Top 10 hotels in the Lake District, UK, for a busy weekend, from charming country houses to gracious inns and chic boutiques
The Lake District, marveling in its mystery and charm, has the UK's most visited national park, Lake District. Created by ancient glaciers, this UNESCO site is one of the country's most popular destinations for domestic and international tourists. Travelers go to the Lake District for its stunning scenery, rich history, picturesque settlements and, of course, lakes, before heading off to relax and enjoy modern comforts, delicious food and luxurious spas at the best local hotels.
The days of unassuming bed and breakfasts are long gone: hospitality has now reached first-class standards, offering travelers the perfect setting to explore the region's natural splendor. This selection will tell you which stunning hotels in the Lake District are worth booking for a short break.
1. The Forest Side in Grasmere
The plaque on this imposing Lakeland stone building dates from 1853. It has its origins in the gentlemen's residences built after the railroad was built to Windermere in 1847. Forest Side changed several owners until it became one of the Lake District's finest hotels in the late 20th century. The gothic manor house has been transformed into beautifully refined suites with cozy bedrooms, interiors by renowned designer James Mackie and furnishings reflecting the entire Lake District region: handmade Herdwick rugs from local manufacturer Wools of Cumbria, chic Westmorland beds made by Harrison Spinks, natural bath products from Bramley, etc. The hotel's restaurant is Michelin-starred and Forest Side creates interesting fares for guests to better appreciate it, such as a night in one of the luxurious bedrooms with a 4 or 8-course tasting menu by Chef Paul Leonard and an authentic Cumbrian breakfast the next morning. Set in a wooded estate within walking distance of the village of Grasmere, the hotel is a wonderful choice for a mid-priced vacation.
2. The Daffodil Hotel and Spa in Grasmere
Located minutes from the village of Grasmere, The Daffodil Hotel displays a grandeur that many other Lake District hotels popular for short stays cannot match. The modern stylish interior is matched by the stunning natural surroundings outside. The mid-19th century mansion offers 78 rooms and suites, decorated by designer Paul Sawford. Inside you'll find gentle tones, bespoke carpets, oversized beds with white cotton linen, stunning bathrooms with Molton Brown toiletries and multimedia panels providing modern comfort in the heart of the countryside. Here, guests can enjoy an exciting menu from the creative chef that combines fine dining with casual fare in the lake view restaurant, indulge in an exceptional afternoon tea experience in the elegant lounge and take a spa journey with exclusive beauty treatments (book in advance to avoid disappointment).
3. Kirkstile Inn in Loweswater
This remote inn in the quiet western lakes is not as luxurious as other luxuryhotels in the Lake District, but will impress you with its warm hospitality and delicious food, including excellent locally produced real ales. Kirkstile Inn is situated between Crammock Water and Loweswater, at the foot of Mellbrake and offers a cozy cottage atmosphere surrounded by incomparable scenery. The inn has 11 elegant bedrooms with stunning views of Mellbrake, decorated with classic furnishings and beams. A seasonal menu of traditional dishes is provided by a talented team of chefs led by head chef Paul Williams, drawing on local suppliers from Cumbria and the Lake District. And in the mornings, a superb full English and Irish breakfast is served here. The famous pub, with its cozy open fireplace and low beams, always has a friendly atmosphere, backed by excellent ales from its own brewery and an impressive wine list. It's a good place to enjoy a cheap and cheerful break and explore the wonderful walking areas of the North Lake District.
4. Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa in Keswick
Among the Lake District's most renowned hotels, Lodore Falls stands out for its blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Guests dine in the elegant British-style dining room, bask by the open fire in the cozy lounges, stroll through the vast countryside and enjoy a superb afternoon tea afterwards. On the other side of the hotel is the fantastic Mizu Pan-Asian restaurant, where you can feast on first-class sushi or tempura with king prawns in a contemporary setting. This place is designed for an exciting yet relaxing vacation: for example, you can enjoy beautiful views of Catbells Mountain and Derwentwater from the comfort of the spa's hydro pool. The hotel has an elegant blend of romance, lakeside adventure and a sophisticated countryside atmosphere. Enjoy the champagne bar, luxurious spa treatments and thermal complex, explore the stunning surroundings and relax afterwards on the luxurious Sealy beds in your rooms: Lodore Falls justifies to the full its status as one of the Lake District's top hotels for the best weekend getaway.
