As a toddler on vacation within the Lake District, I keep in mind studying to rely to 10 within the outdated Cumbrian dialect—the identical rhythmic numbers that shepherds have used for generations to tally their flock. “Yan, tan, tethera” is “one, two, three” within the conventional sheep counting system, making “The Yan” a becoming title for a spot that aspires to be “The One”. But does The Yan at Broadrayne, a heat and classy retreat on the sting of Grasmere, reside as much as its title? Read on to seek out out.
The welcome
The room
We stayed in Room 3 — The Lion and Lamb — categorized as a Deluxe Superking room and named after the distinctive rock formations atop Helm Crag, seen from our window.
Each room at The Yan carries a reputation impressed by the native fells, from Dunmail to Fairfield, and the décor blends consolation with understated luxurious — plush bedding, a deep and restful color palette, and considerate touches that make it really feel like a real retreat after a day’s exploring.
The toilet
Compact but well-appointed, the lavatory featured a glossy bathe, basin, WC and heated towel rail, all sparklingly clear.
Pure Lakes toiletries, with their recent, pure scents, are equipped. The geranium and ylang-ylang shampoo is a deal with, whereas the grapefruit and lemongrass bathe gel, hand wash, and hand and physique lotion present an uplifting zest forward of a day on the fells.
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The amenities
Beyond the rooms, The Yan presents a residents’ lounge, a peaceable area with books, video games and studying materials — excellent for a post-walk wind-down.
But the true star of the present is The Bistro – a a number of time winner of the Casual Dining Venue of the Year award on the Cumbria Food Awards, and has been featured — greater than as soon as — within the Good Food Guide’s 100 Best Local Restaurants.
During our keep, we indulged in an array of superbly crafted dishes, from the Mini Yan naan, topped with butter curry sauce and Grasmere Herdwick lamb Seekh kebab, to the Cheesy Bean Tart, the place puff pastry embraced The Yan’s personal baked beans, gruyère, mature cheddar, truffle ketchup, and pickled shemeji mushrooms.
For mains, the Jamaic-Yan delivers a daring and flavourful Jamaican curry with cauliflower, peas, pink peppers, and crayfish, all topped with jerk-seasoned coley and a spoonful of lime and coriander crème fraîche.
Then, after all, there’s their now-famous Shepherd’s Pie, that includes slow-braised Grasmere Herdwick lamb, tacky mash, cured ham, and parsley backyard peas.
The Brit-Yan (serves two) can also be a deal with: braised native beef feather steak with truffle and cheddar mash, served alongside creamy cauliflower cheese.
And, to complete, there’s the whole lot from the basic Lakeland dessert of Sticky Toffee Pudding to the equally indulgent Tirami-Choux, a choux bun full of Marsala mascarpone cream and Carvetti espresso gelato, completed with a wealthy chocolate sauce.
For these searching for different lodging, additionally on website are Broadrayne Cottages and Grasmere Glamping.
The location
If you’re searching for a central Lake District base, you’d be hard-pressed to seek out higher. Grasmere is house to the world-famous Grasmere gingerbread, after all, and William Wordsworth himself described the village as “the loveliest spot that man hath ever discovered‘.
During our keep, we took a stroll round White Moss, however choices abound: from Wainwright climbs to gentler rambles with breathtaking views.
And for these trying to discover additional, Keswick is only a 20-minute drive away, the place you’ll discover historic gems like Castlerigg Stone Circle and lakeside favourites akin to Friar’s Crag.
Other good touches
The Yan goes above and past with considerate little luxuries. In our room, a kettle and an ample provide of tea and low awaited us, alongside sticky toffee bites and a flask of recent water.
A custom-made Ordnance Survey map, with The Yan at its centre, got here full with a compass, excellent for intrepid days out.
Dog homeowners may even respect the additional care taken for four-legged visitors, with a provide of biscuits and a water bowl and mat supplied. Dogs are even welcome within the bistro, making certain they don’t miss out on the enjoyable. And for these planning a protracted day within the fells, packed lunches will be ordered prematurely.
The value
For a keep in a Deluxe Superking room such because the one we stayed in, out-of-season charges begin from roughly £300 per night time (Hotel, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast) out of season, or £450 for 2 nights.
The finest bit
Yes, the setting is gorgeous. And sure, the meals is great. But what really units The Yan aside is its relaxed, unstuffy ambiance. It strikes the right stability between high-end consolation and laid-back appeal—luxurious however by no means pretentious, heat however by no means intrusive. It’s a spot the place you’ll be able to return from a protracted hike, kick off your boots, take pleasure in a pint and really feel instantly at house.
The last verdict
The Yan at Broadrayne is a masterclass in boutique hospitality — a family-run haven that seamlessly blends the normal heritage of a sixteenth century Lakeland barn with up to date comforts. Whether you’re right here for the hills, the meals, or simply some restorative peace and quiet, The Yan delivers in each approach. If you’re searching for a spot that celebrates the spirit of the Lake District with easy appeal, you want look no additional.
Dislcosure: Our keep was sponsored by The Yan at Broadrayne.
Paul Johnson
Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has labored within the journey business for greater than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED journal. In addition to different awards, the weblog has additionally been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Telegraph.
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