An outdoorsy stay done the wellness way...
Picture the Lake District and your mind probably conjures rolling hills and endless lakes extending well into the horizon. A place for hiking or fishing, perhaps.
The first thing you think of is probably not a spa break – but perhaps you should for the beautiful, restorative views. Nestled in the northern market town of Keswick, Cumbria, Armathwaite Hall hotel is home to a two-rosette restaurant and seriously tranquil spa.
So what makes this greenery-clad wellness spot quite so special? Keep scrolling to find out why this Lakes destination should be number one on your spa hit list.
Armathwaite Hall spa
The hotel itself is a well-known wedding venue in the area, with lush sprawling grounds complete with a beautiful terrace and bandstand for the perfect photo opportunity.
Bedrooms, should you wish to spend the night, are cosy and antique-y with dark wooden furniture and enormous drape curtains; though it's worth noting that they don't have air conditioning, so an overnight stay may be more suited to wintertime.
But stroll through the old-world corridors and into the spa, and the aesthetic completely changes to that of the ultra-modern. Think clean lines, soft furnishings and above all, peace and quiet.
With loungers surrounded almost entirely by windows, you're able to relax in front of the verdant grounds whatever the weather.
A heated infinity pool allows you to spend time in the midst of nature, winter or summer, with drinks orders brought directly to you. Prosecco, anyone?
The indoor facilities however, are extremely impressive. Every restorative spa facility you could ask for is here – sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, aroma room and hydrotherapy pool to name but a few.
And you're spoilt for choice with the extensive treatment menu on offer upstairs. The aromatherapy massage is one of the most relaxing I've ever had – a masseuse who gets you to actually switch off is a rare and beautiful thing – and the staff are all polite and friendly, without overdoing it.
Food and drink
Overlooking the beautiful grounds, the Lake View Restaurant is truly the jewel in the crown at Armathwaite. Seasonal, local produce is fully celebrated with an oft-changing menu, so you know you're dining on the good stuff, whether you pick game, fish or meat (the flambée of beef is exquisite).
Consider yourself something of a budding sommelier? An impressive 110 wines are on offer here, perfectly matched to your menu choices – as well as delicious surprises from the chef in between courses.
If you are staying overnight, breakfast in the conservatory is a must; the narrow, light stone courtyard on the hotel's exterior feels very much like dining down a side street of Italy.
During the day, the hotel also offers a lunch menu and afternoon tea for ladies (and gents) who lunch, which only adds to the quintessentially British vibe of the hotel.
After dinner, you'll surely want to retire to a comfy spot or bar stool for a drink and, luckily, you're in good hands here.
Complete with a bar reminiscent of a James Bond movie displaying spirits from all over the world, the Cocktail Bar is a great place to spend the rest of your soirée.
Sit back, relax and sip on expertly mixed cocktails as you unwind for the evening before heading home or to bed.
In case you hadn't picked up on it, I'd definitely return and, if you're in the north-east, this is a must-visit.
Treatments at the spa at Armathwaite start at £45 and spa days from £75. To book head to armathwaitehall.com or call the spa on 017687 88900.
