A creative home from home in the heart of idyllic scenery, Linthwaite House makes an excellent choice when it comes to a cozy staycation in Windermere, Lake District. Editor Sophie Ritchie shares more about this artisan foodie paradise
Cozy yet spacious, elegant yet comfortable – Linthwaite House is an inviting world of juxtapositions, providing a luxurious respite for foodies around the world flocking to visit Windermere and experience the calming magic of the Lakes for themselves.
Part of the boutique Leeu Collection, with sister properties in Italy and South Africa, the decor is comfortable and classic, offset by many sculptures, art works and various delicate installations that shout “look but don’t touch” without even needing a glaring label.
Rooms, suites and public spaces feature many nature-inspired touches, along with travel-themed details such Aztec-like prints on the back of chairs and animal artwork in the Bar & Conservatory – think deer statues, livestock paintings and intricate figurines galore. There’s an undeniable air of lavish cool but it steers clear of feeling too contemporary or like a haughty exhibition. This is a hotel designed to relax within, not feel like a trendy art gallery.
The views of nearby Windermere soothe the soul almost immediately, aided by the serenity provided from the lack of traffic and people. After a long motorway-filled journey to reach the Lakes, such minimal noise feels like (a lovely lack of) music to the ears.
The art extends far beyond the decor itself – it’s the surrounding landscape and gardens that captivate me when I pull the heavy curtains in the morning to begin the day to observe the 14-acre grounds. Visiting in early November means flecks of gold, red-hued leaves and forest ivory trees surround the building and create the ultimate autumnal scene. It’s a spectrum of colours that blends in so beautifully it feels like you’re staying in a painting itself.
The Room
Our room Linwaite House, number 14 of 36, is vast in size with ample space for those who can’t pack light. With my very own walk-in closet to hide the stowaway of extra bags and various holiday essentials (a girl’s Airwrap is a non-negotiable), I’ve fallen in love before I’ve even opened my suitcase. Soft carpets, a large bed piled high with pillows and cozy armchairs complete the abode.
The neutral-toned bathroom is equally inviting, featuring a large bath and powerful rainfall shower kitted out with full-sized Bath House toiletries, a local sister-run brand. I let the hot water cascade over me and feel myself slowly coming back to life after the long day of driving.
Peace, luxury and endless dining opportunities – what’s not to adore? For something extra special, there are also a number of private lodges perched atop the hill for larger groups – as well as a luxe hot tub suite in the main house.
The Food & Drink
The jewel of this hotel and what makes it stand out head and shoulders above others is found within the kitchen – the dishes at on-site restaurant Henrock are sublime. Fine dining served with incredibly friendly service and a comfortable atmosphere, expect high quality cuisine that feels more like a show rather than just a bog standard dinner as servers present and explain each dish.
It’s hardly a surprise that award-winning restaurateur and chef Simon Rogan MBE is behind the helm, having first opened the venue in October 2019. Executive Chef Paul Burgalières and Head Chef Mark McCabe are now in charge of all things edible, creating mouth-watering combinations for guests.
With both a set menu and tasting menu on offer, ingredients are sourced where possible from Our Farm, Simon’s regenerative farm in the Cartmel Valley. Menus come with a touch of travel-inspired innovation too, incorporating techniques and produce discovered during Simon’s experiences with his international restaurants in Hong Kong, Malta and Phuket.
Come morning, Henrock is transformed into a breakfast room of dreams. Tasty egg dishes, creamy yoghurt, fresh fruit and as much coffee as one’s bloodstream can handle – pull up a pew and chat the morning away whilst Henrock’s team take care of even the smallest of details (did I mention there’s even a tiny chair for one’s handbag?).
PLUS: Try this and #OpenTheWordrobe to:
- A workout in the hotel’s small on-site gym. Blow off some steam with a cardio burst in the hotel’s petite gym, a former office turned Technogym meets spa treatment summer house. Ideal for those who can’t start their day without a sweat, simply ask the reception team for your key to the cardio kingdom.
- A post-meal tipple in The Bar & Conservatory, offering a charming culinary experience blending sophistication with charm. There’s plenty of non-alcoholic options too, for anyone staying teetotal.
- Live out your romance novel dreams and take out one of the hotel’s two rowing boats for a meander in the hotel’s very own private lake, the picturesque pastime for a sunny day.
The Wordrobe Verdict
At Linthwaite House, guests arrive well-heeled and leave thoroughly well-fed. A creative home from home in the heart of idyllic scenery, this special hilltop hotel is a feast for the senses.
Ideal for a traveler seeking a side of serenity with their Lake District breaks, make the most of the property’s peaceful ambience and switch off in thoroughly swish surroundings. You’ll be back for second helpings in no time.
Make it happen
Where: Crook Ln, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere LA23 3JA
How: Find out more and make a booking via leeucollection.com
Useful info: Check-in, 15h00. Checkout, 11h00. Parking is available.
Words by Sophie Ritchie, editor
