WASDALE.

Wasdale Head Inn (Wasdale Head, Nr Gosforth, Cumbria CA20 1EX) (01946) 726229, wasdaleheadinn@msn.com, www.wasdale.com. Apparently this is the birthplace of climbing, surrounded as it is by England's tallest 'mountains' (Scafell, Great Gable, Pillar, Kirkfell, Lingmell). The Inn is situated at the head of remote and unspoiled Wasdale, and if you are seeking the superlative this is where you will find it. England's highest 'mountain', the deepest lake, the smallest Church, and the original world's biggest liar can all be found in this tranquil corner of the Lake District. The Inn can organise a mountain guide to help you explore if you wish. The pub has oak panelled walls and you could be in a ripping yarn of history. Old climbing photographs adorn the walls from The Abraham brothers. Very much an isolated olde worlde atmosphere, where modern day stress is left behind at the entrance to the vale.

There are three distinct drinking areas. The first is the residents lounge with comfortable sofas and no TV, but plenty of books. The second is Ritson's Bar, named after the first landlord, Will Ritson - huntsman, wrestler, farmer, fellsman, guide, raconteur, and the first "World's Biggest Liar". This is where everyone congregates after a day walking/climbing, you can have good wholesome bar meals here and up to nine real ales. From here is a beer garden and a log burning stove for winter. A number of the ales are brewed especially for the Inn, and a new on-site micro brewery is planned in the near future. Lastly The residents bar is a bit of a 'theme bar'.

For food the Abrahams Restaurant has won consecutive RAC Merit Awards. Service is relaxed and dress codes informal (prices a bit steep). Vegetarian choices are available.

There is a variety of accommodation here (all en-suite). The Inn has six double rooms, three single, one twin and one three-bedded room. With the exception of one ground floor double room with a 4-poster bed, all are on the first floor. Prices start from £45 per person first night with English breakfast (£10 off for second night). The 4-poster room is £50 pppn (£10 off 2 nights or more). Self Catering Facilities are available In the adjacent traditional stone built Lakeland Barn. Six self catering apartments provide central heating, fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher and microwave. For self catering prices see web site above.