A rising star on the culinary map, The Dalesman Country Inn has welcomed a new five-strong team of chefs through its doors this summer.

The award-winning, family run 16th century coaching inn nestled beneath the Howgills fells in picturesque Sedbergh makes for a memorable dining experience year-round, but now more so than ever with the addition of a new team of chefs.

Ably led by Head Chef, Simon Taylor the new team bring with them a generous helping of culinary credentials and experience having trained with some of the most respected chefs in the country, including English restauranteur and television chef, Gary Rhodes.

Richard York, Ross Reynolds, Jamie Fletcher and Alex Miller make up the quintet alongside Simon to offer a creative seasonal menu that champions ‘hero’ local ingredients from small-scale farmers and producers.

Owner Mike Garnett said, “I’ve never felt more excited and confident about our menu and what we offer our customers. Our chef team have a brilliant range of skillsets and experience, from Michelin-starred restaurants to five-star hotels.”

Having relocated his family from Manchester to the outskirts of Kendal, Head Chef Simon explained that the pretty location, the friendly locals and the outstanding quality produce helped to seal the deal.

He said, “When I came up, I instantly fell in love with Sedbergh. Mike took me to meet some of his suppliers on the local farms and what struck me most was their depth of knowledge, and the flavour and quality of the produce. It was an opportunity too good to miss”.

He added, “Richard, Alex and I have worked together before, and as a team we get on really well. We all have our specialisms and bring new ideas to the plate.”

Whilst dishes such as Heritage Tomato Salad, Asparagus and Pea Pappardelle and Spiced Monkfish feature on the current summer menu, the team are eagerly anticipating the autumn glut of local produce.

Simon commented, “We’re so lucky here, to be able to use what’s good when it’s good. On our Autumn menu, diners can expect some local game, squash, cauliflower and other seasonal produce to be paired with luxurious sauces and a mouth-watering array of decadent desserts, designed by our pastry chef, Alex”.

He adds, “If I had to pick a favourite dish from our current menu, it would have to be our Assiette of Sedbergh Rough Fell Lamb. For anyone that enjoys lamb, it’s heaven. You get a full tasting experience with the different cuts and flavours served alongside summery local vegetables and our rich home-made lamb jus”.

During the summer months, The Dalesman also open up their highly popular ‘courtyard’ beer garden. This sunny spot is perfect for enjoying their barbecue and grill specials alongside a G&T, made with their very own ‘Sedbergh Gin’ flavoured with home-grown rosemary and lavender!

The Dalesman offer a lunch and dinner menu as well as stylish accommodation, ideal for visitors of for those looking for a weekend break – book a table here