Top 20 Luxury Hotels in Lake District - Sara Lind's Guide (2024)

Boutique hotel. Great location. Our hotel is perfectly situated with views of Lake Windermere, just a short stroll from the bustling village centre of Bowness-on-Windermere and the boats that travel the length of Windermere, making it easy to visit Ambleside, Brockhole, Wray Castle and Lakeside without a car. The Lakes Hotel & Spa was previously called the Burnside Hotel & Spa. The hotel has some of the best on-site facilities in the area, half of the rooms with hot tubs on private balconies, an on-site spa with poolside seating and a bar, stylish restaurant and co*cktail bar, bike hire, wakesurfing and paddleboading. Our concierge has many planned walks that you can take straight from the hotel gates. In the Lake District, The Lakes Hotel & Spa is 30 minutes’ drive from the M6. Shops, boutiques and restaurants in the centre of Bowness are a 2-minute walk away. Windermere train station is 10 minutes away and we can arrange for our Bentley to collect you from the station. With everything on our doorstep there’s no need for a car. This is our guests' favourite part of Bowness-on-Windermere, according to independent reviews. Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.5 for a two-person trip. We speak your language! .

Hotel rating: 9 (superb)

Rooms: 62

Stars: 5

Great views. Good breakfast. Popular among women. This family-run Lake District accommodation has an indoor swimming pool, picturesque gardens and free parking. Free WiFi is available in the downstairs public areas and the bedrooms. Windermere Hillthwaite Hotel has an elevated position and a terrace with stunning views towards Lake Windermere and the mountains beyond. Some rooms also have views towards the lake and mountains. There is also a guest lounge with a log fire and lake views. A full English or Continental breakfast is provided each morning for guests on a breakfast inclusive package, The property is just a 15-minute walk from The World of Beatrix Potter and 15.1 km from Dove Cottage, the original home of William Wordsworth.

Hillthwaite Hotel is a charming boutique hotel with stunning panoramic views. Guests can relax in the indoor swimming pool and explore the picturesque gardens. The hotel also provides free parking and is conveniently located between two towns.

Hotel rating: 9 (superb)

Rooms: 34

Stars: 4

Boutique hotel. Lovely property. Stylish. Linthwaite House is situated on a hilltop overlooking Windermere, making it the perfect base from which to explore the scenic surroundings. Guests can enjoy activities such as boules, or play chess on the giant outdoor chessboard. Linthwaite House offers luxurious accommodation, with stylish, individually designed bedrooms and bathrooms. Many overlook the lake and manicured gardens as well as the surrounding hills and mountains. Wednesdays to Sundays, the on site fine dining restaurant, Henrock by Simon Rogan, serves dishes using local ingredients. The a la carte menu features small plates and sharing dishes. On Mondays and Tuesdays there is an all day dining menu available in the Bar & Conservatory area. There are two row boats available for guests to use. Inquire a Reception.

Hotel rating: 9.1 (superb)

Rooms: 36

Stars: 5

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Boutique hotel. Trendy. Popular among couples. Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, an AA 5 Red Star, Relais & Châteaux hotel near Windermere in the beautiful Lake District. Gilpin is dedicated to nourishment, recuperation, and relaxation, and is made up of two hotels on two separate estates, just over a mile away from each other. GILPIN HOTEL Set in 21 acres of country gardens, moors and woodland, Gilpin Hotel has a Michelin starred restaurant, a casual pan Asian restaurant, a Champagne Bar, lounge and terraces, a relaxing Spa Space as well as resident llamas, alpacas, and micro pigs. All bedrooms have incredible Lakeland views, leading onto the beautiful hotel gardens. GILPIN LAKE HOUSE Just over a mile away from Gilpin Hotel, within 100 acres of breathtaking grounds and situated on the bank of Knipe Tarn, Gilpin Lake House is a true sanctuary far away from the crowds, but just a stone’s throw from the breath-taking lakes and fells. With a lounge, shared swimming pool and hot tub and spa treatment rooms, it has the feel of a country house with all the services of a hotel. (Please note that only Lake House guests have access to the spa facilities at the Gilpin Lake House.) .

