Borrowdale Hotel | Victorian Charm with Dog-Friendly Dining

Name: The Borrowdale Hotel, Borrowdale Valley
Address: Borrowdale, Borrowdale Valley, Cumbria, Ca125uy
Price range: US$108+
Rating: 8.6

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Key details

About the Hotel

Borrowdale, Borrowdale Valley, Ca125uy

Close to Derwent Water

Great

8.6

/10

5.0

4.4

Loved by The Borrowdale Hotel guests

Excellent staff

Spacious room

Welcome tea

Fine surroundings

Ample parking

Good service

"Vital for us hikers, a decent drying room for wet boots & hiking gears."

Helen from United Kingdom

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"Our favourite walk round Derwentwater was 5 minutes walking distance from this hotel and a bus stop right outside to get to Keswick."

rosie183 from United Kingdom

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"As well as the dinning, conservatory and bar areas, the hotel also has several areas where you can chill out and relax in very comfortable chairs, which we found very tranquil."

Alan METALMAN - Outdoors from United Kingdom

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3-star lakeside retreat in Borrowdale Valley

Dining

The Borrowdale Hotel offers culinary delights that emphasize the best local produce, crafted by Head Chef Tristan Prudden, who trained under Gordon Ramsay. Guests can enjoy traditional Sunday roasts served from an iconic silver carving trolley, along with an array of festive dining options during the holiday season. The restaurant provides a comprehensive wine list featuring selections from the hotel's wine-tasting cellar.

Location

Nestled at the foot of Shepherds Crag, the Borrowdale Hotel is situated in the picturesque Borrowdale Valley, just four miles from Keswick. The scenic setting at the tip of Derwentwater allows for easy access to boat trips and walking trails in the nearby fells. Guests can explore the beauty of the Lake District with views of the valley from the hotel's premises.

Comfortable Spaces

The hotel offers multiple lounges where guests can unwind, featuring real log fires and deep pile carpets. The conservatory provides a bright setting for dining while offering views of the hotel gardens and surrounding fells. Comfortable armchairs and sofas invite relaxation after exploring the nearby trails.

Sustainability Practices

The Borrowdale Hotel focuses on sustainable practices aimed at reducing its environmental impact. The hotel collaborates with local suppliers to source ingredients, ensuring support for the community and the environment. This commitment extends to various operational initiatives throughout the hotel, maintaining its eco-conscious identity.

Special Events & Offers

The hotel hosts a calendar of festive events, including Christmas Day Lunch and New Year's Day Brunch, showcasing beautifully decorated spaces that enhance the celebratory atmosphere. Seasonal offerings such as mulled wine and mince pies during the holidays highlight the culinary focus of the restaurant. Guests can also take advantage of special accommodation deals and dining packages throughout the year.

Highlights

Dining: traditional Sunday lunch from silver carving trolley

Location: nestling at the foot of Shepherds Crag

Comfort: real log fires in multiple lounges

Sustainability: environmentally conscious company

“Staying at this hotel means stepping into a piece of Borrowdale Valley history, complete with silver service dining and a commitment to eco-friendly practices. Its dog-friendly atmosphere extends beyond just tolerance, with tailored accommodations for pets ensuring that all guests, regardless of species, feel at home. I think that the blend of Victorian charm and modern amenities, set against the backdrop of the Lake District, creates a relaxing retreat for those seeking both leisure and adventure.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.3/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningFood Amazing

The food was amazing, especially dinner. There was a four-course meal. Gluten-free options were plentiful. I'm already looking forward to returning.

Olivia from Canada

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Guest ParkingCharging Bonus

On-site parking includes chargers for electric vehicles. It's a bonus for drivers. It's a lovely location to easily take the local bus.

Ken from United Kingdom

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Sports & FitnessHiker's Dream

There is a decent drying room after hiking. The location is fabulous with numerous walks. Access to Derwent Water is so easy!

Helen from Scotland

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BedroomComfy Nights

The beds are very comfortable. Rooms are warm and spotless. I especially appreciated the dark curtains for a peaceful night's rest.

