Hotel of the week The Yan at Broadrayne Grasmere, Lake District
WHERE AND WHY
Nestled among the atmospheric fells of the Lake District National Park, this renovated 17th century sheep farm offers picturesque views, delicious food, and an ideal place to rest up after a day of exploration.
The Yan has seven ensuite bedrooms, as well as holiday cottages and glamping pods.
Our spacious deluxe room looked out over the stunning landscape and was kitted out with lovely touches including bitesize samples of the restaurant’s sticky toffee pudding, a customised OS map, and local handmade toiletries.
QR codes can be found in the room, the cosy residents’ lounge, and outdoor terrace so you can easily order drinks and snacks wherever you happen to be putting your feet up once you’ve ditched the muddy boots.
The family-run hotel’s green ethos is designed to protect and make the most of its setting – with eco-friendly power sources, no single-use plastics, and a selection of Cumbrian produce.
Breakfast and dinner are served in the modern bistro, where friendly staff are happy to offer expertise to help plan your excursions.
ON THE MENU
The bistro’s star attraction is its shepherd’s pie (£20.95). Made with slow-braised local Herdwick lamb, it lived up to expectations. My partner in wine opted for lamb pitta (£21.95) from a selection of refined takes on classics, including fried chicken. Dessert options ranged from the mille faux – a delectable combination of mixed seed brittle, blueberries and a honey and lemon whipped cream – to a sweet chocolate mousse topped with toffee popcorn (both £8.95).
The excellent drinks list boasts speciality cocktails, local ales, and some superb wines.
The breakfast menu has plenty of hot and cold options to fuel you for a proper hike.
WHILE YOU’RE THERE
The charming village of Grasmere is a few minutes’ drive away – stock up on its famous gingerbread. Our hike from there up to Easedale Tarn was beautiful, and manageable even after a downpour. For a more adventurous climb, nearby Helvellyn is the third highest mountain in England. Grasmere has lots of delightful pubs and cafes to find shelter in and is also home to William Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage.
WAKE-UP CALL
Rooms at The Yan start at £160 a night on room-only. theyan.co.uk