Dunsley Hall - Whitby

Built as a 'dream home' for a Victorian shipping magnate, Dunsley Hall is now a mellowed-stone hideaway set in four acres of landscaped grounds not far from Whitby and the sea. Inside it is thoroughly traditional in style and immaculately maintained by owners Carol and Bill Ward. Stained glass windows, oak panelling and other original features add to the old-fashioned feel of the place.

The dining room is perfectly in keeping with the rest of the house and it provides a calming backdrop to food with modern overtones. Local seafood shows up well alongside other Yorkshire produce, witness seared scallops with pea and lemongrass cream, grilled Whitby crab with tomato fondue, spinach and crayfish tails or rack of Dales lamb with parsnip purée. Light meals and snacks are also available in the Pyman's Bar.

Residents who fancy some bracing fresh air and exercise should put on their wellies and take a trek around the owners' working farm in nearby Ramsdale.