The Black Swan

In this small conservation village, with views to the Howgill fells, this large country pub is as much a locals’ favourite as an inn with smart food and bedrooms. The substantial, late Victorian-Edwardian building, ‘in a beautiful setting’ with a large beer garden running down to a stream, has been energetically run by Louise Dinnes and her ‘friendly and helpful’ staff for 16 years. Eat in the cheerful bar, with its panelled walls, tartan carpet, dried hops, stuffed animals and open fire, or in the quieter, elegant dining room. The dinner menu of Scott Fairweather’s ‘delicious food’ offers a creative twist on local produce; perhaps venison tartare with truffle mayo, or smoked haddock in mustard sauce, as well as staples such as beer-battered fish and chips. Breakfast is ‘of high quality’. ‘Spotlessly clean’ bedrooms range from a four-poster suite and glamping tents to dog-friendly annexe rooms with separate entrance, to the compact and cosy. Country cottage in style, with colourful throws and patterned wallpapers, all have fresh milk and local hand-made toiletries. And, whether they have garden or village views, all are quiet.