Sawrey House Country Hotel

This hotel was a last resort due to the fact that I couldn't find anywhere else to stay whilst attending a wedding at the weekend. I am very pleased to have found it. On arrival we were greeted by the manager and one of his staff. On a very hot day we could tell that they were both run ragged yet they couldn't do enough for us. After enquiring about a taxi to get to the wedding the next day it was no sooner said than arranged. I also enquired about having dinner in the restaurant, which normally needs to be reserved by midday on the day, but a quick pop into the kitchen to ask if we could be accommodated confirmed our request, asked to select our dishes and all was well. Then we were escorted to our room and given a very efficient (if not a little breathless as we were on the top floor)) briefing of restaurant and bar opening hours and general domestics. On entering our room we were pleasantly surprised. There was a little dust on some of the furniture but nothing too alarming and after talking to John the manager in the evening I understood why. Dust aside the bathroom was spotless and good quality towels were supplied. There were even bath robes, a hair dryer and a steam iron and ironing board in the wardrobe which was quite a pleasant surprise. In addition there was digital TV, which for a small hotel was unexpected. Bedlinen was crisp and white.
In the evening, after choosing a bottle of wine from the extensive and reasonably priced wine list we made our way to the restaurant. The menu was small but well balanced and the food itself was excellent. The table service was attentive and efficient and as it was a nice evening we were told that we could take coffee on the terrace if we preferred. The view from the back of the house is beautiful and a number of guests were just sat chatting enjoying a drink or two and taking in the scenary. I engaged the manager in conversation as he was collecting empty glasses and learned that he and his wife lease the property off the National Trust and have been in residence just approx 18 months. They are aware that the property is in need of a makeover but from my perspective it all adds to the character. Four out of the eleven rooms have been re-furbished so far but progress has been slow due to lack of funds etc The place is run with five staff, including the manager and his wife. This is in order to keep costs down and to provide a personal and friendly service in the hope that guests will return and recommend to their family, friends and colleagues. They all do a sterling job.
Breakfast was great too. It was cooked to order and there was a good selection of cereals, juices, pastries and fruit.
To sum up. This hotel deserves patronage. Relative to the price (cheap by cumbria standards) I would say it is an exceptional place to stay. A couple of minutes from Hawkshead in a car, next to Beatrix Potter's Hill Top and near to the Hawkshead Ferry it is well situated and only 15 minutes or so from Newby Bridge and the A591/592. Thank you for finding it for me!

We booked a small ground floor room at a discount on the normal price. The hotel is stunningly located with fantastic views, and the public rooms are fantastic. All the staff were really friendly and helpful. Breakfast was excellent, with a range of options, I recommend the smoked haddock. A nice change from the usual cheap frozen breakfast food! Dinner looked like it would be very good from the menu and cooking for breakfast, and would be ideal for a one night getaway, although we ate in the local pub a few minutes walk away. The room was in need of refurbishment, but satisfactory for the price given the location. I gather that the more expensive rooms are more similar in style to the rest of the public areas. The bathroom could do with not having a carpet, as this made it difficult to keep clean as it was quite small and water inevitably got on the carpet from the shower. I recommend staying here if you are looking for a break away from it all, but within reach of the attractions of the south lake district.

The staff was amazingly accommodating and pleasant. The room was superb; the food first rate--both breakfasts and dinner. The setting was gorgeous. I would like to have stayed for several more days.

The quality of food and customer service were excellent. The bar and lounge areas were comfortable and relaxing, and the location with it's scenic views were outstanding. Quickest way to get there is via the ferry across Lake Windermere, although the slightly longer road trip via Ambleside was also pleasant.