Holbeck Ghyll Country House Hotel Review: November 2017
Proud members of ‘Small Luxury Hotels’, ‘Pride of Britain Hotels’, achievers of 3 AA Rosettes in 2018, the Holbeck Ghyll, nestled high up hillside, is situated in an enviable location between Bowness on Windermere and Ambleside.
In 1888 the ‘yellow earl’ and first president of the automobile association Lord Lonsdale acquired the property to use as his private hunting lodge. Now, the Holbeck Ghyll offers guests a sensational stay without the stuffiness. A romantic, relaxing retreat to simply kick back, unwind and forget life’s stresses.
The Holbeck Ghyll has been graced with the presence of many celebs such as Rennie Zellweger during her filming of Miss Potter. Also, this was the onset location for Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon, who filmed their series the Trip in 2010.
The inviting oak panelled, arts and crafts styled, entrance sets the scene with stunning stained-glass windows, an inglenook roaring log fire and an even warmer welcome from Katherine and the Holbeck Ghyll team. Katherine a true ambassador for the brand who provided passionate, professional, personalised, attentive and genuine service throughout.
Renovations have been sympathetic to the original historical features retaining both the character and charm emphasising their beauty without an ounce of vulgarity. Unique room offerings span from traditional to contemporary. Suites have been presented with ‘Lake District’ names such as “Miss Potter”, “Lord Lonsdale”, but importantly the theme is subtle and in keeping with the sophisticated surroundings.
The Easdale junior located in the ‘Tarn House Building’ which offers guests a contemporary rural retreat. An impressive and inviting entrance way transports guests to pure bliss. The spacious junior with floor to ceiling windows provides the perfect backdrop offering sensational views overlooking Lake Windermere and The Langdale Fells.
Plush presentations with plumped pillows on the cosy bed, an ample wardrobe to store all your attire which includes a safe and a mini fridge. The decadent dresser desk is perfect to pamper or perhaps feel your creative side, get out the pen and take your inspiration from Miss Potter and the lovely Lakes location to start your own novel story or maybe just document your stay within your journal.
The junior was well equipped with a flat screen television, CD player, hairdryer, iron, a well-appointed tea tray, a selection of magazines and local area guides, even though only required minimally, an ingenious torch is provided to guide your way around the grounds when dark sets in. The lovely local Lyth Valley Damson Gin was sensational and the extra celebration chocolates were delightful.
The modern bathroom included a full enclosed standing shower, deep bath tub, mirrors a plenty, fluffy wrap around bathrobes and slippers and the luxurious Temple Spa toiletries.
Their Spa is small but perfectly formed and the lovely Nadya is at the heart of this intimate relaxation space. Complimentary robes, slippers and teas are provided so after a treatment why not get cosy in the relaxation pod recliners and take in the breath-taking views over Windermere.
Why not take the plunge and go for a dip in the hot tub again with fabulous Windermere views offering a peaceful and tranquil experience in the day or dark.
The 2018 AA Guide awarded Holbeck Ghyll 3 Rosettes. Ambitious and passionate Head Chef Jake Jones, appointed in January 2017, continues to create fine modern British cuisine pushing innovative boundaries to give guests an exciting and unique experience.
The oak room at the Lakes was to be the start of our culinary journey. Our pre-nibbles included oysters and potatoes, but served in the most elegant and charming way and tasted divine.
Bread and butter, simple but perfection, freshly baked, crisp and soft in the middle along with lashings of butter a perfect way to start. The fermented barley “porridge” with ewes curd, squash and burnt celery was rich and flavoursome. The Raw Roe Deer with pine, mushroom and toasted quinoa was a theatrical presentation with a pleasant palatal punch.
Mains included the mouth-watering Mayan gold potatoes, broccoli, smocked butter and purslane and the gorgeous Goosnargh Duck with artichoke glazed cider and preserved blueberry.
Deliciously divine deserts included the marvellous milk chocolate, passion fruit and orange. Also, the fabulous fig, hazelnut and praline.
All the dishes captured the season well – Winter on a plate and in our mouths! Our evening was enhanced by employee Nigel a nice chap with some good conversation, simply a real pleasure to meet him.
After dinner cocktails can be enjoyed in their lovely lounge in front of the cosy roaring fire with some of their more permanent animal residents. A quirky feature, but executed in a classy chic way. CC aka Mr cocktail Chris can shake you up the most excellent Expresso Martini or perhaps you fancy a more local brew so could opt for a Lakes larger.
Breakfast in bed at the Holbeck Ghyll was efficient and punctual. Breakfast with a view, a tranquil time to absorb the breath-taking scenery while reflecting on the evenings endeavours and refuelling. Also, the morning presented a classic case of the Lakes weather climate within less than an hour the weather had gone from murky mist to lovely light filled blue skies with an electric rainbow.
