The Queen’s Head – Askham, Cumbria

Part of the Askham collection since 2019, this 17th-century village pub has been lovingly renovated by the Lowther family. There are just six rooms dotted about the premises; some come with classic wooden furniture and floral wallpaper; others feel more modern with mint green walls and pretty bedside lamps. The restaurant – which has an AA Rosette – is equally intimate, with nine tables for diners to tuck into the ‘posh pub grubbers’ menu or Sunday lunch (note: it’s closed on Monday and Tuesday, except for breakfast for residents). Produce is reared, foraged and grown on the farm, local hedgerows and kitchen gardens and whipped up into refined dishes such as earthy truffle with creamy artichoke by head chef Anthony Amos – a real talent who was previously part of the kitchen team at Askham Hall (also owned by the Lowthers). There are fantastic walks right from the front door, including on the fells and along the river Lowther. Afterwards, head back to the pub for a pint of ale by the copper bar to rest your weary feet.

Doubles from £130

+44 (0)1931 712350; queensheadaskham.co.uk

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