A popular hotel is set to close near the end of the month and is encouraging people to visit before to enjoy what it has to offer.

Gilsland Hall, a hotel in Gilsland, which is near Brampton, closes for extensive renovations at the end of October.

Despite this, a spokesperson from the hotel said: "Guests are sure to enjoy a ‘taste of Cumbria’ in the relaxing surroundings of the historic house and parkland.

"Gilsland Hall’s new chef, Paul Graham, spent 18 years catering in the Armed Forces and brings with him the ethos that great food does not need to be complicated - and his menu reflects this with simple but delicious food cooked well. Paul uses local suppliers where possible and hopes to create a kitchen garden when the hotel reopens fully next year.

"One of his favourite dishes, which currently features on the Gilsland Hall menu is pan-fried gnocchi with wild garlic, garden greens and pearl mozzarella."

The hotel also offers afternoon tea with a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with jam and clotted cream, homemade cakes and tea for £15 per person, or £20 per person with a glass

of sparkling wine.

The hotel was recently purchased by Stratsmore Holdings and will be operated by Monday Hospitality Group and their new country house hotel brand, Black Book Hotels.

In Autumn this year, the property will undergo a complete renovation, transforming it into a luxury five-star country house hotel by Spring 2022.

Currently, it is a three-star hotel.

The hotel says it will offer luxury suites and family rooms with patios, ideal for those with pets.

There will be an array of unique guest experiences, amenities, food and beverage offerings, wedding and event spaces, including an in-house screening room and luxury iconic spa facilities, making it the ideal retreat for couples, groups of friends, and family gatherings.

The hotel adds: "In the meantime, the hotel in its existing incarnation is available for affordable staycations for couples, friends, families and single travellers (and their dogs), this summer, looking for a base from which to explore the region."