After staying in a number of Cathedral Cities in the North of England, at a range of guest houses and small hotels, The Stone House Hotel was our final stop before returning home. Our objective was the setting, the scenic heart of the rural Yorkshire Dales.

The directions to the hotel were easy to follow. On arrival we were warmly welcomed by name (how do they do that?) and offered, free of charge, an upgraded room because it happened to be available that night. It was a superb, double aspect, very spacious room with ensuite bathroom and high four-poster bed. Extensive views across the valley to the village of Hawes, about a ten or fifteen minutes' stroll away, and to the hills beyond.

After relaxing with a drink downstairs near a roaring open fire, suggested (without being overbearing or intruding on our privacy) by the hosts, we were invited to order dinner where we were and to await the call to our table. The limited but imaginative menu was being appreciated not only by hotel guests but also by a local couple who clearly also enjoy the "country house weekend" atmosphere.

The wine list was excellent for such a country setting, and the food superb, fresh and locally-originated, as was the breakfast the following morning. The staff and owners were interested to discuss the menu, the food and wine and our reactions to them, without being intrusive. The morning of departure, the hosts gave useful personal tips for our final round of sightseeing (impressive local Falls) and route out of the Dales.

It felt as though we had been house-guests at a private country houseparty.

The setting did not disappoint either!