‘Refreshingly different.’ On a hillside flanked by grazing Herdwick sheep – ‘a beautiful setting’ – this 17th-century barn and cluster of old outbuildings have been reinvented as a contemporary hotel and bistro. It’s a hands-on family affair, run by Jess Manley; her husband, Will (the chef); and Jess’s parents, Dave and Sally Keighley. Uncluttered modern bedrooms styled in tones of grey all have fell views; they have a ‘basic’ hospitality tray and space to sit, plus thoughtful touches (‘useful charging sockets, good reading lights’). Among the ‘adventurous’ dishes in the ‘Alpine lodge-style’ bistro: a ‘memorable’ fancy fish selection platter. Nearby, the 555 bus (Kendal–Grasmere) makes a car ‘almost unnecessary’.