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Are you on the hunt for the most luxurious hotels in the Lake District of England? Here’s your definitive guide to the Lake District’s best spa retreats.
Looking for the perfect spa getaway? The Lake District is where you’ll find it. Here, the best spa hotels offer an escape into luxury amidst stunning scenery. Imagine unwinding in top-tier spas with views of serene lakes and majestic mountains right at your doorstep.
These hotels are more than just a place to sleep. They’re gateways to relaxation and adventure, set in one of the UK’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re looking for a romantic break or a solo retreat, the Lake District has the perfect spot for you, making it one of the top places to live and visit in the UK.
I’ve compiled a list of ten of the Lake District’s best spa hotels, ready to offer you the ultimate relaxation experience in this North of England gem.
Luxury Hotels with Spas in the Lake District
Are you ready to dive into the tranquility of the Lake District’s best spa hotels? The Lake District offers a diverse array of luxury spa retreats set against its stunning natural backdrop. Prepare to uncover the finest spa experiences the Lake District has to offer.
Are you dreaming of a serene escape surrounded by the Lake District’s majestic mountains and serene lakes? Or perhaps you’re after a cozy retreat that blends luxury spa pampering with the charm of the Lake District’s quaint villages? No matter your preference, the Lake District is home to luxury spa hotels that cater to every desire.
1. Brimstone Hotel & Spa
Brimstone Hotel & Spa takes the spa experience to a whole new level in the Lake District. Picture this: a night swim in a heated rooftop pool, surrounded by the quiet of the fells under the moonlight. It’s not your everyday hotel. Tucked away in the Langdale Estate, it’s a spot where luxury meets nature.
Here, relaxation is serious business. From candlelit massages to a mix of steam rooms and saunas, Brimstone is all about unwinding in style. And that rooftop pool? It’s the cherry on top, especially with a cocktail in hand.
Right in Great Langdale, it’s a stone’s throw from Scafell Pike, making it perfect for those who love a good hike followed by some serious pampering. The hotel has everything to keep you cozy and relaxed, from outdoor areas with log fires to salt steam rooms.
For couples, the Duet Suites are a dream, featuring double everything – baths, showers, and even TVs. Or, for a spa vibe right in your room, check out the Spa Suites. These are complete with a wood-burning stove and a massive bath.
In short, Brimstone is one of the best places to stay in the Lake District for couples, offering a unique blend of adventure and relaxation.
2. Gilpin Hotel & Lake House
Gilpin Hotel & Lake House stands out as one of the best luxury hotels in the Lake District, especially for those who love a good spa day.
Imagine staying in a Spa Suite surrounded by quiet fells and woods, with huge windows that bring the outside in. Each suite boasts its own garden, deck, and hot tub, not to mention a cozy fireplace, a cocktail bar, and a unique circular stone bathtub. Plus, you get your own steam room, sauna, infrared lounge bed, and massage chair.
While it’s tempting to stay put in your suite, Gilpin’s other spa facilities are too good to miss. The Spa Space features treatment rooms inspired by nature and a spot to chill and reset. And when it comes to food, this place doesn’t disappoint. Gilpin is home to a Michelin-star restaurant led by chef Ollie Bridgwater, a protégé of Heston Blumenthal.
Gilpin is all about relaxation. The Lake House ups the ante with private hot tubs, saunas, and top-notch spa treatments in a Swedish-style Jetty Spa room. Picture getting a hot-stone massage as the evening mists roll in. If you’re after privacy, the spa lodges offer a secluded retreat with all the spa goodies.
Gilpin isn’t just for spa lovers, either. It’s a gateway to adventure, from fishing and horse-riding to mountain biking and even paintballing. Whether you’re here to unwind or explore, Gilpin Hotel & Lake House is a top pick for a luxury spa retreat in the Lake District.
3. Another Place, The Lake
Another Place is a breath of fresh air in the Lake District, drawing inspiration from its Cornish cousin, Watergate Bay. The decor is a cool mix of stylish and comfy, with local art, plenty of seating, and big tables perfect for dining or games. It strikes a balance between its Georgian roots and a modern, sporty feel.
The hotel boasts an impressive 20-meter glass-fronted indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, gym, and spa treatment rooms. For the adventurous, there’s stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking, and wild swimming in the lake.
But it’s the pool at Another Place that truly captures the imagination, offering stunning views of the surrounding English countryside through its floor-to-ceiling windows. Located on the shores of Ullswater, the Swim Club spa is a haven with its outdoor hot tub, sauna, and treatment rooms.
For those keen to dive into lake life, wetsuits are available for swimming in Ullswater. Or, paddle out on a board if the water’s chill is too much. Overnight guests have unique accommodation options, like cozy shepherd’s huts for stargazing or a contemporary two-bedroom treehouse nestled among oaks, complete with a freestanding bathtub on the deck.
