My friends and I stayed at the Howgills Barn for four nights over New Year's. It was a wonderful stay and everyone said it was the best venue we have stayed in yet.
The best part about the accommodation was probably the variety of spaces. As well as the large living/dining space, there was also a cosy sofa room upstairs (where the downstairs noise couldn't be heard), and a games room downstairs. The large living/dining space had big tables that were good for playing games, as well as for meal times, plus there was a sofa section at the end, which felt like it provided an additional space for people to hang out in.
The two kitchens had all we needed and were well stocked with cooking equipment and crockery. Between them and the large additional drinks fridge, there was more than enough space for all of us to keep what we needed in the fridge. All the glasses we could need too, which was a real bonus.
Rooms were quite small, but all fairly quiet and removed from the social rooms, which was great.
Location was perfect. Walking distance to four or five pubs as well as to food shops. Plus we were able to set off on a big beautiful walk around the Howgills straight from the Barn.
It was a brilliant stay and I would highly recommend that others stay there.