Lord Crewe Arms

The meal was modern English cooking, carefully prepared without fuss, and good value for what was on offer, especially considering it was February and out of season. We had dinner, bed and breakfast for one night, and I’d certainly return. The hotel sits in an attractive conservation village on the moors. It’s historic but has been refurbished to a high standard in recent years. The staff were consistently friendly, and the place felt neither corporate nor pretentious. The one jarring touch was the rock music in the cellar bar. It sounded like a Manchester club, which felt out of place in this setting; Gregorian chant would have suited it better.

On a bright, frosty morning we took an early walk along the river. We’d come for one night in early May, returning more than 30 years after our visit before we were married. The hotel has kept its charm, and our room was across from the main building. The restaurant was light and pleasant, and the staff were eager to help. The tables sit close enough together that conversation comes naturally, and we ended up having a long chat with a couple in their eighties.

We’ve been coming back to Lord Crewe Arms for eight years, and the team still remember us. They’re friendly, knowledgeable and always make time for a chat. Blanchland is an unusual place with an interesting history, too. I love that every room is different and thoughtfully put together. The beds are comfortable, and there’s an umbrella ready for the walk to the main building if it rains. The food is freshly cooked and consistently good. I’ve never had a disappointing vegetable or plate here, and they know how to cook and present meat, which suits my carnivorous side. The local beers are great as well.

We had such a lovely anniversary stay. Our Champion Room was beautifully decorated, with a roll-top bath and a big fireplace in the bedroom. Everything we needed was there. Dinner was delicious, and the service felt friendly and relaxed. Nothing was too much trouble. Breakfast was just as good and plentiful. I’d go back in a heartbeat and recommend it to anyone.