The 20 Best Hotels in the Lake District

The Lake District is the UK’s largest national park, but it looms large in the nation’s psyche as well as on its maps. Wordsworth waxed lyrical about it, but he’s certainly not the only one to think it’s the most sublime landscape in these isles. For centuries writers, artists and everyone who loves a good old walk in the great outdoors have dreamed of this place. It hardly comes as a surprise that the area has a wide choice of hotels ranging from quaint B&Bs to all-out luxury stays. Our hotel experts have scoured the region to bring you a concise collection of the best hotels in the Lake District. Whether you are in search of something for a special occasion, a laid-back family-friendly stay or perhaps the perfect base for a rambling holiday — there is something for everyone here. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your next break in the great outdoors?

For a special occasion

• Linthwaite House Hotel is an Edwardian pile with fabulous views over Lake Windermere. It offers a stylish, yet relaxed vibe without skimping on the luxury. The loft suite is ideal for a romantic break; its enormous bath can easily take two and if stargazing is your thing, then the telescope positioned under the skylight window will do the trick! Perfect for walkers and fisher-folk.
• The Holbeck Ghyll Hotel is a 23 room former hunting lodge with classically styled rooms and spectacular views over Lake Windermere. Two of its suites, the Miss Potter and the Ghyll Side Cottage, have private hot tubs. And there’s a very nice spa and a 3AA Rosette restaurant. So prepare for a treat, and romance, if that’s what’s on your mind.

For walkers

• The Eltermere Inn is an elegant Georgian country house turned 12 room hotel. The decor is traditional: think high ceilings and roll-top baths, and the restaurant offers a hearty, locally sourced menu.
• The Howtown Hotel is a wonderfully old fashioned establishment situated 200 yards from Ullswater. With fantastic paths direct from the front door it is immensely popular with the walking fraternity. Accommodation is on a half board basis and a loud gong signals that your hearty dinner is ready.
• The Pheasant Inn will also suit keen walkers. Located close to Bassenthwaite in the less touristy North Lakes area, it has Sale Fell on the doorstep and is only 10 minutes from the Skiddaw range. Bedrooms are tasteful yet essentially traditional and all have been enlarged and modernised over the past few years. You’ll also get great food here, and, if you can summon up the energy, there’s free access to a private local spa with a swimming pool.

For a country house hotel

• The Forest Side is a Gothic mansion just outside Grasmere, with 20 chic rooms and suites decorated in pale hues. This comes as a bit of a surprise when you also read that they’re dog-friendly. They have 43 acres of superb gardens to support this offer, though. Plus stunning cuisine.
• Overwater Hall is a secluded country house hotel set in 18 acres of garden and woodland. There are 11 rooms — some with French windows and romantic, balustraded terraces — and an award-winning restaurant.
• The Lodore Falls Hotel is an impressive country house with a gorgeous mountain backdrop and 71 charming rooms and suites. The decor is traditional, there’s an award-winning restaurant, and it’s all set on 40 acres of picturesque Lake District countryside. Think long walks and open fires.
• Storrs Hall is an elegant 4-star hotel set in an 18th-century Georgian mansion. Pick from the rooms, suites, lodges and a luxury boathouse with panoramic views of the lake. Decor is stylish and classic. Featuring a restaurant, tower bar, regular afternoon tea and, naturally, boat cruises across the lake — this place has it all.
• Broadoaks is a smart, country house hotel with 20 romantic rooms in a mix of traditional and contemporary styles — some have four-poster beds. You’re close to Windermere, and there’s an award-winning restaurant.

For families

• Overlooking the River Leven on the south shore of Lake Windermere, The Swan Hotel & Spa is a traditional, Lakeland coaching inn with 58 colourful, contemporary rooms, a family-friendly feel (and great family accommodation), and lovely views. Plus an indoor and outdoor pool, a spa, brasserie and bar.

For foodies

• The Samling should satisfy even the pickiest of palates. Head chef Ian Swainson, is one of the most exciting young chefs around. And set amid sixty-seven acres of beautiful grounds, The Samling is a great base for exploring the area's literary highlights – Wordsworth's and Beatrix Potter’s homes are both close at hand.
• L'Enclume is a must-visit for any foodie — Simon Rogan's superb Michelin starred restaurant is renowned for its farm to table policy. There are sixteen smart rooms, which marry modern design with period features.
• Cottage in the Wood is a chic converted 17th-century coaching inn set in a mountain forest with magnificent views. Despite the cosy sounding name, rooms are in fact swish and modern. Owner-managed, the real draw (besides the setting) is the Michelin star dining — making this a great choice for a spoiling rural escape.

