A popular Cumbrian pub has created three new luxury suites for its guests.
The Dalesman Country Inn, in Sedbergh, dates back to the 16th century.
The pub has been run by the same family for 37 years and the building’s first floor has traditionally provided accommodation for the family. They decided to transform it into suites and were working to a tight deadline.
The extensive refurbishment began in January and was completed just nine weeks later.
Owner Mike Garnett said: “The pressure was on as we had bookings secured from March 25 for visitors attending the local Sedbergh Super 10s rugby tournament.
“It was definitely a testing time! Our builders and tradespeople worked during the week and then on Friday afternoons, it all stopped so we could do a deep clean to make everywhere tidy and presentable as we had all our other rooms fully booked throughout February and March at the weekends.”
The work uncovered some surprises including sections of reed roof covering, a material commonly used to thatch roofs on buildings of the era.
Mike said: We expected to see some old latte and plaster but we were very surprised to find the reed thatching in the ceilings. We had to strip all the old materials away and replace them, along with the floorboards, making it a much bigger job than anticipated.”
Mike and partner Hannah, with renowned interior designer, Peter Silk created individual design themes for each of the rooms.
Mike said: “We wanted the accommodation to be in keeping with the building and the local area, so we chose to expose and restore the stunning original beams and even named the two new suites after the landforms.
“We sourced a stunning range of soft furnishings that would complement the style of the rooms. We’re absolutely delighted with the finished result.”
