A whitewashed cottage on a steep woodland pass may seem an unlikely setting for Michelin-starred dining, but this restaurant with rooms charms both the eye and the palate. Now owned by former head chef and manager Jack and Beth Bond, the former 17th-century drovers' inn, in Whinlatter Forest, enjoys views to Skiddaw and a rural environment that teems with birds and wildlife. It's 'immensely relaxing'. Rooms, which will gradually be upgraded by the new owners, have a neat, contemporary style with feature wallpapers, oak furniture and perhaps a brass bedstead. Cottage rooms are 'really quite small but well designed', a tree-top one has sloping ceilings. Nice touches include homemade shortbread and, for rooms with a tub, 'bath soak – perfect for easing walkers' limbs!' Tasting menus might include duck broth with lemongrass and duck leg, Jerusalem artichoke agnolotti with pickled walnut, as well as scallop and smoked eel. The wine list is 'thoughtful and has strengthened since our last visit', says a returning reader. Breakfast includes 'a choice of freshly squeezed juices' to accompany creamy scrambled eggs. (ID, and others)