With all that water to play about on, plus woods to explore and hills to climb – not to mention Beatrix Potter characters to look out for – it’s not surprising that the Lake District is a top choice for family holidays. While plenty of the area’s hotels have family suites, extra-large bedrooms or children’s menus, several of the best family hotels in the Lake District are specifically geared to families’ needs. Some have indoor pools or play areas – useful for rainy days – others have adventure playgrounds or organise outdoor activities while others make sure there’s something special for grown-ups, too – often a spa.
If you’re looking for more flexibility, but still within the comfort of a hotel, several places have the option of self-catering cottages or apartments.
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 (Cumbria)
Standing between the Lake District and the Dales rests this eccentric castle welcoming all the family into the countryside and the Eden Valley. Four poster beds and antique furnishings make up the comfortable rooms. Restaurant is open on weekends. Great hideaway and local exploring to be done.
Grange-over-Sands
One of a kind and full of character: old fashioned, genteel Victorian hotel. Ornate rooms with heavily draped beds and antique style furniture. Beautifully manicured gardens. Blissful indoor pool, hot tub and extensive spa. Fabulous restaurant. Wonderfully romantic.
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 (Ambleside)
A stylish bolthole amongst the rugged scenery of the Lake District, with views of Windermere lake. With sleek and airy rooms, a lively bistro-style restaurant and free access to a nearby leisure centre, it’s a place to relax and recharge. There is a jazzy bistro restaurant and good wine selection.
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.
Windermere (Windermere)
In a quiet residential area, midway between Windermere Town and Bowness, Hillthwaite, unexpectedly, has one of the best views in the Lake District. With its contemporary country-house style, several lounges and wide terrace, it’s a peaceful retreat yet close to the Lakes’ main attractions.
Cumbria (Cartmel Fell)
Awash with traditional charm, The Masons Arms is a delightful hotel in the Lake District. Featuring excellent food in the restaurant, a wide range of ales and comfortable rooms. The pub's cottages, that sleep up to six, make it a great option for families or groups.
Grasmere (Grasmere)
Set in beautiful and peaceful grounds, with stunning fell views, yet only 15 minutes from Grasmere, this small country-house hotel has a relaxed and contemporary style plus excellent food.
Windermere (Lindeth Drive)
Overlooking Lake Windermere, this handsome Victorian mansion, once owned by Beatrix Potter, has a bold contemporary style in its public rooms while bedrooms are calm and restful. With beautiful gardens, it makes a peaceful retreat yet is strolling distance from the lake.
Carlisle (Cumbria)
Housed in a landmark Edwardian property, this period hotel offers luxury apartments in the heart of Carlisle. Interiors are dressed in a pastel palette and feature boutique wallpaper, cosy rugs and rich linens, plus self-catering facilities. Dine at the gourmet restaurant. A chic heritage stay.
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