Chris S
December 2016
Hadrian's View has everything you could need for a relaxing stay away from your everyday routines. We specifically wanted somewhere we could spend our time unwinding and taking things at a slower, more leisurely pace and this wonderfully converted barn fitted the bill exactly. Our hosts, Mr and Mrs Harding, were friendly and made us feel very welcome. On arrival there were fresh flowers in the window plus was a bottle of wine and scones with cream chilling in the fridge.
The barn has a charm synonymous with the area and the view from the east facing bedroom and living room is simply stunning. The hamlet, Banks, being in a slightly elevated position offers superb far reaching views of the Irthing valley, which on a winter morning with low cloud takes your breath away.
The amenities were more than ample for our needs. The kitchen was well equipped and we cooked every night. Although there is a dishwasher, we didn't use it. The bathroom has a large, deep, modern bathtub, which was great for a soak and the heated towel rail kept the towels dry. Both the bathroom and shower room have fan heaters only and it is advised to turn these on ten minutes before hand to warm the rooms a little before use during the winter months.
The rooms upstairs offer comfort and are neutrally decorated, the best room being the twin room that has those amazing views. The double room and bunk room have velux windows only. The pièce de résistance is the large living/dining area with the open fire and two three-seater (and very comfortable) sofas. There is a large dresser that contains good quality crockery and cutlery and the dining table easily places six people. Wood and coal for the fire was plentiful.
We stayed for six nights and had friends (local to the area) stay over for one evening. Mrs Harding invited us to a charity hog roast at Dacre Hall (a stunning medieval building and part of Lanercost Priory), which was a fabulous event. The food was delicious and the few locals we spoke to made us feel welcome, even the Harding's neighbours gave us a lift back.
There was plenty of space for all. Apart from a few creaky floors along the mezzanine and a slightly ageing oven and washing machine, we had everything we could possibly need. We even required a socket extension and was quickly accommodated.
There is enough parking for three cars. The outside space offers seating and a BBQ, although because of the December chill we didn't use them.
Nearby there is Lanercost Priory, Talkin Tarn, Birdoswald Roman Fort, Vindolanda Roman Fort and the small town of Brampton, where you can find all the essentials: cashpoint, cafe, supermarket, pubs, butchers etc. Banks itself is a peaceful hamlet and has no shops but the drive to Brampton does not take long.
All in all we had a very enjoyable and relaxing stay at Hadrian's View. Our hosts were lovely people and we were sad to leave. We would like to return and would definitely recommend it to our friends.