A Lake District B&B has been crowned the 'AA Inn of the Year'.
The Punch Bowl Inn & Restaurant in Crosthwaite was recognised at the 2023 B&B Awards.
The inn was among the elite eight winners who were celebrated during a virtual awards ceremony.
AA inspectors carefully assessed various aspects, such as uniqueness, housekeeping standards, and the crucial element of breakfast, to determine the winners.
Richard Rose, owner of the Punch Bowl Inn & Restaurant, said: “We’re hugely grateful to the AA for this much coveted award. I’ve been running the Punch Bowl for almost 20 years and I know it takes a special kind of person to really thrive in this line of work. Luckily for me, I have a whole team of special people who always go the extra mile to make sure our guests have an exceptional stay, so this award is for every single one of them.
“We’re all so passionate about The Punch Bowl; whether it’s the striking location with breathtaking countryside views, the outstanding dishes on our seasonal menus, or our stylish, full-of-character bedrooms and dining areas. Every last detail is carefully thought out to make sure our guests feel entirely at home when they visit, and a big thank you again to the AA for their appreciation of this.”
Simon Numphud, Managing Director at AA Hotel & Hospitality Services, which operates the AA quality assessment schemes, said: “Consistently rated amongst the finest places to stay and eat in the North of England, this well-established inn has long been a staple destination in the Lake District setting a high benchmark for quality and comfort. The setting is full of allure next to the village church and with views down the Lyth Valley.
“Owner Richard Rose will not however allow its character as a traditional inn to wane. Stone floors, low ceilings, open fires, local ales and spirits and always with warmth and hospitality. Nine luxurious bedrooms are all set upstairs and offer traditional comfort and charm, and food is a key driver here having held 2AA rosettes for almost 20 years and shows no sign of easing off."