The finest ingredients are used including locally sourced cured bacon, Cumbrian sausage and fresh hen’s eggs from literally up the road! We enjoyed a traditional British breakfast, a Vegetarian Breakfast along with some fresh fruit, toast, tea and coffee. What a way to start the day – perfection!
An elegant, exquisite and exclusive Country House Hotel in an idyllic location steeped in history with unspoilt Lake Windermere views. Outstanding signature service with fabulous foodie offerings which makes for a luxurious Lake District stay that will create memories of a lifetime. A real gem in the heart of the Lakes.
Thank you for reading 😊
Melanie xx
Contact:
Holbeck Ghyll, Holbeck Lane, Windermere, LA23 1LU.
STAY@HOLBECKGHYLL.COM
01539 432375
wow! This place looks like a gorgeous place to visit for a romantic getaway or trip. Fab review!
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It was gorgeous and perfect for a romantic break away. Aw thank you for the fab feedback – means alot 🙂 x
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this country house looks like the set location for a movie! It’s so beautiful…The junior is incredible, it’s modern and chic but still really embraces its rural roots!
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Haha, well they did film the series the Trip on site, so for sure! I could not agree more Maria 🙂 x
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wow, so stunning. the food, the location, the decor… Looks like a really lovely spot x
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It really is lovely, they have it all 🙂 x
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the hotel looks dreamy! From the outside it’s perfectly old and tiny, on the inside its modern! I absolutely into this mix. The food looks very delicious as well, the way it’s served is arty! Great review!
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It was very dreamy and just wonderful! The food was yummy. Thanks for the lovely feedback too 🙂 x
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Oh my gosh, I adore the look of this hotel. It looks so similar to the hotel we were married in, we chose it because of the stunning look so will definitely have to consider this place as an anniversary treat
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It would be a perfect wedding venue and 100% would make a perfect anniversary. Happy anniversary in advance Toni 🙂 x
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Hold on a minute while I pick my jaw up….This place looks superb and you word are beautifully crafted to emphasize the many positive that amenities they have to offer, which seems like quite a lot. I could see myself there now just getting lost in the views.
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It is an incredible place and I really did fall in love right there and then. Thank you kindly, I am really glad that you loved my wording 🙂 x
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I enjoyed reading this review! I would especially love to dine in the restaurant, it certainly does look very inviting
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Thank you kindly! It was a great dining destination and very scrummy 🙂 x
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HG looks like to be a place to hide from the daily stress! The food looks delicious and that view..must be grate waking up in that room!
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Yes, yes, yes! It was pure bliss 🙂 x
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What a beautiful house hotel. That bedroom view is stunning. Also, look at that view from your table. I would just sit there or hours, taking that beautiful view in. The food looks amazing too 🙂
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The view is just amazing and really breathtaking. It was very relaxing. You must try the place Claire – just stunning 🙂 x
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This looks like a charming & cozy getaway for a discerning couple.
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Pretty much got it in a nutshell. Ideal for friends and family breaks also 🙂 x
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Wow what a gorgeous hotel! I love the view from the window and the food looks amazing. It looks so relaxing!
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It was just awesome, we had a lovely time 🙂 x
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What an incredible place to stay – everything from the food to the house to the absolutely stunning views 🙂
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Helen, it was just sensational. We loved it 🙂 x
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this place looks gorgeous – like how the outside looks almost like a cottage or small castle but then the actual accomodations look more modern – the perfect combo of luxury & character.
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It looked beautiful and was the perfect combo – I can’t wait to go back 🙂 x
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This hotel looks so quaint and charming from the outside, yet modern and luxurious on the inside! This would be a fantastic place to stay!
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Spot on Carley! It was fabulous and I am already wanting to go back 🙂 x
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What a charming inn. Your room looks amazing too. I love that they made it contemporary on the inside. And can we talk about that view??
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Haha I know!! The view is just stunning! A real gem 🙂 x
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This looks like a truly beautiful hotel and those views are to die for, I’d happily visit this part of the UK. Mich x
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It was Michelle and well worth a visit. The Lakes is lovely and this place is super special 🙂 x
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Sounds like a really peaceful and nice place! Ideal for couples.
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Yes, yes and yes. It was beautiful 🙂 x
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It looks so grand! Would love to have a vacation here and spend my afternoons reading a book.
http://www.thebookblvd.net
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It was very plush and made for a great break away. The lounge would be ideal for a relaxed book read 🙂 x
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Ok, the view alone is stunning. This seems like a great visit.
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It was amazing and the view is just magnificent 🙂 x
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Wow this looks utterly stunning, I’ve driven past it many times on trips to the lakes but had no ideas how lovely it was inside.
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It was stunning and you must visit sometime it really is a true gem in the Lakes 🙂 x
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What a beautiful places to spend a relaxing spa weekend at. I would love to wake up and see that amazing view straight from the bed. I like the way the country house is furnished as well, modern but keeping the rustic touches.
