Cumbria

Exclusive guide to the best holiday destinations in Cumbria, independent reviews from award-winning travel writers

Opened in the early part of the 20th century, the Waterhead Hotel, south of Ambleside, was one of a new ‘breed’ of hotels purpose-built to accommodate the rising tide of affluent tourists to the Lake District.

Waterhead Hotel, Cumbria

The discerning hotel visitor will know that there are few pleasures in life more agreeable than time devoted to the ritual of Afternoon Tea

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Armathwaite Hall

Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa

The oak-panelled reception with its magnificent bouquets is truly beautiful. It leads to a grand staircase, lounges with open fireplaces, oil paintings, and hunting trophies hanging from the walls.

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Salutation exterior

The Salutation Hotel, Ambleside

Having occupied one corner of the centre of Ambleside for more than 360 years, it is not surprising that the Salutation Hotel has acquired both a history and a reputation.

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Cedar Manor exterior

Cedar Manor

Cedar Manor, within an easy walk of Lake Windermere, is winning a constant slew of awards since Caroline and Jonathan Kaye picked up the keys 10 years ago.

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Lakeside

The Lakeside Hotel.  Lake District

It seems The Lakeside Hotel can cure all ills. Just lately I’ve noticed myself growing a little grumpy about hotels. Twenty years on the road as a travel writer have turned the old excitement of walking into a new and different foyer and sleeping in cool clean sheets into a grouchy wariness.

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