Another Place offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s a hotel that I always recommend to those looking for luxury hotels with a spa in the Lake District.
4. The Daffodil Hotel & Spa
The Daffodil Hotel & Spa, nestled on the shores of Grasmere, is as picturesque as it gets in the Lake District. Named after the region’s beloved flower, this hotel offers a retreat that’s both scenic and secluded. With its stunning green surroundings, it’s a place where the beauty of nature is always in view, especially from the lake-edge restaurant. Here, dishes are not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes.
The spa at the Daffodil is a sanctuary of relaxation. You can enjoy facials with luxurious Germaine de Capuccini products, OPI manicures, and makeovers using Delilah Cosmetics. For something truly unique, I recommend the vitamin C body wraps or the couples’ mud therapy. These treatments come in festive ginger and chocolate orange flavors during certain seasons.
And let’s remember the classic afternoon tea, a staple in the Lake District that the Daffodil Hotel does exceptionally well. It’s the perfect complement to a day spent indulging in spa treatments. Believe me, the Daffodil Hotel & Spa is a must-visit for those looking for luxury spa hotels in the Lake District.
5. Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa
Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa, set on the shores of Windermere, is just a mile from Ambleside and offers the perfect base for exploring the Lakes. In my opinion, Low Wood is one of the best spa resorts in the Lake District.
This spa hotel doesn’t just pamper you with its health club, featuring a sauna, steam room, indoor pool, and Jacuzzi. It also welcomes you with a terrace for that celebratory arrival fizz and panoramic windows in the bar and breakfast room to soak in the stunning countryside views.
The spa experience here is about immersing yourself in relaxation with their signature three-hour “thermal journeys.” These journeys take you through various pools, including some in the fresh air, for a truly invigorating experience. For those seeking a touch of luxury, an Espa facial and manicure might be just the thing, followed by a cozy read in the Snug.
When hunger strikes, the Blue Smoke restaurant awaits with its impressive three-meter-long wood-fired grill, perfect for lunch or afternoon tea.
As a resort hotel, Low Wood Bay caters to all desires. Whether you’re looking to unwind, engage in some outdoor activities, or enjoy some family time, this place has something for everyone.
6. Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa
Armathwaite Hall, nestled in 400 acres of woodland and deer park, sits close to Bassenthwaite Lake and Skiddaw Mountain. It’s an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The staff are on hand to organize a range of activities, from fell walking to the serene practice of forest bathing. They always ensure that guests fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty surrounding them.
This stately home is not just known for its scenic location but also for its remarkable spa. Spread over two floors, the spa boasts an infinity pool, an outdoor hot tub with forest views, and 10 treatment rooms for a variety of pampering experiences. The mani, pedi, and make-up area add an extra touch of luxury. For relaxation, guests can unwind by a fireplace or on the Tranquillity Terrace, which offers stunning views of the spa gardens and leads out to the rockery.
When it’s time to eat, the Courtyard Bar and Brasserie offers a casual dining experience. In contrast, the lake-view restaurant provides a more formal setting.
Armathwaite Hall combines luxury spa treatments with the beauty of the Lake District. It’s a perfect retreat for those seeking relaxation and adventure in equal measure, truly one of the best spa retreats in the Lake District.
7. Lakeside Hotel & Spa
Ever dreamed of a spa getaway in the UK where you can arrive by boat? Lakeside Hotel & Spa, perched on the southern shores of Windermere, turns that dream into reality. This country-house hotel is not just about the stunning landscaped gardens or the lake-facing terrace perfect for sipping cocktails with a view. It’s also about indulging in British favorites at the conservatory restaurant, from afternoon tea to classic fish and chips.
Steamers dock to whisk guests off to Bowness-on-Windermere or Ambleside, yet the Aveda spa at Lakeside Hotel offers plenty of reasons to stay put. With an indoor pool and an outdoor sitting area complete with a fire-pit, relaxation is just the beginning. Spa days here kick off with coffee or juice by the lake, a peaceful garden stroll, and then a treatment of your choosing.
Can’t decide between a massage or a facial? The Aveda Aroma Combination offers the best of both worlds: a soothing 60-minute session that includes a back, neck, and shoulder massage, topped off with a rejuvenating facial routine. It’s the perfect way to unwind and soak in the serene beauty of Windermere. Take it from me, Lakeside Hotel & Spa is a top pick for those seeking luxury accommodation in the Lake District.
8. Langdale Hotel & Spa
Part of the enchanting Langdale Estate and sharing the luxurious spa with Brimstone, The Langdale Hotel is a gem among the 5-star spa hotels in the Lake District. Its unique charm lies in how it blends into the natural landscape. The hotel’s design, featuring low-level slate buildings nestled among trees and crossed by babbling streams, feels like a natural extension of the hilly terrain.
