Introduction
10 Quirky Boutique Hotels in Cumbria You Can Actually Book: Cumbria, home to the breathtaking Lake District National Park, is a region of unparalleled natural beauty and rich history. Its serene lakes, majestic mountains, and charming villages attract millions of visitors each year, offering endless opportunities for exploration. For those seeking a stay as memorable as the landscapes, Cumbria boasts an array of quirky boutique hotels that blend luxury, history, and eccentricity. These intimate accommodations cater to families, couples, and solo travellers, providing personalised experiences that elevate any trip. In this article, we explore 10 such hotels, each offering a unique charm, from historic castles to eco-conscious retreats, ensuring your Cumbrian adventure is unforgettable.
The Allure of Boutique Hotels
Boutique hotels are defined by their small size, distinctive design, and personalised service. Unlike chain hotels, they reflect the character of their surroundings or the vision of their owners, often incorporating local history, culture, or innovative concepts. In Cumbria, these hotels range from Victorian villas and Norman castles to modern eco-friendly havens, each with a story to tell. Whether you’re drawn to the romance of a historic estate, the adventure of a castle stay, or the sustainability of an organic retreat, Cumbria’s boutique hotels offer something for every traveller.
The 10 Quirky Boutique Hotels
1. Haweswater Hotel
Background and History
Nestled in a remote corner of the Lake District, the Haweswater Hotel is a striking example of Art Deco architecture. Built in 1937 to replace the Dunn Bull Inn, submerged during the creation of the Haweswater Reservoir, this hotel is a Modernist masterpiece. Its construction used local stone and Cumberland slate, blending seamlessly with the surrounding nature reserve.
Unique Features
As the only building in 100 square miles of nature reserve, the Haweswater Hotel offers unparalleled tranquillity. Its 17 characterful rooms feature period furniture, parquet flooring, and lake views, with some offering balconies. The hotel’s restaurant, Mark Greenaway at the Haweswater, holds two AA Rosettes for its fine dining, showcasing local produce. The Art Deco interiors, complete with 1930s posters and a vintage soundtrack, transport guests to a bygone era.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Lakeside Road, Bampton, Cumbria, CA10 2RP |
| Room Types | Lake View Rooms, Dog-Friendly Rooms (e.g., Wainwright, Mardale) |
| Price Range | From £125 per night |
| Amenities | Fine dining restaurant, brasserie, bar, lake view terrace, free Wi-Fi |
| Booking | Haweswater Hotel |
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) for mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Accessibility: 20 minutes from M6 Junction 40; narrow roads require careful driving.
- Pet-Friendly: Dog-friendly rooms available; confirm at booking.
- Nearby Attractions: Haweswater Reservoir, Harter Fell, and the Coast-to-Coast walking route.
Dining and Stay Recommendations
Dine at Mark Greenaway for a tasting menu or Brasserie 37 for hearty French-inspired dishes. Stay in the Mardale Suite for a spacious sitting area and lake views.
Seasonal Events
The hotel hosts art exhibitions featuring local artists, with pieces available for purchase. Check the website for seasonal dining events.
2. Lindeth Howe Hotel
Background and History
Once owned by Beatrix Potter, Lindeth Howe Hotel is a historic country house in Bowness-on-Windermere. Built in the 19th century, it served as Potter’s retreat, inspiring her literary works. Today, it’s a luxurious hotel set in six acres of gardens with views over Lake Windermere.
Unique Features
The hotel’s 30 elegant rooms include the Potter Room, named after its famous former owner, featuring decor inspired by her legacy. Guests enjoy a cosy lounge, a character-filled bar, and dining options that highlight local ingredients. The hotel offers guided walks and afternoon tea, enhancing its charm.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Lindeth Drive, Longtail Hill, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3JF |
| Room Types | Classic Rooms, Suites, Potter Room |
| Price Range | From £150 per night |
| Amenities | Restaurant, bar, lounge, gardens, free Wi-Fi |
| Booking | Lindeth Howe |
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for outdoor activities; winter for cosy fireside stays.
