The Gateway Hotel, Kendal ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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Key details

About the Hotel

The Gateway Hotel 1 Crook Road, Kendal, United Kingdom, LA8 8LX

Near the Lake District National Park Entrance

Great

8.7

/10

4.3

Loved by The Gateway Hotel guests

Helpful staff
Delicious food
Great location
Family room
Dog welcome

"Dinner was a beautiful roast beef, absolutely gorgeous, and we were served by a very friendly and courteous Ionela."

Martin from United Kingdom

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"This hotel offers comfortable rooms, an excellent breakfast with a good selection including full English options, fresh pastries and gluten free choices."

Jenny from United Kingdom

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"Attention to detail, lovely welcome box for our dog, great building and grounds."

John from United Kingdom

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4-star riverside hotel in Kendal

Amenities

The Gateway Hotel offers a variety of facilities for travelers seeking convenience. Guests can access an on-site restaurant, serving a range of dishes using local ingredients. Also available are meeting and event spaces that cater to both corporate gatherings and social functions.

Rooms

This hotel includes 100 guest rooms, each equipped with chic decor and essential amenities. Rooms feature en-suite bathrooms along with flat-screen TVs for entertainment. Many of the accommodations provide scenic views of the River Kent.

Location

Situated along the banks of the River Kent, The Gateway Hotel is located just two miles from Kendal's town center. The nearby Lake District National Park offers extensive opportunities for outdoor activities and nature exploration. The hotel provides easy access to local attractions, ensuring guests stay connected to the area's rich history.

Dining

An on-site restaurant serves freshly prepared meals that reflect local flavors. Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus designed to satisfy diverse tastes. A bar area is also available for refreshments and casual socializing.

Entertainment

The hotel offers various activities within close proximity, including walking and cycling routes. Guests can explore Kendal's historic sites, such as Kendal Castle and the Museum of Lakeland Life. The area hosts frequent events that showcase local culture and entertainment.

Highlights

Location: Along the banks of the River Kent

Rooms: 100 guest rooms with scenic views

Dining: On-site restaurant serving local flavors

Meeting: Meeting and event spaces for gatherings

“The hotel struck me as a particularly good choice for those traveling with dogs, where four-legged friends are welcome not only in the rooms but also in dining areas. I noticed their commitment to local produce which really enhances the dining experience, especially when enjoying generous meal portions with views from their extensive outdoor seating. Overall, it seems well-suited for families seeking both comfort and a distinctly local flavor while exploring the Lake District.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.0/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningTasty meals

The varied restaurant menu had great food. The full English breakfast included fresh pastries and gluten-free options.

Oliver from England

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Guest ParkingEasy Parking

Plenty of parking spots were available. The hotel was also easy to find, which was very helpful.

Hans from Germany

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BedroomComfy beds

Our room was super clean. The bed was also really comfy. I would definitely recommend it.

Jane from Australia

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Room FeaturesLovely Rooms

The rooms were very comfortable. The hotel ambiance was perfect. I would absolutely return.

Isabelle from France

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Select your room type

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

Superior King or Twin Room

2 persons

175 sq. feet

2 Single beds

room details

Deluxe Double Room

2 persons

175 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

room details

Family Room

2 persons

1 Double bed

room details

Superior Family Room

2 persons

1 Double bed

room details

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Facilities

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

Facilities: Great

8.8/10Review score

General

Non-smoking rooms
Free parking
Pets allowed

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area

Children

Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

Garden area

Room features

Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Heating
Terrace
Ironing facilities

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV

Dining Onsite

The Gateway Hotel presents a delightful culinary experience at the Gateway Restaurant, where diverse cuisines converge in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests can indulge in nourishing meals crafted to accommodate various dietary preferences, all within charming settings that invite relaxation and enjoyment.

The Gateway Hotel Kendal Restaurant photo

Gateway Restaurant

British, French, and Local specialties

Ambiance

With a blend of traditional and modern decor, the Gateway Restaurant offers romantic settings perfect for intimate dinners or casual meals with friends and family.

