The estate-style hotel in Cumbria roots you to the countryside charm while its Michelin-star restaurant delivers unforgettable cuisine

Tucked away in the rolling green of Cumbria, England’s northwestern county, Farlam Hall is the sort of place that seems to have wandered straight out of an old English novel and decided to stay awhile.

A grand country estate surrounded by lawns that stretch lazily into woodland and water, it feels private, secluded, and quietly confident about its charm. On some mornings, when the mist hovers low over the lake, it feels like the landscape itself is taking a deep breath.

A grand country estate surrounded by lawns in Cumbria, Farlam Hall is the perfect hotel pick for privacy, scenic excursions and great in-house culinary indulgence. Photo courtesy: Farlam Hall 

It’s positioned just south of the Scottish border in an area steeped in Roman history. The estate also sits within easy reach of Hadrian’s Wall, the ancient fortification that once marked the northernmost frontier of the Roman Empire. 

Cumbria itself is defined by the dramatic landscapes of the Lake District to the west and the rolling Pennine hills to the east. This border region, historically caught between English and Scottish influence, offers visitors both natural beauty and historical depth, making it a perfect base for exploring northern England’s most celebrated walking routes and archaeological treasures.

First impressions 

The main hall is as elegant as you’d hope, with deep sofas, working fireplaces that crackle cheerfully on chilly afternoons, and sitting rooms made for long conversations or unapologetically lazy reading. 

You’ll find yourself lingering longer than you meant to, perhaps with a scone in one hand and a cup of Earl Grey in the other, wondering why the world ever decided to rush.

The rooms in the main building are generous in size and have been freshly renovated, blending heritage charm with modern comfort. A warm tweed theme runs through the décor, giving each space that unmistakable Cumbrian cosiness. 

The sitting room is made for long conversations with fireplaces to keep you warm. The library brings a sense of calm. Photo courtesy: Farlam Hall 

The large windows frame views of trees that, during our visit this week, were blazing in shades of red and yellow, a painter’s palette of autumn. 

And then there are the bathrooms — large, gleaming, and unexpectedly luxurious.  Spanking new bathtubs and walk-in showers invite long soaks after a day spent exploring the countryside. It’s clear that every detail here has been considered with care and good taste.

Just a few steps away, the converted stable suites offer more privacy and a touch of rustic romance. Think high ceilings, stone walls, and modern comforts discreetly tucked into old bones — the sort of place where you half expect to hear a horse’s whinny outside, though you’ll probably only hear the rustle of the wind through the trees.

Among the Farlam Hall stable suites, the Brookside House features two super king-sized bedrooms and an exquisite private terrace with idyllic views. Photo courtesy: Farlam Hall 

Farlam Hall sits just south of the Scottish border, close enough that you can almost sense the shift in history. The legendary Hadrian’s Wall lies nearby, that ancient line once drawn by the Romans to mark the edge of their empire. 

The Roman Army Museum and ongoing excavations offer a fascinating glimpse into life 2000 years ago, while the walks and hikes around the hotel have recently been featured on television as among the best in the world. The views are cinematic, though the local sheep remain politely unimpressed by their newfound fame.

Farlam Hall’s culinary star 

At the heart of it all is Chef Hrishikesh Desai, the Indian-born culinary maestro who now leads Farlam Hall’s kitchens as Chef Patron. 

A man with more than a few Michelin stars to his name, Hrishikesh brings a rare blend of precision, passion, and playfulness to his cooking. His food marries classical French technique with the warmth and depth of his Indian roots, resulting in dishes that feel both sophisticated and soulful. 

Under his stewardship, Farlam Hall’s dining has evolved from indulgence to art form. He and his team are hands-on in every sense — from the perfectly timed amuse-bouche to the genuine warmth with which guests are greeted — ensuring every moment feels effortless and extraordinary.

As part of the Relais & Châteaux family, Farlam Hall embodies the finest kind of country hospitality — refined yet deeply personal. 

————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-

At Panache World, we work closely with Farlam Hall to curate bespoke stays for our guests, ensuring you experience the very best of this gem. Whether it’s a quiet weekend escape or a few days exploring Cumbria’s dramatic landscapes and culinary delights, we’ll help you uncover the charm, comfort, and quiet excellence that make Farlam Hall so unforgettable.