Romaldkirk is one of those lovely villages where little has changed in 200 years. It sits peacefully in the north Pennines, lost to the world and without great need of it. As for the Rose & Crown, it dates to 1733 and stands on the village green next to a Saxon church. Roses ramble across stone walls at the front, so grab a pint of local ale, then sit in the sun and watch life pass by. Inside, you can roast away in front of a fire in the wonderfully old-school bar while reading the Teesdale Mercury. There’s a peaceful sitting room for afternoon tea, then a panelled restaurant for excellent food, perhaps local Raby Estate venison pie followed by white chocolate panna cotta and pistachio ice cream. Thomas and Cheryl bought the place in 2012 and have been spending money on it ever since: it has never looked better. Stylish rooms – some in the main house, others out back, a couple in a cottage next door – have warm colours, comfy beds, Bose sound systems and super bathrooms. Don’t miss High Force waterfall, the magnificent Bowes Museum or the sausage sandwich at lunch. Dogs are very welcome.
Cheryl and Thomas Robinson have managed to inject high standards of hospitality and service while maintaining the essence of an informal village inn. There is a rustic charm about the place, the menu is as rooted in the environment as the pub itself, with a genuine local flavour, and characterful rooms combine period detail and contemporary style. A Teesdale treasure in an idyllic village.