Key Offerings

Noteworthy offerings include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to cater to all tastes, alongside a menu that highlights the best of British and French inspirations.

Reservation

Reservations recommended

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The Gateway Hotel Location

The Gateway Hotel 1 Crook Road, Kendal, United Kingdom, LA8 8LX

Map view

The Gateway Hotel 1 Crook Road, Kendal, United Kingdom, LA8 8LX

City landmarks

Gallery

Abbot Hall Art Gallery

2.0 mi

Castle

Kendal Castle

2.2 mi

Landmark

Quaker Tapestry

1.8 mi

Church

Kendal Parish Church

2.1 mi

Landmark

Burneside Hall

1.1 mi

Museum

Kendal Museum

1.7 mi

Museum

Museum Of Lakeland Life And Industry

2.0 mi

Landmark

Serpentine Woods

1.3 mi

Landmark

Cunswick Scar

1.5 mi

Church

Kendal Unitarian Chapel

1.7 mi

Landmark

Kendal War Memorial

1.7 mi

Landmark

Proper Northern Yoga

1.8 mi

Bridge

Miller Bridge

1.8 mi

Landmark

Old Masters Gallery

1.7 mi

Landmark

Scout Scar Mushroom

1.8 mi

Landmark

Skelsmergh Hall

2.3 mi

Landmark

Skelsmergh Tarn

2.6 mi

Landmark

Lake District National Park Guided Walks

2.8 mi

Landmark

St. Margaret's Tower

2.7 mi

Landmark

The Helm

2.9 mi

Castle

Sizergh Castle

4.2 mi

Landmark

Lake District National Park

3.1 mi

Nearby

Low Plumgarths

Cumbria Wildlife Trust

900 ft

Restaurants

The Gateway Inn

0 ft

Crook Road

2 Sisters Cafe at Plumgarths

300 ft

Unit 2 Lakeland Food Park Crook Road Plumgarths Farm Shop

Explore Kendal

Local Highlights

Cumbria Wildlife Trust

4 minutes' walk

Local wildlife and natural habitats showcase; ideal for nature lovers and families with free access and engaging displays.

Quaker Tapestry

30 minutes' walk

A unique tapestry highlighting Quaker history with interactive exhibits, is engaging for all ages, and offers guided tours.

Kendal Castle

40 minutes' walk

Historic site with panoramic views, perfect for history enthusiasts and a peaceful walk. Open grounds and free admission.

Kendal Museum

30 minutes' walk

Diverse exhibits on local heritage and natural history, offering special events and free admission days for budget-conscious visitors.

Lake District National Park Guided Walks

9 minutes' drive

Guided hikes tailored for all skill levels, perfect for adventure seekers. Booking required in advance for group sizes.

Proper Northern Yoga

30 minutes' walk

Relaxing yoga classes in a tranquil setting; pre-booking is essential for sessions suitable for all levels.

The Gateway Inn

5 minutes' walk

Casual dining with local specialties and a cozy atmosphere. Great for family meals with vegetarian options available.

2 Sisters Cafe at Plumgarths

5 minutes' walk

Café serving fresh, local dishes in a charming setting. Known for delightful brunch options and gluten-free choices.

Kendal Brewery Tours

5 minutes' drive

Informative brewery tours with tastings available; great for adults looking to experience local craft beer culture.

The Brewery Arts Centre

8 minutes' drive

Cultural hub with films, live music, and art exhibitions for all ages. Check events for family-friendly shows and performances.

