As a child on holiday in the Lake District, I remember learning to count to ten in the old Cumbrian dialect—the same rhythmic numbers that shepherds have used for generations to tally their flock. “Yan, tan, tethera” is “one, two, three” in the traditional sheep counting system, making “The Yan” a fitting name for a place that aspires to be “The One”. But does The Yan at Broadrayne, a warm and stylish retreat on the edge of Grasmere, live up to its name? Read on to find out.
The welcome
Ahead of our arrival, we were emailed a personalised door code, for the duration of our stay. This allowed us independent access into the resident’s lounge through a small porch, and to our room beyond. As things turned out, on arrival, we were warmly welcomed by Lauren, who guided us through the process and showed us to our room. The check-in felt much more relaxed than a traditional hotel, instantly setting a relaxed and comfortable tone that defined the rest of our stay.
The room
We stayed in Room 3 — The Lion and Lamb — classified as a Deluxe Superking room and named after the distinctive rock formations atop Helm Crag, visible from our window.
Each room at The Yan carries a name inspired by the local fells, from Dunmail to Fairfield, and the décor blends comfort with understated luxury — plush bedding, a deep and restful colour palette, and thoughtful touches that make it feel like a true retreat after a day’s exploring.
The bathroom
Compact yet well-appointed, the bathroom featured a sleek shower, basin, WC and heated towel rail, all sparklingly clean.
Pure Lakes toiletries, with their fresh, natural scents, are supplied. The geranium and ylang-ylang shampoo is a treat, while the grapefruit and lemongrass shower gel, hand wash, and hand and body lotion provide an uplifting zest ahead of a day on the fells.
Everything you need to plan your trip in 2024
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The facilities
Beyond the rooms, The Yan offers a residents’ lounge, a peaceful space with books, games and reading material — perfect for a post-walk wind-down.
But the real star of the show is The Bistro – a multiple time winner of the Casual Dining Venue of the Year award at the Cumbria Food Awards, and has been featured — more than once — in the Good Food Guide’s 100 Best Local Restaurants.
During our stay, we indulged in an array of beautifully crafted dishes, from the Mini Yan naan, topped with butter curry sauce and Grasmere Herdwick lamb Seekh kebab, to the Cheesy Bean Tart, where puff pastry embraced The Yan’s own baked beans, gruyère, mature cheddar, truffle ketchup, and pickled shemeji mushrooms.
For mains, the Jamaic-Yan delivers a bold and flavourful Jamaican curry with cauliflower, peas, red peppers, and crayfish, all topped with jerk-seasoned coley and a spoonful of lime and coriander crème fraîche.
Then, of course, there is their now-famous Shepherd’s Pie, featuring slow-braised Grasmere Herdwick lamb, cheesy mash, cured ham, and parsley garden peas.
The Brit-Yan (serves two) is also a treat: braised local beef feather steak with truffle and cheddar mash, served alongside creamy cauliflower cheese.
And, to finish, there’s everything from the classic Lakeland dessert of Sticky Toffee Pudding to the equally indulgent Tirami-Choux, a choux bun filled with Marsala mascarpone cream and Carvetti coffee gelato, finished with a rich chocolate sauce.
For those looking for alternative accommodation, also on site are Broadrayne Cottages and Grasmere Glamping.
The location
If you’re looking for a central Lake District base, you’d be hard-pressed to find better. Grasmere is home to the world-famous Grasmere gingerbread, of course, and William Wordsworth himself described the village as “the loveliest spot that man hath ever found‘.
During our stay, we took a stroll around White Moss, but options abound: from Wainwright climbs to gentler rambles with breathtaking views.
And for those looking to explore further, Keswick is just a 20-minute drive away, where you’ll find historic gems like Castlerigg Stone Circle and lakeside favourites such as Friar’s Crag.
Other nice touches
The Yan goes above and beyond with thoughtful little luxuries. In our room, a kettle and an ample supply of tea and coffee awaited us, alongside sticky toffee bites and a flask of fresh water.
A custom-made Ordnance Survey map, with The Yan at its centre, came complete with a compass, perfect for intrepid days out.
Dog owners will also appreciate the extra care taken for four-legged guests, with a supply of biscuits and a water bowl and mat provided. Dogs are even welcome in the bistro, ensuring they don’t miss out on the fun. And for those planning a long day in the fells, packed lunches can be ordered in advance.
The cost
For a stay in a Deluxe Superking room such as the one we stayed in, out-of-season rates start from approximately £300 per night (Hotel, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast) out of season, or £450 for two nights.
The best bit
Yes, the setting is beautiful. And yes, the food is excellent. But what truly sets The Yan apart is its relaxed, unstuffy atmosphere. It strikes the perfect balance between high-end comfort and laid-back charm—luxurious but never pretentious, warm but never intrusive. It’s a place where you can return from a long hike, kick off your boots, enjoy a pint and feel immediately at home.
The final verdict
The Yan at Broadrayne is a masterclass in boutique hospitality — a family-run haven that seamlessly blends the traditional heritage of a sixteenth century Lakeland barn with contemporary comforts. Whether you’re here for the hills, the food, or just some restorative peace and quiet, The Yan delivers in every way. If you’re looking for a place that celebrates the spirit of the Lake District with effortless charm, you need look no further.
Dislcosure: Our stay was sponsored by The Yan at Broadrayne.
Paul Johnson
Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for more than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Telegraph.
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