Dale Head Hall Lakeside Hotel Thirlmere Exterior photoDale Head Hall Lakeside Hotel Thirlmere Exterior photoDale Head Hall Lakeside Hotel Thirlmere Exterior photo
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From180US$ /night
Check-in
05Jun2026Select date
Check-out
06Jun2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Thirlmere, Thirlmere, United Kingdom
-
On the tranquil shores of Thirlmere
Great
8.4
8.4
/10
3.3
4.2
/5

16th Century Lakeside Hotel in Thirlmere

Location

Dale Head Hall Lakeside Hotel sits on the tranquil shores of Thirlmere, surrounded by mature gardens and woodland. The hotel offers direct access to outstanding walking routes, including trails leading to Helvellyn and Cat Bells. Just a ten-minute drive links guests to the vibrant market town of Keswick and the charming village of Grasmere.

Accommodations

The hotel encompasses various room types, including Four Poster Double, Superior Lakeside Double, and Classic Double Rooms. Each room features bespoke designs that connect guests with the hotel's rich history. Lavish en-suite bathrooms enhance the comfort of the accommodations, allowing for a refreshing retreat after a long day exploring.

Dining

Dale Head Hall Lakeside Hotel provides an on-site dining experience with a menu that highlights local flavors. Guests can enjoy bar meals at the hotel's restaurant, which focuses on fresh, regional ingredients. An inviting dining atmosphere complements the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Outdoor Activities

The hotel serves as a prime base for outdoor adventures, placing guests just minutes from numerous hiking trails. Notable walks, such as the path to Helvellyn, are easily accessible from the hotel grounds. Fishing opportunities are also available on Thirlmere, where guests can experience tranquil fishing from the lakeshore or take a boat out.

Wildlife Discovery

Situated within a red squirrel reserve, Dale Head Hall allows guests to observe wildlife including both red and grey squirrels in their natural habitat. The hotel's mature gardens and woodlands create an environment rich in biodiversity. Nature enthusiasts can explore the surrounding area, spotting local wildlife during their stay.

Highlights

Location: Tranquil shores of Thirlmere

Accommodations: Luxurious en-suite bathroom

Dining: Delicious bar meal

Outdoor Activities: Best fishing in the Lake District

“Dale Head Hall's setting on Lake Thirlmere provides immediate access to Helvellyn's trails, making it ideal for keen walkers. The family-run hotel's historic, 16th-century character makes it a comfortable base to return to. In my opinion, the highlight is the direct access to fishing on Thirlmere itself.”
Hotel logo
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type

Dale Head Hall Lakeside Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Classic Double Room Lake view
2 persons
175 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Classic Twin Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Superior Lakeside Double
2 persons
195 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Four Poster Junior Suite
2 persons
270 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
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Facilities

Dale Head Hall Lakeside Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.0/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free parking
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

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

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games

Spa & Leisure

  • Beach umbrellas
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

Dale Head Hall Lakeside Hotel offers delightful dining experiences with a focus on British cuisine, set against the backdrop of beautiful Lake District scenery. Guests can indulge in family-friendly settings that cater to a variety of dietary needs, making every mealtime a celebration of local flavors.

Bar

British
Ambiance
Family-friendly and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for casual gatherings.
Key Offerings
Offers hearty British fare with options for vegetarian and gluten-free diets, alongside a selection of beverages. Perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Reservation
Not needed
Breakfast: 08:00 - 10:00; Dinner: 18:30 - 21:00 (Monday to Saturday, with Sunday breakfast only).

Restaurant #2

British
Ambiance
Inviting and family-friendly, perfect for a cozy breakfast setting.
Key Offerings
Features a diverse breakfast menu with options catering to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free preferences. A wonderful start to the day in a charming environment.
Reservation
Not needed
Breakfast: 08:00 - 10:00 (Daily).

