Business Details
Luxury Hotel on the Shores of Windermere
Langdale Chase, established in 1891, is a luxury hotel situated on the shores of Windermere in the Lake District. Our historic property combines timeless elegance with modern comforts, offering guests a unique blend of scenic beauty and refined hospitality. Following a meticulous restoration, we provide laid-back luxury in one of England's most celebrated landscapes. Our offerings include curated dining experiences inspired by local artisans, exclusive boat charters on our 1928 motor yacht Albatros, and access to expert-led outdoor adventures. Guests can explore the Lake District's iconic walking trails, enjoy cold-water swimming from our private jetty, or relax in our award-winning gardens designed by Thomas Mawson.Recognised by The Times & Sunday Times as one of the UK's top 100 places to stay, we combine exceptional service with authentic regional experiences. Our team collaborates with local experts like MBE-awarded guide Steve Watts to create unforgettable stays. From seasonal packages to bespoke itineraries, we cater to both adventurous explorers and those seeking tranquil retreats. Sustainability and heritage preservation remain central to our operations, ensuring guests experience the Lake District's timeless beauty while respecting its cultural legacy.
Services
Luxury Accommodation
Afternoon Tea
Boat Charter
Guided Walking Tours
Garden Tours
Highlights and features
- Established heritage since 1891 with Victorian architectural charm
- Exclusive 1928 motor yacht Albatros for lake cruises
- Award-winning Thomas Mawson-designed gardens
- Collaboration with MBE-recognised local guide Steve Watts
- Recognised as top 100 UK stay by The Times & Sunday Times
Associations and certifications
- The Times & Sunday Times
What people say
Breathtaking views
Excellent customer service
Culinary creativity
Historical charm
Well-maintained gardens
Services
Luxury Accommodation
Our 40 individually designed bedrooms and suites combine Victorian elegance with modern comforts. Each room features bespoke furnishings, luxury amenities, and panoramic lake or garden views. The historic setting blends seamlessly with contemporary touches like underfloor heating and smart technology. Guests enjoy exclusive access to our award-winning grounds and direct lakefront privileges.
Afternoon Tea
The Swallows & Amazons-themed afternoon tea features locally sourced ingredients and artisan-crafted tableware. Served in our lakeside conservatory, it includes seasonal delicacies inspired by Arthur Ransome's classic tales. The menu showcases Cumbrian producers like Fiona May and Croglin Craftsmen. This immersive culinary experience combines literary heritage with regional gastronomy in a stunning setting.
Boat Charter
Albatros, our 1928 wooden motor yacht, offers exclusive Windermere cruises. This fully restored vessel accommodates up to 12 guests for private tours or scheduled sailings. The experience includes expert commentary on local history and wildlife. Three daily departures allow exploration of Windermere's hidden coves and historic estates from a unique perspective.
Guided Walking Tours
Award-winning guide Steve Watts MBE leads bespoke walking expeditions through the Lake District. Routes cater to all abilities, from gentle lakeside strolls to challenging Wainwright summits. Expert-led tours reveal hidden waterfalls, ancient woodlands, and cultural landmarks. Complimentary walking maps and equipment advice available from our dedicated boot room.
Garden Tours
Head Gardener Claire Farrington conducts seasonal tours of our Thomas Mawson-designed gardens. The 20-acre grounds feature rare plant species, historic glasshouses, and Victorian landscaping techniques. Ongoing restoration projects document traditional horticultural practices. Visitors learn about the estate's horticultural heritage while enjoying panoramic lake views from landscaped terraces.
People
Claire Farrington
Head Gardener
Award-winning horticulturist with 15 years' experience restoring historic gardens. Previously worked at Kew Gardens, specialising in Victorian landscape conservation. Leads garden tours sharing insights into Thomas Mawson's original designs and modern sustainability practices.
Steve Watts
MBE-Recognised Guide
Local expert with 30 years' guiding experience, specialising in Lake District geology and folklore. MBE recipient for services to tourism. Creates tailored walking routes revealing hidden historical sites and natural wonders inaccessible to casual visitors.
