1. The Black Bull, Sedbergh, Cumbria

Situated in the bustling town of Sedbergh and with fabulous walking on the doorstep, hunker down in this Cumbrian bolthole.

Sit back and relax at The Black Bull, a lovingly restored, rambling 17th-century inn that has plenty of historic charm. Refurbished in 2018, the inn has retained all of its original features, giving it a traditional pub feel in the informal front bar. Expect warm, dark hues, wooden floors, red leather seating in cosy corners and two wood-burning stoves - perfect for hunkering down after an invigorating walk across the Howgill Fells.

2. The Rose and Crown, Romaldkirk, County Durham

Striking old inn in the heart of rugged Teesdale, renowned for local produce and country-house style bedrooms.

The creeper covered, three-storey Rose and Crown holds a commanding position in the centre of the historic village of Romaldkirk, standing right by the village green and 12th-century church of St Romald. There's a rugged charm to the place, with its narrow passages, beams and stone walls, logs sparkling in the fireplace in the bar, and a touch of refinement in the lounges and oak-panelled restaurant.

1. The Black Bull, Cumbria

With stunning views across the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales, the Howgill Fells are a fabulous area to explore by foot. Spread across Cumbria, Lancashire and Yorkshire, the fells are a walker's paradise - although surprisingly quiet - so you'll have the big skies and undulating hills all to yourself.

Or, why not tackle the Dales Way - which runs for 80 miles from Ilkley in West Yorkshire to Bowness-on-Windermere in Cumbria, following riverside paths and passing through the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

One real local highlight is the Settle to Carlisle Railway, an iconic line which takes riders through jaw dropping scenery in the Yorkshire Dales and Cumbrian Fells. The railway itself has plenty of Victorian architecture, remote station buildings and huge stone viaducts - but it's still part of the UK rail network.

2. The Rose and Crown, County Durham

Visit Barnard Castle, an English Heritage property steeped in history. Taking its name from its 12th century founder, the castle passed into the hands of Richard III. Set on a high rock above the River Tees, its fantastic views over the river and surrounding countryside are not to be missed.

History lovers will also enjoy nearby Bowes Castle, the impressive ruins of Henry II's 12th century keep. Situated on the site of a Roman fort, its a great stop for those heading for a day walking on the Pennines.

There are an abundance of wonderful walking routes straight from the door of The Rose and Crown. One of our favourites is the Teesdale walk (leaflets and map at reception). Another is the riverside walk from Middleton-in-Teesdale along Pennine Way to High Force Waterfall.