The Lake District is the perfect place for a family staycation and the Swan Hotel and Spa by Newby Bridge is the ideal base for exploring with little ones, says Michelle Darlow
My husband and I have become huge fans of the Lake District, having discovered Keswick on our 10th wedding anniversary last year. This time around, we wanted to share the stunning views with our two young children, while still finding some tranquillity amidst the chaos.
The Swan Hotel and Spa in Newby Bridge ticked all these boxes with its quirky, laid-back vibe, an outdoor play area and swimming pool for the kids, and a spa for us grown-ups. Plus, you can even bring your dog, adding to the hotel’s welcoming ambience.
While cottages are available, we opted for one of the hotel’s family suites, complete with a separate room featuring bunk beds. The restaurant, with a cosy fire, serves up top-notch food, including roast dinners that even won over our two picky eaters.
Enjoying evening tipples outdoors is a must-do as you admire the River Leven at sunset, before indulging in the complimentary cookies and milk delivered to your room at bedtime, reports OK!.
The spa at The Swan
The Swan’s Holte Spa is an adults-only sanctuary, where guests are granted two hours of access during their stay. I found myself in a state of utter tranquillity here, alternating between the outdoor Finnish sauna and hot tub before concluding with a 30-minute Temple Spa massage.
As someone who struggles with back issues, this session began with a breathing exercise and the clenching and unclenching of fists to alleviate tension before the true relaxation commenced. It was incredibly effective.
Learn more
The Swan Hotel by Newby Bridge in the lake District offers a quirky, relaxed setting, an outdoor play area and swimming pool to keep the kids entertained, and a spa for adults. You can even take your dog.
Family-friendly activities in the Lake District
Given that this was a family getaway, we couldn’t miss out on The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, located a 15-minute drive away in Crag Brow. The nearest car park, Rayrigg Road, is conveniently situated opposite, making it an essential spot when travelling with kids.
A family ticket for two adults and two children costs £30, and we spent around an hour and a half there, with the kids captivated by Peter Rabbit’s garden which brought their beloved characters to life. After exploring this charming town, we treated ourselves to some fish and chips and savoured them by the lake, observing the boats and ducks.
Five minutes away, the Windermere Jetty Museum has recently undergone a significant refurbishment. Here, you can delve into Windermere’s 200-year boating history and reserve a 30-minute heritage boat trip around one of the UK’s most picturesque locations, the Lake District National Park.
How to book
Rooms at The Swan Hotel and Spa start from £180 per night and from £240 per night for a suite with breakfast included.
