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?
Ambleside (Cumbria)
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.
Windermere (Cumbria)
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!
Cumbria (Ullswater)
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.
Cumbria (Braithwaite)
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.
Crosthwaite (Cumbria)
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.
Cumbria (Cumbria)
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.
Ambleside
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.
Cumbria
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.
Cumbria
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.
Cumbria
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.
Cumbria (Ambleside)
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.
Cumbria (Ambleside)
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.
Cumbria (Grange-over-Sands)
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.
Cumbria
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.
Cumbria (Troutbeck)
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.
Grasmere (Keswick Road)
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!
Windermere (The Lake District )
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.
Cumbria (Windermere)
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.
Cumbria (Bampton)
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.
Windermere (Bowness-on-Windermere)
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.
Grasmere
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.
No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.