Lodore Falls Hotel, Keswick

There are few places in the U.K. that can boast an overwhelming placid lake view, breath-taking mountainous surroundings, a stunning waterfall and endless activities right on the doorstep, which explains why the Lodore Falls hotel in Borrowdale, Cumbria has recently been upgraded to four-star rosette status.

The hotel itself is nestled in the Borrowdale Valley, overlooking Derwentwater, and is over two hundred years old. It stands within 40 acres of beautifully kept grounds, surrounded by a plethora of mountains and crags, providing a stunning back-drop to this graceful looking, Lakeland slate building.

I have been a visitor to the Lodore Falls for the last three years, generally spending 1-2 weekends of the summer there as a luxury treat. Yes, I probably could go abroad for a similar price but I am a firm believer in discovering the delights of the U.K, and with my hectic schedules, don't really have time for longer breaks, further from home (Carlisle). Despite living relatively close to the Lake District, I do not have the opportunity to visit as often as I would like, so every time I do go, it's definitely a treat.

The Lodore Falls Hotel falls into what I would call the Luxury category, and it's recent upgrade to four-star status emphasises its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. It underwent a £2 million makeover several years ago, restoring much of it to classical and contemporary styling. The bedrooms, along with their en-suite bathrooms have been re-decorated to an extremely high standard, and are always immaculate. Several of the larger suites such as the Fell View also boast free standing large baths, the epitome of luxury.

The hotel itself is also renowned for it's additional on-site facilities such as the health and beauty salon, gym and indoor swimming pool, as well as the top notch restaurant, which serves amazing food.
The health spa is ideal for those who love the pampering aspects of a holiday, with tanning, waxing, massage and spa facilities. It isn't your average health spa, the emphasis being on luxurious relaxation in more than stunning surroundings.
For those who enjoy fitness, the well equipped gym and adjoining swimming pool, complete with trainers and instructors, should be more than ample for anyone's regular routine, and it is never too crowded, so if you enjoy working out at a more leisurely pace, it is ideal. Additionally, the grounds boast a tennis court, squash court, and outdoor swimming pool which is supervised and open during most of the summer months, dependant on weather.

I have frequented the hotel for over three years, and each experience seems to improve upon the previous year, although I think this has been upon the discovery of new facilities and experiences at the hotel. Admittedly, on my first visit, I did feel a little overwhelmed at the high quality, and on entering the hotel you feel as if you have entered a millionaire's home, however the staff are very quick to welcome you and introduce you to the facilities, and are more than helpful handling additional luggage, directing you to rooms, the restaurant or the leisure areas.

Bedrooms:

I have stayed in both the standard suite and the Fell View suite (larger and grander two room suite), and both were well equipped with hospitality trays, fresh flowers, hair-dryers, fluffy guest towels and Sky Television, as well as stunning views of Derwentwater. The rooms are all immaculately clean and well-presented, and a welcome comfort if you are on a hiking or walking holiday. The mattresses aren't too bouncy, and the pillows are full and plumped ensuring a great nights' sleep.

Food:

The hotel has become infamous for it's cuisine, and use of local produce. The chef, who has worked at the hotel for over 25 years, has built up a sterling reputation for a restaurant that offers fine dining and an extensive menu, as well as a wine menu that compliments Lakeland Beef and Cumbrian Lamb. For a hotel building it's reputation, I wouldn't say the dinner menu is at all pretentious. The catering could be described as high class cuisine but this is reflective of the hotel's image, and something you would expect from a place of it's calibre.
Early evening canapes are offered on the restaurant menu and consist of venison, seafoods and fish as well as vegetarian options. The price is not inclusive of the dinner, bed and breakfast rate as far as I am aware, however this may have changed in recent months.

Breakfast options vary from a continental style, to a more traditional english option. Additionally there are choices of juice, toast, coffee, tea, as well as specials. Breakfast is included in either the Bed & Breakfast, or Dinner, Bed & Breakfast packages.

Lodore also has a lounge bar and cafe for alternative beverage and food options, lighter lunches and meals are generally offered, as well as afternoon tea on the front lawn which I have enjoyed on several occasions, overlooking the lake and stunning scenery.

