Lowbyer Manor Country House

DISAPPOINTING ROOM. Our group consisted of 8 people, 3 double rooms and 3 single, which were booked 6 months in advance. On arrival we found the extractor in the bathroom didn't work leaving the bathroom full of condensation the whole stay. The towel radiator didn't work either as the controls had been removed. The radiator in the bedroom was put on for a couple of hours the first night but after that there was no heating whatsoever so we had to use wet towels for our 3 night stay. In the bedroom there was signs of damp where a mini dehumidifier had been left. We told the ower (Jim) and he actually said "yes that room is damp"! What was even worse was when we went to bed, that also felt damp. As we had booked well in advance we assumed (wrongly) that all the rooms were occupied and as we were with a group of friends didn't want to find alternative accommodation. It was on our last night when we realised our group were the only peope staying in the hotel and they could have moved us to an alternative room. It is beyond us why we were given a damp room in the first place. We ate at the hotel the first night and the food was very good but as the menu was limited decided to try elsewhere in the village. Jim said as we were not staying to eat the bar would close at 7pm on the second night. The owners do not stay at the hotel overnight so if anyone is a lone traveller this may be quite disconcerting and something to consider before booking.

We have just returned from a 4-night stay on a Writing Retreat at this wonderful place. Janice and Jim are superb hosts, making us feel so very welcome. We felt like house guests rather than visitors. Nothing was too much trouble. But this is not just for writers. With the pretty town of Alston on the doorstep as well as the Pennine Way, this is a great base for exploring. We particularly enjoyed browsing through the local indie shops - so refreshing compared to high street chains. Our room was airy and very comfortable. The power shower was a joy! The lounge has a cosy open fire and comfy seating. Being on a retreat, all meals were provided. These were superbly prepared by Janice and her small team. We couldn't have asked for more. We had an amazing time. Thank you Janice, Jim, Anna, Clare (our tutor) and to our fellow writers. We arrived as strangers, but left as friends. Hope to return soon.

Very friendly and helpful. Quality breakfast and rooms. Great location for walks, cycling, motorcycling, site seeing. Great lounge with internet connected TV. Be sure to check about evening meals as the dining room may not be open. Local pub food available.

Comfortable room a bit out of Alston. I was biking the C2C and stayed there for the night. Unfortunately the restaurant was closed for the dinner but they have recommendations down the street . The breakfast the next day was lovely. Small but comfy bed. Pretty view from my room across the pasture.

I arrived after a long day from Dufton on the Pennine Way, my spirit a little broken after a late start that was beyond my control (and influence); hence I arrived late on a Sunday (7pm+) knowing that food was likely not on my menu for the night (if I didn't walk back to the service station). I was greeted extremely warmly. I asked if they might still be serving food, and the kind answer back from the kitchen was "yes". I was asked if 40 minutes was enough to get rested and ready. Of course it was. (I had a booking for a bed but not for food.) Another hiker arrived even later than I and the answer from the kitchen was the same kind "yes". (Worth noting that some other places on the Pennine Way were not so accommodating, as they seemed unprepared and overwhelmed by post-Lockdown numbers while down on staff numbers; best make a booking, and arrive on time.) Room was lovely with a nice aspect over the garden. Food was excellent (for dinner and breakfast), and the licensed bar was a super nice surprise. Lovely staff, and really recommend this place. C2C cyclists seemed also to be very happy with their stay. Deserve all the custom they can get.

Beautiful setting and a lovely welcome from Jim and his wife. Interesting old house, with a shaded garden to sit in. Lovely cool room and excellent breakfast. Evening meal and bar also available, plus safe storage for our bikes