Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Bowness-on-Windermere Exterior photoMacdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Bowness-on-Windermere Interior photoMacdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Bowness-on-Windermere Exterior photo

Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa, Bowness-on-Windermere

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From$146 /night
Check-in
03Sept
Check-out
04Sept
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Church Street, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3DF
-
Close to Lake Windermere
Very good
7.5
7.5
/10
3.1
3.7
/5

4-star lakeside retreat at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa

Location

Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa is set on the shores of Lake Windermere, England's largest natural lake. The hotel includes its own private jetty and lakeside moorings, providing guests with direct access to the water. Just a short walk leads to the charming town of Bowness-on-Windermere, known for its various attractions and activities.

Rooms

The hotel boasts 106 traditionally furnished bedrooms, offering a range of options including spacious balcony suites overlooking Lake Windermere. Guests can enjoy luxury toiletries and en-suite bathrooms in all accommodations. Each room is designed to enhance relaxation with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Wellness

The Vital Health and Wellbeing Club includes a 20-metre swimming pool with views of the grounds, a thermal suite, and a state-of-the-art gym equipped with Life Fitness equipment. The onsite spa offers a variety of ELEMIS treatments, allowing guests to unwind in a serene setting. Spa packages and day treatments are available for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Dining

Dining options include the Lakeview Restaurant, known for its seasonal menu featuring British cuisine paired with panoramic views of Lake Windermere. The Terrace Lounge serves a selection of drinks and offers a delightful setting for classic afternoon tea. Guests can also enjoy outdoor seating perfect for a scenic dining experience.

Pet-Friendly Policies

Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa welcomes well-behaved dogs, providing special treats and amenities for pets. Guests traveling with dogs can request dog-friendly accommodation and enjoy access to the hotel's surrounding grounds. A dog-friendly atmosphere allows pets to accompany their owners during dining in designated areas.

Highlights

Location: Shores of Lake Windermere

Rooms: 106 traditionally furnished bedrooms

Dining: Lakeview Restaurant with seasonal menu

Wellness: Thermal suite and ELEMIS treatments

Pet-Friendly: Special treats and accommodations

Activities: Direct access to water sports

“Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa benefits from its prime location in Bowness-on-Windermere, convenient to local attractions like the Beatrix Potter Exhibition and Glebe Park. I especially note the recent renovations to the spa alongside the scenic lake views. The friendly staff certainly contributes to an enjoyable stay.”
Hotel logo
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Select your room type

Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
  • Standard Twin Room
    2 persons
    21 sq. feet
    2 Single beds
    Heating
    Shower
  • Standard Double Room
    2 persons
    21 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Standard King Room
    2 persons
    21 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Heating
    Shower
Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Very good
7.6/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Lift
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Dryer

Services

  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

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

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's buffet
  • Board games

Spa & Leisure

  • Indoor swimming pool
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Sauna
  • Steam room
  • Back massage
  • Head massage
  • Full body massage
  • Foot massage

Room features

  • Heating
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Separate tub and shower
  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Dryer

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

The Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa offers a delightful array of dining experiences, each accompanied by breathtaking views of the Lake District. From elegant evening meals to casual lunches, explore a range of options that cater to diverse dietary needs, ensuring a memorable culinary journey in a stunning setting.
  • Lakeview Restaurant

    British cuisine with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options
    Ambiance
    Set against the serene backdrop of the Cumbrian countryside, the Lakeview Restaurant boasts panoramic views that enhance the dining experience.
    Key Offerings
    A delicious two-course lunch featuring seasonal ingredients, as well as an inviting dinner menu that reflects regional flavors.
    Reservation
    Recommended.
    Open for breakfast and dinner; hours may vary.
  • Seagrave Bar

    Casual dining and bar menu
    Ambiance
    A relaxed setting perfect for private drinks or a casual bite, the Seagrave Bar provides a cozy atmosphere for unwind.
    Key Offerings
    An excellent selection of fine wines and spirits, ideal for pre-dinner drinks or relaxing after a long day.
    Reservation
    Not needed.
    Open for drinks and light dining throughout the day; specific hours may vary.
  • Terrace Bar

    Light bites and refreshing cocktails
    Ambiance
    Overlooking the lush landscapes, the Terrace Bar is a delightful spot for al fresco dining and casual gatherings.
    Key Offerings
    Craft cocktails and lighter fare in an inviting outdoor setting, perfect for winding down at the end of the day.
    Reservation
    Not needed.
    Hours may vary; primarily open for drinks.

Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Location

Church Street, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3DF
Explore Bowness-on-Windermere
Explore Bowness-on-Windermere
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
4 minutes' walk
A charming attraction featuring exhibits based on Beatrix Potter's beloved characters. Interactive experiences are perfect for families.
Lake Windermere
Lake Windermere
6 minutes' walk
The largest lake in England offers beautiful views and water activities such as boating and paddleboarding. A must-visit for nature lovers.
Windermere Jetty Museum of Boats
Windermere Jetty Museum of Boats
11 minutes' walk
A waterfront museum showcasing historic boats with engaging exhibits, perfect for maritime enthusiasts of all ages.
Blackwell The Arts and Crafts House
Blackwell The Arts and Crafts House
25 minutes' walk
An iconic Arts and Crafts house with stunning architecture, art exhibitions, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Windermere Canoe and Kayak
Windermere Canoe and Kayak
15 minutes' walk
Exciting water sports available for rentals and guided tours, perfect for adventure enthusiasts and beginners alike.
Walking Trails at Orrest Head
30 minutes' walk
A scenic hike to Orrest Head offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Windermere, ideal for nature lovers seeking tranquility.
Village Inn Bar & Grill
2 minutes' walk
A cozy pub offering hearty British dishes and local ales in a friendly atmosphere. Reservations recommended during peak seasons.
Jackson's Bistro
2 minutes' walk
A stylish eatery serving fresh, locally-sourced British cuisine. Known for its seafood specials and exquisite desserts.
Aquarius Amusements
8 minutes' walk
A lively amusement arcade offering fun for all ages, featuring games, prizes, and friendly competition among family and friends.
Terrace Coffee Lounge & Cocktail Bar
1 minutes' walk
An elegant bar serving cocktails and light bites with stunning lake views. Ideal for relaxing evenings after a day of adventure.
Getting around
  • City Centre
    Bowness-on-Windermere 3 min  ·  700 ft
  • Airports
    Carlisle Lake District (CAX) 124 min  ·  51.2 mi
    Blackpool International (BLK) 150 min  ·  62.2 mi
  • Bus
    Bus stop 27 min  ·  1.4 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-23:59
Check-out
from 07:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site at true.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Macdonald Old England & Spa guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, Spanish, Italian, Czech, Hungarian, Chinese, Polish, Arabic, Slovak
Year renovated:
2007
Number of floors:
4
Number of rooms:
106

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa enjoys a superb location right on the shore of Lake Windermere, putting guests within easy reach of shops, bars, and restaurants. Many rooms are spacious and offer excellent views overlooking the lake and gardens, which guests particularly appreciate, and a good-quality breakfast is commonly enjoyed. The hotel provides access to the pool and thermal suite of the spa, and while some guests have noted that certain aspects appear a little dated, the lounge bar and terrace offer comfortable spaces with lovely views.
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Review score
Based on 1237 verified reviews
7.1 /10
Very good
63 %
Recommend
Location
9.5/10
Comfort
8.3/10
Breakfast
6.7/10
Value for money
6.8/10
Pros
Clean rooms
Helpful staff
Fabulous location
Comfortable bed
Cons
Expensive parking
Limited breakfast
Warm water
Guest reviews
based on 1237 reviews
7.1/10
based on 1886 reviews
7.5/10
Charlotte from United Kingdom
Couple
Deluxe Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 10, 2026
9/10

Fantastic Lake Stay

great location quality produce excellent view attentive staff
I enjoyed the GREAT location. It made exploring simple. Breakfast offered top-quality produce, I really liked it. The room provided an excellent view with windows overlooking the lake and gardens. Staff members were professional and attentive.
The pillows felt a little lumpy.
Rooms
9/10
Our room featured an accessible bathroom with modern fixtures and refurbishment. It was convenient. There were luxury accessories, including a super clean super bed, for supreme comfort. The view faced directly toward Bowness Pier Head, giving wonderful scenery.
0 Helpful
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Charlotte from United Kingdom
Couple
Deluxe Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 01, 2026
9.0/10

Fantastic Anniversary Getaway!

excellent service bigger room anniversary celebration surprise prosecco
This was my second stay, and my partner and I celebrate our anniversary here annually. Upon returning after lunch, we were upgraded to a BIGGER room than last year. A staff member with an Irish accent brought up a bottle of Prosecco with ice. The service was EXCELLENT.
The spa facilities were slightly crowded. It was hard to relax fully.
Rooms
9/10
The room was well-presented and clean. The bed was comfortable with nice pillows. There were ample towels. The lake view was wonderful.
Location
10/10
The hotel's location is central. It is a short, level walk to the pier head. Shops and restaurants are easily accessible. The pier offers lake cruises.
Facilities
8/10
The hotel has a spa and a pool. Breakfast included top-quality produce. The breakfast area overlooks the garden and lake. The gym includes several machines.
Service
9/10
Staff members were professional and attentive. Breakfast staff are helpful. The receptionist was awesome. The room upgrade was facilitated.
0 Helpful
|
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Eva from Germany
Single
Deluxe Twin Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 23, 2026
9.3/10

lovely stay!

