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beech hill hotel and spa, windermere, lake district.


Last week I discovered a little bit of luxury in the Lake District. Beech Hill Hotel, found along the Newby Bridge Road just outside of Windermere, is a restored Victorian stone building with breathtaking views. Although still undergoing a little bit of renovation, the lake view spa and contemporary rooms have started to take shape. Whilst the building itself is truly regal, with chandeliers, a stately fireplace and heritage leather seating.


The interior showcases art, sculptures and opulent finishes that give a sense of grandeur. Outside there's a more modern balcony overlooking Lake Windermere. We couldn't have asked for better weather! 


With the same gorgeous view, our twin room had a modern finish with hints of red from the regal reception areas. The classic lake view rooms with bed and breakfast in high season start at £206 a night, with advance saver rates available. The room itself was super clean with comfy beds, a great shower and plenty of storage. The only thing lacking was air con - probably not needed all year round - but given the high temperatures lately it was definitely a sun trap.


Even better, the newly fitted spa facilities and outdoor hot tub. This is definitely the selling point of Beech Hill Hotel, being able to mix traditional accommodation with the little luxuries. During the day we lapped up the sun in the jacuzzi as well as enjoying the sauna and a swim. There is also a steam room and beauty treatments can be pre-booked. A rooftop bar with chilled fizz would have topped this off!


By evening we couldn't wait to enjoy the balcony with a chilled bottle of white. As we delved into the menu, a selection of canapés were brought out for the diners. Burlington's, the hotel's restaurant serves up two courses for £26.95, three for £34.95 and five for £39.95. My dining partner was a gluten free vegetarian, and the chef was happy to point out the options for her on the menu.


On this particular evening, the seasonal menu boasted the likes of Haricot Bean and Porcini Mushroom Cassoulet, Chargrilled Tuna Steak and Chips, Kentmere Valley Lamb Rump and Grilled Mackerel Fillet. To begin we opted for the Crispy Goat's Cheese and Sage Risotto Cake and Fresh English Petit Pois and Mint Risotto.


My risotto cakes were just as you would hope for, in turn becoming my favourite dish of the evening. The lightly crisp coating and inviting risotto beneath was sat on moreish smoked celery cream. With the earthy celery base, the tart goat's cheese and fragrant sage married so well. The risotto was the perfect, light starter for Summer. A manageable portion with hints of fresh mint and a finishing of vegetarian parmesan. In addition, the waiter kindly brought out some warm gluten free bread with soft butter.


For mains I went for the Pan Fried Seabass whilst my friend ordered the Mediterrean Vegetable Cous Cous dish. A beautiful plate, my seabass came with marsh samphire, mussels, leek marinière and Jersey Royal potatoes. The smooth white wine sauce was delicious alongside the softened leeks, salty samphire and delectable mussels. A great portion whilst still looking gourmet.

The cous cous dish was bursting with colour; having been topped with crispy seaweed and served alongside sweet potato mash and steam broccoli. The mains went down very well indeed.


For dessert, my dining partner went for their classic ice cream trio. I was pleased to see the strawberry flavour was actually a cream colour with flecks of red strawberry to give a more homemade feel. Usually not a fan of fruity desserts, I surprised myself and went for the Strawberries and Cream Soufflé. This was actually a very good and well risen soufflé with a really intriguing and creamy flavour. On the other hand I think it would have benefitted from a couple of bright, juicy strawberries on the side to freshen up the dish.


After a good night's sleep. albeit missing a breeze, we loved waking up to those stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. We went down to enjoy the breakfast, which was served in a buffet style. It was nothing too fancy but hit the spot; with a vegetarian sausage option that can be ordered separately. Again there was friendly service and above all, good coffee.

Our stay at Beech Hill Hotel and Spa was relaxing and enjoyable. It was a tranquil base to visit Lake Windermere and potter about in the town. Come evening, the food was excellent and the views were quite obviously, stunning. (Oh, did I not mention the view?) We also enjoyed a cheeky gin and tonic in the bar afterwards, whilst playing Scrabble and mini bingo. British holiday favourites! I would recommend Beech Hill to couples or groups of friends looking for a relaxing place to stay whilst they explore The Lakes.

Beech Hill Hotel & Spa
Newby Bridge Road,
Windermere,
Cumbria.
LA23 3LR

From the main car park you enter up three stair cases and a variety of doors; so if you need accessibility or have heavy luggage it is probably better to go to the main entrance and park up afterwards.

I stayed and dined as a guest of Beach Hill Hotel & Spa. All opinions are my own and I was not expected to write a positive review.

5 comments:

  1. This looks like such a lovely place to stay for a bit of luxury! The food looks amazing and I would love a dip in that pool.

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  2. Looks like a great place for a relaxing break!

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  3. Oooh I am so jealous! I haven't managed to get away to a hotel for longer than I care to count and this looks like a lovely place for a getaway.

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  4. I hardly remember the last time I went to a spa. Self-care is so underrated while it is so necessary. Those pools looks amazing and I'm mesmerized by the food. That strawberry souffle` stole my heart.

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