After a strong week of hiking, Lake District over the harsh paths, we were ready for a different mood.
Cue North Lakes Hotel & Spa Penrith-well placed stop on the edge of the national park that offers a real contrast for muddy boots and mountain meetings.
The visit fell to one of the rare spring days, when the United Kingdom actually delivers: clear sky, little heat and that optimistic feeling in the air. Perfect spa weather if it’s a matter.
We were given a quick tour of the friendly reception team and shown in the dressing rooms-stainlessly clean, well-equipped with fresh towels, bathtubs and slippers. Great start and exactly what you want from the spa: no faff, just calm.
For me, I started things with a little activity. North Lakes’s internal gym is actually more of a full-fledged fitness center wide, airy and full of every gym that you could ever want. I kept it simple, caught on the treadmill and felt pretty happy with myself. But let’s be honest, I was mostly there for a post -exercise reward: do nothing.
The spa pool area is a relaxing paradise that is lined with stay and a warm atmosphere. The swimming pool itself is ideal for anyone who wants to hit a few lengths, but I was more than happy to immerse in the jacuzzi and claim a peaceful corner. Correct game change? Bar service. Nothing is just like a resting robe, a puck in your hand, pretending that you have nothing better to be (because you don’t).
After a few glasses of Fizz and a few chapters SEO for beginners (You can take the girl out of the office …), we headed for lunch. Fyr Grill is a local favorite and fantastic addition to the hotel. I had eaten there in the previous winter, so I knew it would be worth a visit – but this time spring did its job.

The restaurant focuses on the open flame grill, which gives the whole place a rustic, mildly the theater edge aromas, glowing snacks and feeling that something seriously tasty is about to appear. The atmosphere is relaxed but confident: wood, leather and stone patterns that are paired with a small light and layout that works just as well on day or after a spa in a robe and slider.
This time we sat on the outdoor terrace in the sunshine, surrounded by garden views and subdued elegance. We chose a light two -course lunch from the menu full of fresh, simple options.
Initially, I went to the classic Emperor salad – crunchy roman, creamy sauce, proper sardelle and just the right amount of wrinkling from the cruto. Perfick. My husband went to the shrimp cocktail, which descended exactly as expected: juicy shrimp, generous bonds of Marie Rose sauce, fresh salad decorative decorative decorative decoration and half -grain bread on the side. Well presented, generous without being overload and a great way to start.

Glass crispy white wine and spring green views put the scene perfectly on the net. I chose a roasted chicken sandwich for cereal bread-one-one, well-seasoned and full of creamy, comforting filling. What did the doctor prescribed. Throughout the table, my husband was attached to classic eggs in Benedict – and it is just to say that the egg pop was a slice.
All in all, it was a relaxed, useless lunch that made even better friendly service, unpleasantly wonderful weather and (possibly) a large glass of stacks grigio. Let’s get back? Completely.

After lunch, my husband decided to enjoy the terrace a little longer (no surprises there), while I headed upstairs to the treatment rooms about what turned out to be quite pampering on the face.
The spa offers a large treatment method that covers everything in deep tissue massage for holistic rituals and targeted skin care sessions. Whether you are a quick addition or the whole body’s restoration, the options vary and carefully curse carefully. The treatments are delivered with Caudalie products-cult French skin care brand known for its natural, inspirational ingredients and glowing formulas. It’s a great match for the atmosphere here: gentle luxury, no hustle.

I went to moisturize the face therapy, which was directed to a refreshing pursuit of post-trip skin and it was not disappointed. My therapist was warm, professional, and felt his belongings, tailoring treatment to the needs of my skin (mainly: less dry, more dew). The experience was a clean switch-in-depth cleaning, gentle peeling, massage and rich treatment mask. I flew back to the relaxation lunch with a glowing skin and zero intake check my email.
I have visited the North Lakes Hotel & Spa in different situations, in different seasons and for different reasons – and one thing I say is this: they always deliver. Whether it’s a spa day, a weekend or just a long lunch, the experience is constantly strong. A reasonably priced and well -known and knowledgeable team (and behind the scenes), the hotel balances great spaces with both available and scenic location. It is pampering without being hungry – and so I’ll continue to go back.
If you are in the area, I recommend that you visit – tell them I sent you.
Words: Joanne Brook-Smith
North Lakes Hotel and Spa – Ullswater RD, Penrith CA11 8QT
Tel: 01768 868111
Peace Summer: Expert Tips for enjoying beer gardens without liquor