Business Details
Your Luxury Retreat in the Heart of the Lake District
Hazel Bank is a family-run country house hotel nestled in the heart of the Borrowdale Valley, Keswick, within the English Lake District. Established in 1840, our historic property spans four acres of pristine countryside, offering panoramic views of iconic fells like Scafell Pike and Great Gable. We combine timeless elegance with modern comforts, featuring individually designed deluxe rooms, award-winning dining showcasing local Cumbrian produce, and a commitment to personalized hospitality.Our guests enjoy seamless access to outdoor pursuits, from leisurely walks to guided mountain adventures, while our culinary team, led by Donna MacRae and Chef Earl Aggrey, delivers thoughtfully prepared, seasonal menus. Recognized with accolades such as The Good Hotel Guide Cesar Ritz 2024 and Conde Nast Johansens 2024, we pride ourselves on creating unforgettable stays rooted in tradition and natural beauty.
Services
Deluxe Rooms
Award-Winning Dining
Guided Walks
Wildlife Observation
Scenic Views
Highlights and features
- We are a family-run hotel with over 180 years of heritage in the Lake District.
- Our award-winning cuisine uses locally sourced Cumbrian ingredients daily.
- We offer direct access to scenic walks and trails for all fitness levels.
- Our rooms feature bespoke furnishings and uninterrupted views of the fells.
- We provide personalized service with a focus on sustainability and comfort.
What people say
Exceptional attention to detail
Delicious food and presentation
Stunning fell views
Comfortable and spacious rooms
Knowledgeable and friendly staff
Services
Deluxe Rooms
Our individually designed deluxe rooms blend historic charm with modern comforts. Each features handmade furniture, premium L'Occitane toiletries, and panoramic views of the Lake District fells. Guests enjoy king-sized beds, flat-screen TVs, and dedicated workspaces, ensuring a restful stay amidst nature's beauty. The rooms reflect Hazel Bank's heritage while meeting contemporary expectations for comfort and style.
Award-Winning Dining
Hazel Bank's four-course dinner menu celebrates seasonal Cumbrian produce, crafted by Chef Earl Aggrey and Donna MacRae. Dishes combine traditional techniques with modern presentation, served in an elegant dining room or on the terrace overlooking the lawns. The menu changes daily to reflect local harvests, accompanied by an extensive wine list and canaps served at 7pm for residents.
Guided Walks
Guests can explore the Borrowdale Valley's landscapes through tailored walking experiences. Local qualified mountain guide Anna Lawford offers expert-led excursions to fells like Scafell Pike, while self-guided routes start directly from our doorstep. Walks cater to all abilities, from gentle riverside strolls to challenging ascents, with detailed route maps and equipment advice provided by our team.
Wildlife Observation
Hazel Bank's four-acre grounds serve as a sanctuary for native wildlife, including red squirrels, Roe deer, and pheasants. Birdwatchers can spot species at feeders from breakfast terraces, while evening 'Dark Skies' offer exceptional stargazing opportunities. The hotel provides binoculars and species guides to enhance guests' encounters with the Lake District's natural biodiversity.
Scenic Views
Every room and public space at Hazel Bank frames the dramatic Lake District scenery, with vistas of Great Gable, Watendlath fells, and the Borrowdale Valley. The property's elevated position ensures uninterrupted sightlines, complemented by designated viewing terraces and garden seating areas where guests can immerse themselves in the region's iconic landscapes.
People
Donna MacRae
Lady of the House & Chef
Donna MacRae, a Cumbrian native, oversees Hazel Bank's culinary operations and hospitality. With decades of experience, she champions local produce and traditional recipes, blending them into modern, award-winning dishes that reflect the region's seasonal bounty.
Earl Aggrey
Chef
Chef Earl Aggrey leads Hazel Bank's kitchen, crafting four-course seasonal menus that highlight Cumbrian ingredients. His expertise in fine dining and commitment to sustainability ensure each dish meets the hotel's exacting standards for quality and presentation.
Questions
What makes Hazel Bank unique among Lake District hotels?
Hazel Bank combines 180 years of heritage with award-winning cuisine and direct access to Borrowdale's fells. Our family-run ethos, wildlife-rich grounds, and panoramic views distinguish us as a luxury retreat.
Are meals included in room rates?
We offer a set four-course dinner (reduced to £49 when pre-booked) and full breakfast. Afternoon tea and packed lunches are available at additional cost, with dietary requirements accommodated upon request.
Can guests explore the Lake District without a car?
Yes. Hazel Bank's location provides immediate access to walks of all difficulty levels. We also partner with local guides and can arrange transport to nearby attractions like Derwentwater and Keswick.
What amenities are available in the rooms?
All rooms feature king-sized beds, ensuite bathrooms with rain showers, L'Occitane toiletries, flat-screen TVs, and tea/coffee facilities. Deluxe rooms include premium furnishings and dedicated workspaces with fell views.
Does Hazel Bank host special events?
We accommodate private dinners and celebrations in our dining room, with bespoke menus available. The property's scenic setting also makes it a popular choice for romantic proposals and small weddings.
How does Hazel Bank support sustainability?
We prioritize local Cumbrian suppliers, minimize food waste through seasonal menus, and maintain energy-efficient systems. Our grounds are managed to protect native wildlife, including red squirrels and rare bird species.