For a rural hideaway

• With a stunning location and superb service, the Haweswater Hotel is a wonderful retreat for those who are looking to escape to a quiet corner of the Lake District. Excellent, comfortable rooms, stunning views and a brasserie restaurant, all combine to create a rural gem.

For a pub

• The Queen’s Head is a traditional country in just outside Windermere. The atmosphere is smart but relaxed and the decor includes both original features and modern craftsmanship. There are 12 stylish bedrooms and the food is generously proportioned too.
• Alternatively, you can stay in the charming Drunken Duck Inn, in the pretty village of Ambleside, nestled in amongst the Southern Lowland Fells. Built in the 18th-century, this is one of the Lake District’s best-known gastro pubs. The rooms look like a spread from ‘Country Living’ and the guests have access to facilities at the nearby Langdale Club.
• The Punch Bowl Inn in the Lyth Valley is a quaint, 18th-century inn in a pretty village. Each of the nine rooms has sweeping valley views and there’s an innovative chef running the restaurant. This is a wonderful spot for walkers, with the added pleasure of being able to come back to his and hers bathtubs and a candlelit supper.

For a B&B

• With views of Windermere, Lindeth Fell is a luxurious B&B with just 14 rooms. The decor is a mix of traditional British design and contemporary style — the bathrooms are especially chic. The breakfasts are indulgent and they also do an excellent afternoon tea.

For a boutique

• The Yan is a chic boutique hideaway in a scenic rural spot outside Grasmere. Rooms feel fresh and contemporary with natural materials, grey hues, and plenty of light. Downstairs the bistro serves European cuisine with a modern flare. A family-run affair with well-thought-out details. A stylish rural getaway.

Still not sure where to book?

• Browse through our recommendations for all the best places to stay in Cumbria.
• Look at our list of the most romantic hotels in the Lake District or the best Pubs with rooms in the Lake District.
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.

  • Linthwaite House Hotel Windermere (Cumbria) 36 rooms from €230

    
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    Foodies  -  Henrock, overseen by Michelin Starred Simon Rogan offers relaxed fine dining with many ingredients sourced from his own farm

    Romantic Break  -  Take the stunning views, plush suites, two man tubs and candlelit dinners and you are guaranteed romance

    Views  -  From its elevated position Linthwaite enjoys breathtaking views over Lake Windermere and the Coniston Fells

    Private Hot Tub  -  The hot tub suite has a private enclosed verandah housing a large hot tub with a stunning lake view

    

    Recommended by  -  I Escape, Tablet, Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection, Sawdays

    Slick, stylish designs meet an intimate Edwardian country house offering all round comfort. Award winning dishes and fine wines at the restaurant. From its hilltop location over Lake Windermere and the Fells - explore The Lake District on foot, bike or horseback. Serenity at its finest! See More

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  • Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa Cumbria 87 rooms from €150

    
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    Country Escape  -  A country house set in an outstanding location. Take long walks, have a drink by the open fire and feast on regional cuisine.

    Spa breaks  -  The Falls Spa is an extensive, luxury adults on facility that will pamper even the pickiest of guests!

    Swimming Pool  -  16m outdoor pool with neck jets, underwater loungers and overflow hot tub.

    Great walks  -  The Lake District boasts stunning walking routes.

    

    Landmark hotel with lake and fell views, spa and hydrotherapy pool, plus choice of dining options, and a smart and friendly service. Set within 40 acres of picturesque countryside it's the perfect spot for a rural escape. See More

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  • Holbeck Ghyll Hotel Ambleside (Cumbria) 23 rooms from €173

    
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    Total relaxation  -  Unwind in Victorian English style with pampering suites overlooking Lake Windermere, spa services and impeccable service.

    Active Holiday  -  Walkers and ramblers bring your wellies and explore this stunning part of the country.

    Great walks  -  Ask at the front desk for an outline of the wonderful walks around the lake and beyond.

    Private Hot Tub  -  Lake View Suite and Ghyll Side cottage both feature a private outdoor hot tub.

