Armathwaite Hall offers a jewel of a spa experience in the heart of the Lake District. We took a trip to this luxury spa to find out more
When Travis’s Fran Healy sang ‘Why does it always rain on me?’ there’s a good chance he was stood on the hills of the Lake District looking at Armathwaite Hall.
I haven’t ventured into the place – once better known as the Cumbrian Mountains – much as an adult, but my overwhelming opinion is that it is incredibly rainy, almost suspiciously so.
Turns out, there is a meteorological reason for this. Prevailing westerly winds blow in moisture-laden air from the Atlantic Ocean; when this air hits the hills of the Lake District, it is forced to rise.
And, as we all know, what goes up as wet air, condenses and comes down on the westward side of Lakeland Fells as…you guessed it – rain!
I’m not much of a pluviophile (Google it!), but I have fond memories of the Lakes. We had many a family holiday in strange bed and breakfast establishments in the area.
I can still picture the nine-year-old me, complete with stunning red wellingtons, a Paddington Bear coat and armed with a bar of Kendal Mint Cake trudging up hills after my father, wondering why we were walking when we could be running.
I was that annoying child who saw no purpose to walking; I would much rather have laced up my running shoes and completed whatever walk was facing us that day in half the time – and been back to enjoy my Pot Noodle before you could say “antidisestablishmentarianism”.
Magnificent estate
And yet, the sense of excitement was palpable as myself and my girlfriend accepted an invitation to stay at the remarkable Armathwaite Hall, a luxury hotel and spa close to Lake Bassenthwaite.
Magnificently set in the secluded splendour of 400 acres of deer park and woodland and framed by the dramatic Skiddaw Mountain and Lake District Fells, this former stately home offers an idyllic paradise away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
OK, so it’s not around the corner. But despite a six-hour train journey spent trying not to laugh at Channel 4’s Peep Show and a taxi journey with a driver with suspiciously irritable bowels, it was definitely worth the trip.
The grounds are stunning and the spa facilities a welcome respite after a long journey. Stepping through the doors at Armathwaite Hall feels like stepping into a world where time slows down and every detail is designed to restore, indulge, and inspire.
The welcome at Armathwaite Hall is warm without being overbearing, and from the outset you sense a pride in the guest experience that runs through every element of the stay.
Our room—a harmonious blend of classic character and modern comfort—offered views straight across the grounds. I’ve been to many hotels around the world and I’d be hard-pressed to say that I’ve stayed in a better appointed or more romantic room, anywhere.
Breakfast time
One of my favourite parts of any luxury hotel stay is breakfast – and Armathwaite Hall exceeded all expectations. Served in an elegant dining room overlooking the gardens, the morning menu is a celebration of local produce and thoughtful cooking.
I had a perfectly cooked vegetarian breakfast that showcased the region’s best ingredients; my girlfriend went for fruit and pancakes. The staff seemed genuinely delighted to make the experience special – topping up our drinks with impeccable timing and ensuring everything arrived just as we’d hoped. It’s the kind of breakfast that makes you want to sit and simply enjoy the atmosphere.
Of course, a stay in the Lake District would be incomplete without time spent outdoors, and the grounds of Armathwaite Hall are truly magnificent. After breakfast we wandered the woodland paths, navigating a route around the grounds that only included a mild amount of style-crossing.
On the Sunday afternoon, we opted for a longer jaunt to Bassenthwaite Lake Station which provided breathtaking views – and some excellent afternoon cake. Whether you’re a seasoned walker or someone who simply enjoys a peaceful stroll, Armathwaite Hall offers something for everyone.
Superb spa
But the heart of any luxury weekend here is undoubtedly the spa, and Armathwaite Hall’s facilities are exceptional. The space manages to feel both expansive and intimate, with warm natural stone, soft lighting, and thoughtful design choices that evoke calm at every turn.
The highlight for me was the endless pool, a serene stretch of water positioned to overlook the rolling grounds. Floating in the hot water while gazing out across the landscape felt almost meditative. The steam rooms and relaxation areas only elevated the experience further.
I had booked a facial treatment, and to say it was glorious would be an understatement. From the moment my therapist welcomed me into the treatment room, I felt completely at ease.
The facial combined expert technique with beautifully scented products, each step soothing and rejuvenating in equal measure. My skin felt refreshed, hydrated, and noticeably brighter, but what I appreciated most was the deep sense of calm that lingered long after the treatment had ended. It was one of the finest spa experiences I’ve ever had.
Leaving Armathwaite Hall on Monday afternoon felt bittersweet. I left feeling relaxed, refreshed, and genuinely uplifted, but also wishing I could extend the experience just a little longer.
For anyone in need of a luxurious escape – whether for spa indulgence, scenic walks, fine dining, or simply time to breathe – Armathwaite Hall is a destination that delivers on every promise. I wholeheartedly recommend visiting and discovering its charm for yourself. Now where’s that taxi??!