5. Seatoller House
The visitor books of this guest house at the start of Borrowdale confirm that it has been in existence for over a hundred years, although the building itself is over 400 years old and is the oldest in the village of Seatoller. In that time it has gained an almost legendary status amongst walkers as one of the best hotels in the Lake District region. It combines hostel and country retreat against the backdrop of nature. The ten bedrooms with cute white-wood décor have en-suite bathrooms and showcase the rustic atmosphere in all its glory. The house is renowned for its hospitality, which has been perfected over a century, informal atmosphere and good home-cooked food. In the dining room guests dine at large traditional oak tables, in the library and sitting room they can socialize with other guests and relax after their walks in the hills, and in the tea bar they can spend time enjoying hot and cold drinks, snacks, local beers and homemade pastries. The property is surrounded by a beautiful award winning garden. This hotel is popular with hikers, climbers and travelers with pets.
6. Gilpin Hotel & Lake House on Bowness-in-Windermere
Surrounded by 21 acres of gardens, woodland and moorland, this Georgian-style estate has epitomized country escape with informal luxury for three decades. It is one of the Lake District's top hotels in the UK for a truly memorable and fulfilling weekend. The ground-breaking boutique hotel has stylish rooms with a contemporary castle atmosphere, a secluded location, perfect personalized service and private hot tubs. It has recently updated its offerings with five beautiful "spa lodges" equipped with steam baths, outdoor saunas and hydrotherapy baths. Vacations here are for those who don't mind pampering themselves with more expensive services and exclusive facilities. There are two restaurants, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, a champagne bar, a spa treatment area, lounges and terraces for relaxing. There are no children under seven here, and there are no conferences, weddings or other noisy events, so nothing will disturb your peace and privacy.
7. Ambleside Salutation Hotel in Ambleside
Located in the center of Ambleside makes this hotel the perfect base from which to explore all the local attractions. It offers direct access to the main shopping street or the trail towards the top of Wansfell Pike, and is just a 20-minute drive to Lake Windermere. It is one of the finest independent hotels in the town and the whole of the Lake District, offering luxury accommodation with private hot tubs, steam baths and stylish modern lounges. The hotel is housed in a beautiful 17th century building, but is equipped with all the necessary modern facilities. The restaurant and bar offers a daily changing menu based on the best produce from the Lakeland region and traditional British cuisine. The bar, in addition to an extensive wine and spirits list, also presents a selection of beers produced by the local Grasmere brewery. But also not to be forgotten is the award-winning breakfast and hearty grill. There's an on-site health club and spa with a steam room, indoor pool and outdoor spa treatments. This is a great place for an inexpensive weekend getaway, special occasion celebration or family vacation filled with memorable Lakeland experiences.
8. The Mason's Arms in Bowland Bridge
This Lakeland institution, in the midst of blissful countryside in the south of the Lake District, is known for its gorgeous rooms and excellent menu filled with locally sourced produce. The rustic cottage dates back to the 16th century on the hillside and creates a delightful charm with its roaring fire and delicious pub snacks, maze of interconnecting rooms, fireside nooks and low ceilings. The hotel has several cozy suites with stunning views of the Lit Valley and an included breakfast, as well as a pair of recently renovated modern country-style cottages with their own kitchens and wood-burning fireplaces. Keep an eye out for the hotel's special offers: for example, check out Fizzy Friday and enjoy the fizzy drinks to the full. It's a great choice for an inexpensive getaway with great facilities: the hotel is on the doorstep of some of the best walking spots, so hit the trails of the Grange-Over-Sands area and the iconic hills of the Lake District.
9. Holbeck Ghyll Country House Hotel in Windermere
Elegance, comfort and beautiful lake views come together at one of the premier hotels in the heart of the Lake District, creating the perfect retreat for travelers to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Holbeck Ghyll Country House is set in 18 acres of grounds filled with lush greenery and quaint country charm. Each of its rooms has its own unique character and combines comfort and style, from elegant furnishings to luxurious Egyptian cotton linens. One of them once hosted Renee Zellweger during the filming of Miss Potter. The hotel restaurant is renowned for its exquisite British menu specializing in seasonal and local ingredients, as well as its traditional afternoon tea and mouth-watering tasting set menu. It's a great place for a romantic or family vacation or a business trip with a calming ambience and a delightfully pleasant price considering everything on offer.
10. The Wordsworth Hotel in Grasmere
One of the finest hotels in the Lake District is housed in an elegantly restored building that was formerly the Earl of Cadogan's hunting lodge. Now a grand country mansion in the heart of Grasmere, with 38 rooms and suites, it is the perfect place to relax and admire the scenery that has inspired artists and poets for two centuries. The award-winning restaurant offers guests a fantastic selection of local produce, starting with a hearty Cumbrian breakfast, while the relaxed William's Bar offers an excellent wine selection. All of this makes The Wordsworth Hotel one of thebest places in the Lake District for a budget short break, a return to nature and an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Hotel facilities include a sunbathing terrace and a picturesque garden area. Most rooms overlook the mountains and village, but naturally it's best to explore these idyllic landscapes on foot. The hotel is pet-friendly, so you don't have to leave your pet at home while you travel: just mention this option when booking.