Me and the missus are after a mid-week break up in the lakes in the middle of May, preferably out in the sticks rather than in the town etc. I could Google the usual sites for ages but I prefer personal recommendation. Anybody got any places they’ve tried and can recommend?

Yes, the Kirkstile is a lovely place, not been there for a few years now but it was a lovely meal.

Must be due to the fact I'm approaching 25 years of age, staying in the Lakes for a few nights is appealing. Spent a bit of time in Keswick working last summer, and also ended up travelling through various other parts of the region on the way to other jobs. It really is a lovely place, that I guess you just take for granted until you start growing up a bit.
Plus I spend most of the year in Workington so I'm only up the road.

One thing though, expect to be ripped off and pay southerners prices.

Bit of both really. Luckily someone came past with a head torch on just before we walked into the Beck.

Farmers Arms at Lowick Green is great value and the restaurant attached is spot on.

Another one I've eaten at but not stayed at. On both occasions, the meals have been excellent.

We used to end our Lake District walks by eating at a pub and savouring a pint or three ... and whenever we saw they did accommodation, we'd say how good it would be to stay there.
In the end we put together a fortnight's itinerary and did so.
A really great holiday, that was.