friendly staff spacious room comfortable bedding
the staff are friendly and polite. the room felt spacious. the quality of the bedding was lovely and comfortable. the lounge bar was nice and comfortable, it gave lovely views.
the hotel car park is not right next to the hotel. it is a short walk. the spa closes relatively early at 6pm, this limited use on the arrival day.
Dining
9/10
breakfast was perfect with a vast array of different areas. the breakfast included good quality produce. the dining area is magnificent and it offers fantastic lake views.
Rooms
10/10
i was upgraded to a superior room upon arrival. the room provided an amazing view. the room was big and airy and perfectly sized. the bathroom was especially good and spacious too!!!
Service
9/10
the staff are excellent from front desk to the cleaning staff. they are friendly, polite, hard working, and helpful. the manager addressed my issues when settling the bill. i appreciated their attention to detail.
0 Helpful
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Charlotte from United Kingdom
Couple
Deluxe Double Room
1 night in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 13, 2026
9.0/10

Really good Anniversary Stay!

excellent service upgraded room complimentary prosecco anniversary celebration
We celebrated our anniversary here and it was WONDERFUL. The member of staff at the desk surprised us with complimentary Prosecco and ice upon learning about our wedding plans. The service was excellent. Our room was upgraded and larger than our previous stay. It was a great surprise. I will always remember this excellent service.
The steam room had a queue and the pool water felt very cold for relaxation.
Rooms
9/10
Our beautiful double room had comfortable furnishings. The room was clean and well kept. A bath and shower were both available, providing options for relaxation after a day of exploring.
Location
9/10
The hotel's location provides convenient access to the pier. A short walk allows easy access to lake cruises. The hotel is close to shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Facilities
8/10
The spa offers a pool and sauna. The hotel offers spa treatments, AVAILABLE to book. The breakfast buffet includes top quality produce.
Service
10/10
The staff were all attentive and professional. The receptionist, who had an Irish accent, provided really good service upon arrival.
0 Helpful
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Charlotte from United Kingdom
Couple
Deluxe Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 25, 2025
9.0/10

Fantastic stay!

great shower comfortable bed high-quality bedding central location
I was happy with the room size. The shower pressure was GREAT. I found a very comfortable bed with high-quality bedding. The location was amazing, right in the centre, offering fantastic views.
The hotel car park was a slight distance away.
Rooms
9/10
The room had comfortable beds with lovely quality bedding. The hot shower provided a great experience after a day exploring the area. Bottled water and tea and coffee making facilities added to the comfort.
Location
10/10
The location is amazing, right next to the lake. The hotel is in the centre of the town. Shops, pubs, and restaurants are easily accessible by foot. Boat rides on the lake are also nearby.
Facilities
8/10
The hotel offers leisure facilities. The swimming pool is clean and relaxing . General amenities met my expectations. I appreciated that I could order a birthday balloon for my daughter's arrival.
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Questions of the users
About Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa
Are guests permitted to bring dogs to the hotel?
15 February 2024
Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed in the rooms.
Is the use of spa facilities included with my room booking?
22 March 2024
Yes, hotel guests can enjoy complimentary access to the pool and gym. However, spa treatments will incur additional charges and require prior booking.
What time can guests check out of their rooms?
30 April 2024
The check-out time is 11:00.
Are there rooms available on the ground floor for accessibility?
11 May 2024
Yes, ground floor rooms are available for guests requiring easier access.
Is there disabled parking available, and is there a fee?
18 June 2024
Disabled parking is available on-site at no charge for blue badge holders.
What's included in the half-board meal package?
25 July 2024
The half-board package comprises dinner, bed and breakfast, along with access to the spa facilities.
Can guests enjoy outdoor spaces during their stay?
9 August 2024
Hotel rooms, except for those with balconies, do not offer private outdoor spaces, but there is a shared garden area for guests to enjoy.
What amenities are offered for families when using the pool?
17 September 2024
Families can use the pool without prior bookings, with designated times from 10:00 AM to 16:30 PM for children.
Are parking spaces guaranteed for guests booking overnight stays?
26 October 2024
All guests with bookings will be allocated a parking space.
What options are available for enjoying a lakeside cruise during a stay?
5 November 2024
Guests can enjoy various cruise options on Lake Windermere, ideal for experiencing the stunning scenery.

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