Evaluate: The Yan at Broadrayne, Grasmere, Lake District, UK

As a baby on vacation within the Lake District, I bear in mind studying to depend to 10 within the outdated Cumbrian dialect—the identical rhythmic numbers that shepherds have used for generations to tally their flock.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 identify for a spot that aspires to be “The One”. However does The Yan at Broadrayne, a heat and classy retreat on the sting of Grasmere, stay as much as its identify? Learn on to search out out.

The welcome

Forward of our arrival, we had been emailed a personalised door code, for the period of our keep. This allowed us unbiased entry into the resident’s lounge via a small porch, and to our room past. As issues turned out, on arrival, we had been warmly welcomed by Lauren, who guided us via the method and confirmed us to our room. The check-in felt far more relaxed than a conventional lodge, immediately setting a relaxed and comfy tone that outlined the remainder of our keep.

The room

We stayed in Room 3 — The Lion and Lamb — labeled as a Deluxe Superking room and named after the distinctive rock formations atop Helm Crag, seen from our window.

Every 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 lavatory

Compact but well-appointed, the lavatory featured a glossy bathe, basin, WC and heated towel rail, all sparklingly clear.

Pure Lakes toiletries, with their contemporary, 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.

The services

Past the rooms, The Yan presents a residents’ lounge, a peaceable house with books, video games and studying materials — excellent for a post-walk wind-down.

However the true star of the present is The Bistro – a a number of time winner of the Informal Eating Venue of the Yr award on the Cumbria Meals Awards, and has been featured — greater than as soon as — within the Good Meals Information’s 100 Greatest Native Eating places.

Throughout our keep, we indulged in an array of fantastically crafted dishes, from the Mini Yan naan, topped with butter curry sauce and Grasmere Herdwick lamb Seekh kebab, to the Tacky 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, crimson peppers, and crayfish, all topped with jerk-seasoned coley and a spoonful of lime and coriander crème fraîche.

Then, in fact, 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 be a deal with: braised native beef feather steak with truffle and cheddar mash, served alongside creamy cauliflower cheese.

And, to complete, there’s all the pieces from the basic Lakeland dessert of Sticky Toffee Pudding to the equally indulgent Tirami-Choux, a choux bun crammed with Marsala mascarpone cream and Carvetti espresso gelato, completed with a wealthy chocolate sauce.

For these searching for various lodging, additionally on web site are Broadrayne Cottages and Grasmere Glamping.

The placement

In the event you’re searching for a central Lake District base, you’d be hard-pressed to search out higher. Grasmere is house to the world-famous Grasmere gingerbread, in fact, and William Wordsworth himself described the village as “the loveliest spot that man hath ever discovered‘.

Throughout 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 reminiscent of Friar’s Crag.

Different 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 contemporary water.

A custom-made Ordnance Survey map, with The Yan at its centre, got here full with a compass, excellent for intrepid days out.

Canine house owners can even respect the additional care taken for four-legged company, with a provide of biscuits and a water bowl and mat offered. Canines are even welcome within the bistro, guaranteeing they don’t miss out on the enjoyable. And for these planning a protracted day within the fells, packed lunches will be ordered upfront.

The associated fee

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 (Lodge, Dinner, Mattress & Breakfast) out of season, or £450 for 2 nights.

The very best bit

Sure, the setting is gorgeous. And sure, the meals is superb. However what actually 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, get pleasure from a pint and really feel instantly at house.

The ultimate 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 modern comforts. Whether or not you’re right here for the hills, the meals, or simply some restorative peace and quiet, The Yan delivers in each manner. In the event 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.