Having belatedly discovered the staycation wonder that is the Lake District only a couple of years ago, it was with excitement that we headed north for a mid-week break earlier this year.
Our destination was Langdale Chase Hotel and its prime position on Lake Windermere, the largest lake in England.
With a fascinating history, Langdale Chase re-opened its doors as a hotel and restaurant destination in November 2023, after undergoing a 12-month restoration.
The Grade II-listed building has been sympathetically and immaculately returned to a premium quality, and has a stated ambition to transport guests back to the heyday era of the Lake District in the 1920s-30s.
The balance between original features and contemporary additions has been struck perfectly, with stylish updates to the late 19-century villa structure.
A lovely example of this is the original mosaic floor installed by Italian specialists, which one might almost miss on way to the basement cinema room. A choice of movies are played here each day, complete with popcorn and ice-cream.
The 30 rooms include suites and bedrooms in the main house and Lake house. Each has its own character and many are dog-friendly. The view from our daughter's Windermere Room was sublime, spanning over the private gardens and terrace to the Lake - which looked different but equally beautiful at every time of day.
The overall interior design of the hotel is polished yet welcoming. Entering in via the stunning panelled great hall complete with oak staircase and carvings, guests are able to choose from a variety of spaces to relax with a glass of something lovely - cosy nooks and crannies, a smart bar or drawing rooms with views out over Lake Windermere.
One sunny morning during our stay, guests were taking in breakfast outside on the large lakeside terrace.
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However, dining inside doesn't mean a loss of the view, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows in the restaurant ensuring all tables and guests are able to enjoy the unique setting whilst enjoying the quality and service, which has seen Langdale Chase awarded 5 stars by the AA.
The Swallow and Amazons-inspired afternoon tea is a particular favourite for hotel guests and visitors - and it is easy to see why.
The menu combines a fresh take on traditional sandwiches with a selection of savoury options, some less familiar than others - the Cheddar Doughnut with Cheese Custard was an interesting if tasty surprise. The generously portioned Fancies not only looked amazing but tasted fabulous (the Gooseberry Choux and Rice Pudding tart were personal favourites).
If anything might draw your eye from the view and the food it is the artisan-crafted pottery and woodwork on which the afternoon tea is served. Showcasing the work of a range of Cumbrian Makers the selection really adds something special, and there is real genuine pride in the locally sourced produce and products that the restaurant staff take time to talk through.
The same pride and enthusiasm was show by the Langdale Chase boatman, who will be taking on responsibility for the Albatross - a unique 1928 wooden motor yacht - which arrived recently (after our stay) at the hotel.
As a family we were treated to a sneak peek and use of the new kayak and SUP (stand up paddleboards) launched from beside the hotel's own lakeside Boat House - which will no doubt will be incredibly popular during the spring and summer months. It was a real highlight of our stay, the direct access to the Lake being a really unique feature of the hotel.
With historic features at every turn, magnificent views and lakeside activities on your doorstep, what more could you possibly want from a Lake District hotel?