In our review of this lakeside retreat, we found a slice of English charm right on the shores of Windermere. Rooms range from cozy doubles to fancy suites with knockout lake views.
The restaurant dishes up tasty local fare, while the bar’s perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely afternoon tea. When you’re not out exploring the stunning Lake District, you can unwind in the pool, spa, or gym.
Now, it’s not all rosy. The hotel can get busy during peak season, and some might find the décor a tad old-fashioned.
But if you’re after a comfy base with great views and easy access to both lake and town, this place fits the bill.
This hotel’s a good pick for couples seeking a romantic getaway, families wanting a mix of relaxation and outdoor fun, or anyone looking to soak up classic Lake District scenery without sacrificing creature comforts.
Good To Know
- The hotel is located in Bowness-on-Windermere, a 20-minute walk from the center of Windermere, providing a convenient base for exploring the scenic Lake District.
- Accommodation options include a variety of room types, including standard, deluxe, and family rooms, some with scenic lake views.
- The hotel features an award-winning restaurant, a casual terrace bar, and a range of dining options catering to different preferences.
- Guests can enjoy the hotel’s on-site facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, spa, and gym, as well as opportunities for walking tours and exploring the hotel gardens.
- The hotel is situated in close proximity to popular attractions such as the Beatrix Potter Exhibition and offers easy access to scenic boat cruises on Lake Windermere.
Hotel Overview and Location
The Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa stands in the charming town of Bowness-on-Windermere, just a 20-minute walk from the center of Windermere.
This hotel has an excellent location, rated 9.5/10 from 2,320 reviews. Guests can easily access nearby attractions like the Beatrix Potter Exhibition, just 656 feet away, and the stunning Lake Windermere.
The hotel’s lakeside setting provides a picturesque backdrop for a relaxing getaway.
With its prime location and exceptional ratings, the Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa offers travelers a convenient and appealing base to explore the scenic Lake District.
Accommodation Options
What room types can guests expect at the Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
The hotel offers a variety of accommodations, including Standard Double, Twin, Deluxe, Super Deluxe, and Family Rooms.
Accessible Rooms are also available for guests with special needs.
All rooms feature flat-screen TVs, tea/coffee facilities, and free toiletries, with some offering scenic lake views.
The hotel’s facilities include an indoor swimming pool, spa, gym, restaurant, and bar, providing guests with a range of amenities to enjoy during their stay.
Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s free Wi-Fi and on-site parking, available for a nightly fee.
Dining Experiences
Guests at the Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa can indulge in a range of dining experiences. The award-winning restaurant serves locally sourced produce, offering a fine dining experience. The Terrace Bar provides a more casual setting for light meals and afternoon teas.
To summarize the dining options:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | Award-winning, serves local produce |
| Terrace Bar | Casual setting for light meals and afternoon teas |
| Afternoon Tea | Available at the Terrace Bar |
| Room Service | Available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner |
Guest Reviews and Ratings
According to guest reviews, the Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa has an overall rating of 7.7/10, indicating a generally good experience.
Guests highlighted several aspects that contributed to their positive impressions:
The hotel’s excellent location, within a 20-minute walk to Windermere center and near popular attractions like the Beatrix Potter Exhibition.
The luxurious feel and high-quality environment of the property.
The tasty breakfast offerings and friendly staff.
However, some guests noted that the hotel could use updates and felt the value for money was mixed.
Facilities and Amenities
The Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa offers an array of facilities and amenities to cater to its guests’ needs and preferences. The hotel has an indoor swimming pool, a full-service spa, and a well-equipped gym for guests to stay active and rejuvenated. Dining options include an award-winning restaurant and a terrace bar, providing a range of local and international cuisine. Plus, the hotel offers free Wi-Fi and paid parking for the convenience of its visitors.
| Room Features | Dining Options | Facilities |
|---|---|---|
| Flat-screen TV | Award-winning restaurant | Indoor swimming pool |
| Tea/coffee facilities | Terrace Bar for light meals and afternoon teas | Spa |
| Free toiletries | Gym | |
| Some rooms with lake views | Free Wi-Fi, Paid Parking |
Policies and Services
Pertaining to policies and guest services, the Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa implements a standard check-in time from 4 PM to 12 AM, and a check-out time from 7 AM to 11 AM.
The hotel welcomes children of all ages, and extra beds are available upon request at no additional cost.
Pets, however, aren’t permitted on the premises.
For payment, the hotel accepts credit and debit cards only; cash isn’t accepted, and the card used for booking must be presented at check-in.
Spa and Wellness
Along With the hotel’s standard amenities, guests can indulge in the on-site spa and leisure facilities.
The spa offers a range of beauty treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. Guests can also enjoy the sauna, steam room, and ice room for a rejuvenating experience.
For those seeking more active pursuits, the hotel has a fully equipped gym and a heated indoor pool open year-round.
Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of walking tours and explore the hotel’s beautiful gardens.
Whether seeking relaxation or activity, the Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa provides ample opportunities for guests to unwind and recharge.
Nearby Attractions
Situated just a 20-minute walk from the center of Windermere, the Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa enjoys a prime location near an array of local attractions.
Guests can easily explore the Beatrix Potter Exhibition, located just 656 feet away. Plus, the hotel’s close proximity to Lake Windermere offers opportunities for:
- Scenic boat cruises
- Hiking along the lake’s picturesque shores
- Visiting the charming shops and cafes in the town center
- Discovering the natural beauty of the Lake District National Park.
With its ideal location, the Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa provides guests with convenient access to explore the best that Bowness-on-Windermere and the surrounding area have to offer.
Questions About Staying Here
What Is the Hotel’s Check-In and Check-Out Time?
The check-in time is from 4 PM to 12 AM, while the check-out time is from 7 AM to 11 AM. Guests must adhere to these time frames when arriving and departing the hotel.
Does the Hotel Offer Free Parking?
The hotel provides paid parking at £20 per night. There is no free parking available on the premises, but guests have the option to pay for on-site parking during their stay.
Are Children Allowed to Stay at the Hotel?
Yes, children of all ages are welcome at the hotel. Extra beds are available upon request at no additional cost to accommodate families.
Can Guests Bring Their Pets?
Pets are not allowed at the hotel. According to the hotel’s policies, only children of all ages are welcome, with extra beds available upon request at no additional charge.
What Payment Methods Are Accepted by the Hotel?
The hotel accepts credit and debit cards for booking and payment at check-in, but does not accept cash. The card used for the booking must be presented upon arrival.
Worth The Stay
The Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa offers a quintessential Lake District experience. Its excellent location, well-appointed accommodations, and impressive array of facilities, including a spa and award-winning restaurant, provide guests with a comfortable and indulgent stay. Whether seeking a luxurious getaway or a relaxing lakeside retreat, this hotel perfectly blends comfort, elegance, and natural beauty, making it an ideal choice for exploring the wonders of the Lake District.