Review: The Swan Hotel & Spa
By
4 years ago
A luxurious Lake District destination to escape to post-lockdown
A breath of fresh air is what we’ll all be desiring post-lockdown, and no one does countryside escapism like The Swan. Located within Newby Bridge, just a short drive from Lake Windermere, the sumptuous riverside hotel and spa makes for the ideal Lake District sojourn, complete with picturesque rural views, roaring fireplaces, and contemporary, yet cosy, interiors. What’s more, canine companions are welcome – in fact, encouraged – with country walks, cuddles (the staff love dogs!), and sausages-at-breakfast aplenty. Daniella Saunders and her Dachshund pup Henry find out what’s in store…
The Best Walks in the UK For Autumn
The Swan Hotel & Spa Review
STAY
Ranging from two-person ‘cosy rooms’ to luxurious ‘loft suites’, a Beatrix & Potter dwelling (ideal for families) and spacious boutique holiday cottages, every aspect of accommodation at The Swan has been showered with character and colour. Room interiors are contemporary, bright and quirky, yet simultaneously intimate and cosy, many boasting their very own log burner and sumptuous super-king bed. For guaranteed privacy – and social-distancing – opt for a cottage (or Nest, as the hotel brands them). Located within the hotel grounds, just a stone’s throw from the restaurant, spa and lounges, each cottage boasts beautiful views of the surrounding hills and greenery, as well as log burners, outdoor fireplaces, sumptuous bathrooms and characterful self-catering kitchens. For a romantic getaway, The Love Nest won’t disappoint; a resplendent pastel-hued studio cottage featuring whitewashed floors, a luxurious marble bathroom – including a pink freestanding bath – and private terrace. But what’s in it for pups? A number of the hotel’s cottages and rooms are dog-friendly, including The Love Nest, with treats, a water bowl, blanket and towel supplied for those muddy walks.
The Love Nest
DO
It goes without saying that long walks are a must in the Lake District. Hotel staff are more than happy to offer you an array of the hotel’s favourite walks, from forest trails at Grizedale Forest to Cockshott Point where you’ll find idyllic views overlooking lake Windermere. Rest up at the hotel VuSpa where you can enjoy a range of restorative ESPA treatments, from a Swedish massage to a salt & oil scrub, then enjoy a dip in the pool or jacuzzi. There’s also a fully equipped gym – ideal for burning off all that indulgent food and drink.
EAT
Hearty British dishes take centre stage at The Swan Inn, an informal and snug dining area where guests can tuck into the likes of crispy haddock and chips, ale braised shin of beef suet pudding and a delicious Lancashire cheese & onion pie. There’s also the more traditional Cygneture Brasserie, where you can feast on a slightly more sumptuous offering, from crab & lobster thermidor risotto to Holker Estate venison and Lakeland wild game terrine. The restaurant also offers an inviting Sunday lunch and British Afternoon Tea which can be enjoyed alfresco on the hotel terrace during the warmer months, with views overlooking the adjacent River Leven. If you’re staying in a cottage, you’ll also be welcomed with a delightful foodie offering of your own upon arrival, including eggs, bread, butter, jam and a few tempting sweet treats too.
Nest Kitchen
THE FINAL WORD
The Swan Hotel & Spa boasts all the credentials required for an unforgettable country escape. Book for a minimum of two nights to make the most of this rural bolthole; the scenic walks, sumptuous spa, cosy nooks and delectable warming dishes. Whether as a family holiday or romantic break, or even a trip to treat the dog, the hotel’s charming location and warm hospitality will leave you coming back for more.