Hotel rating: 8.6 (fabulous)

Rooms: 30

Stars: 5

Boutique hotel. Historic. Great location. Cragwood Country House Hotel lies on the shores of Lake Windermere in the Lake District National Park.With acres of landscaped gardens, this hotel offers free on-site parking and Wi-Fi. There is a flat-screen TV, telephone and tea and coffee facilities in all guest rooms at Cragwood Country House Hotel. Each room has en suite bathroom facilities with bath or shower and complementary toiletries. In addition to breakfast, Cragwood Country House Hotel offers an extensive restaurant menu showcasing regional produce such as Cumberland sausage, locally caught trout and Cumbrian cheeses and chutneys. The hotel is 5 minutes’ drive from the centre of Windermere. Among the area’s attractions are the Lakes Aquarium at Newby Bridge, Windermere Steamboat Museum and the World of Beatrix Potter.

This boutique hotel has a great location in Windermere.

Hotel rating: 8.5 (very good)

Rooms: 25

Stars: 4

In beautiful landscaped gardens, the Beech Hill Hotel has an AA Rosette restaurant and a Spa centre consisting of an indoor heated swimming pool, a sauna, a steam room and outdoor spa pools (please note there is an additional charge to access the spa). Some rooms feature spa baths, four-poster beds or garden terraces. Many of the elegant rooms at the Beech Hill have partial lake views, and each room has satellite TV and facilities for making tea and coffee. Some rooms have balconies or patio doors. With lake views, Burlington’s Restaurant serves a modern British menu of award-winning food. Griffin Bar and Lounge serves afternoon tea and light snacks, and features comfy sofas and a large terrace. An extensive Continental breakfast is included in your reservation with the option of a cooked hot breakfast at a supplement charge. Situated in the Lake District, the hotel has free secure parking and free Wi-Fi in public areas. On the shores of Lake Windermere, lake cruises and walking routes are within easy reach.

Hotel rating: 7.2 (pleasant)

Rooms: 36

Stars: 4

Cosy rooms. Good breakfast. Popular among couples. Just a mile from Lake Windermere in the heart of the Lake District, this luxury boutique hotel offers home-cooked food and free Wi-Fi. Windermere Rail Station is only 15 minutes’ walk away, and there is free parking on site. Rooms all feature a large widescreen TV with satellite channels, a DVD player, and a king-size bed and luxury bathroom. Some luxury suites have outdoor hot tubs and seating areas. Originally the second home of a wealthy Edwardian gentleman, Windermere Boutique Hotel still retains many charming features like open fires and beamed ceilings. The hotel is close to the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, and Bowness, which is just a short drive away. The surrounding National Parkland is great for walking and cycling, and Ambleside is just 5 miles away.

The Boutique Hotel in the Lake District is a luxurious and romantic option. It has chic suites with spa bathrooms, perfect for a relaxing getaway. The hotel also has a stylish restaurant and bar, creating a sophisticated atmosphere.

Hotel rating: 9.5 (amazing)

Rooms: 12

Stars: 4

Unique. Romantic. Great views. Located near Ambleside, The Samling Hotel has a garden and a terrace. The property features a bar, as well as a restaurant serving British cuisine. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, and buying tickets for guests. Most rooms have mountain or lake views. A continental breakfast can be enjoyed at the property. The property has a hot tub. Guests at the hotel will be able to enjoy activities in and around Windermere, like skiing and cycling. Keswick is 28 km from The Samling Hotel.

The Samling Hotel is an elegant hotel with stunning lake views. The hotel has a renowned restaurant, beautiful gardens, and private hot tubs.

