Well, the experts were right for once and more people have stayed in the UK for their holidays this summer. We have had record numbers staying at Wood View and September has been our busiest month since arriving here in 2005. The weather forecasters were a little wide of the mark with their predictions of a "barbecue summer", but at least we have had some warm and sunny periods in amongst the showers. Life in Austwick carries on at it's usual relaxed pace and we are now almost regarded as "locals", although full status isn't usually granted until you have been here for 30 years!

The "Visit Britain" assessor came to stay in July, booking in as a "mystery guest" and was treated to some of Sue's cooking and David's uncanny Basil Fawlty impression. When she confessed who she was after breakfast we were told that not only had we retained our 4 Star status, but that we would also be given a Silver Award in recognition of the "high level of quality, comfort and cleanliness in bedrooms and bathrooms with very good levels of customer care and food provision". We are delighted to have received this accolade and to know that our efforts to make your stay in this lovely part of the Yorkshire Dales a memorable one, have been formally recognised.

Austwick lies in 3 Peaks country and many of our guests come to the area to walk on Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough, either one at a time or by taking up the 3 Peaks Challenge and reaching all three summits in a 24 mile, 5200 feet of climb walk, hopefully completing the circuit within 12 hours. The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority has recently set up the "Three Peaks Project" with the aim of protecting and maintaining the well trodden footpaths and habitats of the area and as well as appointing a Ranger, the National Park has launched the "Friends of the 3 Peaks" to encourage people who love the area to join together in protecting this landscape which sees some 250,000 visitors a year. Information on the project or how to become a "friend" can be found at the Three Peaks website. We are hoping to stock some merchandise next year such as badges, key rings and medals, the profits of which will go back into the project, so whether you have bagged a single summit, or done all three in one go, you will be able to buy something to help you remember the experience!

Those of you who visited us in October of last year will remember that Austwick and it's residents were chosen to appear in the ASDA Christmas advert. We don't know if anyone saw the advert, or if any of you even recognised Wood View, but the story had a very happy ending because ASDA donated a large sum of money towards community projects which was eventually split between the school, the church, the Parish Hall and the playing fields.

The recently added pages, virtual tour and links on our website, giving information on walking and mountain biking in the area, have been well received by guests looking to make the most of their stay in the area. While some people arrive with a complete set of maps, compass and GPS system, others are not sure where they can walk or ride and are blissfully unaware of just how good the area is for walking and biking. The guests' lounge at Wood View has a comprehensive set of guide books, maps and favourite routes ranging from a simple stroll to a full day out on the fells or tracks, all of which can be studied in front of the log fire with a plate of Sue's home made cakes. Many of our visitors tell us how much they enjoy this "home from home" aspect of staying at Wood View and it was part of the reason that we received a Silver Award this year.

The North West has recently made the switch to digital television and so we have thrown out all our old sets and upgraded our tv's to 19 inch flat screen models with Freeview. This will mean that we can now get Channel 5 and more other programmes than you could possibly hope to watch, as well a good selection of radio channels. Of course the new sets will not work very well with the rather antiquated aerial system at Wood View, so all that has had to be replaced as well!

So the winter is upon us again and our thoughts turn to bracing walks on limestone crags and along wall lined bridleways. While we can't guarantee snow, we can promise warm beds and good breakfasts to fortify you for your day in the fresh air.

Following the success of last year's special offer period we have decided to do the same again this winter. So, from December 1st 2009 to March 31st 2010 we are offering 3 nights bed & breakfast accommodation for two people in an en-suite Standard Room for £149, (usually £180) and £185 (usually £216) in a Superior Room, subject to availability. When making your booking, please mention this newsletter to qualify.

Many thanks to everyone who has supported us during 2009 and we look forward to seeing you at Wood View again during the coming year.

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