THE stately setting of a 19th century mansion house, set within three acres of mature gardens provides the jewel in the crown of the Eden Valley.

The Heather Glen Country Hotel was formerly a gentleman's club and family home of the Gills in Ainstable, but today it has been transformed into a luxury country hotel where the attention to the fine details as well as an eye for elegance can be enjoyed by guests.

New owners Roy and Alan Crossley have completed a £1/4 million restorations and refurbishment of the Heather Glen and plan to invest a further £100,000 in the stunning building and grounds in the next few months.

Guests are welcomed by Alan, who is general manager of the hotel in which the brothers have created a fine dining restaurant, with views of the gardens. The original features, with elegant coving and panelling can be found throughout the hotel, but especially in the dining room, they create a warm, intimate atmosphere.

The Darnells Restaurant encapsulated the ethos of the Heather Glen Country Hotel excellence in all things. Darnells is the maiden name of the brother's grandmother, and their father's middle name. The restaurant and one of the suites has been named in their memory. This personal touch is also typical of the unique nature of the Heather Glen.

To ensure the highest standards of cuisine are maintained, the restaurant will only open on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings and Sunday lunchtime, to enable head chef Chris Taylor to be in the kitchen. Chris, formerly of the Sharrow Bay and Paul Heathcote, has been involved in the creation of the new bespoke commercial kitchen, which has been created at The Heather Glen.

With 37 years' experience in the catering and hospitality, including serving members of the Royal family and visiting dignitaries in the Royal Air Force, Alan enjoys creating the perfect atmosphere and service for clients.

Alan explained: "The style of dining is modern English. I am here to ensure guests enjoy their time at The Heather Glen. It is not just the fine food diners can enjoy, but the ambience and welcome. After dinner you can enjoy your coffee and brandy with your guests in the lounge. We have excellent hand made Havana cigars, stored in a beautiful, wooden humidity controlled box, if you wish to enjoy a cigar after dinner."

Darnells Restaurant is perfect for an intimate wedding party and for larger occasions the grounds provide the perfect backdrop to a marquee reception.

With carefully selected antiques and paintings, lavish window dressings and many original 19th century features the Heather Glen provides a unique, warm and welcoming atmosphere. With six rooms available, including two suites, the accommodation is as excellent as the dining. With fittings and tiles specially imported from Italy, and quality furnishings, combined with tranquil views of the surrounding countryside, the rooms have a personal touch and relaxing ambience.

The result of 12 months of renovation, during which The Heather Glen Country Hotel was closed to the public, is now perfection in the Eden Valley for lovers of good food, wine and service.