KAREN DARLEY heads to the Dales for a relaxing stay at an historical inn

PART of the fun of going away can often be the journey there, particularly if it is through the spectacular scenery of the Yorkshire Dales.

Just a stone’s throw away, the Dales are stunning at any time of year, but particularly so in early autumn when on a sunny day the colours and contrasts are amazing.

After leaving the main road, our route took us up and down dale to Arkengarthdale, home of the Charles Bathurst Inn.

Built in the 18th century, Charles Bathurst Inn, or The CB Inn as it is affectionately called, nestles in some of the Dales’s most beautiful countryside.

Once belonging to Charles Bathurst, a land and mine owner and the son of Oliver Cromwell’s physician, the CB was reopened in 1996 by Charles and Stacy Cody, having been completely refurbished.

Open fires and antique pine now furnish the bar and restaurant helping to create a warm and friendly atmosphere in which to eat, drink and relax among visitors and regulars.

Throughout its history the CB has been an integral part of the local community and Charles and Stacy have re-established the inn as a focal point for the residents of the surrounding communities, using local staff, craftsmen and suppliers.

Each of the 19 rooms are tasteful and cosy, each individually decorated to compliment the stunning views overlooking the Stang and Arkengarthdale that can be enjoyed from every room.

Deep red walls, exposed beams, cast iron bed frames and beautiful antique chests all contribute to the rustic charm of the rooms, all finished to a high standard, yet retaining an informal feel, where guests can relax and feel at home.

When we arrived the pub was already busy for a Saturday afternoon – even though it appears to be in the middle of nowhere – with a few other couples enjoying a drink inside and a group of younger people soaking up the October sunshine outside.

Cosy and inviting with an open fire, the bar leads to a small restaurant area where we enjoyed our evening meal.

The menu is displayed on a large mirror with a good choice of starters ranging from roast pumpkin, ginger and orange soup to Whitby crab and avocado tian, lime and shallot, saffron dressing served with fresh homemade bread.

Dishes reflect the seasons with game from the surrounding moors and fish from Hartlepool alongside a good vegetarian selection and children’s menu.

Visitors are able to eat in the bar or the small, but cosy adjourning restaurant.

For main course, Simon opted for a plate of pork, including fillet and belly, black pudding, potato rosti, crackling, apple purée, while I choose tuna nicose and a side helping of deliciously crispy chips.

After tackling such a plateful, even he had to admit defeat for pudding, so we decided to share a refreshing lemon posset with shortbread.

Waking next morning to such stunning scenery, and a few sheep for company, is hard to beat and explains why the CB is becoming an increasingly popular choice for weddings. Couples often travel from much further afield to take advantage of the wedding packages on offer – and the memorable photos.

With Christmas just round the corner, the inn is also offering special party deals and a picture-postcard setting. Just pray for snow and hopefully you could make a weekend of it.

For details, visit cbinn.co.uk, phone 01748 884567 or email infor@cbinn.co.uk