The Punch Bowl Inn & Restaurant at Crosthwaite in the Lake District has been awarded the prestigious ‘AA Inn of the Year Award’ at the 2023 B&B Awards.
As one of only eight B&Bs across the UK to receive an award, The Punch Bowl was celebrated for its outstanding hospitality, service, and commitment to quality, during a virtual awards ceremony.
The respected industry awards – now in their 27th year – saw a team of AA inspectors recognise the best-of-the-best of the UK’s bed and breakfast scene in 2023. Individuality, standard of housekeeping, and the all-important breakfast were just some of the areas the experts used to decide the winners.
Richard Rose, owner of the Punch Bowl Inn & Restaurant, said: “We’re hugely grateful to the AA for this much coveted award. I’ve been running the Punch Bowl for almost 20 years and I know it takes a special kind of person to really thrive in this line of work. Luckily for me, I have a whole team of special people who always go the extra mile to make sure our guests have an exceptional stay, so this award is for every single one of them.
“We’re all so passionate about The Punch Bowl; whether it’s the striking location with breathtaking countryside views, the outstanding dishes on our seasonal menus, or our stylish, full-of-character bedrooms and dining areas. Every last detail is carefully thought out to make sure our guests feel entirely at home when they visit, and a big thank you again to the AA for their appreciation of this.”
Simon Numphud, Managing Director at AA Hotel & Hospitality Services, which operates the AA quality assessment schemes, said: “This year we’ve seen an extraordinary level of individuality, which is demonstrated by our winners’ inherent essence of charm and character. I’m proud to announce this year’s winners, who continue to set the highest standards and welcome guests with open arms. With so many brilliant B&Bs to choose from, holidaymakers can explore Britain in the safe knowledge there will be a comfortable haven to rest their heads and satisfy their tastebuds wherever they decide to go.”
On presenting the AA Inn of the Year Award to the Punch Bowl Inn, Simon added: “Consistently rated amongst the finest places to stay and eat in the North of England, this well-established inn has long been a staple destination in the Lake District setting a high benchmark for quality and comfort. The setting is full of allure next to the village church and with views down the Lyth Valley.
“Owner Richard Rose will not however allow its character as a traditional inn to wane. Stone floors, low ceilings, open fires, local ales and spirits and always with warmth and hospitality. Nine luxurious bedrooms are all set upstairs and offer traditional comfort and charm, and food is a key driver here having held 2AA rosettes for almost 20 years and shows no sign of easing off. Congratulations to Richard Rose and all the team at the Punch Bowl Inn.”