Hotel rating: 9.5 (amazing)

Rooms: 11

Stars: 4

Highly elegant. Great breakfast. Comfortable beds. In the heart of the Lake District, this luxury country house hotel offers a 3 AA rosette restaurant, free Wi-Fi and award-winning breakfasts. Lake Windermere is only 400 metres away. Each spacious, individually designed room at the privately-owned Hotel Rothay Manor has satellite TV, radio and tea/coffee facilities. Ambleside is a 5-minute walk away. Built in 1825, Rothay Manor Hotel is a Grade II Listed house with landscaped gardens and period features. Rothay Manor has fresh flowers, antiques and lounges that are ideal for pre-dinner drinks. Rothay Manor has a modern fine dining restaurant, offering delicious fresh food. Breakfast features homemade preserves, and 3-tier afternoon teas are also available. Cycle hire, horse riding and golf can be arranged.

This is one of the most ELEGANT boutique hotels in Lake District.

Hotel rating: 9.1 (superb)

Rooms: 15

Stars: 4

Relaxing atmosphere. Romantic. Superb breakfast. Overlooking Lake Windermere, Lindeth Fell offers impressive views and free parking, just 5 minutes from Windermere Ferry Crossing. It offers colourful flower gardens, elegant rooms and tea and scones on arrival. An award-winning, luxury bed and breakfast, Lindeth Fell Country House is set in an elegant Edwardian house with high ceilings and period features. It offers spacious, individually decorated rooms with Egyptian cotton sheets, an airy en suite bathroom, flat-screen TV and tea and coffee facilities. Many offer lake views. An extensive breakfast menu is served in the bright dining room overlooking 7 acres of beautiful gardens and the stunning Coniston mountain range. There is a large range of cold platters and snacks available to order. You can also relax in a cosy lounge with log fires and a fully licensed residents bar. Lindeth Fell Country House is just a mile south of Bowness-on-Windermere, which is home to shops, restaurants and cafés. Windermere Golf Club is just 20 minutes’ walk away, and Windermere Railway Station can be reached in 10 minutes.

Based on my research this is the most relaxing and romantic luxury hotel in Lake District. It also has a highly rated breakfast.

Hotel rating: 9.3 (superb)

Rooms: 11

Stars: 5

Cool. Beautiful. Great location. Popular among women. On the edge of Lake Windermere in the Lake District National Park, Merewood Country House Hotel was built in 1812 and retains many original features. In 20 acres of landscaped gardens, this hotel offers free on-site parking and Wi-Fi. Each room has en suite bathroom facilities with bath and shower and complementary toiletries. There is a flat-screen TV, telephone and tea and coffee facilities. In addition to breakfast, Merewood Country House Hotel offers an extensive restaurant menu showcasing regional produce such as Cumberland sausage, locally caught trout and Cumbrian cheeses and chutneys. Afternoon tea is also served at the hotel. The hotel is 6 minutes’ drive from the centre of Windermere. Among the area’s attractions are the Lakes Aquarium at Newby Bridge, Windermere Steamboat Museum and the World of Beatrix Potter.

This charming hotel stands out from others with its beautiful location and historic character. Situated on an elevated position, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Hotel rating: 8.5 (very good)

Rooms: 19

Stars: 4

Beautiful. Historic. Great value. Set in 14 acres of landscaped grounds next to Furness Abbey, Abbey House Hotel offers luxurious rooms with historic features. Guests can enjoy free WiFi and free on-site parking. Many of the rooms and public areas retain elements of Edwardian luxury, including high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows. Built as a private house in 1914, the hotel has hosted King George V and other members of the royal family. Guests can enjoy an award-winning menu at the Rosette accredited Oscar's restaurant. The centre of Barrow-in-Furness and the Dock Museum and are 10 minutes’ drive away, while South Lakes Wild Animal Park is less than 10 minutes away by car.

This boutique hotel has great affordability.

