An ideal base for walking and wildlife enthusiasts, this 18th-century inn with excellent pub food stands beside a Saxon church in a stunning village in Teesdale. Local attractions include High Force waterfall and Raby Castle. A 'haven of peace and calm', it is owned by a local farming family with deep roots in the Teesdale soil. Readers love the attention to detail, including fresh milk for the tea tray, homemade biscuits, food served on hot plates, and 'staff who listen to your requests'. Pick between characterful, country-chic main-house bedrooms and more contemporary courtyard rooms with outside seating area. Laithkirk has 'a range of books that would do credit to any library'. A reader this year stayed in the 'modern annexe with comfortable excellent fittings'.'Number five courtyard room is smaller than the others, but comfortably appointed, with a good shower.' Meals are served in the dog-friendly bar at lunchtime, and alongside more ambitious dishes at night in the bar and oak-panelled dining room. The 'thoughtful, well-prepared food', includes traditional pub grub, seafood and meat platters, and dishes such as roast loin of Teesdale lamb with a lamb sausage and roasted garlic mash. A hearty breakfast, with locally sourced produce is cooked to order.