The Punch Bowl Inn

To find a gem in a quiet corner of the visitor-thronged Lake District is not easy, but this smart village inn in the lovely Lyth valley is, as one reader reports, ‘always a favourite’. Although more gastropub (with produce from their village farm, and damsons from owner Richard Rose’s garden) than drinkers’ pub, the bar has local ales as well as champagne by the glass. The kitchen produces fine Modern British dishes that might include Creedy Carver duck with duck-fat potatoes, or fillet steak with smoked mash and roasted shallots. Lemon tart with local damson sorbet is a favourite. Eat in the atmospheric beamed bar with its flagged floor and log-burner, or in the more formal dining room. On warm days, the terrace, with views over the neighbouring church, is a lovely spot for drinks or tea and home-made scones. Country-style bedrooms – some with beams, others with valley views – all offer king or super-king beds, rich fabrics, and vintage or solid-oak furniture. Inviting bathrooms have tongue-and-groove panelling, roll-top baths and under-floor heating. 'I can't recommend this hotel highly enough. Great welcome, lovely rooms, interesting menu and so carefully cooked and served.' (Judith Matthews, and others)