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I totally agree. I feel very lucky to have been, the place was amazing 🙂 x
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Gorgeous photos! This screams country cosy and what stunning views! The food looks delicious and the rooms look so luxurious. I think I’d love to stay here! I hope you had a wonderful and relaxing break!
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Thank you so much, appreciate that! 100% yes and the rooms, food everything was luxury. Haha for sure. Thanks we did indeed 🙂 x
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Wow what a gorgeous hotel in a such a beautiful setting too. You lucky thing!
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I am very lucky! The hotel was sensational 🙂 x
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I love all the wood panelling on the interior and the food looks exquisite!
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What a beautiful place to visit, I’d absolutely love a weekend there!
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It was and I would love to go back already! 🙂 x
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Oh, my! This looks so amazing! It looks so magical.
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Magical and every detail was right 🙂 x
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Absolutely stunning! I will definitely be adding this to my travel bucket list!
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Yes you must! It is amazing and well worth a stay 🙂 x
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That view is amazing! And the food looks utterly delicious!
C x
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It was simply sensational lovely 🙂 x
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This is such a beautiful place, I like everything from the interiors to the whole setup, historical yet modern. I would love to visit it with my family.
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I could not agree more. You must as yourself and your family would have a wonderful time x
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Oh such a beautiful place with stunning views. I would love to visit. 😀
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For sure and you must go, we loved the place x
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This looks absolutely gorgeous, even the views! This is definitely going on my wishlist. I bet you had the best time.
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We did have the best time Ellie. It was just perfection x
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This hotel looks like a great spot for a weekend getaway!
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Yes indeedy x
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I absolutely love this part of the world. This hotel looks like the perfect place to enjoy everything the area has to offer, and if it’s good enough for Renee……
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Me too I have fallen in love with the place! Haha exactly x
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The food options there just look marvelous. I am getting hungry just looking at them. Should I be in the area i will definitely check them out.
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Glad to inspire you. Ooo yes do, im sure that you will love the place x
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Wow, this place and the view is absolutely incredible! I have always wanted to stay in a country home for a few nights ever since I first visited Europe as a teenager. Thanks for sharing this place, definitely adding it to my list of places to check out.
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Cool, enjoy your visit when you check this place out and let me know how you get on x
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What a great review of this Holbeck Ghyll Country House, so beautiful place. I would love to stay in a Country house with my family and I should add this place to my bucket list for our next travel visit.
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Thank you so much for the lovely feedback. For sure, exciting stuff and I’m sure that you will all have an amazing stay x
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Country houses look so royal and luxurious…this offers some great amenities too with the gorgeous interiors!
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I could not agree more and I’m sure Lord Lonsdale would agree too x
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This is such a pretty place for a getaway! I love the grounds and building design. A stay at a country inn sounds like just the thing a busy couple needs!
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Hi Katie, Yes it’s ideal for a couples getaway. A beautiful relaxing place x
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O wow this place looks amazing. It reminds me of when I went on my spa weekend trip. Your view from the room was breathtaking! Glad you had a great time.
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Thank you it was fabulous and I am already missing the place already 🙂 x
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What a gorgeous hotel. Everything looks incredible the view, the food, and ambiance. A great getaway to unwind.
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It was pure perfection and just an amazing place 🙂 x
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The facility looks amazing! The food options look really good as well. Seems like such a lovely place to stay!
Nicole V
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It is indeed Nicole, a real home away from home feel with fab food x
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Wow, that place looks really awesome, it really looks a like a home away from home type of place.
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Deffo a home away from home 🙂 x
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I love the rustic look of the communal areas but the modern feel of the bedrooms it’s a good blend of old and new
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Well said, I totally agree with you x
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This place looks so awesome and beautiful. all the pictures , decor, food, everything is so lovely 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
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It was amazing and it was my pleasure x
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Thats so cool that Renee Zellweger has filmed a movie here. It just looks like the perfect place for a weekend away. Cozy but at the same time not too fancy.
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I know crazy stuff! Exactly cosy, classy and snug 🙂 x
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What a great review of what looks like a stunning hotel! Those views!
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I know the view is cracking! Just stunning 🙂 x
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What a lovely little review you’ve got going here. I’m certainly convinced! I’ll be bookmarking this for later!
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Thanks Christopher – Much appreciated! Well worth a visit, it was spectacular 🙂 x
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The exterior is gorgeous and the interior is just as lovely! And when combined with the amazing food they serve it makes it look like the ideal getaway 🙂
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It is stunning! It was a perfect getaway Emily 🙂 x
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This hotel looks AMAZING! I would so love to go and visit it one day.
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You must go it is amazing and I already want to go back lol x
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Oh my! This looks stunning. I love all of it, how wonderful to wake up to that view. The food looks really interesting and sounds delicious will have to add this one to our bucket list for 2018! x
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Yay…glad you love. You will have a lovely visit for sure x
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