The Yan at Broadrayne

Refreshingly different from some more traditional Lake District offerings, this contemporary hotel, upgraded from the Shortlist, is in a beautiful setting overlooking Grasmere. The ‘cluster of old stone buildings almost built into the hillside’ house sleek bedrooms and a popular bistro. A family affair – owners Dave and Sally Keighley steer things in the background, daughter Jess is front-of-house, husband Will is chef – it has a warm, informal atmosphere that matches the plentiful use of natural materials: whitewashed walls, slate-flagged floors, exposed timbers and upcycled tables. Our inspectors loved the ‘unusual take on standard dishes’ and the ‘very good food, all home made and reasonably priced’. Dishes include curried fishcakes with vegetable chowder, or an Indian-style sharing platter. ‘Simple, modern’ bedrooms are minimalist affairs in shades of grey with local wool throws, good reading lights and bright, shower-only bathrooms with locally produced Pure Lakes products. All have fell views. Breakfast brings dishes such as house-smoked salmon and creamy scrambled eggs on sourdough; an ideal start for walks from the door. (HP, and others)