Masons Arms

Rustic benches and tables on the heated terrace here take in the stunning views down over the Winster Valley to the woods below Whitbarrow Scar; it really is an idyllic spot. The pub itself is a favourite with many of our readers and the main bar has plenty of character, with low black beams in the bowed ceiling, and country chairs and plain wooden tables on polished flagstones. A small lounge has oak tables and settles to match its fine Jacobean panelling, there's a plain little room beyond the serving counter with pictures and a fire in an open range, a family room with an old-parlourish atmosphere and an upstairs dining room; piped music, board games and TV. Cumbrian Dickie Doodle, Hawkshead Bitter and Windermere Pale, Thwaites Wainwright and Winster Valley Old School on handpump, quite a few foreign bottled beers, 13 wines by the glass and a dozen malt whiskies; service is friendly and prompt. The stylish and comfortable self-catering cottages and apartments also have fine views.