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The Lake District is undoubtedly one of the most sublime landscapes in the United Kingdom, but it’s also become a hot spot for sublime hotels. It makes sense! if you’re spending all day exploring this beautiful region, why not top it off with a beautiful evening meal in a beautiful hotel? With maybe a spot of croquet on the lawn-with-a-view before supper, or a fancy afternoon tea, or a visit to the spa? All these things are possible, and more, in our Gurus recommendations for the best luxury hotels in the Lake District. We have properties with Michelin starred restaurant, elegant spas, private butlers, and all sorts of treats in store for you below. Use our guide and start to plan your indulgent getaway.
For the Scrapbook
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- Converted from an Edwardian country house positioned on a hilltop overlooking Lake Windermere and the Fells, Linthwaite House Hotel offers the whole Lake District luxury package. The restaurant is award winning, the art collection will constantly impress, and every comfort has been considered, for your kids and your dog too. Six Lake Suites were recently added, and these sit just up the hill from the main house, offering views over the house, and a huge amount of space and log fires; but for something really special, book the lakeview suite with private hot tub or one of the two Fell suites which also have their own outdoor tub!
- The Samling Hotel is another hotel offering the whole luxury Lake District package, including views of headliner Lake Windermere, acres of gardens and fancy afternoon teas. There are just 11 light, airy rooms and suites in this converted Georgian Gothic Revival manor house, and they’re decorated with variations on the theme of contemporary luxury in pastels, the largest are in private cottages. The restaurant is memorable for all the right reasons — including the view — and the activities and facilities on the grounds are excellent.
For Spectacular Views
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- Holbeck Ghyll is one of the Lake District’s original country house hotels, a beautifully converted Arts and Crafts hunting lodge with stunning views over Lake Windermere. In addition to the essentials, Holbeck Ghyll has croquet lawns, tennis courts, proper afternoon teas and multi-course evening meals. The decor complements the original William Morris details, except in the converted cottages and more recently built lodges, where you can expect something more contemporary — and private hot tubs.
For a Countryside Retreat
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- Brimstone is an architecturally stylish, chalet-esque hotel, built largely out of local slate and glass, and tucked into a forest estate. Inside are 16 contemporary suites, featuring huge beds, roll-top baths, private balconies or terraces, and log fires. There’s no restaurant on site, but there is a 24hour drinks and snack lounge, an impressive spa, and hotel hosts who will drive you to local restaurants at no extra charge.
- The Rothay Garden Hotel is in a picturesque spot on the banks of the River Rothay, just outside Grasmere. Our pick of the 30 rooms and suites have balconies wth river views, and all are bright, light and contemporary. The onsite spa is a proper affair, with a sauna too, and the restaurant is an award-winner, known for its four course extravaganzas.
For Foodies
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- The Forest Side is a spacious Gothic mansion conversion just outside Grasmere — with a Michelin starred restaurant. There are just 20 rooms and suites, all with huge windows, and the property is surround by 43 acres of superb gardens and grounds, so everyone has a gorgeous view. The decor is comfortable and contemporary in the rooms, and rustic chic in the restaurant. Guests do get priority restaurant bookings…
For Walkers
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- Lindeth Fell is a luxurious, Edwardian B&B set above Lake Windermere. Everything about this property says country house hotel, from the plush, traditional decor, the welcoming sitting room, the sweeping grounds, to the stylish rooms with their fancy bathrooms, robes, sherry decanters, and coffee machines. There’s an elegant dining room where grand breakfasts and afternoon teas are served, and you can also order a handsome supper plate, but there’s not a formal restaurant — which is why ‘B&B’.
- The Hazel Bank Country House is a small, charming, owner managed country house hotel in a quiet corner of the Lake District. These seven bedrooms, plus elegant dining room and lounge, are traditionally decorated, with antiques, fireplaces, art and heavy drapes and fabrics, and you’ll feel very much a manor house guest.
For Families
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- The Swan Hotel & Spa is in a picturesque spot on the River Leven, on the south shore of Lake Windermere. It’s a traditional, Lake District coaching inn, and, with almost 60 rooms and suites, it’s one of the largest properties on this list, as well as being one of the most affordable. On the inside the decor is cheery, with bright colours and contemporary patterns, both in the rooms, and in the brasserie, lounge and bar. There’s a pool and spa too, and that, and the range of room sizes, make it a good pick for families and walkers too.
- Storrs Hall is an elegant, traditionally styled, 30 room hotel converted from a Georgian mansion, and offering panoramic views of Lake Windermere from its rear lawns. There’s also a charming restaurant, and a bar in the tower. A recent refurbishment added six luxurious woodland cabins to the accommodation options.
For Great Value
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- Broadoaks is a small but smart country house hotel, converted from a manor less grand than some, but offering bags of ivy-clad charm. Its 20 rooms and suites are decorated with a mix of traditional and contemporary elements — to romantic effect — and our favourites feature four-poster beds, as well as fancy bathrooms. The restaurant is an award-winning charmer with a French twist. And guests are able to use the spa facilities at the Low Wood Bay Health Club, just a short drive away.
Still not sure where to book?