As a baby on vacation within the Lake District, I keep in mind studying to rely to 10 within the outdated Cumbrian dialect—the identical rhythmic numbers that shepherds have used for generations to tally their flock.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, reside as much as its identify? Learn on to seek out out.
The welcome
The room
We stayed in Room 3 — The Lion and Lamb — categorized 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 toilet featured a modern 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.
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The amenities
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 actual star of the present is The Bistro – a a number of time winner of the Informal Eating Venue of the 12 months award on the Cumbria Meals Awards, and has been featured — greater than as soon as — within the Good Meals Information’s 100 Finest Native Eating places.
Throughout our keep, we indulged in an array of superbly 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, purple peppers, and crayfish, all topped with jerk-seasoned coley and a spoonful of lime and coriander crème fraîche.
Then, after all, 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 the whole lot 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 different lodging, additionally on website are Broadrayne Cottages and Grasmere Glamping.
The placement
If you happen to’re searching for a central Lake District base, you’d be hard-pressed to seek out higher. Grasmere is dwelling to the world-famous Grasmere gingerbread, after all, 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 seeking 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 comparable to 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 homeowners can even admire the additional care taken for four-legged visitors, with a provide of biscuits and a water bowl and mat offered. Canines are even welcome within the bistro, making certain they don’t miss out on the enjoyable. And for these planning a protracted day within the fells, packed lunches may be ordered upfront.
The price
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 (Resort, Dinner, Mattress & Breakfast) out of season, or £450 for 2 nights.
The perfect bit
Sure, the setting is gorgeous. And sure, the meals is superb. However what actually units The Yan aside is its relaxed, unstuffy environment. It strikes the proper steadiness 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 dwelling.
The ultimate verdict
The Yan at Broadrayne is a masterclass in boutique hospitality — a family-run haven that seamlessly blends the standard 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 approach. If you happen to’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.
Paul Johnson
Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxurious Journey Weblog and has labored within the journey business for greater than 30 years. He’s Winner of the Improvements in Journey ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED journal. Along with different awards, the weblog has additionally been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Telegraph.
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