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?
