George and Dragon

Don’t be fooled by appearances – the 18th-century George and Dragon might look like any old inn on the outside, but inside we’re talking chic gastro-pub with an unstuffy feel. The food’s creating a buzz, with nearly everything sourced from the local Lowther Estate, which means fish from the river, veg from the kitchen gardens and meat from the cosseted Lowther herds. Signature dish is a twice-baked cheese souffle, or choose from dishes like venison medallions on mash, fell-bred lamb or oysters from the Solway coast. There’s a lovely sunny courtyard and garden from where you can contemplate your next move – or stay the night, as the inn has some similarly stylish guest rooms.