An ever-popular spot for short breaks, the northwest’s mountainous region is accessible from most parts of the UK. The rugged wilderness draws climbers and ramblers, with those of all ages enjoying pretty lakeside towns, boat trips and the Beatrix Potter trail. But it’s also perfect for romantic getaways and rejuvenating weekends away – an excellent choice for a group, or a solo wellness holiday. Stunning views, acres of land and stylish period properties make the Lake District’s spa hotels some of the best in the country.
Armathwaite Hall Hotel
Perched on the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, this grand hall was built around 1500, before being converted into a 44 bedroom four-star hotel in the 1920s. Set across two floors, the spa includes a 16-metre infinity pool, an outdoor hot tub, thermal suite and 10 treatment rooms (one of which is a double for friends’ or couple’s massage). Guests can choose from an extensive beauty and wellness treatment menu. Plus there’s a separate manicure and make-up area, relaxation zone and a Tranquility Terrace. This hotel spa’s recent claim to fame is its feature on an episode of The Real Housewives of Cheshire!
Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa
The Falls Spa opened in 2018, featuring an outdoor infinity-edge hot tub and pool overlooking Derwentwater and the Catbells mountains. Inside, you’ll find a thermal suite that takes inspiration from Scandinavian, Arabian, Turkish and Japanese culture, a rasul room and five treatment areas designed to echo the visuals of their natural surroundings. Treatments use Elemis and La Sultane de Saba products. In addition to more traditional options, guests can try the unique Akwaterra massage, an award-winning concept synergising earth and water, as well as a range of bespoke Lodore rituals. The hotel also boasts a champagne bar for bubbles and a pan-Asian restaurant.
The Daffodil Hotel & Spa
On the edge of Grasmere Water, The Daffodil provides plenty of indulgences and a sense of escapism. A moodily lit hydrotherapy pool, tepidarium and sauna soak away your stresses. Treatments are presented in collaboration with a leading European skincare house, Germaine De Capuccini and include special massages for expectant mothers, as well as walkers with aching legs! The hotel has 78 plush bedrooms and a lakeside restaurant serving artistic afternoon teas. Just a 12 minute walk from the village and steps away from William Wordsworth’s house, it’s ideal for those wishing to combine a spa break with a little sightseeing.
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The Swan Hotel & Spa
This is another waterside property, although more unusually for this area, it’s a river that runs beside the hotel. Dating back to the 17th century, The Swan was a coaching inn but now houses a gastropub and small ESPA spa – Vu. As well as a range of relaxing treatments, guests can book tanning, make-up and shellac manicures in the three treatment rooms. The ten-metre pool and thermal facilities are welcoming to families, as well as adult-only groups. And there are fitness classes for those feeling particularly active. Located in Ulverston, The Swan retains an old-world charm, with modern decor.
Lakeside Hotel & Spa
Serving as a handy stop-off for those navigating the M6 (Lakeside Hotel is just 15 minutes from the motorway), this has the only Aveda Destination Spa in England. At the southern end of Lake Windermere, it’s close to local attractions. Inside, the (purposely) dimly lit subterranean hydrotherapy area has a magical quality, with bubble jets throughout the pool, waterfall features, poolside cabanas, a bar and a separate swimming area for kids. Guests can stay in a one or two-bedroom apartment within the main spa building or a suite with a private hot tub. Book your choice of one of the hotel’s well-reviewed Elemis wellness treatments.
Read our guide to the best luxury hotels in the Lake District