Words by Charlie Matthews
Review | The Penn | Self Check in Boutique Hotel | Windermere, Cumbria
Adventure in Style your perfect Lake District retreat, where dog’s are the real VIPs or VIDs (Very Important Dogs)
The Penn, Windermere: Boutique Hotel with individually designed room styled with unique charm and comfort at the forefront.
The Stay
Handsomely placed in the heart of Windemere; the gateway to the stunning Lake District National Park; you’ll discover The Penn, a modern and charming boutique hotel. A stones throw from local shops, restaurants, and eclectic attractions such as the World of Beatrix Potter, this beautifully renovated 19th-century stone building (in full bloom with Wysteria at this time of the year), blends period charm with contemporary comfort, and is the perfect base for exploring all that the Lake District has to offer. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, an adventurous exploration of the countryside, or a peaceful solo retreat, The Penn serves it all and more
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Housed in a traditional Lakeland stone building dating back to the 19th century, The Penn blends original character and charm with contemporary comfort. Expect a quirky and inviting atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a boutique hotel experience in the heart of Windermere. An adults-only environment, ensuring a peaceful and relaxing stay.
The Room
At The Penn Windermere, you can expect bedrooms that perfectly blend atmosphere, character, and convenience. Think of them as your personal haven after a day of adventure, where each room boasts its own unique stamp full of calming cottage quirk with a big dash of interior design panache! While the stunning views and infamous warm hospitality of Cumbrian folk is an undeniable highlight, let's dive into a crucial part of any getaway, where you lay your head down. Because after a day of conquering fells and cruising the lake, a comfortable and inviting space to unwind is an absolute must. A vintage style Roberts Radio is also programmed to play as you arrive by the bedside – one of the many surprise and delight aspects that The Penn brings to your stay. Not to mention a ribboned bar of local fudge placed by the espresso machine – total joy.
A waterfall shower provides a luxurious spa-like experience, many of the rooms have opulent roll top baths for the rewarding soaks post a day of epic scenic walks. All rooms are supplied with a fitting Pure Lakes range that smells exquisite, scented with geraniums and ylang-ylang for a spa-like indulgence!
Our four-legged companions were made to feel like special holiday guests also – arriving to discover luxury dog beds and muffin treats for them (complete with a candy style dog bone biscuit – oh yes!) With a goody bag that included a tennis ball, our dogs were all set for an incredible walk by the Lakes.
Start or end your day right with an indulgent soak in a rolltop bath. The perfect moment to unwind and refresh.
On The Menu
Food Glorious Food (and Drink!) All that exploring is bound to work up an appetite! Luckily, Windermere and the Lake District are brimming with fantastic places to refuel:
Fine Dining Delights: For a more sophisticated affair, indulge in the region's award-winning restaurants, showcasing the best of local produce. Prepare for a truly tasteful experience. Our personal favourite was Hooked, a quaint seafood restaurant that serves up catches of the day. We opted for a seafood tapas approach, sharing small dishes including freshly shucked Lindisfarne oysters with mignonette and tobasco, crispy soft-shell crab, frisse salad, flamed king prawns with nduja and butter sauce, followed by pan fried scallops.
Lakeside Lunches: Enjoy a picnic by the water's edge, complete with local cheeses, crusty bread, and maybe even a slice of Kendal Mint Cake for an energy boost. It's a truly scenic way to dine.
Hoooked, Windermere
Address: Ellerthwaite Square, Windermere, LA23,1DP
Phone: 015394 48443
Email: bookings@hookedwindermere.co.uk
Website: hookedwindermere.co.uk
What To Do
Windermere and the broader Lake District present an unparalleled tapestry of natural grandeur and engaging pursuits. Beyond its picturesque postcard facade, this region of Cumbria is a veritable theatre of possibilities, promising an enrichment of mind and body. We delve into the range of activities that await those who venture to these hallowed shores.
Aquatic Adventures: Embracing Windermere's Liquid Heart
No journey to Windermere is complete without an immersion in its iconic waters. From the serene to the exhilarating, the lake offers a spectrum of experiences for every inclination. For the nautically inclined, yacht charters provide a sophisticated means of traversing the lake's expanse, while windsurfing offers a more dynamic challenge for the adventurous spirit. Alternatively, the timeless charm of a rowboat rental gives a tranquil perspective of the shoreline. Those preferring a more leisurely pace will find solace aboard the venerable Windermere Steamers, whose scenic tours offer panoramic vistas without the rigour of self-propulsion. Furthermore, the burgeoning popularity of kayaking and paddleboarding allows for an intimate exploration of hidden coves and tranquil inlets, often yielding glimpses of local wildlife in their natural habitat.
Terrestrial Treasures: Explorations Beyond the Water's Edge
The allure of Windermere extends far beyond its aquatic domain, with the surrounding landscape offering a wealth of onshore delights. The Lake District's extensive network of hiking trails caters to all levels of ramblers, from gentle lakeside ambles to challenging fell ascents, each promising breathtaking views. For a touch of literary heritage, a pilgrimage to Hill Top, the cherished former home of Beatrix Potter, offers an enchanting journey into the world of Peter Rabbit. The beauty of the region is further amplified by its quintessential English villages and towns; Windermere itself, alongside the captivating Ambleside and Bowness-on-Windermere, is brimming with local boutiques, artisanal eateries, and regional delicacies such as the famed sticky toffee pudding. Finally, for the thrill-seeker, Go Ape! at Grizedale Forest is an exhilarating aerial adventure, complete with high ropes and zip lines, promising an adrenaline day amidst the sylvan beauty.The allure of Windermere extends far beyond its aquatic domain, with the surrounding landscape offering a wealth of onshore delights. The Lake District's extensive network of hiking trailscaters to all levels of ramblers, from gentle lakeside ambles to challenging fell ascents, each promising breathtaking vistas. For a touch of literary heritage, a pilgrimage to Hill Top, the cherished former home of Beatrix Potter, offers an enchanting journey into the world of Peter Rabbit. The charm of the region is further amplified by its quintessential English villages and towns; Windermere itself, alongside the captivating Ambleside and Bowness-on-Windermere, invites exploration of local boutiques, artisanal eateries, and the indulgence in regional delicacies such as the famed sticky toffee pudding. Finally, for the thrill-seeker, Go Ape! at Grizedale Forest provides an exhilarating aerial adventure, complete with high ropes and zip lines, promising an adrenaline-infused experience amidst the sylvan beauty.
Self-check in with a smart pin door lock allows for a serine arrival and for you to come and go as you please; exactly how Windermere should be experienced
In a Nutshell
The Penn provides a refreshingly contemporary touch to Windemere. For those looking for city chic comforts in the heart of the Lake District, you’ll find the perfect match here. Prepare to have the best night sleep followed by breathtaking hikes and rural delights which is all on your Cumbrian doorstop.
Factbox
Address: The Penn, Ambleside Rd, Windermere, LA23 1AQ
Phone: 07470 586890
Email: stay@the-penn.com
Website: thepenn.com
All imagery credit: The Penn, Windermere
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