Dale Head Hall Lakeside Hotel Location

Thirlmere, Thirlmere, United Kingdom
Map view
Thirlmere, Thirlmere, United Kingdom
Nearby
Thirlspot Copper Mine
3100 ft
Restaurants
King's Head Inn
1300 ft
Lakeside Hotel A591
Explore Thirlmere
Local Experiences near Dale Head Hall
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Thirlspot Copper Mine
15 minutes' walk
Historic copper mine with stunning views, showcasing the region's mining heritage.
Thirlmere Embankment
20 minutes' walk
A scenic pathway along Thirlmere lake, perfect for peaceful walks or picnics.
Castle Crag Fort
20 minutes' walk
An ancient fort offering a glimpse into history along with breathtaking views of the valley.
Hiking Helvellyn
10 minutes' drive
Thrilling hiking trails leading to England's third-highest peak, ideal for adventurers.
Lodore Falls
5 minutes' drive
Beautiful waterfall and picnic area, perfect for relaxation amidst nature.
King's Head Inn
5 minutes' walk
Cozy pub serving local dishes; renowned for hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere.
Theatre by the Lake
15 minutes' drive
A stunning venue hosting plays and concerts with picturesque lake views.
Getting around
City Centre
Thirlmere17 min  ·  4600 ft
Airports
Carlisle Lake District (CAX)104 min  ·  42.8 mi
Blackpool International (BLK)186 min  ·  76.8 mi
Bus
Bus stop12 min  ·  4.9 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-21:00
Check-out
from 08:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP15 per person per day. 
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
18

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Dale Head Hall Lakeside Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Dale Head Hall Lakeside Hotel is often praised for its superb location, offering immediate access to Thirlmere Lake and nearby walks. Many guests appreciate the spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and clean bathrooms, some even with amazing lake views. The full English breakfast in the pretty dining area is a highlight for many; however, a few guests have noted that the decor appears somewhat dated. With parts of the house dating back to 1577, the bar area is particularly cosy and worth visiting.
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Review score
Based on 310 verified reviews
8.4/10
Great
88%
Recommend
Location
9.5/10
Breakfast
9.2/10
Free Wi-Fi
6.6/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.4/10
Pros
Great location
Superb view
Pleasant room
Fresh fruit
Welcoming host
Cons
Ragged towels
Grubby bathroom
Overgrown gardens
Guest reviews
based on 310 reviews
8.4/10
based on 276 reviews
3.5/5
based on 495 reviews
8.4/10
Stella from Italy
Couple
Classic Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 19, 2026
8/10
dinner optionsgood routelake access
the staff helped with dinner options, TALKING about the local area. the host suggested a good touring route for the lake district. i liked the immediate access to the lake and nearby walks.
The hotel seemed dated. SORRY.
0 Helpful
Mary from United Kingdom
Family with children
Family Room Lake View
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: November 28, 2025
8.7/10

serene lakeside getaway

peaceful locationfriendly staffcooked breakfastroom cobwebs
The staff was very accommodating. They met my needs. the lakeside location was peaceful. I enjoyed the views. breakfast was well cooked and satisfying. the staff were friendly and helpful.
i noticed cobwebs in the room i occupied, which could have been cleaned.
Dining
9/10
The hotel provided a restaurant with varied menu choices! the breakfast was really good and featured hot, well-prepared options. I found the dining area very pleasant. the food tasted fresh, with generous portions.
Facilities
8/10
The hotel has grounds near the lake. I found these grounds picturesque. the hotel offered a bar. It seemed well-stocked! the location is secluded from the main road, nice for a quiet environment.
Rooms
9/10
The room included comfortable beds and clean linens. the room i was allocated had a lake view! the room had adequate space for our needs. It also featured a tv.
0 Helpful
|
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Steven from United States
Couple
classic double room
1 night in October 2025
|
Reviewed: November 08, 2025
6/10

decent stay, some issues

tasty breakfastcold roomdamp bedding
the food was good. breakfast was tasty and hot.
the room was cold and damp. i used the hairdryer to dry the bedding. the experience reminded me of a cold farmhouse without heating.
0 Helpful
James from United Kingdom
Group of friends
Classic Double Room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: November 04, 2025
9/10

