Royal Hotel, Dockray ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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Key details

About the Hotel

Dockray, Ullswater, Dockray, United Kingdom

Near Ullswater lake

Great

8.9

/10

5.0

4.4

Loved by Royal Hotel guests

Delicious meals
Helpful staff
Cosy rooms
Convenient location
Cute atmosphere

"This hotel is in a lovely idilic location nice and peaceful stay"

Stephen from United Kingdom

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"Food is excellent - the best beef burger I've ever been had."

Jim M

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"Both dinner and breakfast were plentiful and very tasty."

Lisa from United States

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4-star welcoming retreat in Dockray

Location

The hotel offers tranquil accommodations in scenic Dockray, situated near the shores of Ullswater Lake. Guests can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding hills and direct access to numerous walking trails. The hotel's proximity to Penrith, only 20 minutes away by car, makes it convenient for travelers.

Amenities

The hotel includes a bar with a wide selection of beverages, providing a cozy space to unwind. With a lush garden area, guests can enjoy outdoor relaxation amidst nature. The on-site restaurant serves locally sourced meals, highlighting the region's culinary offerings.

Rooms

Spacious accommodations feature en-suite bathrooms and luxurious bedding. Many rooms offer picturesque views of the lake or garden, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the surroundings. Each room is equipped with modern conveniences to ensure a pleasant stay.

Dining

The on-site restaurant emphasizes farm-to-table dining with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients. Visitors can enjoy hearty breakfasts and evening meals with seasonal menus reflecting the area's produce. The establishment also features a selection of local ales and fine wines.

Entertainment

The hotel is conveniently located near outdoor attractions, including cycling and hiking routes. Guests can explore local landmarks and experience cultural activities in the surrounding area. Evening entertainment often includes live music events, showcasing local talent.

Highlights

Location: Scenic Dockray, near Ullswater Lake

Dining: Farm-to-table dining with seasonal menus

Rooms: Spacious accommodations with beautiful views

Amenities: Cozy bar and lush garden area

“Dockray's Royal Hotel impressed me with its classic Lakeland charm and commitment to responsible tourism; it is conveniently situated for exploring Ullswater and the surrounding fells. The family-run hotel clearly prides itself on Cumbrian hospitality, with a warm welcome extending to four-legged friends. I was particularly struck by reports of outstanding service, showing a genuine care for guests, and the locally sourced ales definitely warrant a try.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.3/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningRib Heaven!

The beef short rib was a taste sensation! It was the best I've ever tasted, with amazing flavour.

Jessica from Canada

Review on

Guest ParkingMuddy Paws Welcome

There is an outside tap available -super helpful for hosing down muddy dogs after a long walk.

Oliver from Australia

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Room FeaturesMountain Views!

My room was very comfortable with a beautiful view overlooking the mountains, it was truly amazing.

Mei from China

Review on

DiningValue and Quality

The trout special consisted of two large fillets. The portions were generous and high quality.

Hans from Netherlands

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Select your room type

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

Standard Double Room

2 persons

130 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Premier Double Room

2 persons

165 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Standard Twin Room

2 persons

130 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Heating

room details

Deluxe Twin Room

2 persons

165 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Heating

room details

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Facilities

Royal Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.8/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
Safe deposit box
Pets allowed
Security
Luggage storage
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Hiking
Cycling

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Pet amenities available
Room service
Housekeeping
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Picnic area/ Tables
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Board games
Children's menu
Children's play area
Game room

Spa & Leisure

Garden area
Leisure/ TV room

Room features

Heating
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At The Royal Hotel, dining transforms into a delightful exploration of local flavors wrapped in warmth and tradition. With options for every dietary preference, the restaurant invites guests to indulge in freshly crafted meals while enjoying a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for families, couples, and friends alike.

The Royal Hotel

Traditional Cumbrian cuisine with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options

Ambiance

Family-friendly, traditional setting with a romantic touch, suitable for all occasions

Key Offerings

An exciting new Main Menu featuring authentic Cumbrian dishes alongside an extensive bar menu for a relaxed experience. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or high tea.

Reservation

Recommended

Open daily for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and high tea

Royal Hotel Location

Dockray, Ullswater, Dockray, United Kingdom

Map view

Dockray, Ullswater, Dockray, United Kingdom

City landmarks

Park

Aira Force

1.0 mi

Church

Matterdale Church

2900 ft

Landmark

Gowbarrow Fall

1.1 mi

Landmark

Gowbarrow Park & Aira Force

1.3 mi

Landmark

Lyulph's Tower

1.7 mi

Landmark

Great Dodd

1.6 mi

Landmark

Ullswater

2.3 mi

Landmark

wold Crag Lead Mine

2.3 mi

Landmark

Hart Side

2.4 mi

Landmark

Rookin House Activity Centre

2.4 mi

Landmark

All Saints Church

2.6 mi

Landmark

Ullswater Way

2.5 mi

Bay

Kailpot Bay

2.5 mi

Landmark

Bleawick

2.5 mi

Landmark

Glenridding Dodd

2.7 mi

Landmark

Glencoynedale Baryte Mine

2.6 mi

Landmark

Place Fell

3.0 mi

Landmark

Hallin Fell

2.8 mi

Landmark

Obelisk

2.7 mi

Landmark

Ullswater Lake

2.8 mi

Landmark

The Sun Inn

2.8 mi

Harbour

Ullswater Steamers

2.9 mi

Landmark

Sheffield Pike

2.9 mi

Landmark

Tall Bloke Adventures

2.9 mi

Landmark

Greenside Lead Mine

3.1 mi

Church

St Peter's Church

3.1 mi

Landmark

Distant Horizons UK

3.0 mi

Landmark

St Patrick's Boat Landing

3.1 mi

Nearby

Church

Matterdale Church

2900 ft

Restaurants

The Royal Hotel Restaurant

200 ft

5091 Route A The Royal at Dockray

The Royal Hotel

100 ft

Restaurant

Explore Dockray

Local Activities & Dining Near Royal Hotel

Aira Force

20 minutes' walk

A stunning waterfall amid scenic surroundings, ideal for photography and nature walks. Offers themed trails and free admission.