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays, Small Luxury Hotels

    One of the Lake District’s original country-house hotels, Holbeck Ghyll has stunning views over Lake Windermere and impressive Arts and Crafts architecture. Its creative food is another draw; definitely a place for indulgence. See More

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  • The Samling Hotel Ambleside 11 rooms from €254

    
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    Country Escape  -  A smart base offering access to arguably some of the UK's finest countryside.

    Foodies  -  Don't miss the tasting menu in the Samling's Michelin starred restaurant

    Active Holiday

    Sailing  -  Cruise across Lake Windermere and enjoy spectacular views.

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Michelin Travel

    A small luxury hotel boasting both chic interiors and fabulous views of Lake Windermere. Individually styled rooms are light and airy with bold colours, antiques and softly patterned fabrics. Offering exemplary cuisine and a choice selection of wines, this is a rural escape designed for indulging. See More

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  • New House Farm Cockermouth, Cumbria 5 rooms from €207

    
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    Restaurant  -  Serving sophisticated British dishes

    Great walks  -  Fantastic rural walking routes

    Traditional  -  Historic farmhouse

    Views  -  Great views from hotel

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays, Michelin Travel

    400 year old farmhouse in remote part of Lake District. Stunning panoramic views of the Lakeland Fells, with 15 acre gardens to wander in. Traditional interiors, oak beams, open fire places - deep reds and dark wood furnishings. The beautiful Lorton valley makes it a popular wedding destination. See More

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  • Howtown Hotel Howtown, Cumbria 13 rooms from €191

    
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    Sights nearby  -  Visit the historic Dalemain House, with tudor and medieval rooms, behind a Georgian façade.

    Restaurant  -  The gong sounds for dinner - short menu, traditional dishes

    Great walks  -  Fabulous base for walks around the Lake District.

    Lakeside  -  200 yards from Ullswater, with private foreshore

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide

    Wonderful old-fashioned, down-to-earth hotel in the Lake District. Popular with walkers and those seeking the peace and quiet provided by absense of TVs, wifi and phones. Good value with great views and hearty meals. Tranquil lakeside setting. See More

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  • The Pheasant Inn, Cumbria Bassenthwaite Lake, Cumbria 15 rooms from €161

    
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    Foodies  -  Enjoy locally sourced produce at this acclaimed casual Bistro- think wholesome food, fine wines and craft ales.

    Country Escape  -  Make the most of your surroundings at this charming coaching inn just meters from the Bassenthwaite Lake.

    Sights nearby  -  Head to Dalemain House and Gardens and explore the historic house and it's beautiful gardens.

    Great walks  -  Sale Fell is on your doorstep, and for the more adventurous Skiddaw range 10 mins away.

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

    An old, remote coaching inn, with fine dining and bistro. Friendly and welcoming with well kept gardens and a cosy lounge with fireplace. Enjoy country walks and fishing in the nearby Lake Bassenthwaite. A country retreat with access to local spa and pool. See More

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  • Eltermere Inn Cumbria 12 rooms from €172

    
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    Great walks  -  The Langdales are great for walkers - book a day with Mike Wood, the hotel's recommended guide

    Sights nearby  -  The Wordsworth Museum, Beatrix Potter's house, Ruskin's house are all close by

    Hideaway  -  Get away from it all in this beautiful Lakelands inn

    Spa  -  Guests have complimentary access to Langdale Spa

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays, Good Hotel Guide

    Relaxed and luxurious, country-house-style hotel with an elegant, contemporary style. On the edge of pretty Elterwater village, with views over the lake, it’s ideally placed for both walking in Langdale or Ambleside’s shops and Windermere lakeshore. Complimentary entry to Lansdale Spa. See More

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  • L'Enclume Cumbria 16 rooms from €149

    
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    Foodies  -  Fans of haute cuisine will rave about the Michelin starred restaurant

    Great walks  -  Across the village to Cartmel's medieval priory

    Sights nearby  -  Have a flutter at nearby Cartmel racecourse

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    

    Michelin-starred, restaurant-with-rooms with a low-key, relaxed style in a pretty village setting. Creative, locally sourced food and simple but smart rooms that together add up to a wonderfully refreshing and easy-going atmosphere. Cosy suites are the perfect retreat after a slap up meal. See More

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  • Storrs Hall Windermere (Bowness-on-Windermere) 35 rooms from €213

    
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    Romantic Break  -  The Boathouse is ideal for couples on a romantic getaway, isolated from the house, with panoramic views of the lake.

