until a friend mentioned her beautiful building in Windermere. The flag stone floors, the old features and the fireplace sold it to me.........and now we are three!

Favourite place to eat : The Jumble Room in Grasmere is a real hidden gem. It’s open for lunch or dinner.

Favourite place to stay : If you want a huge treat, 'The Samling' in Ambleside ticks lots of boxes: fab food, wonderfully warm service and the best view from a hot tub in the country!

Favourite walk or view : It is a bit of a hike to Easdale Tarn, but amazing views and lots of pubs or tea rooms when you come down, make it all worthwhile.

Enough about me - click on one of the photos above to read a little bit about the team.