Holbeck Ghyll
Holbeck Lane, Windermere, Cumbria, United Kingdom, LA23 1LU
Loading map...
#4 of 10
expert-rated hotels in Windermere- Recommended for:
- Business travellers, Couples, Foodies, Honeymooners, Great views / scenery, People watching, Relaxation, Romance, Special occasions
Best for Romance - Expert review of Holbeck Ghyll
The most romantic luxury bolthole in the central Lakes.
If you're looking for a tucked-away place to spend quality time with someone special, this grand country house ticks a lot of boxes.
I must say found the ambience rather aloof at first, and my first phone contact with reception tempted me to cancel my visit outright, but I warmed to the place once through the oak-panelled entrance hall.
Holbeck Ghyll was originally a Victorian hunting lodge but today it epitomises the stylish face of the Lakes with quality food and worth-the-trip views of Windermere.
In the end I was sold but beware receptionists with ideas above their station.
Location:
Set back from the main A591 on a quiet country lane. The helicopter pad gets more than an average usage for easy transfers to Manchester airport, failing that a taxi to Oxenhome station for mainline connections.
Bedrooms:
Four styles of rooms are available with 13 doubles in the main house, six doubles in The Lodge and two suites. The majority have lake views and are all well equipped, mixing country-house elegance with some modern touches. Expect a decanter of damson gin to help drink in that first view from the window.
The Lodge is better suited tol families and group, while the Miss Potter Suite is the most exclusive room, a detached suite with lake view, double/twin room, private terrace and sunken hot tub.
Check availability and compare prices for Holbeck Ghyll
Public areas:
Some encouraging signs that style and substance can mix: a row of muddy wellies by the door; comfy chairs and an open fire in the lobby; a comfy lounge for newspapers, coffee and daydreaming.
Eating and drinking:
The 60-cover restauant is Michelin standard with head chef David McLaughlin retaining his star for the menu of fresh, seasonal and local produce.
Oak panelled and candlelit, it feels intimate and welcoming.
Leisure facilities:
The Health Spa, using ESPA products, boasts a steam room and sauna, and two treatment rooms. There's also a small gym and a croquet lawn.
If you have made it out of the room, the Fell Walkers’ Life Saving Back and Leg Massage costs £55 for one hour of pummelling.
Service:
Attentive not obtrusive overall, especially at dinner. But some find the atmosphere a bit artificial and the staff less than genuine at times.
Check availability and compare prices for Holbeck Ghyll
Who stays there:
People who finally decided to get a room - think stressed executives with mistress up from London to special anniversary celebrants reigniting that spark.
Pros:
Romance
Lake views and mod cons
Cons:
Variable service
More information on Holbeck Ghyll:
- Type:
- Hotel
- Address:
- Holbeck Lane, Windermere, Cumbria, United Kingdom, LA23 1LU
- Free tags / Keywords:
- Michelin restaurant
- Amenities:
- High-Speed Internet, Parking, Pets Allowed, Restaurant, Room Service
