It is a given that the Lake District is a super popular destination for a staycation, one of the most beautiful parts of Great Britain, England’s largest National Park and a World Heritage Site, but how do you make sure you see the very best of it on a fleeting visit? You book a “Making Memories” package at Linthwaite House, which was recently named Large Hotel of the Year at the Cumbria Tourism Awards 2022. This package includes a full day of hiking with Steve Watts, who will take you to the most picturesque, Instagrammable spots in the area.

Steve has over 30 years of experience of walking the Lake District fells, and his knowledge of Lakeland life, its people and its pastimes is second to none, so you can expect to end the day with a wealth of knowledge, as well as plenty of incredible images to share with friends on social media and to relive many happy memories in years to come.

As it is a private one-day hike with Steve, the walk is totally tailored to your interests and abilities, whether you wish to dip into the life of Beatrix Potter, walk alongside shimmering lakes or hike up steep fell climbs. Following a pre-arrival discussion, Steve will create the personalised itinerary and agree a perfect starting point with you. Then all that’s left is for Linthwaite House to provide a complimentary packed lunch and a Herdy flask full of a comforting hot drink or a refreshing cold drink and off you go to experience the best of the Lakes.

After the most magical of days out, there are plenty of peaceful corners in the grounds of Linthwaite House to relax and let tired limbs recuperate: there is a boules pitch, a croquet lawn and a large outdoor chess set, as well as plenty of sheltered seating areas and a small private lake on which to gently row a boat. With a delicious three-course dining experience in Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan’s inhouse restaurant Henrock providing the icing on the cake.

Originally built as a five-bedroom family residence in 1901, Linthwaite House was converted into a B&B in the 1960s and has grown over the years into what it has become today: a 36-bedroom boutique hotel set within 14 acres of landscaped gardens with its own tarn (or small lake) that still retains the feel of a private home.

In the last few years, an extensive refurbishment of all the interiors of the existing early 20th century building (with 30 bedrooms), an extended conservatory and terrace that make the very most of the panoramic views over Lake Windermere, a re-landscaping of the gardens (which are now scattered with a large number of impressive sculptures) and the creation of six all-new Fell Suites in the grounds has given the property a new lease of life.

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As the Cumbria Tourism Awards 2022 judges said when choosing Linthwaite House as their Large Hotel of the Year: “significant investment has created a magnificent property throughout with glorious grounds and gardens, Fell Suites overlooking Windermere from up on high, an hotel with very fine interiors including a Simon Rogan restaurant and food & beverage run operation –  together with professional service levels all round”.

To book the “Making Memories” package, with rates starting from £830 for two people sharing a Classic Room. The package comprises a full-day guided hike for two with Steve Watts, a three-course dinner in Henrock, overnight accommodation and breakfast, as well as a packed lunch and Herdy flask; transfers to the start of the hike are not included.

Bookings can be made by phone on 01539 488 600, via email on reception@linthwaitehouse.com or online at https://leeucollection.com/
Address: Crook Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere, LA23 3JA

© Lakeland Walks & Talks