Haweswater Hotel

Haweswater Hotel

, Lakeside Road, Haweswater, Nr Penrith.

Right on glistening Haweswater Nature Reserve and cloaked in inspiring fells, Haweswater Hotel has a perfectly isolated location - apart from the odd red squirrel or two. Perched right on the lake, the views are simply breathtaking.

The rugged stone structure of Haweswater Hotel lies beside the narrow road that runs up past the lake to Mardale Head. Wrapped around it are the gardens, with an abundance of mature trees and shrubs interspersed with rock gardens and heather. Tame red squirrels scuttle around, and this is a perfect spot for lounging or taking afternoon tea while enjoying the view. There are woodland walks starting straight from the garden too.

The restaurant is a wonderfully romantic place with flavours of art deco in which to enjoy the full a la carte menu. For a less formal meal or just to enjoy a drink or two, the lounge and bar are the place to be, or perhaps out on the front terrace with its uninterrupted view of the lake. Whichever you choose you will get brasserie-style food of the highest standard using local produce. The menu changes seasonally and always includes vegetarian and fish dishes.

The two balcony suites are the most popular rooms, featuring a separate living room, french doors onto the balcony and a capacious Japanese plunge bath. The largest rooms in the house are the Deluxe Suites which could really be described as apartments.  With a large bedroom, large living room, entrance lobby and delightful bathroom, they will take your breath away with their stunning views. There’s more art deco in the Lake View junior suites, as well as plenty of space, nice sitting areas, and did I mention the views? A few rooms at the back of the house have views of the forest. Smaller than the suites of course, they are compact, comfortable and well-appointed, and these can be booked with an accompanying dog.

Haweswater is perfect for walking and cycling and sits right on the route of Wainwright's famous 'Coast-to-Coast' path. There are so many choices of walks or rides and the staff are always happy to help and advise. For less energetic guests there are some gentle village walks and rides through Bampton, Askham to Lowther Castle for afternoon tea at the castle.  Askham in particular is a beautiful village with a couple of nice pubs. A drive over to Ullswater will offer more walks, or a boat trip on the lake. Then there is Lowther Castle, Penrith town and the Lakeland Bird of Prey Centre. All within easy reach.