Lakeside resort offers ‘next level’ luxury for holidaymakers

The viewpoint we have managed to find for this incredible scene is atop an viewing terrace on the third floor of the Low Wood Bay Hotel's Winander Club.

We watch the small boats wend their way gently to shore as dusk descends - a very different outlook to the one which must have greeted spectators marvelling at all of those water speed record attempts here over the years.

Indeed, it would have been a perfect spot to witness those historic moments - except the Winander is a new addition to the scene, opening in March 2019, offering 29 stylish bedrooms and suites and providing ‘next level’ luxury with a private bar and exclusive breakfast area for club guests with inspirational views of the lake through panoramic windows.

The four star main hotel is much older however - and was purchased by its current owners - English Lakes Hotels - in 1953 and as we finish our delectable aperitifs we make our way to the 'W' Club where a Sticky Toffee Pudding has been proudly served at the resort for over two hundred years.

Windermere Restaurant, now known as The W at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa, offers a seasonal British and continental menu amid bright artworks and a jazz vibe.

My roast fennel, tomato and dill soup starter is rich and wholesome while the grilled cornish sole with duchess potato, purple sprouting broccoli, white wine cream and caviar is a nicely balanced and nuanced treat for just £28.

It's not the only restaurant on site though - Blue Smoke at Low Wood Bay offers creative international dishes prepared on a wood-fired grill, open kitchen and chef interaction.

And it's not just about fine dining and views, guests can unwind in The Spa with revitalising spa treatments, spa days and thermal journey packages and all residents have access to the resort's indoor swimming pool.

We opt for the hotel's short map-led walk - a theme with English Lakes Hotels - and admire stone carvings, an infinity lake viewing area and the crystal clear waters of a local river where we brave a paddle in its icy waters.

In October 2021 a hydropower plant was installed here generating approximately one third of the hotel’s energy requirements.

For the more adventurous traveller several of the Wainwrights’ walks are a stone’s throw away and the walkers’ town of Ambleside is just a mile away.

Low Wood Bay Watersports Centre also offers an extensive range of equipment to hire and an inspiring setting on Lake Windermere.

Retiring to the Winander Club our suite replenishes with its earthy tones and textures, full air conditioning, underfloor heating, double wardrobes and feature fell view bath.

We're left renewed and I'm already plotting my next lakeside cocktail at the Winander - until then I'll whip up something in the kitchen and gaze fondly on the snapshots of our short stay in the glorious Lake District.

For more information visit the website at https://englishlakes.co.uk/low-wood-bay/. A two night Seasonal Special Offer includes bed & full English breakfast on both mornings and dinner on your first night. A 70th birthday extravaganza is being held at the resort on July 15 & 16.