Date of experience: February 27, 2025

I stayed recently for a weekend and had...

I stayed recently for a weekend and had a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Iain is a fantastic host and I was made incredibly welcome. The log burner in the cosy guest lounge was set up for my arrival and in the evening. I stayed in room 3 at the rear, which I think is Grasmere and overlooks the garden and river. It was tranquil with just the sound of owls hooting at night. My room was spacious, very clean and warm, with restored wooden shutters even though it was the very cold snap of zero degrees outside during the day. The bed was very comfy. The whole place is quirky- the older part of the building is 16th century and if you like very flat floors and smooth walls with matching furniture, ‘Premier Inn/hotel chain style, this isn’t the place for you! There are original beams and period features in the hall & dining room. There are thoughtful touches such as binoculars in the dining room to watch the birds at breakfast. Breakfast was served promptly ( as I had work locally) and was cooked fresh to order. Iain’s scrabbled eggs are delicious along with the rest of the full English, fresh fruit to start and a warm croissant with main dish!!!!! Lashings of coffee in a caffietere- amazing. Iain will go out of his way to accommodate any requests and as I enjoy a cup of tea in the evening I asked for some fresh milk which was put in a flask in the guest fridge downstairs for me to take to my room. The location is stunning, central to Rydal, with numerous walks both low & accessible high level from the door. It was a very relaxing, revitalising stay in a building with great character, and an even better host despite it being a predominantly working trip! I will be returning with my family.