Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa

In 1745 the Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa, which was previously a residence, opened its doors for the first time to guests. The hotel has since, according to estimates, served over three million people. The hotel’s designs allow guests to view the lake from nearly every angle of the grounds. Sitting on a large property with lawns that overlook the beautiful Lake Windermere, the Old England Hotel has kept some of its old-world charm and added a bit of modernity. Overall the atmosphere is peaceful and relaxing, though perhaps lacking a bit of polish.

The Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa offers serene views of Lake Windermere, England’s largest natural lake, and close access to all of the sights in Cumbria. Shops, pubs, markets, restaurants, and attractions are all within short walking distance. Local sights are also conveniently located near the hotel.

• Two-minute walk to The Old Laundry Theatre
• Three-minute walk to The World of Beatrix Potter
• Seven-minute walk to Windermere Lake Cruises
• Nine-minute walk to Lake District National Park
• Six-minute drive to The Windermere Golf Club

Many of the 106 rooms offer picturesque lake views. Rooms have sophisticated style -- dark wood furniture, traditional fabrics on the armchairs and curtains (such as stripes or brocade), and in some cases, hanging light fixtures. Note that some rooms may show minor signs of wear. All rooms come with free Wi-Fi, mineral water, bathrobes, slippers, writing desks, safes, tea/coffee machines, heated towel racks, trouser presses, and flat-screen TVs -- but TVs are quite small in Classic Rooms, and there are no minibars. Executive Rooms and suites, however, have mini-fridges. Executive Rooms have bathtubs as well as separate walk-in showers. Suites have Nespresso coffeemakers, magazines, welcome gifts, turndown service, and free champagne with chocolates. Wheelchair-accessible rooms are available. Bathroom style can vary between room types, but the Classic Room we saw had sleek, dark marble tile. 

The blue-tiled heated indoor pool features sleek designs and large windows that provide a lot of natural light. The deck offers beige cushioned lounge chairs. Outside is a terrace that provides views of the water and stylish patio furniture. The contemporary spa offers a rock sauna, steam room, aroma steam room, infrared sauna, Asian-themed treatment rooms, a lounge, and a cafe. There’s also a chic nail salon with wood accents and beauty products for sale. The gym is large, bright, and furnished with a weight section and modern cardio equipment that has small inset TVs. There is a classically designed restaurant and bar with lake views, but some guests report inconsistent service.

There are six rooms available for meetings, conferences, or weddings. The Garden suite, Bay room, and Claife room feature lake views from large windows. The board room, the library, and Seagrave bar offer contemporary and traditional decor. The library, for example, is furnished with leather sofas, a flat-screen TV, and wood-paneled walls. Rooms can fit between 10 to 120 people. The hotel also provides wedding services, with access to the sprawling gardens.