Updated on May 16, 2023 by Axel Hernborg

Axel Hernborg

Few places in the UK offer the unparalleled beauty and serenity of the Lake District, so it is not surprising that it is a popular destination for nature lovers.

With so many outdoor activities to enjoy from fell hiking to paddleboarding there is something for everyone. 

We have found the 13 best Lake District hotels for nature lovers to enjoy this remarkable part of the country. 

Haweswater Hotel

This stunning art deco hotel is right in the heart of a 100 square mile nature reserve which is a haven for wildlife in the Lake District. With unbelievable views out of every window this peaceful sanctuary is only disturbed by the exuberant nature and wildlife on its doorstep. 

With infinite views of Haweswater Reservoir this is a true paradise for nature lovers. It is also the highest lake in Cumbria and the hotel is surrounded by numerous beautiful hiking trails and cycle paths. 

You’ll be spoilt for choice between spotting red squirrels, birdlife and deer on your travels. 

Armathwaite Hall Hotel

Sitting in 400 acres of deer park you would be hard pressed to find a better hotel for nature lovers than Armathwaite Hall Hotel. It is the perfect place to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the Lake District. 

One of England’s original stately homes, Armathwaite Hall Hotel sits above Lake Bassenthwaite and is surrounded by woodland. There is no shortage of nature to be appreciated and enjoyed at this hotel. 

Go fishing, canoeing, clay-pigeon shooting, or forest bathing. Alternatively take a walk with an alpaca, watch a birds of prey display or try your hand at some nature photography. 

Cragwood Country House

Cragwood Country House has 20 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland, so it is home to plenty of birds and wildlife. With Lake Windermere as a stunning backdrop you will have the perfect excuse to just sit and enjoy the view. 

Even better, this hotel is pet friendly, so you can take your dog with you and let them enjoy the great walks around the Lake District too. This is a popular spot for weddings so if you are planning your nuptials and are a nature lover this could be the perfect destination for you. 

Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa

Another beautiful hotel sitting on the shoreline of Lake Windermere, Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa has an enviable spot in this gorgeous part of the UK. 

Here you will find yourself surrounded by breathtaking scenery with the added bonus of a private jetty and lakeside moorings as part of the facilities at this hotel.

With the lake on your doorstep take advantage and go paddleboarding, kayaking, water skiing or rowing. 

Walkers and cyclists are spoilt for choice with so many trails and paths to explore in the area. For something different and memorable try alpaca trekking across the Lake District peaks. 

The Belsfield

For quintessential old English style The Belsfield is hard to beat. Nestled on the banks of Lake Windermere it offers incomparable views over the water and beyond.

Enjoy the feeling of open spaces and natural surroundings from this gorgeous hotel. 

As a nature lover you can take to the water or enjoy the 6 acres of landscaped grounds and gardens. With majestic mountains, wild grass moors and shimmering lakes there is so much to appreciate in the area around The Belsfield. 

The Forest Side

Like something from a gothic fairytale, The Forest Side is a stunning hotel and award winning restaurant. This magical retreat is surrounded by the stunning countryside of Grasmere, beloved by the famous English poet Wordsworth. 

The local countryside and lakes are a treasure trove of wonder for all nature lovers who can take hikes in the fells, stroll through the woodlands or take a boat onto the lake. This is the heart of the Lake District and there are wonderful views everywhere you look. 

Rothay Manor

Sitting in undulating green pastures, Rothay Manor is a Grade II listed building on the outskirts of the town of Ambleside. Despite its location the hotel feels remote with its large terrace and garden views. 

Take your four legged friend for a hike across the fells and enjoy the stunning scenery, fresh air and local wildlife. The hotel provides a boot room and dog wash facilities for such occasions. 

If you prefer cycling to walking there are plenty of paths to get out into nature.  If you book the garden suite, after a day of exertion you can enjoy an outdoor jacuzzi and relax under the stars. 

Holbeck Ghyll Country House Hotel

This traditional but relaxed 19th century hunting lodge is the perfect place for a nature lover to unwind and relax. With its heavenly views of Lake Windermere you can sit and watch the boats sail by, listen to the sounds of the birds or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. 

As a base to explore the area you can take walks across the fells or along the lake shore, listening to the gentle lapping of the water and spotting local wildlife. 

Take a cruise on Lake Windermere, the largest freshwater lake in England and enjoy the views of the surrounding hills from the peace and tranquillity of the water. 

Lindeth Fell Country House

With an enviable location overlooking the beauty of Lake Windermere Lindeth Fell Country House is an award winning hotel. 

To complement its idyllic location the accommodation is surrounded by a Thomas Mawson-designed garden with terraces and a tarn, or mountain lake. Mature plants ensure that the hotel is encircled with colour all year round. 

One of the most endearing things about Lindeth Fell Country House are the pre-packed picnics that you can purchase to take on your hike or nature walk on the fells or to the lake shore. 

The Samling Hotel

Roam free in the 67 acres of The Samling Hotel, one of the most luxurious of places to stay in the Lake District. Follow the paths and bridges through the ornamental gardens and enjoy the views from the Georgian arbour. 

For a serene afternoon take a walk through the winding woodland trails or wander through the stunning wildflower meadows. On the shores of Lake Windermere this hotel is where you will find world class service to accompany some of nature’s greatest beauty. 

In the warmer weather nature lovers can enjoy glamping with The Samling’s Wilderness Adventure. 

Storrs Hall Hotel

Poised on potentially the best spot on Lake Windermere’s shoreline, Storrs Hall Hotel is set in vast secluded grounds. 

For optimum proximity to nature choose one of the contemporary lakeside suites. These provide immersion into nature with their sliding glass walls and Japanese style cedar hot tubs. 

The hotel offers guided walks in the hills and ancient woodlands taking in the diverse range of habitats and wildlife of the area.

They can show you the lesser well known hikes and paths where you can encounter pretty tarns and some of the best displays of bluebells in the Lake District. 

Raise View

Raise View is perfectly located to explore the best of what the Lake District has to offer, but it also has some of the most spectacular views right on its doorstep. 

This luxury B&B has magnificent views of the surrounding fells but is just a five minute walk from Grasmere village. There are plenty of fantastic hiking trails and cycle paths around and the hotel can provide you with a packed lunch if you’re heading out on an excursion. 

Cedar Manor

A small, family owned boutique hotel in Windermere is the ideal spot to explore the beautiful Lake District National Park. Whether you want to explore the stunning mountains, take a cruise on the lake or simply sit and relax in nature this is the perfect place to do it. 

It’s not hard to see how the work of Beatrix Potter was inspired by the natural beauty and abundant wildlife of this area. Take the opportunity to explore the wonderful landscapes that featured in so many of her children’s stories. 

Final Thoughts

The Lake District is a unique and wonderful place to visit for nature lovers and those who love being in the great outdoors. 

We hope that you have enjoyed our guide to the best Lake District hotels for nature lovers and that it has inspired you to pay a visit to this beautiful part of the UK. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Is The Most Scenic Part Of The Lake District?

The iconic view down Wastwater has been voted the UK’s best view on numerous occasions. It is situated in the Wasdale Valley and is the deepest lake in the Lake District. 

What Is The Most Popular Area In The Lake District?

Windermere is the most popular and probably the busiest area in the Lake District. It is the largest of the lakes and has many hotels and tourist attractions in the area. 

Best Hotels In Lake District, UK - For Families, Couples, Work Trips, Luxury & Budget