Karen from Wales

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Select your room type

The Borrowdale Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Classic Single Room
2 persons
1 Single bed
Bathtub
Shower
room details
Standard Double Room
2 persons
1 Double bed
Bathtub
Shower
room details
Classic Double Room
2 persons
1 Double bed
Bathtub
Shower
room details

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

The Borrowdale Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.8/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
Free parking
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
Security
Luggage storage
Allergy-free rooms
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Hiking
Cycling

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Pet amenities available
Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Board games

Spa & Leisure

Sun terrace
Garden area

Room features

Heating
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV

Dining Onsite

The Borrowdale Hotel presents an exquisite dining experience that perfectly blends traditional British cuisine with modern flair. Guests can indulge in incredible flavors while basking in stunning river and mountain views, making each meal a delightful celebration of comfort and indulgence.

Restaurant #1
British fine dining with a focus on local ingredients
Ambiance
A warm and inviting setting that balances traditional elegance with modern touches, ideal for special occasions or intimate dinners by the fireside.
Key Offerings
Signature dishes include succulent roasts served from a carving trolley, fluffy Yorkshire puddings, and seasonal vegetables. High tea and after-dinner coffee with complimentary petit fours offer a delightful finish to the evening.
Reservation
Recommended for dinner service.
Dinner served daily from 18:00 to 21:00; breakfast and lunch available with seasonal offerings.

The Borrowdale Hotel Location

Borrowdale, Borrowdale Valley, Ca125uy

Explore Borrowdale Valley

Explore Borrowdale

Lodore Falls

18 minutes' walk

Famous waterfall set in a stunning landscape, perfect for photography and nature walks. Enjoy the serene ambiance.

Holy Trinity Church

15 minutes' walk

A quaint historical church with beautiful architecture and serene surroundings, ideal for peaceful reflection.

Surprise View

25 minutes' walk

A breathtaking viewpoint overlooking Derwent Water. Ideal for scenic picnic spots and taking memorable photos.

Go Ape Whinlatter

10 minutes' walk

Adventure park featuring treetop courses and zip lines. Suitable for thrill-seekers and families looking for fun.

Hiking to Cat Bells

25 minutes' walk

A popular hike offering stunning views and moderate challenge. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.

Yoga by Derwent Water

30 minutes' walk

Relaxing yoga classes offered in serene settings near the lake. Ideal for those seeking calm and wellness.

The Borrowdale Hotel

1 minute' walk

Offers exquisite dining with a focus on local ingredients. Enjoy seasonal dishes in a cozy and elegant setting.

The Swinside Inn

10 minutes' drive

Charming inn with a warm ambiance serving traditional British fare, perfect for families and casual dining.

Keswick Theatre

15 minutes' drive

Local theater showcasing a variety of live performances, from plays to music, suitable for all ages.

The Borrowdale Bar

1 minute' walk

Cozy bar within the hotel featuring a selection of local ales and cocktails, perfect for relaxing after a day out.

Getting around

City Centre
Borrowdale Valley 6 min · 1700 ft
Airports
Carlisle Lake District (CAX) 111 min · 45.9 mi
Blackpool International (BLK) 208 min · 86.1 mi
Bus
Bus stop 9 min · 3.4 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

from 07:00-11:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP 18.0 per person.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Languages

English, Spanish, Hungarian, Romanian, Polish

Year renovated:

2009

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Borrowdale Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Borrowdale Hotel is often praised for its superb location, offering easy access to Derwentwater and major attractions. Guests frequently appreciate the ample free parking and the convenience of a bus stop right outside the hotel, making exploring the Lakes effortless. Many find the food delicious and excellent value for money, with a pleasant restaurant and bar area; however, some guests have noted that the service at breakfast can sometimes be slow. The hotel also caters well to dogs, providing beds, bowls, and towels, making it a popular choice for those traveling with pets.

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Review score

Based on 730 verified reviews

8.7 /10

Great

89 %

Recommend

Location

9.3/10

Breakfast

9.2/10

Free WiFi

7.8/10

Value for money

8.2/10

Pros

Peaceful atmosphere

Excellent food

Helpful staff

Tremendous location

Cons

Constant noise

Variable water pressure

Small room

Roger from United Kingdom

Single

Classic Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 14, 2026

9.5/10

wonderful stay in the lakes

communal spaces beautiful setting dog friendly friendly staff

i really liked the communal spaces especially the lounges and bar. the setting is beautiful it is perfect for walks. i appreciate the hotel being dog friendly. i saw staff offer dog biscuits to dogs after checking with owners.

my room had a radiator that had been turned down so it was a bit chilly initially. however it heated up quickly once i adjusted it. the location at the back of the hotel meant my window faced the fire escape.

