Explore The Lake District At Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa

Staying at Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa is a magical experience – complete with relaxation, indulgence and activities. However, if you want to make the most of your visit, it is worth seeing some of the splendour of the Lake District while you are here. From the majestic Bassenthwaite Lake that stretches out from our grounds to some treasures nearby, there is plenty to see and do when you visit us…

Bassenthwaite lake is a beautiful body of water that stretches out for 4 miles, coming to rest on the shore of our grounds. During your visit, why not take a walk to the west shore pathway where you can amble along enjoying this quieter part of the national park. Alternatively, there is the opportunity for wild swimming as Bassenthwaite is one of the shallowest lakes in the area, making it warmer than others. Bassenthwaite also happens to be the only body of water actually called a ‘lake’ in the Lake District. The others are all called ‘meres’, ‘waters’ and ‘tarns’.

While visiting Bassenthwaite Lake, why not visit Dubwath Silver Meadows – a nature reserve that has a 650m gravel path and a 900m recycled plastic boardwalk, providing access to beautiful view points and bird hides to spot greylag, curlews and other species.

Bassenthwaite Lake is loomed over by Skiddaw, a 931m mountain that sits on the eastern edge of the lake. It is, despite its size, one of the easier walks in the area – although you should still be fit if you consider it.

If you want to take an easier mountain on, we offer fell walking experiences where you will be accompanied up Catbells, Sale Fell, Latrigg or Castle Cragg.

Whisky fan? The Lakes Distillery is a fantastic place to visit just north of Bassenthwaite. It offers a chance to take a tour or tasting of a technique that blends the traditional methods of scotch whisky with an English twist.

Want to get up close and personal with animals such as meerkats, lemurs and alpacas? Visit The Lake District Wildlife Park, which is situated on our hotel grounds, and enjoy over 100 species of amazing animals.

Keswick is a beautiful town just 7 miles away from our hotel and is much beloved by visitors to the Lakes. It boasts a charming village aesthetic and an array of activities including lake cruises, theatre by the lake and even the Derwent Pencil Museum – home of the world’s first pencil. You can also hike up to Castlerigg Stone Circle, a monument that dates back to Neolithic times.

Another area our visitors love, Cockermouth is just 7 miles away and is the birthplace of the esteemed poet William Wordsworth. Fans of traditional beer will be overjoyed to learn that Jennings Brewery is located in the town. It offers tours that showcase traditional beermaking in the heart of the Lake District.

Caldbeck is a traditional fell village, featuring St Kentigern’s Church, a building constructed in 1112 and still in use today. Caldbeck is the birthplace of the legendary huntsman John Peel – from which the rhyme ‘De ya ken John Peel with his coat of grey’ has its origins.

Whether you want a woodland walk or enjoy mountain biking, Whinlatter Forest offers a dramatic and beautiful setting in which to explore. It is a mountain forest that offers lots of activities included guided walks and Go Ape – but you can also enjoy it at your own leisurely pace.

Whether you want to get out and explore or stay near the hotel, we offer our own programme of amazing activities. From archery to canoeing to guided walks and via ferrata experiences, there’s something for everyone. Browse all our activities and book ahead of your visit to avoid missing out.