The Punch Bowl inn and restaurant at Crosthwaite, near Kendal, has been named Cumbria’s Dining Pub of the Year.

Named in the 2018 Good Pub Guide, it is the third time in four years that the Punch Bowl has been awarded the top prize.

Richard Rose, owner of the establishment, said: “To be voted the county’s best dining pub is a testament to our hard working staff and our hugely talented kitchen team.

"As well as the quality of the food, reviewers also look for real warmth and quality of service, which we pride ourselves on offering at the Punch Bowl."

Mr Rose added: "There is some strong competition across Cumbria, so to win this award for the third time in four years really is a great achievement for everyone.”

Organised county by county, each section of the guide highlights an outstanding pub of the year for food, all of which have been fully inspected to warrant their place.

Referring to the Punch Bowl, the guide says it is: "A civilised dining pub with a proper bar and other elegant rooms, a fine wine list, impressive food, friendly staff, and stylish bedrooms."

The guide also says that ‘the food is pretty special’ and highlights the use of local produce such as Lyth Valley damsons in game dishes, desserts and gin, as well as the strong selection of local ales on the bar.

The Good Pub Guide is the UK’s number one best-selling guide and is based on pub-goers recommendations backed up by editor inspections.