Our travel writer reviews Storrs Hall in the Lake District, a luxury hotel with incredible views of Lake Windermere, a hot tub and pamper package, and a top-end restaurant
As a seasoned travel writer residing in the north of England, I frequently escape to Cumbria for weekend getaways – at least annually. Hence, I fancy myself quite knowledgeable about the best Lake District hotels to book.
Storrs Hall, nestled on the southern shores of Lake Windermere and just south of Bowness, is one such hotel that has seen me return time and again. My partner and I love its luxurious rooms and excellent dining, making it an ideal sanctuary after a day spent exploring the beautiful local area. Here’s why…
The hotel
Dating back to the 1790s, the majestic Storrs Hall boasts a fascinating history, having been previously owned by Yorkshire landowner and MP Sir John Legard, and the uncle of renowned painter John Constable. Today, it stands as a four-star hotel offering breathtaking views of the lake, set amidst acres of its own woodland and boasting its own jetty. It serves as a tranquil haven away from the often bustling tourist hotspot of nearby Bowness-on-Windermere.
Be sure to bring your waterproofs as the Lake District is a walker’s paradise. While there are a few walks starting right from the doorstep of Storrs Hall, including along the main road up to Bowness, avid hikers may need to hop in the car to tackle local peaks such as Gummer’s How, Loughrigg Fell and Whitbarrow, reports OK!.
The rooms at Storrs Hall
The Lakeside Suites at Storrs Hall are the newest additions and they’re absolutely stunning. The rooms, as well as the bathrooms, are spacious, featuring modern fireplaces, bath tubs with TVs at the end, and large glass doors that open out onto views of Lake Windermere.
A key attraction is the wooden barrel hot tubs tucked away round the corner outside, maintained at a perfect temperature throughout your stay. Another delightful feature is the complimentary minibar, filled with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and snacks.
While Storrs Hall doesn’t have a spa, it has recently introduced ‘pamper packages’ to the Lakeside Suites. These include a range of products from local and sustainable Lake District brand Pure Lakes, such as bath foam, salt scrub, facial toner and pillow spray, allowing you to create your own spa-like sanctuary without leaving your room. After a long, wet walk, we tested these products and can vouch for their relaxing and rejuvenating effects.
Room service from The Bistro restaurant is available, and many guests opt for a breakfast hamper delivered to their suite in the mornings (though dining in the main restaurant is also an option). In fact, you’d barely need to step out of your room.
The food at Storrs Hall
We’ve previously dined at Storrs Hall’s main restaurant, 1797, but I’d forgotten just how utterly scrumptious it was. In a region brimming with top-notch eateries, 1797 stands out as one of the best around Windermere, with not only delectable dishes but also an exceptionally friendly and professional service team that deserves special recognition.
My three-course tasting menu (£69.50 per person) kicked off with a shared loaf of warm honey milk bread – possibly the fluffiest bread you could ever taste – served with whipped butter. This was followed by a starter of cured salmon paired with a tangy horseradish cream.
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A grand hotel on the shores of Lake Windermere with top-class suites and delicious dining options.
The main course was a flawlessly cooked halibut piece accompanied by a pea fritter encased in a light-as-a-feather batter. To finish, an extraordinary coffee crème brûlée that was unlike anything I’d tasted before.
Storrs Hall’s second, more recent addition is The Bistro, offering a laid-back dining experience without compromising on food quality. Expect dishes like goat cheese soufflés, steaks and classic desserts. There’s also a cosy bar designed in the style of a traditional British pub.
How much does it cost to stay at Storrs Hall?
A stay in a Lakeside Suite at Storrs Hall costs from £573 per night including breakfast and arrival treats, or from £645 including the Wellbeing Package, which contains £140 of products from Pure Lakes.
