10 Best Hotels in Windermere (Lake District)

13th April 2023

Windermere is the most popular area of the Lake District, and it is not hard to see why. The village grew around its railway station and is nestled on the shores of the stunning Lake Windermere. At 10.5 miles long, one mile wide, and 220 feet deep, it is the largest natural lake in England, fed by numerous tributaries. 

The area is also well known for its trails and mountains, making it the perfect destination for walkers and hikers of all abilities. That is why we have narrowed down the top 10 best hotels in Windermere and the surrounding area to suit all interests and budgets.

Related reading:
Explore all the things to do in Windermere

Not sure if Ambleside is for you? Take a look at the 8 best Lake District towns and villages to stay
Check out the ultimate list of things to do in the Lake District

Top Choice of Where to Stay in Windermere – Wateredge Inn

If you’re searching for where to stay in the Lake District, where better to have as a base than the Wateredge Inn which stands on the shores of Lake Windermere? These two combined fisherman’s cottages provide cozy guest rooms and period features but with modern twists. 

Most guest rooms have balconies or garden patios to relax on and take in the views. Guests are treated to a traditional full English breakfast daily as well as dinner at its popular bar and restaurant which serves seasonal local produce and real ale. 

Surrounded by beautiful lakes and mountains, you can spend the evening relaxing by the log fire taking in the views. What makes this best hotel in Windermere even more special is its private boat slipway and jetty, as well as its location just meters away from the steamer pier which offers cruises across the lake.

CLICK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – WATEREDGE INN

Best Budget Hotels in Windermere

Glen Wynne Guest House

The Glen Wynne Guest House is located right in the heart of Windermere, boasting comfortable en-suite guest rooms and a prime location. This Victorian guest house offers a prime location for a reasonable price, just a few minutes’ walk from the cafes, bars, and restaurants of Windermere. 

Within 11 miles, you can reach the villages of Grasmere, Coniston, and Ambleside. Slightly further afield, you’ll find the market town of Kendal which is just 15 minutes’ drive away. Local tours and activities often use this hotel as a pickup point to explore the beauty of the Lake District so is one of the best hotels in Windermere if exploring the area is high on your agenda. 

CLICK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – GLEN WYNNE GUEST HOUSE

Cragwood Country Guest House Hotel

Lying on the shore of Lake Windermere, Cragwood Country House Hotel offers a comfortable stay in the Lake District for a good price. Its acres of landscaped gardens open up to breath-taking views, with elegant guest rooms offering en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TV, and coffee facilities. 

Perhaps what makes this one of the best hotels in Windermere is its restaurant. The extensive menu showcases regional produce such as fresh locally caught trout, Cumbrian cheeses, and chutneys, as well as Cumberland sausages. It is just a five-minute drive centre of Windermere and is not far from the area’s top attractions. These include the Lakes Aquarium, Windermere Steamboat Museum, and the World of Beatrix Potter.

CLICK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – CRAGWOOD COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL

Fellview Guest House

Fellview Guest House is a comfortable guest house located just outside of Windermere, around one mile away from Lake Windermere. It is the perfect base from which to explore the Lake District, with cozy rooms offering everything you need to enjoy your stay. 

It is just a five-minute walk into the center of Bowness-on-Windermere, where there are daily boat trips to Ambleside and Lakeside. The village also boasts an excellent variety of cafés, shops, and restaurants for guests to enjoy.

CLICK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – FELLVIEW GUEST HOUSE

Best Mid-Range Hotels in Windermere

The Watermill Inn & Brewery

The Watermill Inn & Brewery is the best hotel in Windermere for all the family, even your furry friends. It is located on the site of a micro-brewery that guests can enjoy a tour of during their stay. All guest rooms are modern featuring a flat-screen TV, en-suite shower room, as well as tea and coffee facilities. 

The Watermill Inn is located slightly outside Windermere. However, it is just 5.5 miles from Ambleside and 2.5 miles from Bowness-on-Windermere. Guests can spend their evenings enjoying the on-site bar which serves its award-winning beers and a menu that boasts a variety of dishes all prepared with local fresh produce.

CLICK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – THE WATERMILL INN & BREWERY

Windermere Park

Nestled right in the center of the Lake District, the Windermere Park Hotel boasts the perfect location to explore further afield. Just a two-minute walk from Windermere town center and 20 minutes from Bowness-on Windermere, guests can expect to spend their holiday walking, hiking, and even boating on the lake. 

Guestrooms at the Windermere Park Hotel feature bespoke furnishings, with a unique character to each room, many boasting exposed beams and high ceilings. Rooms are modern and comfortable, and they’re fully equipped with everything you need during your stay.

CLICK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – WINDERMERE PARK HOTEL

The Howbeck Guest House

Just a two-minute walk from Windermere village, the Howbeck Guest House offers a luxurious bed and breakfast service. Its beautifully appointed rooms with a modern twist provide a comfortable space to relax after a busy day exploring the Lake District.

Local attractions include the Windermere Steamboats and the market towns of Keswick and Kendal. Guests are also able to access a free two-hour pass for the nearby health clubs swimming pool, gym, spa, sauna, and steam room making in one of the best hotels in Windermere for a bit of relaxation!

CLICK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – THE HOWBECK GUEST HOUSE

Best Luxury Hotels in Windermere

Langdale Chase Hotel

If it is panoramic views of Lake Windermere you’ve always dreamed of, the Langdale Chase Hotel was made for you. This breath-taking country house is right on the shores of Lake Windermere and even offers afternoon tea on the terrace so you can soak in the views. 

Each guest room is elegant and beautifully furnished, with many boasting lake views. It is an AA-Rosette winner which serves a fine dining service in the evening. It also boasts its jetty from which you can enjoy sailing days and lessons. It is also just a five-minute drive from the centre of Windermere for access to the cafes and restaurants.

CLICK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – LANGDALE CHASE HOTEL

Low Wood Bay Resort

Low Wood Bay offers guests an endless list of things to do without having to go very far at all. With complimentary access to the onsite Health Club, including a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, and fitness suite. 

It offers breath-taking views across Windermere, and there is also a spa and outdoor thermal area which offers a range of spa days. If you fancy pushing yourself and being a bit more adventurous, it also boasts its own water sports center which offers activities like water-skiing, paddle boarding, and canoeing. There is also a private jetty with a waterbus that allows guests to enjoy cruises on Lake Windermere. 

CLICK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – LOW WOOD BAY

Linthwaite House Hotel

The Linthwaite House Hotel sits proudly on a hilltop overlooking Windermere, and rightfully so. Its luxurious guestrooms are individually designed with stylish furnishings throughout, many of which overlook the lake and manicured gardens. 

Chef Simon Rogan serves exquisite dishes using fresh local ingredients from the on-site restaurant, Henrock’s. They offer an a la carte menu that features small plates and sharing dishes, perfect to sample everything on offer. There are plenty of activities on offer for guests to partake in, including rowing boat hire, fly fishing, and in-room massages.

CLICK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – THE LINTHWAITE HOUSE HOTEL