The Grasmere Hotel

There has been a change of ownership at this small country-house hotel in a Victorian villa beyond a tree-lined drive, but our inspectors report that all is well under the new stewardship of Simon and Kate Hustler. ‘The impression as you step into the hallway is of calm elegance.' One ‘small, cosy sitting room’ opens into another: 'You’re likely to fall into conversation with other guests, and in winter the open fires must be welcoming after a day on the fells.' Bedrooms are ‘inviting, with a modest sense of style, feature wallpaper, large, bright headboards, not huge but big enough for two chairs’. Bathrooms are ‘a decent size’, with locally made toiletries. Dinner is served to residents in the conservatory that looks on to a shady garden bordered by the River Rothay. It is truly 'exceptional value, with canapés and coffee’. Choices might include ‘halibut with Thai green curry sauce, belly pork with apple sausage roll – all beautifully cooked, in handsome portions. Guests particularly enjoyed the chef coming into the sitting room for a chat afterwards.' Breakfast brings 'a simple cold buffet, nicely cooked-to-order dishes such as smoked haddock as well as full Cumbrian and veggie option'.