Hotel rating: 8.9 (fabulous)

Rooms: 38

Stars: 4

Delightful property. Charming. Comfortable beds. Popular among couples. Nestled in Borrowdale Valley, the family-run, award-winning Hazel Bank Country House Borrowdale Valley is in the heart of the Lake District. It is just 15 minutes’ drive from Keswick and offers a 2 AA-Rosette winning restaurant, free WiFi, and free private parking. The rooms feature a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities, complimentary water, sherry and homemade truffles. The en-suite bathrooms have complimentary L'Occitane toiletries and a hairdryer. Many boast views over the grounds and countryside. In the mornings, guests can enjoy a selection of cooked to order breakfasts including a full English. The restaurant offers a menu of freshly prepared dishes by renown local chef and proprietary owner Donna MacRae. Guests can try authentic Cumbrian cuisine here. Dishes are prepared using locally sourced produce. Dating back to 1840 and set within 4 acres of tranquil countryside, Hazel Bank Country House Borrowdale Valley offers a spectacular position above Rosthwaite. It is just located just 25 miles from Penrith. Nearby attractions include Whinlatter Forest, Keswick’s Theatre by the Lake, and Honister Mine. Derwent Water is just 10 minutes’ drive away.

This might be the most beautiful and stylish luxury hotel in Lake District. It also has SUPER COMFORTABLE BEDS.

Hotel rating: 9.5 (amazing)

Rooms: 7

Stars: 5

Luxury Hotel. With stunning and exclusive panoramic views of Lake Windermere, this beautiful country house is set right on the lake’s shore. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea on the stone terrace overlooking Windermere. The elegant and individually furnished bedrooms at Langdale Chase Hotel all include garden views and a private bathroom, while most also enjoy fantastic lake views. Rooms also feature a flat-screen TV and free tea and coffee. The AA Rosette-winning restaurant at Langdale Chase serves a table d’hote dinner menu amongst panoramic lake views. Lunches are available on the lovely garden terraces and balconies. With its very own jetty, Langdale Chase can provide sailing days and lessons on the lake. Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain, is a 1.5-hour drive from the hotel. Windermere town and rail station are a 5-minute drive away.

Hotel rating: 9.2 (superb)

Rooms: 17

Stars: 5

Boutique hotel. Nice interior design. Popular among couples. Near Windermere village, this striking Victorian mansion house has a conservatory restaurant, free parking and elegant rooms with iPod docks and flat-screen TVs. Windermere Rail Station is a 3-minute walk away. All of the beautiful en suite rooms feature luxurious Egyptian cotton linen and sleek bathrooms with power showers. Applegarth Villa Hotel & Restaurant (Adult Only) rooms have free bottled water and digital radios. Overlooking the surrounding Lake District fells, JR’s restaurant offers an imaginative menu featuring local produce. There is free Wi-Fi and the cosy oak-panelled bar serves a selection of beers, wines and spirits. Set in a quiet street, the family-run Applegarth Villa Hotel & Restaurant (Adult Only) is a short walk from the shores of Lake Windermere. The hotel is only 20 minutes’ drive from the M6.

This trendy and luxurious hotel has superb interior design. It stands out for its hot tub suites, which have a private garden area and stunning views. The hotel has a unique conservatory dining area and focuses on providing a relaxed and unpretentious social setting.

Hotel rating: 9.1 (superb)

Rooms: 22

Stars: 5

Overlooking picturesque Lake Derwentwater, the four-star Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa is set in forty acres of tranquil land with a waterfall and a lakeshore. Views across the lakes or mountains feature in many of the rooms at Lodore Falls. Free Wi-Fi is provided, and the elegant rooms also feature tea and coffee facilities. Mizu Pan Asian Restaurant serves a selection of Japanese, Chinese and Thai-inspired dishes, freshly prepared from the finest ingredients with a Lake District twist. The Falls Spa offers a thermal suite with twelve different heat experiences, five treatment rooms, an exclusive Champagne bar and an outdoor infinity-edge vitality pool, with neck jets, underwater loungers and stunning views. Guests staying in a Lodore Suite or Deluxe Spa Suite receive two hours of complimentary access to the spa per day, bookable once your reservation is confirmed. Guests staying in all other room types can book two hours of access to the spa, subject to availability at an additional cost. The two AA Rosette award-winning Lake View Restaurant has a varied menu of local produce and fine cuisine, serving light meals and afternoon teas. The lounge bar offers co*cktails, real ales and afternoon tea. Spa is undergoing an upgrade and will be closed from 28th October 2024 until 10th November 2024. The hotel is next to a variety of woodland trails, just five miles from Keswick.

