Tucked away on the outskirts of Ambleside, this elegant Regency villa has all the charm of a country house yet is within an easy 10-minute stroll of the town’s shops and lakeside activities. Screened by trees, it feels very private, too. Although much extended and modernised, the changes have been carefully managed so the hotel retains its period elegance – especially it’s pretty first-floor balcony. Pale-washed panelling, colourful wallpapers and rugs on parquet floors mix with large shuttered windows, delicate cornicing and the odd antique amongst the smart sofas. Carefully judged, it feels smart and spoiling yet without any stuffy formality. Even the bold, new-build, chalet-style Pavilion manages to feel relaxed and unobtrusive. This has the top-level suites, vast spaces with rich green and tawny colours, deep sofas, big cushions and private patios; one has a hot tub.
But all bedrooms are generous in size, and with a contemporary country-house style of bold wallpapers, elegant headboards, well-upholstered armchairs and sofas, and an overall feeling of calm. Some have window-seats; perfect for getting lost in a book, or chewing over a crossword. Bathrooms, too, are indulgent; most with separate bath and shower. Bag one of the rooms with a south-facing balcony. Be aware that some rooms are close to the road, although well-screened.
As with the rest of the hotel, dining is designed to feel well-crafted but relaxed. Modern British dishes are served without the fuss of canapés and flavoured butters (although there is home-made bread) and include options such as local lamb with saffron potatoes and harissa jus, and roast cod with gremolata and Solway shrimps. There’s a simpler House Menu, too.
There are walks from the doorstep – and dogs are made especially welcome with their own smart dog-wash and drying room – and cruises on the lake. Return to afternoon tea on the lawn or in one of the fire-warmed sitting rooms.
Country Escape
Trekking
Foodies
Riding
Sights nearby
Sailing
Sit-out Terrace
Restaurant
Country House
Mountain biking
Intimate
Charming
Disabled access
Fishing
Child friendly
Pet friendly
Gym
Boutique
Rooms
19 rooms in this hotelSit-out Terrace
Restaurant
Meeting Room
Bar
Parking
Wifi
Disabled access
Room service
Child friendly
Pet friendly
Gym
Garden
Trekking
Climbing
Riding
Sights nearby
Sailing
Mountain biking
Fishing
Why do people love staying in your hotel? It’s the warm ambience that keep many guests returning. They love the location, the friendly team that make you feel like part of the family, and the exceptional dining.
What is there to do in the area? What isn’t there to do in the area? Amongst guest favourites are walking the nearby fells, hiring e-bikes to explore further afield, wild swimming in the many rivers and lakes, and just mooching around the picturesque villages.
What kind of breakfast do you offer? We have an extensive breakfast menu, with items from our pantry such as yoghurt & granola, overnight oats and pastries, through to cooked to order options such as truffle mushrooms on toast, and of course a full English, using the freshest and best of local ingredients.
Do you offer other meals? And can you recommend good places to eat out locally? Our Rowan Restaurant serves a tempting all-day House Menu, featuring light bites like freshly made sandwiches and vibrant salads alongside heartier favourites such as gourmet burgers and creamy risotto.
Indulge in Afternoon Tea every day except Sunday, when we switch to our acclaimed Sunday Lunch, a feast of classic roasts with all the trimmings.
Each evening, our à la carte menu celebrates the very best seasonal produce from the Lake District—think rich duck eggs from Martindale and fish landed that morning in Ulverston.
Which are your most popular room types, and why? All of our rooms are equally popular, from our Classic right through to our Pavilion Suites. The dog-friendly rooms are always a huge hit though, as they offer exceptional comfort for both humans and their four-legged companions!
What facilities do you have for children and can you fit extra beds in your rooms ? We have a number of rooms which can accommodate extra beds and we also offer a children’s dinner menu.
A smart, privately owned, country house-style hotel with a serious-dining restaurant and relaxing, understated bedrooms. It's surrounded by gardens, on the outskirts of Ambleside, although close to busy roads.
Originally published by The Telegraph
No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.
