Pen View Guest House

by Les
(Yorkshire)

Hospitality at its Best

When looking for somewhere to stay a few nights in quiet, peaceful surroundings in mid Wensleydale I came upon a very modest web site. A family run guest house offering bed, breakfast and optional evening meal sounded just ideal for what I wanted. When I looked on the map for the village of Thoralby (the location), it took some time to find. And no wonder. Well off the beaten track - it seemed tiny. Very promising!

An easy phone conversation with Audrey Bailey, the lady of the house soon confirmed my booking and I was already looking forward to being there.

"The Bailey family would welcome the opportunity of offering you their hospitality. Their friendly, personal attention is given to each and every guest and no effort is spared to make your stay a pleasant one."

Sounds great in their brochure - but can it be lived up to? Well, I'm very happy to say it did - and exceeded expectations. A warm welcome was to prove only the start of a relaxing, comfortable few days break. My room was comfortable and contained all I could need.

A hearty breakfast was cooked and presented by Clifford and relished by me. Set me up for each new day, it did! Oh, and I would say, a nice touch was being offered the chance to state the time I would like to eat. Audrey kindly filled my flask with tea each morning. Throughout the day each cuppa was very welcome.

Thoralby is a charming, typical tiny Dales village with its own Post Office cum village shop and a unique pub serving a wide variety of beers and wines. Delicious meals are prepared using local produce and served in a very cheerful manner by mein host Charles.

Pen View, situated between Hawes and Leyburn on the A684, deep in Herriot Country, is ideally situated for touring the surrounding area and Wensleydale, famous for its delicious cheese. Coverdale, Swaledale, Wharfedale and Dentdale are all within easy reach. For rail enthusiasts the Settle to Carlisle line, with its magnificent scenery, should not be missed during your stay. The historic towns of Skipton, Richmond and Middleham offer interest for everyone.

Pen View would suit anyone looking for a quiet break, within easy reach of many of the attractions in the Yorkshire Dales.

You'll find all the details on the Pen View Guest House web site.