Askham Hall

Askham Hall – Allium at Askham Hall

Overview

Tucked in the tranquil village of Askham near Penrith, Askham Hall offers a compelling blend of stately elegance and contemporary comfort in the Eden Valley, on the edge of the Lake District. The hotel delights guests looking for a quintessential gourmet break, with its Grade I-listed manor house, stunning gardens, and a Michelin-starred dining destination. Askham Hall is perfect for couples or small groups seeking a food-focused retreat balanced with countryside calm, just under six miles from Ullswater and a short hop from Lake District walks or heritage attractions.

Eat

Allium at Askham Hall is one of Cumbria’s most respected fine-dining restaurants, holding a Michelin star and four AA Rosettes. Chef Richard Swale leads the kitchen with a creative, hyper-seasonal approach, drawing much of the inspiration and produce from the extensive walled garden and nearby Lowther family farms. Expect a refined tasting menu that captures Cumbrian terroir through techniques both classic and modern—vegetables, rare-breed meats, and estate-foraged herbs are frequent centrepieces. Every dish is delivered with precision but lacks pretension, matched by a knowledgeable and relaxing front-of-house team. Signature plates change with the calendar, but you might encounter aged lamb with local roots, delicate garden salads, or inventive desserts that feel both rooted and original—all emphasising freshness, sustainability, and a deep sense of place. Reservations are essential, especially for dinner.

Sleep

Askham Hall’s collection of rooms is stylish without sacrificing character; think statement beds, country antiques, and muted modern fabrics beneath ancient beams or historic stonework. Each room is unique, balancing heritage elements—like mullioned windows or fireplaces—with thoughtful comforts and contemporary bathrooms. Several options overlook the gardens or rolling Cumbrian countryside. This is a hotel that welcomes food travellers, walkers, and those looking for a restorative atmosphere, with peaceful lounges and welcoming staff always on hand.

Retreat

With Askham Hall as your base, a two-night escape easily combines gourmet indulgence with rural adventure. Guests can wander the ornamental gardens, book treatments in the on-site spa, or swim in the heated outdoor pool in fairer months. The Eden Valley bridleways and Lake District paths begin almost at the doorstep, with walkable countryside and dramatic scenery within easy reach. For culture or supplies, Penrith’s market town lies just five miles away; Ullswater’s lake cruises and Lowther Castle gardens are only a short drive. By car, Askham is about 15 minutes from the M6 or twenty minutes from Penrith station—making it surprisingly accessible for a weekend treat that feels a world apart.