and some brands are worth working with

"A traditional Lake District Inn, at the head of Eskdale which dates back to the 16th century. A friendly welcome is guaranteed along with true peace, relaxation and tastefully modernised bedrooms. Enjoy the residents or walkers bar with beer from the Woolpacks own micro brewery. Restaurant offers imaginative homemade produce."

The write up given by the AA inspector. We like it and think it accurately sums us up.

But it's an interesting time waiting for hotel inspection. It is with some sympathy that we watched "Fawlty Towers" last week and realised that no matter what, even when we had a suspect inspector, we treated everybody the same. After a while - because of the time of year and demand on the inspectors - we did have to wait a while, we started to forget. When this nice customer was checking out and finally produced the AA card, well- a shock it has to be said.

Now one of the reasons for choosing the AA to inspect us was because we recognised that they represent probably the best accommodation inspectors around. AA accredited accommodation is viewed highly and during the feedback session with the inspector we understood why. Every aspect of our service was systematically critiqued in a most constructive manner.

There are apparently areas where our quality matches that required for 4 stars. In areas that currently prevent us achieving the 4 stars we are striving for helpful advice was given.

Even Dave's food was given a very thorough "grilling", probably more so than Dave would like, but one can't strive to be amongst the best if one can't listen to an expert. (Even Dave!!!!)

So in summary, we're very pleased to be working with a respected organisation like the AA, especially when we know they will tell us exactly what we need to do to raise the standards to the level we know we can achieve.

Watch out 2009 - 4 stars we hope...

2010 - who knows????