The Queen’s Head Shortlist*
Askham, Cumbria
Good Hotel Guide Review
Cosy, low-ceilinged and wood fire-warmed, this smartly refurbished 17th-century pub in the centre of a Lake District village is ‘friendly, fun and very convivial’. It is owned by the Lowther family, whose Askham Hall (see entry) and Michelin-starred restaurant, are a stroll away. Mismatched cushions nudge up along the wooden banquettes, and there are posy-topped tables; five evenings a week, sit down to a five-course menu of refined pub dishes (perhaps poached venison ravioli with red cabbage, or hand-dived scallops) and a great selection of wines by the glass. Spacious, country-style bedrooms with antique furniture have pretty wallpapers and soothing colours; three rooms can accommodate a family. Guests receive free entry to Askham Hall’s Grade II-listed gardens.
Hotel details
Address
Askham
Penrith
Cumbria
CA10 2PF
England
Telephone
01931 712225
Bedrooms
6. 3 on ground floor, 1 suitable for disabled.
Open
all year except Christmas, restaurant closed Mon and Tues, dinner only Wed to Sat, Sun lunch 1pm-7.30pm.
Facilities
bar, restaurant, in-room TV, small beer garden, parking.
Background music
none.
Children
all ages welcomed, extra beds £35.
Dogs
allowed (£15 per stay, £20 for up to three dogs).
Credit cards
Amex, MC, Visa.
Prices
B&B doubles from £130. 5-course prix-fixe menu £55. 1-night bookings refused some peak season weekends
Information Copyright 2023 The Good Hotel Guide Ltd