Dining

9/10

the food was very good with delicious options available. the bar looked well stocked offering a variety of drinks. i really liked my dinner in the conservatory it was quite nice.

Service

10/10

staff greeted me warmly upon arrival and were cute. i was a little early, so i was shown to the bar seating area where i had food and drinks. the staff seemed lovely and willing to help.

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Patrick from Ireland

Single

Prestige Double Room

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 22, 2026

9/10

comfortable bed decorated dining room

The staff are friendly. I received a warm welcome!!! the newly refurbished room was fabulous. It was an excellent size with a huge comfortable bed. the dining room is nicely decorated with lovely furniture. The tables are well placed.

the service at breakfast was sometimes very slow.

0 Helpful

Molly from Ireland

Couple

Classic Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 24, 2025

9/10

lovely retreat

delicious food friendly staff convenient bus well kept garden

The food was delicious. Breakfast offered a good choice, and dinner was good. i found the staff very friendly and helpful . the location is excellent for exploring the surrounding area, and i found bus access quite convenient. the gardens were well kept and i could relax there.

the room was somewhat small. it was clean. but i would have liked more space

Service

9/10

the staff members were helpful and attentive, providing quick assistance when needed. they were always available at reception and were genuinely willing to ensure guests enjoyed their visit. the service was excellent and very personable.

0 Helpful

Robert from United Kingdom

Single

Classic Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 16, 2025

9/10

A Wonderful Stay

comfortable beds cosy room

The grounds were great. I sat in the garden enjoying the sunshine and scenery. The evening meal was delicious. The beds were comfortable and I had a cosy room.

0 Helpful

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Questions of the users

About The Borrowdale Hotel

Are there specific rooms where dogs are not permitted due to allergies?

10 November 2024

Dogs are welcome in all room categories; however, certain rooms are designated as dog-free to accommodate guests with allergies.

In which areas of the hotel can guests enjoy their meals with their dogs?

23 December 2024

Dogs are allowed in all areas except the main restaurant. Guests can have their main meals in the bar or popular conservatory.

Can I dine in the bar area while accompanied by my dog?

5 January 2025

Yes, the bar area and conservatory are available for dining with pets, allowing guests to enjoy meals together.

Is the hotel pet-friendly for one dog?

12 January 2025

The hotel is indeed dog-friendly and welcomes one dog per guest.

What type of parking facilities are available for guests?

15 March 2025

Ample parking is provided for guests, with spaces available at both the front and rear of the hotel.

What coffee and tea making facilities are available in the rooms?

22 February 2025

Rooms are equipped with kettles and a selection of hot drink options, including teas and coffee, but do not include coffee machines.

What is the charge for bringing a dog during my stay?

28 April 2025

The charge for bringing a dog is £10 per night.

Are there rooms available with walk-in showers for disabled guests?

7 May 2025

A limited number of rooms are available with walk-in showers, but guests are encouraged to contact the hotel directly to confirm availability.

Can small hypoallergenic dogs stay at the hotel?

15 June 2025

Yes, small hypoallergenic dogs are welcomed, making the hotel suitable for various pet types.

Is it possible to enjoy gluten-free dining options for breakfast and dinner?

30 June 2025

Gluten-free meal accommodations can be arranged for guests upon request.

Are there electric car charging facilities on site?

22 July 2025

Electric car charging is available at the hotel, accessible through the 'Charge Assist' app.

Does the hotel feature a bar that is open to the public?

18 August 2025

Yes, there is a public bar that welcomes non-residents and is open daily.

Are there facilities for guests with disabilities at the hotel?

25 September 2025

The hotel provides disability access, including two ground-floor rooms equipped for disabled visitors.

What dining experiences are available during the festive season?

13 October 2025

The hotel offers a variety of festive dining experiences including Christmas Day Lunch and New Year's Day Brunch.

Is there a traditional Sunday lunch option for guests?

16 November 2025

Yes, a traditional Sunday lunch featuring a selection of roasts is served, prepared by experienced staff.

What can guests expect from afternoon tea at the hotel?

14 December 2025

Afternoon tea is served in a relaxing atmosphere, featuring a selection of sandwiches, scones, and cakes, available in both lounges and outdoor areas.