- Accessibility: Less than 30 minutes from M6 Junction 36; use Longtail Hill in sat nav.
- Family-Friendly: Family rooms available; activities for children.
- Nearby Attractions: World of Beatrix Potter, Lake Windermere cruises.
Dining and Stay Recommendations
Enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, featuring seasonal menus. The Potter Room is ideal for fans of Beatrix Potter, offering garden and lake views.
Seasonal Events
Festive season packages include sparkling dinners and holiday celebrations, perfect for winter getaways.
3. Armathwaite Hall
Background and History
Armathwaite Hall, a 17th-century stately home, is set in 400 acres of deer park and woodland near Bassenthwaite Lake. This historic property has been transformed into a luxurious hotel, retaining its grandeur while offering modern amenities.
Unique Features
With 43 individually designed rooms, including feature rooms, estate suites, and garden suites, the hotel caters to various preferences. Its award-winning spa, set in private woodland, offers treatments and therapies. Activities like archery, clay pigeon shooting, and wild swimming add adventure to the stay.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Bassenthwaite Lake, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4RE |
| Room Types | Feature Rooms, Estate Suites, Garden Suites, Family Rooms |
| Price Range | From £200 per night |
| Amenities | Spa, Lake View Restaurant, The Grill, afternoon tea, activities |
| Booking | Armathwaite Hall |
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with seasonal activities like fell walking in autumn.
- Accessibility: Near Keswick, accessible by car from M6.
- Pet-Friendly: Dog-friendly rooms available.
- Nearby Attractions: Lake District Wildlife Park, Derwentwater.
Dining and Stay Recommendations
Dine at the Lake View Restaurant for fine dining or The Grill for casual meals. Opt for a garden suite for a private retreat.
Seasonal Events
Spa breaks and seasonal dining events are offered throughout the year.
4. Appleby Castle
Background and History
Appleby Castle, a 12th-century Norman castle, has a storied past, having been held by kings of England and Scotland. It was the residence of Lady Anne Clifford in the 17th century, known for her literary patronage. The castle now offers luxurious accommodations and historical tours.
Unique Features
The castle features 12 stylish bedrooms and 3 self-contained cottages, blending modern comfort with medieval charm. The Great Hall, built in 1454, and a games room add to the experience. Guests have exclusive fishing rights on the River Eden.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Appleby-in-Westmorland, Cumbria, CA16 6XH |
| Room Types | Castle Bedrooms, Cottages |
| Price Range | From £180 per night |
| Amenities | Great Hall, games room, fishing, history tours |
| Booking | Appleby Castle |
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for history tours and fishing.
- Accessibility: Located in the Eden Valley, accessible by car.
- Family-Friendly: Cottages are ideal for families.
- Nearby Attractions: Eden Valley, Yorkshire Dales.
Dining and Stay Recommendations
Dine locally in Appleby-in-Westmorland; the castle offers breakfast. Stay in a cottage for a family-friendly experience.
Seasonal Events
Daily history tours in summer; book in advance.
5. Randy Pike
Background and History
Randy Pike, once a gentleman’s hunting lodge on the Wray Castle estate, is a boutique B&B on the outskirts of Ambleside. Restored by owners Andy and Chrissy Hill, it combines Victorian charm with modern luxury.
Unique Features
The property offers three opulent suites, each with bold, bohemian decor mixing vintage and contemporary elements. Features include super-king beds, glamorous bathrooms, and in-room breakfasts. The Juniper House suite has quirky touches like a ceiling light made from a log basket.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Outgate, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 0JP |
| Room Types | Vallelay, Martindale, Dawson, Juniper House |
| Price Range | From £240 per night |
| Amenities | In-room breakfast, free Wi-Fi, minibar, pet-friendly |
| Booking | Randy Pike |
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring for walking; winter for cosy stays.
- Accessibility: Between Ambleside and Hawkshead, a 20-minute walk to Lake Windermere.
- Minimum Stay: Two-night minimum.
- Nearby Attractions: Wray Castle, Lake Windermere.