Quiet Lakeside Stay

lake viewshelpful staffgood choicesquiet atmosphere
I found the views of the lake to be fantastic. Staff members Philip and John were especially helpful and friendly. Breakfast and dinner offered good choices. The quiet atmosphere added to the overall relaxing experience (just what i needed).
The WiFi signal was a bit weak at times in the room.
Rooms
9/10
My room had everything i needed and was cosy and warm. The room included a comfortable bed, storage space for luggage, and blackout curtains ensuring a restful night's sleep. Windows provided good natural light.
0 Helpful
|
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Elijah from Israel
Couple
Superior Lakeside Double
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: October 24, 2025
9/10

Quiet Lakeside Retreat

beautiful locationeasy accesstraditional hoteltasty breakfast
The hotel location provided easy access with good parking. The gardens allowed access to a lakeside walk. The hotel seemed like a traditional home and not an overdeveloped hotel. Breakfast was hot and tasty.
The water pressure was not strong enough for comfortable showering.
Facilities
9/10
The hotel offers parking on the hotel and also provides access to the lakeside directly from its gardens. The location is quiet offering a peaceful experience away from the main road so guests can enjoy tranquility.
0 Helpful
|
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Sheila from Ireland
Family with children
Family Room Lake View
3 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed: July 20, 2025
9.0/10

Historical Charm and Lakeside Views

friendly staffwell maintained gardengreat viewsexcellent breakfast
I found nice staff available. The hotel included a well maintained garden, and it offered great views. Breakfast was excellent. There was a wide range of food. I enjoyed my time looking at the lake.
The water pressure seemed low. It made showering a little difficult after a long day.
Service
9/10
Staff members are very attentive. They provided quick responses to requests. The team always was willing to help guests. The assistance ensured a smooth stay.
Facilities
8/10
The hotel features a garden, and it is well maintained. Paths allow for easy walks. The views were very nice. I found the upkeep very good.
Location
10/10
The hotel is located by a lake. This provides easy access to water activities. The area ensures a very quiet visit. It is secluded, and it creates a relaxing environment.
Rooms
9/10
Our room had adequate space for a family. It was ideal for our needs. The beds were very comfy. The room included nice views of the lake.
Dining
9/10
Breakfast includes a wide range of options. They offer a very good vegan breakfast as requested. The meal was excellent overall. I really appreciated the variety.
0 Helpful
|
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Questions of the users
About Dale Head Hall Lakeside Hotel
Is a full breakfast available, and do you cater for gluten-free dietary needs?
5 April 2024
Currently, a continental breakfast is served to your room, as the restaurant and bar are closed. Gluten-free options can be arranged with advance notice.
Am I allowed to bring my dog with me during my stay?
12 August 2024
Dogs are welcome only in specific self-catering cottages and not within the hotel or its bedrooms.
Can dogs stay in any of the hotel rooms?
19 March 2024
Dogs are permitted only in the designated apartment rooms, and reservations must be arranged directly with the hotel.
Is the restaurant currently operational?
24 October 2024
The restaurant is not open at the moment, as it is closed for dining services.
Are there elevators available in the hotel?
15 June 2024
The hotel does not have a lift; however, ground floor rooms with level access are available.
Is it possible to paddle board on the lake?
7 September 2024
Paddle boarding is permitted on the lake, but guests must do so at their own risk.
Can I fish in the lake near the hotel?
10 November 2024
Fishing is allowed, but guests need to possess a valid rod licence to fish on the lake.
Are there facilities for families, such as travel cots?
3 January 2025
Travel cots can be provided upon request for families traveling with infants.
Are vegan breakfast options available?
22 March 2025
All dietary requirements, including vegan options, are accommodated. Guests are encouraged to inform the hotel in advance.
What are the closest dining options if the hotel restaurant is closed?
16 February 2025
While the hotel restaurant is closed for evening meals, the nearest pub and restaurant are just a 7-minute walk away.

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