In a small hamlet between Ambleside and Hawkshead, the Outgate Inn offers country-style dining with tasty food.

Outgate itself is sleepy little hamlet with lots of nearby walks and the inn has an old-day cottage feel, with low beams, red carpets and lantern lighting.

My friend and I were greeted by a friendly bar lady, who gave us her sole attention (we were the only people there).

As it was a rare sunny day we sat outside, where there was a collection of picnic benches beside the road, enjoying the scenery between the lines of passing motorists.

The menu showcased traditional pub food, including fish and chips, salads, burgers and a range of toasted or normal sandwiches.

For my main I went for a light option, in the form of cheese and red onion chutney sandwich (£4. 95) which was served with a side salad and a bowl of chips.

This came out on brown bread, as requested, with lots of grated cheddar cheese in a packed sandwich with chutney inside. The salad included peppers, lots of lettuce and tomatoes, and the chips were very well cooked.

My friend had a tuna mayonnaise toasted sandwich, which also came with a side salad.

Staff were very hands-on throughout the meal, jumping between serving the food, drinks and cleaning the floors.

To top it all off, the inn has a good selection of local ales and a choice of lager on tap.