‘We have stayed many times, and it remains a favourite,’ writes a trusted reader after this year’s visit to the Reynolds family’s popular, dog-friendly Dales hotel. Built around the 1740s, the house was extended in Victorian times and continues to evolve. Two bedrooms have just been added to a mix that ranges from decent-sized doubles with bath and/or shower to generous suites. All have period furniture, Molton Brown toiletries, home-baked biscuits. The largest, Kickers Ghyll, ‘was huge, with a massive bathroom with a freestanding bath and an excellent separate shower.’ Our reader’s wife loved the traditional styling; he found it old-fashioned, but, ‘that said, it was quiet and comfortable’. Downstairs there are acres of space for relaxing by open fires or on a sunny terrace. ‘The staff are brilliant, friendly and efficient.’ New chef Connor Wilson cooks such imaginative seasonal dishes as guineafowl, barbecued leg, turnip, rosemary; Madeira, hen of the woods; smoked quinoa, nut crumb, mushroom textures, garden herbs. Breakfast includes smoothies, local sausages, Manx kippers, eggs Benedict. Walkers can order a packed lunch. ‘We will certainly return.’ (Peter Anderson, FK)