Questions
What makes Langdale Chase unique?
We combine Victorian architectural heritage with modern luxury on Windermere's shores, offering exclusive boat charters, award-winning gardens, and expert-led Lake District experiences.
Are pets allowed at the hotel?
Yes, we provide dog-friendly accommodations and dining. Our grounds offer direct lake access for pets, with special amenities available upon request.
How can I book lake activities?
Guests can arrange Albatros yacht charters and guided walks through our concierge service. Kayaking and paddleboarding bookings are handled via our activity desk during your stay.
What dining options are available?
We offer lakeside fine dining, themed afternoon teas, and seasonal menus featuring local Cumbrian produce. The Swallows & Amazons-inspired tea requires advance booking.
Is the hotel accessible for guests with mobility needs?
We have ground-floor accessible rooms and wheelchair access to main public areas. Our team can provide specific accessibility details upon request.
Reviews (5)
Guzanfar Choudry
May 31, 2022
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We were driving past here and stopped for afternoon tea so cannot comment on the rooms. The afternoon tea was amazing. The gardens and views are spectacular right on the edge of lake Windemere. The historical mansion was well maintained with lots of period charm. Overall an excellent afternoon tea experience.
Ben
May 29, 2022
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Stayed two nights in the boathouse, and whilst it's not the largest room in the hotel (no lounging area) it is unique in the sense it's located on the lake. There's no one closer to the lake than you in eye shot when you stay in the boathouse. The hotel itself is a beautiful building and classic inside. The restaurant serves quality food, fair size, and friendly staff - special shout out to Chris for his helping planning a local walk. However, the price for this hotel is based on the amazing gardens and stunning views of lake Windermere. The gardens are seriously stunning and there is plenty of wildlife to observe such as rabbits and various birds. I can't emphasise this enough.
M. D. N.
May 18, 2022
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Fabulous service, staff so attentive and friendly. Made to feel welcome even with a dog which can sometimes leave you feeling a little ostracised. In fact the dog is treated like the main guest and gets all the attention, treats etc . Nothing is too much trouble for the staff when it comes to making your stay as pleasant as possible. The friendly relaxed atmosphere is everywhere. We never saw a member of staff who wasnt wearing a smile.
The hotel is beautiful and the grounds are very inviting and a lovely place to take a stroll after eating. There are lots of places to find a quiet and relaxing seat. The outdoor terrace is great. The food is excellent and there is a great deal of choice from all of the different types of menu on offer. All in all a fantastic stay and somewhere that we would return and recommend to friends and family. Most importantly of all. our dog loved his stay and said if we did decide to come again he'd probably see fit to accompany us.
The hotel is beautiful and the grounds are very inviting and a lovely place to take a stroll after eating. There are lots of places to find a quiet and relaxing seat. The outdoor terrace is great. The food is excellent and there is a great deal of choice from all of the different types of menu on offer. All in all a fantastic stay and somewhere that we would return and recommend to friends and family. Most importantly of all. our dog loved his stay and said if we did decide to come again he'd probably see fit to accompany us.
Louise Curnin
Apr 20, 2022
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Beautiful building in a stunning location. The staff were friendly and helpful, the room spacious and comfortable. A very comfy bed with a spectacular view. The private terrace was a real bonus, the perfect spot for an afternoon cuppa. Really enjoyed the food at both dinner and breakfast. Plenty of comfortable little nooks to relax in.
Ross Chapman
Apr 09, 2022
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What an amazing venue! At last minute Hayley and team were able to arrange a private dining room to fit our family of 12. The room is spectacular overlooking the lake and made us feel very special. Kevin our host was great throughout and very attentive. I secretly proposed to my partner down by the lake in the pagoda and upon overhearing this news Kevin quickly arranged for the day to be even more special. The Langdale now holds a special piece in our lives and we will visit a lot more and cant wait to stay in the boating room next year. Thank you again guys!
