Armathwaite Hall stands at the head of Bassenthwaite Lake, in the quieter north-western corner of the National Park, within hundreds of acres of its own parkland, woods and fields where deer roam. It is the classic Lake District country-house hotel, a long, stately building with dark oak panelling, open fires and period rooms, and it has welcomed guests for generations. The northern Lakes are a different experience from Windermere, with fewer crowds, bigger skies and the broad whaleback of Skiddaw filling the horizon, and the hotel is a comfortable base for Keswick, Derwentwater, Borrowdale and the Lakes Distillery, all within easy driving distance. The spa gives a reason to stay in on bad days, with a pool and treatment rooms, and the grounds support country pursuits such as walking, and, at times, activities like falconry and riding. Dining is a central part of the stay, with a formal restaurant and a more relaxed brasserie, and afternoon tea in the lounge is a winter ritual in front of the fire. Rates are mid-range to upper mid-range, and midweek and winter offers are common.
Location and getting around
The hotel is a few miles from Keswick, down a private drive off the main road along the western shore of Bassenthwaite Lake. It is not a walking-distance hotel, so plan to drive or use a taxi for sightseeing, but the reward is quiet, countryside views and easy access to the lower northern fells.
The Lakes Distillery, Mirehouse, the lake shore and the walks up Dodd Wood, where ospreys have nested in recent summers, are all close. Keswick and Derwentwater are a short drive, and Castlerigg and Honister are within half an hour.
The rooms
Rooms vary greatly because the building is historic, from compact classics to large suites with four-poster beds and views over the grounds. Some rooms are in the main house and some in other buildings in the grounds, so check which you are booking if you want the atmosphere of the old hall. A garden or park view is worth requesting. Because older houses have quirks, expect creaks, thick walls and the odd stair, and ask about accessibility if you need step-free access.
Eating and relaxing
Dinner is a highlight, and many guests book half-board packages. The spa and pool make a good wet-weather plan, and the lounges and library have an old-fashioned warmth, with fires lit through the colder months. The atmosphere is traditional, so smart-casual dress is common at dinner. The hotel is popular for celebrations and weddings, so weekends can be busy.
Good to know
Check the hotel's policies on dogs and children, which have varied over time, and book early for Christmas, New Year and summer weekends. It suits couples, small celebrations and walkers who like to end a day with a hot soak and a good dinner. If you want to be on the lake shore itself, choose Lodore Falls on Derwentwater; if you want a lively lakeside resort, choose Low Wood Bay on Windermere.
Why stay here
- ✓Historic country house in a deer park
- ✓Spa with pool and treatments
- ✓Formal restaurant and brasserie
- ✓Afternoon tea by the fire
- ✓Oak-panelled lounges
- ✓Bassenthwaite Lake setting
- ✓Country pursuits in the grounds
- ✓Free on-site parking
Good questions
How far is Armathwaite Hall from Keswick?+
A few miles by road, a short drive or taxi ride. The hotel is not in walking distance of the town, but the surrounding countryside has good walks.
Does the hotel have a spa?+
Yes. It has a spa with a pool and treatment rooms, which is a popular choice on wet or cold days.
What is the setting like?+
The hotel stands in its own parkland beside Bassenthwaite Lake, with deer in the grounds and views towards Skiddaw, in the quieter northern Lakes.
