The Plough Inn, Lupton, Lake District – Hotel Review

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By Rachael Popow

When you go on holiday in Britain, you’re usually prepared for bad weather. However, as we head to the Lake District in the driving rain, it is hard not to think that if only we’d booked a few days earlier, we would have been enjoying a heatwave. But the break begins looking up when we arrive at The Plough Inn in Lupton.

Situated near Kirkby Lonsdale, the pub, restaurant and B&B is in a great location for anyone heading on to the Lakes or the Yorkshire Dales. The building, parts of which date back to the 17th century, can seem sprawling at first, but there is a handily placed Dales-style black-and-white signpost in the entrance to help you get your bearings. It’s one of several quirky touches that ensures that while the stylishly decorated pub may look modern, it still retains its character.

plough lupton lake district review dining room

We are too early to check-in, but despite being busy, especially for a wet Wednesday lunch time, the friendly staff have time to advise us on some local walks. By this time, the rain has slowed to a drizzle, so we set out to explore. When we return, we are shown to the Redman, which is a spacious 295-square foot room with a king-size bed. If you really want to stretch out, we are able to take a look at the stunning, recently vacated 685 sqft Torsin, which can accommodate up to five thanks to a sofa bed but is also used as the honeymoon suite.

“Prompt and friendly”

The bedroom is tastefully decorated, comfortable and welcoming, but the biggest selling point is the incredible bathroom. Somehow, calling it an en suite doesn’t do it justice. It’s huge, with a free-standing bath and large separate shower cubicle – perfect for when you’ve got just back from a damp, muddy walk.

plough lupton lake district flan

Thanks to our short trek, we also have enough of an appetite to do justice to the evening meal in The Plough’s large restaurant. It is doing a brisk trade with at least one big group, but the service is still prompt and friendly – and the food is delicious.

Although we cast a few admiring glances at the burgers that are being brought out to other tables, we feel we make the right decision with our orders. I have the tasty potted Ravenglass crab with sourdough toast, followed by a perfectly cooked sea bass fillet with giant cous cous. To finish, there’s a tangy lemon posset that is too good not to devour, despite being full. My companion tucks into a hearty Tuscan bean soup followed by a crispy Monumental Ale-battered fish and chips and, what I’m assured, is a perfect sticky toffee pudding.

“Combination of luxury and charm”

After a good night’s sleep (the pub may be busy, but the room is very quiet – the only noise comes from the mini fridge tucked away in the wardrobe) we somehow find room for the breakfasts. The Plough offers a continental breakfast for early risers, but if you can wait until 8.30am, there are also some tempting cooked options, which include a traditional full English.

plough lupton review bedroom

I opted for the slightly more transatlantic French-toast style brioche with bacon and maple syrup. That more than sets us up for a day of heading further into The Lakes and braving the ominously overcast skies of Windermere.

But while The Plough may make a good place to break your journey, its combination of luxury and charm means it is also well worth a visit in its own right – whatever the weather.

Torsin, bridal suite, recently refurbished, only room that is not dog friendly. From £135 Harrington: light and airy room from £99. Musgrave: Back corner of the hotel but over the kitchen from £85. Redman: quiet room on the back of the hotel from £99. Bellingham: traditional suite with separate sitting room from £120. Huttin: family suite with separate twin room from £120. Average DBB £200 (Ranges from £150- £300+)
More info: theploughatlupton.co.uk

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