Howard Arms

The Howard Arms is in a great spot for Hadrian's Wall, Gretna and Carlisle. We went to Carlisle races on our first day, then enjoyed a two-night stay in Brampton village. Our room was large and spotless, with a very comfortable bed, a good shower and everything we needed, including fresh milk for tea. The staff and management were wonderfully friendly. The food was good, the beer was perfect and it was very good value. We also loved warming up by the beautiful log fires. It's a very dog-friendly pub, and we'll be back with our daughter and her dog Bruno. I'd happily recommend it.

We weren't staying here, but a local recommended the restaurant, so we gave it a try. Our dog was welcomed, with plenty of treats, and we were seated straight away despite not having booked. The friendly staff took our food order and brought over drinks I'd ordered at the bar. We shared the belly pork bites to start. They were fresh and delicious, and the waitress brought side plates so we wouldn't spill the sauce. My wife had the lamb, served in a generous portion with beautifully cooked fondant potato. The succulent pink lamb was the highlight. I ordered the belly pork again, this time with cassoulet, which I'd never tried before. It was a delicious surprise. The food was amazing and reasonably priced, and the helpful staff made the evening feel special. If you're driving through Brampton, I'd recommend stopping in.

That steak pie was the nicest I've ever had, and at 58 I've eaten far too many pies to say that lightly. The shortcrust pastry was amazing, the meat came in huge chunks that broke apart under a fork, and the thick gravy had only a slight hint of ale. I was wary because I'm not a big fan of steak and ale pies, but this was a proper pie and the ale didn't overpower the beef. Everything was full of flavour and beautifully presented. Even the carrots were just how I like them, soft enough to eat but still firm and tasting of carrot. We'd found the place at the last minute while looking for somewhere to eat, and were so glad we stopped. It's lively but not noisy, and the service was friendly, efficient and attentive without being overbearing. The waitress was lovely and genuine, not at all scripted. There's scaffolding outside for some exterior work, but don't let that put you off. All the dishes were delicious and filling.

I still like coming here and often order the steak, but the sauces have been pretty hit and miss lately. They're both quite expensive, and I've had more disappointing ones than good ones recently. The honey mustard sauce was amazing when I had it over Easter. I ordered it again tonight and it was a letdown, really sweet and slimy. I sent it back, but somehow the replacement was even worse. I wish the food were more consistent, especially at this price.