Combining a bit of India in a picturesque corner of Britain is an erstwhile barn (from the 1700s) now one of 10 B&Bs across the UK in the Sunday Times Ultimate 100 British Hotels selection. Owners Graham and Fiona Lappin spent some time working in India. In fact, Graham grew up in Kerala where his father and grandfather were tea planters.

Respecting its origins, the bedrooms at The Malabar in Cumbria reflect the years the owners spent in India and the Far East. Light fills the once cool, dark cavernous barn and each bedroom enjoys far reaching views across the hills. Sliding barn doors into the bathrooms offer as much or as little privacy.

Breakfast and afternoon tea are the only meals available and served in the high-ceilinged, living-dining room where two wood burners crackle and pop. Breakfast has an Indian twist with chai glasses filled with sweet, yogurty lassi, spiked with cardamom. Dining choices are plentiful with award-winning pubs and cafes for a truly local flavour and feel.

Why visit The Malabar? Relax and reboot, explore the countryside along quiet walking trails. Join a yoga retreat or accompany a hill farmer for half a day of adventure across the dales.

Do check it out yourself.