    Sights nearby  -  Hawkshead – take the car ferry across Windermere to this pretty Lakeland village with pubs, delis and Beatrix Potter Gallery

    Great walks  -  The Lake District is a place pulsating in the poetry of Wordworth and Coleridge, with great mountains and placid lakes.

    Sailing  -  Take a scenic cruises across the lake.

    

    Elegant 4-star hotel set in an 18th century Georgian mansion, offering rooms, suites, lodges and a luxury boathouse with panoramic views of the lake. Decor is stylish and classic. Featuring a restaurant, tower bar, regular afternoon tea and, naturally, boat cruises across the lake. See More

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  • The Yan Grasmere 7 rooms from €150

    
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    Active Holiday  -  Whether you want to hike, sail, or cycle — the Lake District offers the perfect setting for an outdoorsy holiday

    Families  -  With all of the rooms featuring a sofa-bed this is a good option for families with young children

    Restaurant  -  A modern spin on European classics are served in the Bistro which uses local produce

    Great walks  -  Beautiful walks start right from the property

    

    A chic boutique hideaway in a scenic rural spot outside Grasmere. Rooms feel fresh and contemporary with natural materials, grey hues, and plenty of light. Downstairs the bistro serves European cuisine with a modern flare. A family-run affair with well-thought-out details. A stylish rural getaway. See More

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  • The Cottage in the Wood nr Keswick, Cumbria 10 rooms from €138

    
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    Foodies  -  Chef Ben Wilkinson has raised the bar on Cumbrian fine dining whipping up creative dishes which have earned him a Michelin star

    Active Holiday  -  Surrounded by rolling hills and woodlands, this property is primed for days outdoors

    Sailing  -  Head to nearby Keswick or Derwentwater for gentle lake cruises

    Great walks  -  Ideally suited for overnighting and fell walking

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

    A chic converted 17th-century coaching inn set in a mountain forest with magnificent views. Despite the cosy sounding name, rooms are in fact swish and modern. Owner-managed, the real draw (besides the setting) is the Michelin star dining — making this a great choice for a spoiling rural escape. See More

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  • Haweswater Hotel Penrith, Cumbria 17 rooms from €103

    
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    Back to Nature  -  In a remote location overlooking Haweswater, it's perfect for a retreat to nature.

    Sights nearby  -  The Lake District is full of beautiful houses such as Askham Hall and Rydal Mount & Gardens.

    Great walks  -  Go for lovely walks around Haweswater.

    Remote  -  Off the beaten track.

    

    With a stunning location and superb service, the Haweswater Hotel is a wonderful retreat for those who are looking to escape to a quiet corner of the Lake District. Excellent, comfortable rooms, stunning views and a brasserie restaurant, all combine to create a rural gem. See More

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  • Overwater Hall Ireby, Cumbria 11 rooms from €173

    
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    Sights nearby  -  The Lakes Distillery; Wordsworth’s Birthplace, Cockermouth; Keswick Pencil Museum

    Great walks  -  both lakeside strolling and major fells such as Skiddaw and Blencathra

    Local markets  -  Cockermouth and Keswick both hold weekly markets

    Restrictions on children  -  No children under 5 allowed in the restaurant

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays, Michelin Travel

    A classic country-house hotel with a personal touch, warm welcome, comfortably traditional rooms, and a deserved reputation for its fine-dining food. Quietly set away from the crowds, too. See More

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  • The Forest Side Grasmere (Keswick Road) 20 rooms from €229

    
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    Foodies  -  Enjoy some absolutely exquisite meals at their Michelin starred restaurant — an absolute must!

    Great walks  -  The Lake District is home to many breathtaking hiking trails

    Sailing  -  Hire a rowing boat on nearby Grasmere

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Recently renovated, The Forest Side is a romantic gothic mansion just outside Grasmere in the heart of the Lake District. Offering chic and spacious accommodation with plenty of light hues, this dog-friendly spot boasts 43 acres of superb gardens and stunning cuisine. A top-notch country retreat! See More

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  • The Queen's Head Cumbria 10 rooms from €158

    
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    Sailing  -  There are plenty of companies who will take you out sailing on Lake Windemere if you fancy a bit of an adventure!

