Top 10 Best Hotels in the Lake District

Filled with romance, nature and fresh country air, the Lake District was the inspiration for many literary writers during the 19th century.

Located in Cumbria, northwest England, it’s become the most visited national park in the UK for its scenery, outdoor adventures and excellent accommodation. We’ve put together some of the best hotels in the Lake District which are ideal for every type of visitor.

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Linthwaite House, Windermere

STAR RATING

One of the best luxury hotels to stay in the Lake District for some peace and quiet is at the Linthwaite House which is located away from the main tourist areas. Rooms are bright and airy with the large windows and is decorated with simple and elegant furnishings.

The dining room and lounge area of the hotel have a more luxurious and regal design but it’s not over the top and compliments the 4 star rating.

Guests can enjoy lots of relaxing activities such as:

Exploring the gardens and hotel grounds
Have picnics in the gardens with a picnic hamper from the hotel
Soak in the outdoor hot tub
Enjoy high tea in the dining room with spectacular views

Although the hotel is surrounded and secluded within its own greenery, it’s not shut off from the world completely. Attractions such as Beatrix Potter’s House, Dove Cottage and Grizedale Forest are about a 30 minute drive away.

Book the Linthwaite House in Windermere

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Linthwaite House, Windermere

10 Enjoyable Things to Do in the Lake District

1. Steam Yacht Gondola, Coniston – Enjoy a cruise along the lake in this rebuilt Victorian luxury steam-powered yacht filled with comfortable plush seats, polished wooden seats and open air decks. There’s plenty of breathtaking views providing excellent photo opportunities and commentary on the history of the area.

2. The World of Beatrix Potter, Bowness-on-Windermere – A fun and enchanting visitor centre for families where you can see popular characters such as Peter Rabbit and Jemima Puddle-Duck. There’s a virtual world and interactive area and a cafe to enjoy high tea and a kids Peter Rabbit Picnic Basket.

3. Grizedale Forest, Grizedale – With 9 walking trails and 7 cycling trails to explore, there’s a trail to suit everyone from families to expert hikers and cyclists. Scattered around the forest are 40 hidden outdoor sculptures to find as well.

4. Rydal Mount, Ambleside – Once the residence of the poet, William Wordsworth, the house is filled with his memorabilia such as his pen, inkstand, encyclopedia, etc. Outside the house, the gardens are beautifully landscaped according to his designs.

5. Wray Castle, Windermere, Ambleside – Built in 1840 as a private house in a mock Gothic castle style complete with turrets and battlements, visitors can explore the grand rooms inside and the grounds outside. Beatrix Potter once stayed here with her family in the summer.

6. Hill Top, Hawkshead – A picturesque farmhouse that once belonged to Beatrix Potter which was the inspiration for many of her stories. Covered in ivy and filled with memorabilia, this attraction is pretty popular so the best times to visit are on late afternoons or on weekdays.

7. Coniston Water, Coniston – This 5 mile lake is the third largest in the Lake District and offers a few different boat types to explore the lake. It’s the perfect way to spend some quality family time together or enjoy a romantic row along the lake.

8. Jennings Brewery, Cockermouth – A real treat for adults who love beer as they can enjoy guided tours of the brewing process and a tasting session of Cocker Hoop and Sneck Lifter in the Old Cooperage Bar.

9. Whinlatter Forest Park, Keswick – This is the only true mountain forest in England which has lots of walking trails with picturesque scenery and lots of red squirrels to see. Bike enthusiasts can take on the challenging mountain-bike trails or for anyone after adventure, there’s the Go Ape assault course too.

10. Windermere Lake Cruises, Windermere – A trip to the Lake District is not complete without taking a cruise on Lake Windermere for stunning countryside views and to explore different areas of the lake. If you’re just here for a short break, buy the Freedom of the Lake ticket so you could get unlimited travel on all the routes in one day.

Lake District is one of the most visited areas of UK and there are many who return for a break on a regular basis just to get some peace and relaxation away from the busier cities.

If you’re a first time visitor, then you should know that some of the best hotels in the Lake District will offer package deals that include activities and accommodation or romantic packages so be sure to check with the hotel before you book.