Travel: Wild Boar Inn, Windermere

It may sound like a devil’s retreat, but in reality, a stay at the Wild Boar Inn, in Windermere, was a tranquil and tame family break – honest!The hotel, part of The Great Inns of Britain collection, takes its name from the local legend of Sir Richard de Gilpin, who bravely fought and killed a particularly ferocious wild boar.It comes as no surprise that the wild boar is a staple in the grill and restaurant’s menu, smoked to perfection in the smoke house on the grounds.

At times there was a smoky smell wafting through the cool, crisp spring air, providing extra proof of the menu’s authenticity.If this was enough temptation, you can even book on the hotel’s food smoking courses.Even some of the ale is smoked, as the hostel has its own microbrewery, where one of the brews is a smoked porter.There is also the option to experience real ale fermenting sessions under the expert guidance of a master brewer. The microbrewery keeps up with the wild boar theme, with ales named after the pig family. It must be noted the Mad Pig was a firm favourite with my other half.