Dining and Stay Recommendations
Dine at The Jumble Room in Grasmere, owned by the same proprietors. The Juniper House is perfect for a unique stay.
Seasonal Events
Check for special dining events at The Jumble Room.
6. Augill Castle
Background and History
Augill Castle, a Victorian folly near Kirkby Stephen, was built in the 1840s to resemble a medieval castle. This family-run hotel offers a playful, adventurous atmosphere, steeped in history.
Unique Features
With 14 rooms featuring four-poster beds and roll-top baths, the castle is stuffed with antiques and eccentric charm. Activities include board games, movie nights, and exploring its terraces and lawns, making it ideal for families.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria, CA17 4DE |
| Room Types | Castle Rooms, Suites |
| Price Range | From £220 per person (two-night stay) |
| Amenities | Communal dining, games, movie nights, free Wi-Fi |
| Booking | Augill Castle |
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with holiday events.
- Accessibility: Between Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, accessible by car.
- Family-Friendly: Welcomes children and dogs.
- Nearby Attractions: Yorkshire Dales, Eden Valley.
Dining and Stay Recommendations
Enjoy communal dinners around a huge oak table. Choose a suite for extra space.
Seasonal Events
Holiday packages include festive celebrations and special offers for longer stays.
7. The Cottage in the Wood
Background and History
Located in Braithwaite near Keswick, The Cottage in the Wood is a restaurant-with-rooms set in a woodland area, offering a serene escape. Its history as a coaching inn adds to its charm.
Unique Features
The hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant is a highlight, serving exquisite dishes with local ingredients. The 10 cosy rooms offer tree-top views, and walking routes start from the doorstep, appealing to nature lovers.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Magic Hill, Braithwaite, Cumbria, CA12 5TW |
| Room Types | Standard Rooms, Suites |
| Price Range | From £130 per night |
| Amenities | Michelin-starred restaurant, free Wi-Fi, walking routes |
| Booking | The Cottage in the Wood |
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Autumn for foliage; spring for wildflowers.
- Accessibility: Near Keswick, accessible by car.
- Dining: Book restaurant tables in advance.
- Nearby Attractions: Derwentwater, Whinlatter Forest.
Dining and Stay Recommendations
Dine at the restaurant for a culinary experience. Opt for a suite for extra comfort.
Seasonal Events
Seasonal tasting menus and walking events are offered.
8. The Hare & Hounds Inn
Background and History
The Hare & Hounds Inn, a 17th-century coaching inn in Bowland Bridge, has been restored to blend traditional charm with modern comforts, offering a laidback retreat.
Unique Features
The inn features 12 rooms with vast bathrooms and valley views. Its pub serves classics with a twist, like wild boar sausages, in a cosy setting with log fires. The inn’s historic ambience adds to its quirkiness.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Bowland Bridge, Cumbria, LA11 6NN |
| Room Types | Double, Twin, Family Rooms |
| Price Range | From £168 per night |
| Amenities | Pub, restaurant, free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly options |
| Booking | The Hare & Hounds |
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for outdoor dining; winter for fireside meals.
- Accessibility: Near Lake Windermere, accessible by car.
- Pet-Friendly: Confirm pet-friendly rooms at booking.
- Nearby Attractions: Lake Windermere, Cartmel village.
Dining and Stay Recommendations
Enjoy pub classics at the inn’s restaurant. Choose a room with valley views for a scenic stay.
Seasonal Events
Sunday roasts and seasonal menus are popular.
9. Moss Grove Organic
Background and History
Moss Grove Organic, a Victorian house in Grasmere, was refurbished to prioritise sustainability, using organic materials and eco-friendly practices. Its central location makes it a perfect base for exploring the Lake District.
Unique Features
The hotel’s 11 rooms feature natural-ink wallpapers, reclaimed timber beds, and organic toiletries. The Mediterranean-style buffet breakfast, with organic and local produce, is a highlight. Its eco-conscious design sets it apart.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Broadgate, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9TA |
| Room Types | Standard Rooms, Suite with Hot Tub |
| Price Range | From £139 per night |
| Amenities | Organic breakfast, free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly suite |
| Booking | Moss Grove Organic |
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with each season offering unique charm.
