When we read some of the previous reviews there were issues regarding the cleanliness,this was immediatly dispelled when we arrived. The occomodation is naturally rustic but fully equipted,with the open plan Kitchen having everything you could possibly need, the bedrooms are huge and this would easily occomodate sleeping 6, with the smaller room downstairs being a childrens/teens room with 2 single beds and even a PS2.
The village of Sandford is delightfully quiet,just what we wanted,ideal for walking the dog or going for an early evening stroll down the lanes.
We ate in the Sandford arms a couple of times,Food is excellent although its more aimed at being a restaurant than a village pub,which in present times is understandable.There are also delightful pubs in nearby appleby which is only 10/15 mins away by car.
We used this as a base to explore the lakes and the Yorkshire Dales,travel to which is a maximum of about an hour away by car,but to be honest the scenery is so nice its a pleasure to travel.
Also can recommend the Settle/Carlisle line for the scenery,travelled to Settle and back for the day,although the town itself is quite small.
All in all we had an excellent stay and would recommend the Old Byre to anyone wanting a break away from the rat race.