B5289, Keswick CA12 5UX England, United Kingdom | (937) 315-4602
Extensive and
picturesque grounds with nature trails and waterfall
Located in the
heart of Lake District National Park overlooking lake
Extensive health
and relaxation facilities including two pools and a hot tub
Award-winning
locally sourced dining and al fresco option
Most rooms have
superb lake or forest views
Modern bathrooms
with Gilchrist & Soames toiletries
Free loan of mountain
bikes
Some standard rooms in need
of refresh
View from some
rooms disappointing
Bar on the pricey
side
The 71-room Lodore Falls Hotel is an upscale, landmark hotel set in picturesque parkland overlooking Lake Derwentwater in the heart of the Lake District National Park. Quintessentially English interiors give the place a cozy and traditional vibe, while health and relaxation facilities are extensive and up-to-date. Excellent dining is another big plus, however it's the hotel's surrounds -- including a wonderful waterfall -- that really steal the show. Rates aren't cheap but it's great value for what you get -- staying at the nearby Borrowdale Hotel might save a few pounds, but there's certainly less on offer.
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Scene
Imposing 200-year-old hotel with traditional and quintessentially English atmosphere
There are few hotels even in the Lake District that have such impressive and picturesque grounds as the landmark Lodore Falls Hotel. Nestled on 40 acres of parkland threaded with nature trails winding through thick forest with a babbling mountain stream leading to the hotel's eponymous waterfalls. Built almost entirely of slate, the hotel has been an imposing presence overlooking the lake since the early 19th century and maintains a firmly old-fashioned and thoroughly traditional vibe throughout. The lobby is quintessentially Old English with Chesterfield armchairs huddled around crackling fireplaces, homey sink-into couches, and numerous photos and etches displaying the English countryside and its flora and fauna. This family-run hotel is also very family-friendly, attracting plenty of parent with kids as well as couples looking for a romantic break surrounded by nature -- not to mention the occasional wedding.
Location
Set in the heart of the Lake District National Park in the Borrowdale Valley
The hotel is located practically overlooking stunning Lake Derwentwater in the heart of the Borrowdale valley, a few miles down the road from the pretty town of Keswick. It is set in one of the most picturesque locations in the Lake District with access to some of the best walking trails in the area starting right on the hotel's doorstep. There's almost nothing in the immediate area beyond the lake and forests, and the nearest airports -- Manchester and Glasgow -- are both at least a two-hour drive away.
Rooms
Some rooms have lovely lake views -- others little more than roof views
The hotel has 71 rooms, most of which are decorated in a modern take on traditional English styling with patterned floral fabrics and wallpaper, contemporary wooden furnishings, and countryside themed wall art. Many of the rooms have lovely views over the lake, while others overlook the nearby forest -- though others overlook mainly roof. Amenities are all present and correct, including free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee facilities, while fresh, modern bathrooms provide Gilchrist & Soames toiletries. While most of the rooms show signs of a recent refresh, some standard rooms are yet to be updated and look a little tired.
Features
Excellent fitness facilities and fine-dining restaurant
With both indoor and heated outdoor swimming pools (with kids' pool) plus on-site spa, tennis court, and fitness room, health and fitness amenities are certainly impressive for this level of hotel. Relaxation can also be found in a poolside sauna or in a hot tub overlooking the stream. The restaurant can feel a little stuffy, but it does have pretty garden views and does provide an award-winning (AA Rosette) menu of locally sourced food. The is also the Lake View Lounge Bar where guests can enjoy an al fresco bite or drink, while afternoon tea can be taken inside in front of a roaring fire. The hotel also offers free mountain bike hire to explore the valley surrounds or kayak hire to cruise the lake.
