The Punch Bowl Inn

In a quietly beautiful area of the Lake District – the lovely Lyth valley – this smart village inn has a deserved reputation for good food and cosseting bedrooms. ‘Always a favourite,’ declares one reader, ‘with lots of atmosphere.’ Locals come to sip real ales at the bar, but the food is the star attraction, whether eaten in the slate-floored and beamed bar area with toasty log-burner, the more formal dining room, or outside on the terrace overlooking the neighbouring church. Dishes from new head chef Alex Beard (formerly of the three-Michelin-starred Waterside Inn, Bray) might include prawn tempura with avocado and wasabi dip, duck breast with blood orange brûlée and the signature lemon tart with damson sorbet. No two bedrooms are alike, though they share a contemporary-country style of pale-wash colours, thick carpets and vintage or solid-oak furniture. Many have beams, low windows and valley views; all have an ‘inviting’ bathroom with tongue-and-groove panelling, roll-top bath and under-floor heating. ‘Efficient and cheerful’ staff welcome arriving guests with home-made scones and tea. (S and KT)