Set in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales and bursting with charm, The Devonshire Fell is the perfect place to switch off and escape from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.

It might not be as well-known as its neighbouring big sister, The Devonshire Arms Hotel & Spa, but what The Devonshire Fell lacks in opulence and grandeur, it more than makes up for in eccentricity and warmth and you’ll be hard pressed to find a hotel that enjoys such breathtaking views as this beautiful North Yorkshire hideaway.

Part of the Duke of Devonshire’s sprawling 30,000-acre Bolton Abbey Estate and overlooking the picturesque village of Burnsall, that is framed by rolling hills and dry-stone walls, an escape to The Fell is something that should be on everybody’s list to do if you’ve not already done so.

Set within a handsome Victorian building, the interior is bursting with colours and guests can enjoy an array of brightly textured furniture that fill the public areas and bar while the more formal 2AA Rosette restaurant boasts the best views in the house and the sort of place you’ll want to sit and relax long after your meal has ended.

Boasting 16 restful rooms that are each beautifully designed with many of the Duchess’s own handywork and influences evident throughout, it truly is a place to unwind and pack away your troubles for a night or two.

We were lucky to find ourselves in one of the sprawling fell suites which enjoy the best of the views and trust me, it’s worth pushing the boat out for one of these front facing rooms with near floor to ceiling windows, because the sight that awaits you overlooking the village of Burnsall and beyond is one that will stay with you forever.

One of the best things about living in this beautiful neck of the woods is that you don’t have to travel far to enjoy some of the finest landscapes and scenery and if ever there was a hotel that captures the best of Gods own Country, then this really is it.

Friendly staff, stunning views, great food and the comfiest of rooms ensure a trip to the Devonshire Fell ticks all the boxes and if you’ve got a four-legged furry friend in tow then all the better because they absolutely love dogs at this welcoming bolthole.

After a stroll down to the village and a quick freshen up we were all ready for dinner where a brasserie style menu covers all the bases and is filled with an impressive selection of locally-sourced ingredients.

Starters of Queen scallops and a delicious spinach and chestnut pithivier set the scene for what was a delightful meal, bursting with flavours and beautifully presented.

Grilled Yorkshire Lamb served with pressed potatoes and charred tenderstem broccoli and truffle and mushroom duxelles with potato velouté followed for mains.

Both were perfectly cooked and despite such hearty portions we still managed to find room for a sublime Yorkshire Parkin dessert that came dripping with smoked beef fat toffee sauce and vanilla ice cream.

The restaurant has the perfect balance of attentive service in an informal setting together with a stunning selection of wines and is well worth a visit even if you’re not staying the night.

The next morning, after a great night’s sleep, we were back in pole position at the restaurant for breakfast. It was a bright, sunny morning, presumably ordered specially for guests, and as we sat in the window overlooking the hotel gardens and the green rolling landscape beyond, it was hard to leave. Only after our third coffee did we manage to prise ourselves away and reluctantly head home.

Perfectly placed to explore the surrounding area and close enough to visit Bolton Abbey, Grassington, Skipton, Ilkley and a string of other Yorkshire beauty spots, The Devonshire Fell is the ideal escape and if you’re looking for exceptional food, contemporary comfort and the Dales on your doorstep, what more could you ask for?

Devonshire Fell, Burnsall, Skipton BD23 6BT
T: 01756 729000
W: devonshirehotels.co.uk/devonshire-fell-burnsall/