Lastingham Grange

On the edge of the North York Moors, where the road merges into a bridle path, this ‘excellent’ traditional country hotel is run by the hospitable Wood family – brothers Bertie and Tom and their mother, Jane. Visitors remark on the ‘outstanding’ service. The ‘old-fashioned’ decor might not be for everyone, but fans say it is all part of the charm. Bedecked in floral prints, ‘spotlessly clean and comfortable’ bedrooms in the 17th-century farmhouse have extras such as a flask of cold milk provided every evening. Afternoon tea with warm scones, butter, jam and cream is served every day in the lounge or on the terrace overlooking the garden. In the evening, tuck in to hearty country fare. Chefs Paul Cattaneo and Sandra Thurlow cook a daily-changing menu; typical dishes might include poached fillet of halibut, Pernod hollandaise; roast duckling, sage and onion stuffing. Discover a good selection of Yorkshire cheeses, too, perhaps Monks Folly or a Swaledale Old Peculier. Full Yorkshire breakfasts in the morning are just right for ‘superb walking on to the moors, straight from the hotel door’. (VF)