The house was built as an amazing summer home for wealthy industrialists, then became a childrens hospital, then a home for adults with special needs, then a nursing home, then my home where I do b&b. Breakfast is from 8.30am - 9.15am and guests are welcome to bring their own drinks to enjoy at the house as I'm not licensed. Unless you're quite determined, it's probably too far to walk to the pub for dinner as it's about 3 miles each way to the nearest in Aysgarth and Askrigg. Thornton Lodge has one of the most peaceful locations in Wensleydale and is a great location to unwind in. It's also more suited to people who don't really like the concept of boutique hotels as we spent an awful lot of money creating an authentic environment rather than going down the boutique route.

This 5-star country house dates back to 1909, and still retains period antique features. It offers bed and breakfast accommodation in a peaceful setting above the River Ure in Wensleydale, just outside the hamlet of Thornton Rust.

The en-suite rooms are elegant and traditionally furnished, and each one benefits from a flat-screen TV, mini fridge or wine cooler with fresh milk and a selection of hot drinks. Each bathroom comes with a hairdryer. All rooms boast picturesque garden views.

A full English breakfast is provided each morning in the original oak panelled dining room with its charming open fireplace. It is prepared with local ingredients from the nearby butcher and eggs from the owners hens. Lighter options are available, along with a selection of cereals, fruit and yoghurt.

Three villages with pubs are just within a 3 miles radius, and guests are welcome to bring their own drinks to enjoy at the house.

Thornton Lodge has free parking on site, and is situated in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Leyburn is a 20-minute drive from the building, and Darlington is just 30 miles away.