Gowbarrow Fall

25 minutes' walk

A picturesque waterfall nestled in lush landscapes, perfect for a tranquil retreat. Access via scenic pathways.

Matterdale Church

11 minutes' walk

An ancient church with historical significance, showcasing fine architecture and surrounding picturesque views.

Ullswater Lake

10 minutes' drive

Perfect for sailing and kayaking, Ullswater Lake invites adventure seekers with its stunning views and water sports.

Rookin House Activity Centre

10 minutes' drive

An adventure center offering activities like zip-lining and quad biking, ideal for thrill-seekers and families.

Spa Services at local wellness centers

Short drive

Enjoy relaxing spa treatments nearby, perfect for rejuvenating after a day of exploration.

The Royal Hotel Restaurant

1 minute' walk

Offers traditional British cuisine with a cozy atmosphere. Signature dishes include locally sourced meats and craft ales.

The Royal Hotel

5 minutes' walk

Serves a diverse menu with international flavors in a relaxed setting, catering to both casual diners and special occasions.

Local Pubs with Live Music

Short drive

Enjoy vibrant nightlife with live music and local ales. Family-friendly atmosphere throughout the week.

Theater Performances in nearby venues

Short drive

Catch local theater performances, offering a range of shows from drama to comedy, perfect for all ages.

Getting around

City Centre

Dockray2 min · 400 ft

Airports

Carlisle Lake District (CAX)89 min · 36.7 mi

Newcastle (NCL)184 min · 76.1 mi

Bus

Bus stop20 min · 8.1 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 10 am

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

At the hotel Royal guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free.

Children & extra beds

Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Royal Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Royal Hotel enjoys a prime location in the quiet village of Dockray, making it ideally suited for walking, especially with its proximity to Aira Force waterfall. Guests appreciate the spacious and tastefully decorated rooms, some even featuring a bathtub, while others offer stunning views. The extensive breakfast receives high praise, with options catering to various dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan choices; however, a few guests have found the dinner options to be somewhat expensive. The hotel also features a charming pub area and a beer garden where guests can relax.

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Review score

Based on 690 verified reviews

8.9/10

Great

95%

Recommend

Staff

9.5/10

Free Wi-Fi

9.3/10

Facilities

8.8/10

Breakfast

8.9/10

Pros

Comfy bed

Clean sheets

Lovely bathroom

Delicious breakfast

Cons

Noisy room

Rude management

Unready rooms

Christina from United Kingdom

Couple

Deluxe Twin Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 14, 2026

9/10

fantastic stay!

super clean roomsgood qualityfriendly staff

the rooms are super clean i loved the good quality shower gel the staff are fantastic too they are so friendly and nothing is too much trouble. breakfast was really good with very good options. i very much look forward to staying again in the not too distant future.

0 Helpful

Clive from United Kingdom

Single

Standard Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 23, 2025

9.0/10

perfect lakes get away

inclusive breakfastdelicious foodnice lawnmany flies

the inclusive breakfast has many choices. i eat diner at the hotel and food are delicious. there is a nice lawn to chill and to drink.

there is many flies in the restaurant and in the bedroom. bed sheets looked used. the place need to be properly cleaned.

Dining

9/10

the hotel serves breakfast and dinner. the breakfast include many options. the dinner have specials menus that changes each day. the meals i ate where fantastic.

Service

9/10

staff are really good and friendly. they are accomodating. staff is nice and helpful. i could ask for anything.

Location

10/10

the hotel location is perfect for exploring falls. the hotel is in fine beautiful location near lake. it provides access to quiet fells. the site invites short hikes.

Facilities

8/10

the hotel has a pub. the bedroom and bathroom are clean and modern. the hotel has a lovely log burner going. the hotel has parking.

0 Helpful

william from united kingdom

Single

standard double room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: December 22, 2025

8.7/10

quiet stay near ullswater

quiet villagecoffee facilitieslocal foodnarrow staircase

i enjoyed the location, a short walk from aira force waterfall. the room had tea and coffee facilities. i found ample choice in the food options, with locally sourced items.

the room was at the top of a narrow staircase, and this was difficult as i had pain while walking. i had to go back down to talk to bar staff.

Dining

9/10

The hotel offered excellent produce for breakfast. I noticed cereals, juices, yogurt, and muesli. a good choice of main hot breakfast options, like a full english, was available! the staff served meals quickly and professionally.

Service

9/10

the staff welcomed me warmly and showed me around, including to my room! they were pleasant and helpful throughout my stay. i also appreciated the staff for serving food professionally.

Rooms

8/10

the room had clean tea and coffee facilities as well as a tv. the ensuite included a toilet, sink, and shower. free toiletries were provided, and the bed had nice pillows.

0 Helpful

Taylor from United States

Single

standard twin room

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 12, 2025

7/10

attentive staffexcellent breakfastmould groutweak shower

the location was ideal for my plans. the staff were very attentive and efficient (i was impressed by their speed!). breakfasts were excellent. dinners were fabulous as well.

the shower experience was not satisfactory. i noticed mould on the tile grout and shower door edges. i found the shower weak too. the toilet unit was broken at the bottom.

0 Helpful