“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.”
“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.”
Hotel Review
At the top of a gently rising road, the spot was carefully chosen by the original Victorian owner of the house to command uninterrupted vistas of the iconic Lakeland fells, with the lake below. Turned into a hotel in the 1980s, and much extended, it’s still owned by the same family, and has a genuinely welcoming feel – albeit against a smartly contemporary background. There are big statement lampshades, bold mirrors, and sophisticated grey and silver colours jazzed up with bold turquoises and aubergines. Large windows flood the several sitting rooms and dining room with light, and there's a long terrace for warmer days. There's even a small pool, sauna and steam room.
Bedrooms follow the same colour scheme, with smart bathrooms, the majority with bath and shower. The smaller rooms, although comfortable, lack the views; you'll need to upgrade to enjoy these.
Food is traditional British, and nicely served, a table d'hote menu with a daily main option etc. Apart from the views, the staff are one of the hotel's best features: discreet yet friendly, and with excellent local knowledge.
Written by Helen Pickles
Recommended For
- Country Escape
- Located in the stunning Lake District close to Lake Windermere. Ideal for spending days in the great outdoors.
- Great walks
- Make the most of the miles of hiking trails through some of the UKs finest countryside.
- Sights nearby
- Visit Blackwell house and admire the Arts and Crafts architecture.
- Golf
- Play a round at the picturesque 18 hole Kendal Golf Club.
- Sailing
- Take a romantic cruise on Lake Windermere.
- Pet friendly
- Pets allowed on request
- Romantic
- Charming
- Views
- Quiet
- Country House
- Sit-out Terrace
- Luxury
- Contemporary
- Child friendly
- Boutique
- Restaurant
- Hills & mountains
Facilities
- Pet friendly
- Pets allowed on request
- Parking
- Free parking on site
- Sauna/Steam
- Views
- Bar
- Outdoor dining
- Sit-out Terrace
- Wifi
- Room service
- Child friendly
- Garden
- Swimming Pool
- Restaurant
Activities
- Great walks
- Make the most of the miles of hiking trails through some of the UKs finest countryside.
- Sights nearby
- Visit Blackwell house and admire the Arts and Crafts architecture.
- Golf
- Play a round at the picturesque 18 hole Kendal Golf Club.
- Sailing
- Take a romantic cruise on Lake Windermere.
Map & Location
What's Nearby
See What They Say
Why do people love staying in your hotel? The Lake District is the main draw for everyone but with our relaxing public lounges, conservatory and terrace all with simply amazing views why wouldn’t you stay and enjoy the ever changing views. Our motto ‘Come home to Hillthwaite’ sums us up nicely and our regular guests love the relaxed personal service we offer.
What is there to do in the area? Walking, Hiking, Climbing, Swimming, visit towns of Bowness and Windermere by foot from the hotel, boat activities
What kind of breakfast do you offer? Full English & Continental
Do you offer other meals? Table d'hote plus Bar Menu 12pm to 5pm, Pizza’s, Sandwiches, Afternoon tea
Which are your most popular room types, and why? Signature and Occasion, elevated views of the Lake Windermere, Fells
What facilities do you have for children and can you fit extra beds in your rooms ? Swimming pool, children’s meal, some rooms allow extra beds