    Sights nearby  -  Head over to Beatrix Potter's house near Sawrey, Holehird Gardens or William Wordsworth's homes at Dove Cottage

    Great walks  -  Take a leisurely stroll through the valley or test yourself with higher fells such as Helvellyn

    Restaurant  -  Recommended.

    

    Recommended by  -  Michelin Travel, CN Traveller

    The Queen's Head is a traditional country inn with a smart but relaxed, contemporary style, close to Windermere but away from the crowds. Original features and modern craftsmanship create a bright and welcoming atmosphere plus stylish bedrooms and generous food. See More

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  • The Swan Hotel & Spa Cumbria 58 rooms from €204

    
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    Country Escape  -  Surrounded by Cumbria's rolling hills with all the trimmings of a proper country stay

    Great walks  -  Several easy walks from the hotel, or nearby Gummer’s How is an easy climb with fantastic views

    Sights nearby  -  Holker Hall and Levens Hall both boast beautiful gardens

    Sailing  -  Sailing on Lake Windermere

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Sawdays

    Overlooking the River Leven on the South shore of Lake Windemere. Traditional, whitewashed Lakeland coaching inn with smart and colourful, contemporary interiors and a great, family-friendly ethos. Boasting views, walks and airy interiors plus indoor pool and spa, brasserie and bar. A great stay. See More

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  • Lindeth Fell Windermere (The Lake District) 14 rooms from €184

    
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    Country Escape  -  A pretty rural house positioned in some of the UK's most picturesque countryside.

    Sights nearby  -  William Wordsworth’s homes at Dove Cottage, Grasmere, & Rydal Mount, Rydal

    Great walks  -  Find miles of scenic hiking trails to be explored.

    Sailing  -  Take a relaxing cruise across Windermere Lake.

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide

    A luxurious B&B located near scenic Lake Windemere. Interiors perfectly mix traditional British design with contemporary style - think antique furniture, boldly coloured walls, open fireplaces and chic modern bathrooms. Indulgent breakfasts and high tea are served. The perfect rural escape. See More

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  • Punch Bowl Inn, Cumbria Crosthwaite (Cumbria) 9 rooms from €150

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Ideal for a romantic weekend away, with his and hers tubs, candlelit dinners and sweeping views of the countryside

    Active Holiday  -  Some of the best walking in the British Isles is right on your doorstep, be sure to bring your hiking boots!

    Foodies  -  Chef Scott Fairweather never fails to impress, with local ingredients and inventive combinations

    Great walks  -  With something for every level of commitment, from full day hikes to an afternoon stroll

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    A smart country pub tucked away in the Lake District's Lyth Valley. There's a boutique vibe throughout — rooms exude comfort with fresh country styling and boast roll-top baths as standard. Popular lunch food for locals and great dinner menu. Good base for local exploring but a car is needed. See More

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  • Drunken Duck Inn Cumbria 13 rooms from €202

    
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    Sights nearby  -  Dove Cottage and Rydal Mount, former homes of poet William Wordsworth

    Great walks  -  Traverse the Southern Lowland Fells

    Full of character

    Restaurant  -  Recommended.

    

    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller

    In the little village of Ambleside, nestled amongst the Southern Lowland Fells lies this 18th century inn. A landmark Lake District pub as famous for its smart food as its own-brew beer and with an attractive contemporary-country style. Comfortably inviting rooms are stylish yet uncluttered. See More

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  • Broadoaks Cumbria 20 rooms from €179

    
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    Weddings  -  Offering an experienced team, beautiful backdrop and excellent catering service.

    Country Escape  -  A chic country house located in the beautiful Lake District.

    Spa  -  Guests are welcome to use the facilities at Low Wood Bay Health Club, including pool & hot tubs, a short drive away.

    Restaurant  -  Oaks restaurant serves delicious AA rosette food where local ingredients are served with a French twist.

    

    A smart country house and spa located near the famed Lake Windermere. Romantic rooms mix traditional and contemporary styles with dark hues, four poster beds and indulgent bathrooms. An award winning restaurant makes a welcome respite after a day spent in the countryside. See More

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Written by Sarah Empson

posted Wednesday, 23rd February 2022