A fabulous lodge for Wensleydale walks

Set in 13 private acres of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, this is an elegant country mansion packed with period features and the latest comforts. Guest rooms are huge and the breakfasts – served in an oak-paneled dining room – are superb. It’s the ultimate base for exploring North Yorkshire, with its unforgettable walks, salmon fishing on the River Ure, and countless towns and villages to reward a longer look.

There are nine guest bedrooms at Thornton Lodge but guest numbers are limited to a maximum of 12 at any one time. All rooms are individual with their own particular character: some have four-poster beds, others have huge en-suite bathrooms with views over the grounds and there is even a single bedroom (though even that has a double bed and would match most other B&B doubles for size). There is also an accessible room on the ground floor for guests with mobility issues. All rooms are ensuite with White company toiletries, super-comfortable beds and, of course, wifi throughout.

Breakfast is served in the wood-panelled dining room and is always a treat. Highlights are the homemade jams and marmalades – raspberry and lime gets perhaps the most praise, though there are also loyal fans of the rhubarb and vanilla. There’s a generously stocked breakfast buffet with a variety of juices, cereals, yoghurts and fruits, but leave space for the main breakfast, cooked to order, with plenty of extras, including black pudding and haddock,tailored to your taste.