Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa

This property offers a terrific place from which to branch out to enjoy all Lake District has to offer. The classic-looking white structure -- which is beautifully accented by colored ivy and flower boxes on the facade and framed by expansive green lawns -- is actually four buildings connected by interior corridors, so guests don't have to go outside in inclement weather. One building is dedicated to the leisure center and the other three house rooms and common spaces. 

The lobby is spacious with high-arched doorways, leather furniture, dark-wood accents, and crystal chandeliers. There are plenty of common spaces with a friendly vibe where guests can be found reading, chatting, or taking in the views. Though some visitors might be there on business, most people are at Low Wood Bay to vacation. 

The hotel is right on the shores of Lake Windermere and is almost equidistant between Ambleside and Windermere, with an array of shops, restaurants, and bars in both towns. Only one road passes by; it's quite busy during the day but deserted at night. Still, even during the more traffic-heavy times, the property is still very quiet. The area immediately surrounding Low Wood Bay is lush and green with panoramic views of the Lakeland Fells and beyond. The proximity to the lake is its biggest draw -- you can't get much closer!

Rooms vary in decor and size. House Double Rooms are the simplest and smallest, offering the brightest colors, with red-striped wallpaper and accents. Lake View Rooms live up to their name and are worth the extra price. Some of the Feature Rooms include four-poster canopy beds and Victorian-style furnishings. Family Rooms -- some split-level -- are available as well, with generally large beds for the parents and twin beds for the wee ones.

Though the hotel says it has a rolling refurbishment of rooms in place, some of the units are more dated than others, so ask to look at a different room if you’re not happy with what you initially see. All spaces have flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and electric water kettles with coffee presses and tea. Bathrooms are also spacious and include separate bathtubs and showers, with some spaces even having hot tubs. Heated towel racks and/or in-bathroom radiators are a welcome touch in cooler times, especially against the tile floors, which are kept spotless. Spa-grade toiletries and plush robes are available as well.

Low Wood Bay has a variety of dining options. The site of the daily free breakfast, The Windermere Restaurant, is the most upscale of the eateries with its high ceilings, chandeliers, wood floors, and varied menu of classic European dishes. Gustav Klimt paintings grace the walls while lake views set the scene, giving the entire space a sumptuous feel. The almost Mediterranean-looking Café del Lago has lots of tile work, wrought-iron and wicker furnishings, and lake-view outdoor seating, weather permitting. The menus here are more oriented toward light bites. Finally, Langdale Lounge & Bar is sleek and contemporary with its big wooden bar and checkered-tile flooring. It serves as a coffee bar until noon and then turns into a popular spot for an informal lunch, dinner, or drink; afternoon tea is also available. 

If taking advantage of the lake is on your priority list, there are ample opportunities thanks to the on-site Low Wood WatersportsCentre and Marina which offers a range of instructional courses -- such as water skiing, wakeboarding, and sailing -- with kayaks, canoes, sailboats, and other items for rent. The fitness facilities here are huge and open nearly all day. Not only is there a large swimming pool with lap lanes and an attached hot tub, but there’s also a full gym with cardio machines, free weights, and circuit equipment, among other amenities. You can also book spa treatments with a sauna, Turkish bath, and outdoor hot tub available as well. Parking is free and plentiful and the hotel is very pet-friendly.