A Keswick theatre has been named by The Times as one of the seven best "boutique theatres" in the UK.

Theatre by the Lake came in at number two on the list, beaten only by The Georgian Theatre Royal in Richmond, North Yorkshire.

The Times described it as a "charming", stone-built venue which overlooks Derwentwater, and which "blends in beautifully with its Lake District setting".

The 389-seater is said to offer variety; from period comedy-dramas to soulful singers, author talks and literary adaptations.

Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey is lined up for this spring's performance from April 27 to May 17.

The theatre, opened by its president Dame Judi Dench in 1999, still houses a bust of the star in the bar.

The Times added that visitors will "want to make the most" of the walks and boat rides on offer in the area.

The other venues to make the list were The Maltings Theatre in St Albans, Hertfordshire, The Watermill Theatre in Newbury, Berkshire, Pitlochry Festival Theatre in Pitlochry, Perth and Kinross, The Barn Theatre in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, and Shakespeare North in Prescot, Merseyside.

The Times were suggesting the venues as cheaper alternatives to the West End.