In a rural village at the foot of Howgill fells, between the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, the Dinnes family’s ‘wonderfully dog-friendly’ gastropub with rooms delights many readers. ‘Our favourite hotel to break the journey to Scotland,’ writes one. ‘The location is peaceful, and a warm welcome awaits from all the lovely staff.’ Bedrooms, blending contemporary and traditional styling, some overlooking the riverside garden, are supplied with fresh milk and handmade organic toiletries. A four-poster room has a carved stone fireplace. ‘Our room was lovely – spacious, clean, and very comfortable,’ another reader tells us. Alongside pub classics, James Ashworth's locally sourced menus feature dishes such as hazelnut-crusted beetroot terrine, crispy goats cheese, pickles, oyster mushrooms; lamb rump, gnocchi, asparagus, wild garlic, rosemary sauce. ‘We loved the quirky decor and lighting, particularly in the dining areas. Then there was the fabulous food at breakfast and dinner.’ ‘I loved my porridge, certainly one of the best (and I’m a Scot so feel qualified to comment!).’ ‘We are already working out when we can return.’ (Lynn, Nick Blair, Frances Cutler, and others)