The Belsfield Hotel

This was my second stay at The Belsfield Hotel, and I'm already planning another visit in a couple of months. It really feels like a home away from home, and it will always be my first choice when I visit the Lake District. The room was ready the moment I arrived at the lobby, so there wasn't even a minute's wait. The view was amazing, the room spotless, and everything very comfortable. The staff were kind, friendly and genuinely welcoming, always with a warm smile. Some minor maintenance was happening on a small part of the exterior, but it didn't affect my stay at all. If they hadn't mentioned it, I wouldn't have noticed.

The evening meals were amazingly prepared and presented, and most staff were friendly and helpful. The building looks stunning from the lakeside, high on the hill among the gardens, and has a lot of history, having been built in 1845/46. My overall experience was good, and I would recommend a visit. I stayed four nights over Christmas and had booked a lake view room, but it was quite small and basic. After a restless first night, I complained that the mattress was too soft. The manager kindly let me look at other rooms and choose one with a more supportive mattress, so I slept much better afterward. Breakfast was less successful. They tried to keep the buffet food hot, but it was practically cold by the time I ate. Table service with food cooked to order would be better, though I understand that's not always feasible. Christmas lunch was a little disappointing too. The turkey came as pre-cut sandwich style slices instead of carvery style, which may save kitchen time, but details like that matter when the price is quite high. I also don't think parking should cost extra, as the stay is already expensive.

We just got back from two nights, 21st-23rd February. Room 17 was a cosy double and very large, with the highest ceilings I've ever seen, an exceptional shower and the fastest tap I've ever used to run a bath 😂. The bed was nice and comfortable. The buffet breakfast had everything you need, but it should be warmer. There's only one coffee machine, which needs looking at. The staff were really nice, and the art deco bar area is lovely and fantastic. Parking is another downside at £15 a night. The hotel is being refurbished, but that didn't spoil our weekend stay since no work was happening then. We'll definitely return in the summer. The garden and grounds looked like a nice place to sit.

The gardens were one of the main reasons we chose to stay at the Belsfield, since we'd been before and came back with our four children for their half term break. But the gardens are completely closed off, leaving nowhere outdoors for the kids to explore or a terrace to enjoy the view from. The hotel should tell customers this before they book. I'm very disappointed and doubt I'll stay here again.