The Black Swan
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Our view
"Multi-award-winner by the headwaters of the River Eden"
Overview
The fells rise all around the conservation village of Ravenstonedale and this handsome, many-gabled, 19th-century inn, owned and run for 15 years by the enterprising Louise Dinnes. In the friendly bars, where dried hops droop from the ceiling, at least eight wines are served by the glass, and the real ales roster features regulars from the Black Sheep brewery and rotating local guests, and a gallery-worth of framed pictures, large over-mantel mirror and comfortable furnishings echo the inn's early high-Victorian days. Award-winning seasonal menus, prepared by Scott Fairweather and his team, apply in both bars, the lounge and in the two beautifully decorated restaurants. An idea of their skills will be apparent from celeriac and apple soup, prunes and black pudding on toast as a starter; chicken and chestnuts with pancetta, mushrooms and tarragon sauce; or perhaps roasted pork and octopus with chorizo, lentils and grilled sweetcorn to follow; and banana bavarois with tropical fruit to round off. Overnight guests have 16 tastefully decorated, en suite rooms to choose from, with dogs welcome in the four that are in the annexe. They're also welcome in the three glamping tents in the tranquil riverside gardens, where you might even spot a red squirrel.
Ratings & awards
AA Pick of the Pubs
Also at this location
About the area
Cumbria's rugged yet beautiful landscape is best known for the Lake District National Park that sits within its boundaries. It’s famous for Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake, and Derwent Water, ‘Queen of the English Lakes', but other lesser-known areas in the south, such as the Lune Valley and the coastal towns, are secret gems of wide cobbled streets and rolling hills.
Nearby places to visit
View all (8)
Nearby places to stay
View all (8)
Nearby places to stay
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Waitby School
An historic and luxurious holiday cottage, Waitby School is the perfect all-season getaway. Built in 1680, this Grade II listed building sleeps six to seven people and has two bedrooms ...
