The best Lake District spa hotels where relaxation comes with a view
If you’re looking for a restful break, these spa hotels in the Lake District are sure to relax your mind, body and soul
Head to the Lake District for a relaxing escape at a spa hotel, surrounded by breathtaking lakes and jaw-dropping mountains – the perfect treat after a day out exploring the spectacular surrounds. England’s largest National Park doesn’t have to be about energetic adventuring and outdoorsy activities on the fells or in the water. It’s also the perfect place to unwind and soak up the stunning views, along with a little pampering at a first rate spa.
There are a host of gorgeous spa hotels in the Lake District, many of which combine treatments and relaxation areas with unrivalled views across the lakes, expansive woodland and hilltops. From the high-profile and super-luxury spas, housed on private estates to the smaller, sustainable hotspots and those hidden gems tucked away, off the beaten track – the Lakes provide an unforgettable spa escape.
The Lake District offers the perfect opportunity to escape the everyday, whether you want to sink into a hydra pool after a long hike, relax with a deep tissue massage after an intense cycle or perhaps you’re simply after some rest and relaxation to a backdrop of unrivalled views.
Here’s our pick of the very best spa hotels in the Lake District.
The Daffodil Hotel & Spa, Grasmere, Lake District
Located on the lake shore of picture-perfect Grasmere, The Daffodil Hotel & Spa is a gorgeous Lake District spa hotel for a relaxing stay; a traditional slate and Victorian-style building with contemporary interiors and crisp, light-filled bedrooms.
Expect boxy velvet sofas, colour-coded bedroom floors and an impressive collection of artwork. After a day of walking in the hills, sink into the slick spa and enjoy a thermal pool, tepidarium, sauna and steam room, five treatment rooms and a large relaxation room, along with a lake-view terrace.
There’s a stunning two-mile, round-lake circuit and Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage and museum are just across the road. Grasmere’s gift shops and tearooms are a five-minute walk and Ambleside and Windermere are 15-minutes’ drive away. Head to The Dining Room for modern British cuisine, the Lobby Bar for cocktails and the cosy Lounge for an indulgent afternoon tea.
Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa, Borrowdale, Lake District
One of the Lake District’s long established hotel’s, The Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa is superbly located in Borrowdale, overlooking Derwentwater and the fells of Skiddaw and Catbells. A slate Victorian building, home to a swanky spa with a thermal suite, it’s the perfect spot to take a time out to a backdrop of spectacular views.
There’s an impressive choice of activities, a champagne bar and an outdoor hydrotherapy pool, along with plenty of spaces to relax, including a conservatory, long terrace and gardens with views of the waterfall, after which the hotel is named.
Rooms range from Standard to Spa Suite, the latter providing complimentary access to the spa facilities. Expect a contemporary style throughout with a soft, tonal palette and picture windows to maximise on the views. This slick Lake District spa hotel also caters to a host of tastes – from Pan-Asian to Modern British and relaxed bar classics.
The Langdale Hotel & Spa, Great Langdale, Lake District
This swanky Lake District spa hotel is spread over a forested estate in the heart of the Langdale Valley – midway between the villages of Elterwater and Chapel Stile. Superbly positioned, The Langdale Hotel & Spa is surrounded by spectacular walking routes – from valley strolls to more challenging climbs with Ambleside and Lake Windermere ten-minutes’ drive away.
It’s a dreamy spot to relax in the spa with its own brand Pure Alchemy products and ‘thermal experience’. There’s also a 20-metre pool, gym, sauna and steam room. Interiors are sleek with a contemporary vibe throughout – think exposed stone walls, slate and copper-topped tables, moody black and white photographs and design-led lighting.
Calming, light-filled Waterside rooms boast a minimal Scandi style with balconies overlooking Great Langdale Beck and indulgent bathrooms. Stove restaurant offers relaxed, bistro-style dining and cooked-to-order breakfast dishes including the Cumbrian will set you up for a day of fell-walking.
Low Wood Bay Hotel & Spa, Windermere, Lake District
A superb spa hotel in the Lake District, the Low Wood Bay Hotel & Spa has a prime position, overlooking Lake Windermere and the fells.
Surrounded by countryside walks and just a short drive from both Ambleside and Bowness, two and four miles respectively, this 18th-century coaching inn is a great spot to relax and take in the spectacular sights. A cruise on England’s longest lake is a must – providing a dreamy experience to a backdrop of staggering scenery. There’s also a seasonal waterbus service that runs around the north of the lake from the hotel’s pier.
Back at base, enjoy traditional British cuisine in the Windermere Restaurant, afternoon tea and cocktails in the Langdale Lounge and The Blue Smoke Restaurant with its wood-fired grill and open kitchen. The spa is centred around relaxation and rejuvenation, with both indoor and outdoor thermal facilities. Enjoy the fellside sauna and lake view infinity pool, absorb the tranquillity of the herbal lounge or head to the gym to let off some steam.
Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Bowness on Windermere, Lake District
The epitome of an elevated modern country spa hotel, this family-owned retreat, set on the eastern edge of the Lake District, has nailed the perfect balance between old and new, home to Spa Suites that boast massage rooms, open bathrooms and restful garden views.
The Gilpin Hotel & Spa is a secluded spot for a peaceful escape, a few miles from the shores of Lake Windermere and the market town of Kendal; visit nearby Blackwell, one of the UK’s finest examples of Arts & Crafts architecture and Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage at Grasmere.
Enjoy woodland rambles, cream teas and relaxing treatments in the small Lake House spa with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lake, along with an indoor pool, freshwater swimming and rowing. Foodies will love the tasting menu at Michelin-starred SOURCE, serving locally sourced, seasonal and sustainable dishes and two AA Rosette, Gilpin Spice for pan-Asian small plates.
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‘I tried a sleep retreat at a 5-star spa hotel’
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The best spa hotels in the UK
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