Hotel rating: 8.1 (very good)

Rooms: 85

Stars: 4

Boutique hotel. Charming. Popular among women. A 5-minute drive from Bassenthwaite Lake, Ravenstone Manor is an 19th-century manor house set in 3 hectares of ground. The property is at the foot of Skiddaw, overlooking Bassenthwaite Lake. It offers stone walls and en suite bathrooms. The property's dining room mixes traditional and modern dishes based on locally sourced products. Dishes feature Cumbrian game and locally caught fish. The bar has an open fire, and the lounge has a warming fire and stunning views through the picture windows. Ravenstone Manor is a 10-minute drive from Keswick and Derwent Water and 30 minutes from Penrith and the M6 motorway. Guests can go walking around the Northern Lakes, hiking and biking in the area.

Hotel rating: 9.1 (superb)

Rooms: 22

Stars: 4

Historic. Relaxing atmosphere. Great views. * The hotel is in the heart of the English Lake District, on the shores of lake Windermere, in 17 acres of private grounds. Most bedrooms have lake views, others look over the gardens. *There are 2 restaurants and a traditional 'pub' style bar. The restaurants offer 2 different style menus, one informal and one with a fixed price 4 course menu; plus a traditional English Afternoon Tea. *Most bedrooms have lake views, or of the gardens. The hotel is a Grade II* Listed building, decorated in a traditional Country House style.

Hotel rating: 9.3 (superb)

Rooms: 31

Stars: 4

Boutique hotel. Great value. Comfortable beds. The Roundthorn Country House and luxury self-catering Mews Apartments are set in landscaped gardens, with panoramic views of the Eden Valley and Lakeland Fells. All en suite bedrooms in the house itself are individually styled. The Roundthorn has been awarded a 5-star VisitEngland Guest Accommodation rating, and a Gold Award. Evening meals are served in the bar and lounges beside the log fires. The outside terrace and gardens offer amazing views and are the idyllic place to enjoy an evening drink or morning coffee. The apartments sit alongside the Country House and feature a fully fitted kitchen, a dining area, a living area with 50” televisions. Each individual bedroom also has its own en suite bathroom or wet room and private decking area to the rear. The bar and lounge area have been upgraded and decorated with a contemporary style, and the gardens were re-landscaped to include a Victorian style gazebo.

Hotel rating: 8.9 (fabulous)

Rooms: 15

Stars: 5

Hip. Historic property. Superb interior design. Popular among women. Once owned by children's author Beatrix Potter, Lindeth Howe country house hotel is set in beautiful large gardens, just a 5-minute walk from the banks of Lake Windermere. Locally sourced produce is served on the seasonal English menu in the 2 AA Rosette-awarded Lindeth Howe Restaurant. Homemade cakes and scones are also served in the Lindeth Howe Restaurant with fresh tea or coffee. Overlooking the gardens is Lindeth Howe's lounge areas, which has garden doors that lead onto a terrace. Guests will find a log fire and a wood burner in the sitting rooms. There is also a butterfly trail carpet that leads to a bar! The room next to the bar is the Hilltop room, where guests can relax, dine and also hire out for private functions. Each elegantly furnished room at Lindeth Howe has an en-suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries, free WiFi, a flat-screen TV and 24-hour room service. Additional amenities include a desk and ironing facilities. Some rooms have garden views. Lindeth Howe specialises in sightseeing tours, golf, fishing, walking and mountain bike hire. The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction is within 1-mile of the hotel. Windermere Lake Cruises set off just 30 minutes’ walk away.

One of the coolest, most well designed and historic boutique hotels in Lake District! AMAZING.

Hotel rating: 8.8 (fabulous)

Rooms: 55

Stars: 4