Alston, Cumbria

England's Highest Hideaway

The Story

A secluded country house hotel beside the River Nent, just outside Alston — England's highest market town. Three acres of gardens, a wood-panelled dining room, and the wild beauty of the North Pennines all around. A genuine hidden gem.

Notable Features

What sets it apart

riverside setting
North Pennines AONB
3-acre gardens

Photo Journal

Inside the stay

Gallery

Inside & Out

Lovelady Shield — interior and exterior view 1

Lovelady Shield — interior and exterior view 2

Lovelady Shield — interior and exterior view 3

Lovelady Shield — interior and exterior view 4

Lovelady Shield — interior and exterior view 5

Lovelady Shield — interior and exterior view 6

Guest Voices

What they say

“At first, the name made me a bit hesitant. Hotels with Love in the name are usually associated with sin dens like Las Vegas, but I was pleasantly surprises with what I experienced. Set in very idyllic grounds, far away from the road, with a pleasant view and a babbling brook nearby, it’s a great escape for a secluded weekend. The room was decent and tastefully decorated. The bed was a tad soft for my liking. A robust breakfast was included. All in all, not bad for the price.”

Digi Werks5/5

“Lovely quiet hotel in a beautiful setting. Rooms were airy and comfortable and breakfast was excellent. Just a note that the hotel does not serve any alcohol. Definitely one to return to again”

Matt Clark5/5

“Very rural, somewhat secluded setting, nestled among the farms and hills . Walking paths and river close by. Plenty of off road parking. Traditional styling with cozy lounge. No lift to upper floors. Comfortable spacious en-suite room. Attentive staff and great breakfast made for an enjoyable overnight stay.”

Jacky Vel4/5

“Wonderful staff, truly pet friendly, fabulous location, ideal for a quiet relaxing weekend or if you like hiking. We had a narvellous time, would recommend staying with or without pets.”

Alma Dennison5/5

“The service we received was phenomenal, the food was fantastic! Definitely will go again! We were down for the week in Slaggyford and saw Lovelady offering afternoon tea on Facebook. We phoned in advance and booked a table. We we're warmly welcomed by a lovely gentleman who passed us over to 3 women in the dining area. They served us up with tea and coffee within seconds of taking our seats. I believe it was one of the kitchen lady's who came over once the drinks were poured and she confirmed our dietary requirements. She had separately plated up some meat options as one of us had requested the vegetarian afternoon tea. The presentation of the meal was fantastic and the food was lovely. The service we received was amazing! Highly recommended if you're out in the area. Thank you for a warm and friendly welcome and for treating us like royalty.”

David Smith5/5