A couple have relocated from London to run a bed-and-breakfast business in Cumbria’s Lune Valley.

Peter Jaques and Amanda Walker are fulfilling a lifelong dream after escaping their high-pressured lives in the capital.

“We were living in London, completely burned out after 10 years of long hours and crowded commutes,” said Peter, a former business consultant. “We decided it was time to make a big change.”

Amanda, a lawyer, added: “We love being in the hills, and having so many great opportunities for walking, climbing and cycling right on our doorstep. We wanted to share our love of the Cumbrian countryside with other people, so running a B&B was the obvious choice.”

A year ago the couple, both in their 30s, began the hunt for a suitable property. They were looking for something with the wow factor, but also with untapped potential as they wanted an opportunity to make their own mark.

After looking in Lake District hotspots like Ambleside and Keswick, they turned their search eastwards, towards the Westmorland Dales where they found Brownber Hall, a Victorian house tucked away in the Lune Valley near Tebay with views of the Howgill Fells.

It was built in 1860 as the centre of the Brownber Estate but fell into disrepair in the 1930s and changed hands a number of times. It was already operating as a bed & breakfast, but in need of a little TLC to restore it to its former glory.

“We knew at once that this was it,” said Amanda. “It was perfect.”

They bought the property last year and have since undertaken a refurbishment programme, knocking down walls, stripping wallpaper and redecorating.

Peter said: “I’ve swapped sitting from 9am to 5pm in an air-conditioned office for a job where every day is different. I am cooking breakfasts, sanding floors, painting walls and changing lightbulbs. I’ve never worked harder, but I’ve never been happier.”

The couple have tried to retain the character of Brownber Hall, while giving it a younger, fresher, more luxurious feel.

“Country house hotels can sometimes feel a bit old-fashioned and stuffy,” Amanda said. “We want people to feel they can relax here, and make themselves at home. Our aim is for our guests to feel as if they have come to stay at a friend’s house in the countryside.”

Brownber Hall has now reopened and Peter and Amanda have no regrets: “This was the best decision we ever made,” they said.