The Best Luxury Hotels in the Lake District, UK

Sitting atop a hill overlooking Lake Windermere, this Edwardian country house exudes elegance and class – from the plush period furniture that is as comfortable as it is stylish to the home-made tea and scones that await you on your arrival. This is five-star Lakes luxury at its finest; you’re also welcome to use the nearby health club’s pool and gym – compliments of the hotel, of course.

Promising dramatic vistas over the nearby Brathay Valley from its elevated viewpoint atop a private crag, Nanny Brow’s celebrated architecture, bright and airy bedrooms, luscious bathrooms and heavenly gardens make for a gloriously luxurious holiday. Built in 1904 in the prized Arts & Crafts style, Nanny Brow has a fascinating history, which is shared in a book written by the friendly owners, Sue and Peter – this is just one of the many ways they have poured their hearts into every aspect of this award-winning hotel.

Marrying all the beauty and character of an old British country estate with all the opulence and fanfare of a high-end spa, Armathwaite Hall is well-deserving of its place up there with the best luxury hotels in the Lake District. From the deluxe rooms and the cocktail bar to the infinity pool, outdoor hot tub and the distinguished Lake View Restaurant, it has left no stone untouched in its quest to deliver an effortlessly elegant and enjoyable experience for all of its guests.

On the edge of Derwentwater, the imposing and impressive 200-year-old Lodore Falls Hotel and Spa is ideally situated for exploring the region. Still, if you don’t feel like going too far, it’s also a perfect spot to enjoy magnificent lakeside panoramas over champagne on the terrace or from the outdoor hydro pool. From the stylish rooms to the on-site restaurants and the designer spa – perhaps the dreamiest in the area – Lodore Falls has everything you need to enjoy a trip to the Lake District without even leaving the grounds.

Up there with the most picturesque buildings in the Lake District, the Wordsworth Hotel and Spa was once an old earl’s hunting lodge. Now, you can fall in love with its glamorous old-country aesthetic – the faded stone façade, complementing white wooden gables, colourful flowers and glass conservatories and sunrooms. The interior is equally stunning, with even the smallest rooms offering the full Wordsworth experience, from their inspired design to their on-vibe vintage furniture.

A four-star hotel in the heart of Westmorland, Ambleside Salutation Hotel and Spa has all the class and character of a luxury Lake District hotel, along with all the benefits of an urban location. Part of Best Western’s Premier Collection, Ambleside Salutation is classically chic and comfortable, with stylish rooms, friendly staff and a gorgeous pool and spa area. Breakfast here is pretty special, with quite the lavish spread on offer, and the Lounge Bar, with its cosy nooks and warming fires, is a lovely spot to wind down with a nice glass of something.

Moss Grove Organic partners grand Victorian vintage with a modern, environmentally conscious twist, offering an extra-special and guilt-free getaway. In the picturesque village of Grasmere, which was once home to William Wordsworth, Moss Grove prides itself on delivering a luxurious home-from-home experience with a five-star touch – an ethos that is evident in everything, from the bespoke wallpaper to the hand-made beds and locally sourced organic breakfasts.

Sometimes you just have to save the best for last. One of the Lake District’s best luxury hotels, Applegarth Villa is a showstopper. With some of the best rooms in the Lakes, some with private terraces, outdoor Jacuzzis and even in-house butler service, this five-star adults-only retreat is wickedly decadent. On a quiet street off Windermere, it’s also perfectly positioned for exploring, with friendly staff on hand to give you all the insider tips to help ensure your trip is extra special.