The interior contrasts with the outdoor setting, boasting bright and modern decor. Guests are greeted with leather banquettes, velvet seating, and designer lighting, all contributing to a stylish atmosphere. The color scheme of teal, dove grey, and mossy green adds a sophisticated touch to the clubby-style bedrooms.
For those in search of an extra special stay, the top-tier rooms offer secluded luxury. You can choose between Scandi-style rooms with balconies overlooking the beck or opt for rooms that dial up the glamor with double-ended slipper baths and expansive seven-foot-wide beds.
With its perfect blend of natural beauty and contemporary design, The Langdale Hotel stands out as a prime destination for those seeking a luxurious spa retreat in the UK.
9. Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa
Located in the Borrowdale Valley, Lodore Falls Hotel combines the charm of a 200-year-old building with a state-of-the-art spa that’s become the talk of the town. The UK’s best spa hotels often boast impressive facilities, but Lodore Falls takes it to another level with its modern amenities.
The spa features a rasul chamber, a champagne bar, and a comprehensive thermal suite complete with a laconium, herbal sauna, salt-room, heated loungers, an ice fountain, and an aroma steam-room.
This spot is a haven for spa lovers, offering bedrooms right within the spa building for those who can’t get enough of the pampering. The views from the 16-meter pool are breathtaking, with Derwentwater and the Catbells laying out before you. Treatments here are top-notch, utilizing beloved British brands Elemis and Ishga. Whether you’re in the mood for a superfood facial to enhance your glow, a seaweed and sea salt body scrub, or a soothing hot-poultice massage, Lodore Falls has you covered.
And if you manage to tear yourself away from the spa, the pan-Asian restaurant Mizu is a must-visit. Overall, Lodore Falls is the perfect destination for those seeking ultimate relaxation.
10. The Swan Hotel & Spa
Last up on our journey through the best spa hotels in the Lake District is The Swan Hotel & Spa. This spot has transformed its spa experience, moving from a quaint setup on the first floor to a sprawling new space on the ground floor in April 2022.
The upgrade offers a wide range of treatments that promise to soothe and rejuvenate. From scalp massages using Gua Sha techniques to hydrating facials and volcanic-stone body scrubs, guests are in for a treat.
The relaxation doesn’t stop at treatments. The super-stylish relaxation room invites guests to unwind in comfort, while the thermal journey offers a vitality pool, steam room, Finnish sauna, experience showers, drench buckets, and spa pools. For those looking to make the most of the spa facilities, two hours’ access to the thermal suite plus the spa garden is available for £20 per guest.
With local walks and a riverside terrace overlooking the nearby marina, guests can enjoy the beauty of the Lake District whether they’re exploring or simply relaxing with a drink in hand.
As we wrap up our exploration of the Lake District’s best spa hotels, it’s clear that each offers its own unique blend of relaxation, pampering, and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat or an adventurous escape, these hotels promise an unforgettable experience in one of the UK’s most picturesque regions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Spa Hotels in the Lake District
Are you looking for more content about where to stay in the Lake District? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked about 5-star spa hotels in the Lake District.
Which town is best to stay in Lake District?
Keswick is often hailed as the ideal base for exploring the Lake District, making it a perfect destination for those looking to fly to England. It’s not just its convenient location that makes it a winner. Keswick has a vibrant mix of outdoor activities, cultural sites, and cozy cafes and pubs. The town is nestled close to Derwentwater, offering easy access to boat tours and watersports. Plus, with Skiddaw Mountain as a backdrop, hikers and climbers are in for a treat.
What is the most beautiful part of the Lake District?
This is a tough one, as beauty is so subjective, but Buttermere Valley stands out for its tranquil beauty, making it an ideal destination for a vacation in Europe. The combination of Buttermere and Crummock Water, framed by dramatic fells, creates a serene and almost untouched landscape. The area is less crowded than other parts of the Lake District, offering a peaceful escape with stunning walks right on your doorstep. The reflections of the surrounding mountains in the lakes’ clear waters are simply breathtaking.
What is the most visited place in the Lake District?
Windermere is the Lake District’s most visited area, and it’s easy to see why. It’s not only home to England’s largest lake but also bustling with activities, attractions, and beautiful scenery, making it one of the top destinations for things to do in Europe. Bowness-on-Windermere, in particular, is a hub for tourists. This town offers boat rentals, cruises on the lake, and a lively selection of shops and eateries.
Which lake in the Lake District has the best views?
While each lake has its own unique charm, Derwentwater arguably offers some of the most picturesque views, making it an ideal destination for those looking to stay in England. Surrounded by fells and dotted with wooded islands, Derwentwater’s beauty is easily accessible from Keswick. You can enjoy the views from the lakeshore, take a leisurely cruise, or hike up to one of the surrounding viewpoints, such as Catbells, for a panoramic vista. The lake’s calm waters reflect the sky and surrounding peaks, creating stunning visual effects that photographers dream of.