Getting around

City Centre

Kendal34 min · 1.7 mi

Airports

Carlisle Lake District (CAX)129 min · 53.3 mi

Blackpool International (BLK)133 min · 55.0 mi

Train

Kendal Train Station35 min · 1.8 mi

Bus

Bus stop33 min · 1.7 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:00

Check-out

from 08:00-11:00

Guest Parking

Private 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 GBP11.95 per person per day.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

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

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Guests frequently appreciate the spacious and clean rooms at The Gateway Hotel, often mentioning the modern and beautiful décor. The hotel's location close to Kendal is considered a prime position for exploring the Lake District, further enhanced by convenient parking. Many have enjoyed the excellent food served in the hotel restaurant and the wide variety of breakfast options, although a few guests have experienced issues with overly warm rooms due to radiator malfunctions. A field next to the hotel is a big plus, especially for dog owners.

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Review score

Based on 331 verified reviews

8.7/10

Great

89%

Recommend

Staff

9.3/10

Comfort

9.2/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.4/10

Facilities

8.8/10

Pros

Good location

Free parking

Delicious food

Warm welcome

Cons

No lift

Cold room

No bath towels

Cracked mug

daniel from united kingdom

Couple

deluxe double room

1 night in November 2025

Reviewed: February 16, 2026

7/10

friendly servicewelcome packcosy fireunwarming ladyabrupt questionsnightmare stairs

i enjoyed the food, it was gorgeous!!! ionela provided very friendly and courteous service. the room was warm and clean, also a welcome pack was available for the dog. the atmosphere was very nice and a cosy fire to sit round created a nice relaxing end to the evening in the bar.

the front of house lady wasn't very warming upon arrival. she was fairly abrupt when i was asking basic questions. the stairs were a bit of a nightmare with luggage because i was on the very top floor.

0 Helpful

Victor from United Kingdom

Deluxe Double Room

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 08, 2026

7/10

great locationconvenient parkingfriendly staffsteep pathslow draindifficult curtains

The location was GREAT. Plenty of parking spaces were available and convenient. The staff was friendly and cute. They addressed all my queries promptly.

The path from the car park to the entrance was steep. IT could pose a challenge for some guests with mobility issues. The shower drain was slow. The water pooled a bit. i also noticed that opening the curtains was difficult.

0 Helpful

Rosie from Australia

Family with children

Family Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 03, 2026

5/10

radiator problemtoo hot

the radiator would not turn off so i asked the staff if they could turn it down. i think the staff tried, it still remained far too hot.

0 Helpful

eva from sweden

Single

deluxe double room

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: November 14, 2025

6/10

convenient locationsteep pathunstaffed hotel

the location was convenient, being close to local artisan shops and a cafe (especially the bakery across the street).

I encountered a couple of issues. the path to the hotel was steep, proving difficult to navigate with luggage. This made me uneasy.

0 Helpful

Sawyer from United States

Single

Deluxe Double Room

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: September 25, 2025

9.7/10

Wonderful Experience

friendly stafflovely roomhigh quality

The hotel staff was super friendly. They were helpful and could not do enough for me. The room size was lovely. The pillows and quilt felt very high quality.

The path to the hotel from the car park is steep. It could be difficult for some people.

Location

9/10

The hotel location is very convenient. It is situated next to a busy roundabout and road. The room was quiet because I could not hear any traffic noise from inside.

Dining

10/10

I had a lovely breakfast with cereal, toast, and coffee. The full English breakfast was cooked fresh. The staff member was very friendly and delivered it quickly.

Rooms

10/10

The fine room felt super clean. It was clean and well presented. It was very warm and comfortable, so I had a great night sleep.

0 Helpful

Isabella from Italy

Family with children

Family Room

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: September 11, 2025

9.0/10

Excellent Stay

clean hotelfriendly staffcomfortable beddelicious food

The hotel was clean and well-kept. The staff was very friendly and accommodated my needs. The room featured a really comfortable bed. I found the food delicious with plenty of it.

Rooms

9/10

The room was very comfortable and had adequate space for my family. The beds allowed good sleep, and the bathroom was clean. I appreciated the amenities provided.

Facilities

9/10

The hotel is beautifully decorated, with attention given to small details. The building has lovely grounds that guests are welcome to use. I noted the hotel offered convenient parking.

0 Helpful