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Armathwaite Hall, Lake District, England

By Carla Bevan on Wednesday 4 June 2008

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Marie Claire Reviews: Armathwaite Hall

Armathwaite Hall fulfils all your country house hotel aspirations. Roaring log fire? Check. View of mist-covered lake and surrounding mountains? Check. Hearty English breakfast served by men in waistcoats and bow-ties? Check (and I bet you didn't even realise you wanted the outfits).

Situated near Keswick and on the shores of the Bassenthwaite Lake, Armathwaite Hall is a family-owned slice of yesteryear with all the ornate detailing you'd expect from a period property, making it a perfect retreat after a long day's walking up the surrounding fells.

Famously visited by novelist Sir Hugh Walpole (who called it 'a house of perfect and irresistible charm'), the ambiance of this place hasn't changed much since his day, but as long as you're in the mood for old-fashioned charm, then you'll be right at home.

Mind you, don't make yourself too comfy. There's none of your laidback London attitude here. Jeans aren't just frowned upon, but banned in the Lake Room restaurant after dark - as are children - so make an effort if you're lucky enough to have a reservation for the eight-course dinner.

When you really want to make yourself at home, head to the spa. Currently undergoing something of a facelift, as of autumn 2008, it'll rival even the surrounding countryside for break-taking fabulousness.

Details: The Armathwaite Hall Hotel, Bassenthwaite, Keswick, Cumbria CA12 4RE (017687 76551, www.armathwaite-hall.com)

Review by Carla Bevan

Release date: Wednesday 4 June 2008