George and Dragon, Cumbria
George and Dragon, Clifton, Penrith
The George and Dragon is an 18th century coaching inn and was seemingly bought by it’s new owners with a plan to provide a place deliberately removed from typically designed B & Bs and give the locals and tourists something to get excited about. Completely changing an integral part of a local community may have been a disaster – it clearly wasn’t. The inn has remained true to its roots providing a bed and food for weary travelers; it also determinedly supports it’s local economy - local craftsmen have restored and redecorated the inn using local materials and traditional designs and local farmers/suppliers provide the ingredients for your meals – admirably not many fuel miles here!
There are the very necessary comfy sofas (particularly at the end of a hiking day!), bare wooden tables to congregate around, intimate alcoves to chat in and welcoming, open fires making it a perfect place to relax and unwind. So sit and enjoy a pint of local ale, partake of the delicious local produce and although maybe not feel quite like a local the friendly atmosphere could help you imagine for a while … and then you get an added bonus of not having to leave!
Rooms
There are 10 beautifully designed rooms. Each has been accessorised with paintings and furniture chosen from the Lowther family's own collection. The intricate crewel work materials, decadent quality linens, custom-made 5 ft beds, cosy robes, fluffy towels, fabulous en-suites with power showers, flatscreen TVs and DVD players all contribute to making your stay memorable. You'll not venture into a hostel ever again!
The family room has a double bed and a single bed with an optional extra camp bed if required. A cot is available.
Food
Food is a clear passion of the George and Dragon. The organically reared livestock from the farm provides all manner of dishes - see the web-site for the before and after story - I'm a veggie and it's interesting! Much of the fresh, seasonal produce used in the kitchen is sourced from within 20 miles of the pub – it really is fresh! Thus all vegetables are seasonal, and the vast majority is grown year-round in the Estate kitchen gardens, which have been serving the family Estate homes for hundreds of years. Local cheeses, smoked meats and home-made ice creams from local suppliers are also on offer and nearby micro breweries supply a selection of local ales. The main menu changes monthly. There is a daily changing specials board that always includes vegetarian options. Children's menus are available.
Food is served daily between 12-2.30pm and 6-9.30pm. Booking is advisable at weekends. Cream teas (my absolute favourite) are served every day between 3 and 6pm.
Things To Do
You are in the stunning Lake District there’s heaps of places to go. Locally though visit the amazing Lowther family Estate and Castle which you might walk to on a fine day or else it’s a short drive from the George and Dragon. Situated on the eastern side of the Lake District; the north-eastern fells and Lake Ullswater are just a few miles away.
Other Info
Well behaved dogs are welcome in the rooms by arrangement only, at no extra charge. You are welcome to take along your bikes - there is a secure place to store them as well as an essential room for drying clothes!