Staff:

While the hotel itself demonstrates grandeur and quality from decor to cuisine, it would not be as enjoyable a stay if it wasn't for the staff. Many are quite local and therefore very knowledgable on the area, attractions and transport options. They seem very intent on not imposing upon their guests, yet maintaining a close relationship and remaining at hand to help or assist in any way they can. I have stayed at the hotel whilst tourists from other countries have been visiting, and found the staff to be very patient, as well as efficient in their communication with people. The emphasis is definitely on exceeding expectation and making your stay as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.

Location:

The Lodore Falls Hotel is situated in the Borrowdale Valley, a 10-15 minute drive from Keswick, or 20 minutes on the regular open-top bus from Keswick. The hotel is also accessible via the Derwentwater ferry which runs hourly and departs from Keswick, stopping off at a number of locations around the lake, making travelling an enjoyable and varied experience. You can additionally walk from the town, which takes 35-40 minutes along the Borrowdale road, which isn't overly busy.
Due to the hotel's location, it also opens up a variety of walking opportunities within the Grange, Borrowdale Valley and lakeland areas. Surrounded by mountains and crags, there are no end of possibilities, and for more planned routes, guides are available from the Keswick tourist office. There are also walking tours which set off from the hotel and Keswick town on a daily basis, and although are not inclusive in the hotel price, are definitely worth looking into.

Activities:

On the doorstep of the hotel, Derwentwater offers a variety of opportunities from kayaking, canoeing and sailing, to ferry rides and walks. Within the grounds of the hotel itself, are the Lodore Falls, a famous beauty spot well worth the 5 minute walk behind the hotel. The hotel is set within 40 acres of grounds, from sculpted lawns and gardens, to woodland and ideal for shorter walks and relaxation. Keswick itself offers a motor museum (featuring cars from famous films and t.v programmes such as Fast and Furious, Mr. Bean and Only Fools and Horses), a golf course, the infamous Theatre By The Lake, and a number of craft/ specialist shops, and the Cumberland Pencil Museum. The attractions are endless, and trying to fit everything in is a challenge in itself.

Rates:

Prices are reflective of the level of quality and the status of the hotel, single nights in a standard double room from £78.00 per person for bed and breakfast. If you wish to include dinner in your package, the price per person increases to £103.00 per person, per night, however the quality and choice of the menu is well worth it. This price does include a full three courses, but does not include beverages or additional drinks in the hotel lounge.
It is recommendable to check the website prior to booking, as the hotel offers numerous special breaks and deals, even during the peak summer months. Currently there is a weekend special break deal of £198.00 per person based on a standard double room, and is inclusive of dinner, bed and breakfast. There are price variations dependant on the choice of room.
The hotel requires a non-refundable deposit of £40 per person, payable at the time of booking to secure your room, and as in the majority of hotel policies, cancellation fees apply if you cancel within 7 days of your proposed staying period.

The website regularly offers deals for particular types of holidays such as walking, spa, and golf breaks, and also pamper days.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES:

The Lodore Falls caters for a variety of breaks, as well as being renowned for it's wedding services. The hotel employs an on-site wedding co-ordinator who will assist on a personal basis in the planning and delivery of your wedding to the highest expectations.
Additionally the hotel caters for private functions and events, as well as boasting several function rooms and suites for smaller parties and corporate functions.

In conclusion, if you are seeking a pampering, luxurious holiday in the heart of the Lake District, with endless opportunities, walks and activities on your doorstep, the Lodore Falls Hotel is ideal. You can do as much or as little as you want, and whether you choose to spend your holiday within the hotel grounds or exploring further afield, it is definitely a worth-while visit. Personally, I am constantly drawn to the relaxation and revitalising treatments offered by the health spa, as well as the local walks in the immediate area, which require very little effort and are most enjoyable. I love the peaceful atmosphere and ever-changing views, as well as the opportunity to slow down and unwind, in amazing surroundings. I have enjoyed dining at the hotel, however am very keen on exploring, therefore have excluded the dinner aspect from my stay a few times, in order to try out recommended restaurants and pubs in the vicinity. I would definitely recommend a visit to the hotel, as they welcome non-residents to use both their facilities, lounge and dining areas, and cater for lunches, afternoon teas and dinners. Only trouble is, you will want to stay the night.