A sister pub to the marvellous Mason's Arms near Windermere, this classic pub near the Lyth Valley has a great reputation for its grub. Dishes are pubby rather than gourmet, but tasty – go for a meaty or fishy 'oak plank' to share, or a hearty fish pie or 12-hour braised brisket. It's 5 miles southwest of Kendal.
The six rooms (£70 to £120) above the pub are small but pleasant; there's a fridge in the corridor with fresh milk and chilled water. It also runs the Lumley Fee Bunkhouse nearby (rooms £65 to £120, www.lumleyfeebunkhouse.co.uk), with five sharer rooms that are ideal for walkers.