North Lakes Hotel and Spa

Have to say that this is probably the nicest hotel I've stayed in in the UK - it certainly blows some of the 'larger chains' 5* hotels out of the water! Stayed on a 2 night Easter break DB & B not cheap, but well worth it - the food was outstanding and service excellent, even though the hotel was obviously full. The staff were incredibly funny & friendly, adding 'little extra' touches that really made the stay special. Look out for Rene in the restaurant - a real character! The pool area has been recently refurbished and was... more

The location of this hotel is not that special, but it's close to the motorway so at least it's easy to find. There are some great locally produced food outlets and a huge weekend car boot sale nearby. The restaurant uses very fresh local produce and although not cheap the food was excellent. Apparently the cellar was very well stocked too, according to our fellow guests who are wine buffs. The facilities are similar to most hotel/motel chains, with little extras like free newspapers and roaring log fires and live piano in the... more

Our Christmas at North Lakes Hotel was perfect thanks to all the well trained staff. On arrival we were put off by the appearance of the hotel, certainly painted the wrong colour, looked a bit "Hi de hi" from the outside. However once inside "serendipity" with a lovely warm welcome from the receptionist, we were happy with our choice. Room 233 was a standard double, well decorated, cosy and all the usual toiletries in the bathroom although a bath robe would have been a bonus. Well stocked tray of beverages, bisciuts etc. plus a box of... more

This was my 2nd time staying here. We arrived on Monday 30th October and departed 2nd November. I booked with Stena Line which included the HSS fast ferry crossing from Belfast to Stranraer. Driving at normal speeds the journey from Stranraer to Penrith took just under 2 1/2 hours. Check in was from 2pm but our room was free when we arrived at 1.30 having had our lunch in Penrith town centre. The receptionist was very polite and welcoming. We went to the room which consisted of a large double bed and bunk beds for the kids, TV with some... more

Handy location as stopover from Scotland to SW. All staff friendly and helpful but seemed overworked. Leisure pool left a lot to be desired, heaps of dirty towels, glasses but mainly due to being understaffed at a busy time. Letting a baby in a nappy/diaper costume in the jacuzzi made me feel really ill. No wonder it was on a long backwash in the morning. Disgusting room smelt of heavy stale smoke. However, restaurant staff were great and attentive. Children's meal expensive and really poor choice but adults dinner and... more

Contacted the hotel by telephone to reserve a room, we had stayed previously when we stumbled across it, so we knew what we were getting and had an idea of the cost. visit was for two adults. Reserved a classic room for one night with D B&B on arrival around 2.00pm (1400) the receptionist was pleasant and helpful and went to check our room's availabiltiy. We overheard her say that our room was not ready yet, (this would not have been a problem, if we could leave our luggage and have some refreshments) however someone immediately... more

We just came away from a great weekend at the North Lakes Hotel, and couldn't speak more highly. The facilities kept the kids busy, despite the rain, and my wife had one of the 'best back massages' she has ever had. Me and the kids just used the pool and games room. We just wanted a bit of pampering and a chance to get away for a well earned break. We booked on a dinner inclusive package, which I don't normally do. The dinner menu changed on both nights and we could choose whatever we wanted - even the kids loved it. We had... more

We stayed here before christmas as well as this stay and my comments on the kids facilities and food prices still. stand. Had to stay again as this is the most convenient place for my husbands work. The food and staff in the restaurant are very good. I would advise against booking a syndicate suite thinking will get a nice room. We were given our room over 2 hours after check in time. We were told the suite we were booking was a syndicate suite so would have a table and chairs instead of a settee. However when they finally gave us our... more

This hotel is overpriced. Our room was horrible very basic with mis-matched furniture and in dyer need of upgrade/refubishment the en-suite was tiny. with barely enough floor space to fit 2 in at a time. Drinks are exceptionally overpriced, expect to pay around £12.00 for 2 drinks! (we had a medium glass of house wine and a pint of lager) On the other hand the food is very good and the communal areas lounges, leisure centre, restaurant etc are lovely, so the standard of the room and over priced drinks really do let the place down. My advice... more

Stayed here for a short break with my husband and children aged 12 and 8. Found this family friendly hotel on the Internet and was surprised that there were no reviews. We took a chance anyway, and got a good deal by phoning them direct. Although just off the M6 and not a very scenic location, we had no problem with traffic noise, and it is really handy for Ullswater, Keswick etc. Once inside, the public areas were impressive and newly decorated Lots of oak beamed ceilings and a hunting lodge feel, but very comfortable. The... more