1863 Restaurant with Rooms

The breakfast arrangements were the one thing that took away from our night. We had to choose a time and decide what we wanted to eat in advance, which felt restrictive when we were hoping to enjoy a luxury break and didn’t know how hungry we’d be the next morning. It wasn’t especially busy, either. The breakfasts themselves were fine. We’d upgraded the room, and it was spotless with a comfortable bed. One side light had a dead bulb, which was replaced, and one complimentary biscuit wasn’t sealed. Dinner was delicious, the service was faultless, and the red wine we ordered was great. We were welcomed warmly and had a lovely stay.

The setting is hard to beat. Barton Hall is in Pooley Bridge, right by Ullswater, with wonderful walks starting from the door. There’s also onsite parking for residents, which is a big plus for me. We were very well looked after by friendly staff who were attentive without hovering. Our room and bathroom were comfortable and tastefully furnished, with complimentary refreshments. The package also included half a bottle of champagne, which we’d completely forgotten about, so finding it on arrival was a lovely surprise. Food was a highlight on both nights. We had the seven-course tasting menu one night and the three-course à la carte the next, though the fresh bread with flavoured butter, tasty appetisers, hot drinks and petit fours made both meals feel like much more. Every flavour complemented the next. The ingredients were top quality, and Phil’s skill brought everything together. I joked about kidnapping him and taking him home, though he thought I was kidding. It’s not a budget place, but we felt it was worth every penny. A big thank you to the whole team for a memorable two-night break.

We went to 1863 restaurant for a birthday and loved the three-course set menu. The food was outstanding, and the service was quick, friendly and helpful. Definitely try the “Carrot” starter.

The thing that made me want to write this review straight away was finding locally made gingerbread shaped like POOLEY BRIDGE in our room. When we arrived, the place smelled strongly of gingerbread, so I asked if someone was baking. It turned out to be a candle, but the actual gingerbread was there too, and it was delicious. That was the sort of welcome we got from the moment we checked in. The rooms are immaculate, the staff are all smiley and seem genuinely happy to be there, and the location is beautiful. The warm greeting would make any Lancastrian proud. I can’t imagine anything changing the great first impression I have of this place, short of the building’s foundations somehow giving way.