Westmorland Hotel

Speed past this hotel on your M6 journey through the Lake District and you’re missing a treat: quiet rooms with fell views, tasty Cumbrian food, excellent value and an overall feeling of ‘peace and well-being’. Part of Tebay Services, the site, which includes a farm shop, was created by the resourceful Dunning family after the M6 carved up their hill farm. The chalet-style building has ‘spacious and quiet’ modern bedrooms with countryside views, ‘large and comfortable beds’ and bathrooms with under-floor heating. Home-made biscuits and locally produced Sedbergh Soap toiletries are part of their local sourcing ethos which continues on the menus. ‘Well-presented and delicious’ unfussy food could include home-made burgers, and duck with white bean cassoulet. Beef and lamb come from the family farm; ice creams are home made. Eat in the fire-warmed lounge or the restaurant with its panoramic windows. ‘After a good night’s sleep, so quiet’, more farm produce features at breakfast in the grill and egg dishes, with locally produced granola and preserves, too. ‘Cheerful and friendly’ staff add to the ‘thoroughly relaxing atmosphere’. (S and MT, RB)