- Accessibility: Central Grasmere, walkable from bus stops.
- Special Diets: Notify of dietary requirements.
- Nearby Attractions: Wordsworth Museum, Dove Cottage.
Dining and Stay Recommendations
The breakfast buffet is a must. The ground-floor suite with a private hot tub is ideal for couples.
Seasonal Events
Art exhibitions by local artists like Heather Lowe are hosted regularly.
10. Another Place, The Lake
Background and History
Another Place, The Lake, is a contemporary hotel on the shores of Ullswater, blending traditional Georgian architecture with modern design. It’s known for its focus on outdoor activities and relaxation.
Unique Features
The hotel’s standout feature is its two-bedroom treehouse, offering lake views, an outdoor bath, and a log burner. With 40 rooms, a spa, swimming pool, and water sports facilities, it’s a versatile retreat for all travellers.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Watermillock, Ullswater, Cumbria, CA11 0LP |
| Room Types | Standard Rooms, Suites, Treehouse |
| Price Range | From £245 per night |
| Amenities | Spa, pool, water sports, restaurant, pet-friendly |
| Booking | Another Place |
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for water sports; winter for cosy stays.
- Accessibility: Near Penrith, accessible by car.
- Family-Friendly: Family rooms and activities available.
- Nearby Attractions: Aira Force Waterfall, Ullswater Steamers.
Dining and Stay Recommendations
Dine at the hotel’s restaurant for local cuisine. The treehouse is perfect for a unique family or couple’s stay.
Seasonal Events
Outdoor activities like open-water swimming and archery are offered seasonally.
Suggested Itineraries
3-Day Romantic Getaway
- Day 1: Check into Randy Pike for a bohemian suite experience. Dine at The Jumble Room and explore Ambleside.
- Day 2: Visit Lake Windermere for a cruise, then relax in your suite’s luxurious bathroom.
- Day 3: Tour Wray Castle and enjoy breakfast in your suite before checking out.
5-Day Family Adventure
- Day 1: Arrive at Augill Castle for a fun family stay. Enjoy board games and movie nights.
- Day 2: Explore the Yorkshire Dales with a family hike.
- Day 3: Visit Eden Valley and join a castle history tour.
- Day 4: Try fishing on the River Eden, exclusive to guests.
- Day 5: Breakfast in the Great Hall and depart.
7-Day Nature and Culture Retreat
- Days 1-2: Stay at Moss Grove Organic in Grasmere. Visit the Wordsworth Museum and enjoy the organic breakfast.
- Days 3-4: Move to The Cottage in the Wood for woodland walks and Michelin-starred dining.
- Days 5-7: Check into Another Place, The Lake, for the treehouse experience, water sports, and spa relaxation.
Practical Advice
- Booking: Always book directly through hotel websites for the best rates and to confirm availability. Platforms like Booking.com or Expedia can also be used.
- When to Go: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities, while winter provides a cosy escape.
- Accessibility: Most hotels are accessible by car from the M6. Public transport options, like buses to Grasmere or Penrith, are available for some locations.
- Family and Pet Policies: Check specific policies, as many hotels offer family rooms or pet-friendly options.
- Special Offers: Look for seasonal packages, such as spa breaks or festive dining events, on hotel websites.
Conclusion
Cumbria’s quirky boutique hotels offer a diverse range of experiences, from the Art Deco elegance of Haweswater Hotel to the eco-conscious charm of Moss Grove Organic. Whether you’re drawn to the historical allure of Appleby Castle, the bohemian vibes of Randy Pike, or the treehouse adventure at Another Place, The Lake, these hotels provide a unique base for exploring the Lake District. Each property combines personalised service with distinctive features, ensuring a memorable stay for families, couples, and solo travellers. Plan your Cumbrian getaway today and discover the magic of these extraordinary accommodations.
