Lakes Hotel And Spa

“A Lovely Stay – Just Don’t Expect True 5-Star Luxury”

We booked a stay at Lakes Hotel & Spa for my birthday and, if I’m honest, I became slightly apprehensive in the run-up after reading some of the recent reviews. In hindsight, we really needn’t have worried. From the moment we arrived, the service was warm and welcoming. We were greeted at the gate… more

We booked a stay at Lakes Hotel & Spa for my birthday and, if I’m honest, I became slightly apprehensive in the run-up after reading some of the recent reviews. In hindsight, we really needn’t have worried. From the moment we arrived, the service was warm and welcoming. We were greeted at the gate with “Welcome Mr and Mrs Joyce,” and as we drove up to reception, a member of the concierge team came out to meet us, again addressing us by name and directing us where to park. Check-in was straightforward, and we were welcomed with a complimentary glass of prosecco before being given a brief tour of the hotel and shown to our room. We stayed in a standard room, which was a great size and had a lovely, comfortable bed. Was it 5-star? In our opinion, no. It was clean and comfortable but definitely showing signs of age, including in the bathroom. The TV signal didn’t work (not that we had much intention of watching TV), but with a large corner sofa and big television, you would expect everything to be in working order. Wifi wasn’t very good and we also had one occasion where housekeeping removed our used towels and didn’t replace them. We spoke to reception who quickly brought some more, although they turned out to be hand towels. These are only small issues, but they do highlight that the hotel isn’t quite delivering a true 5-star experience. We spent a lot of time by the pool, which we thoroughly enjoyed. Being able to order drinks from the bar and enjoy them poolside was a real treat. The drinks were all good quality and reasonably priced. Again, there were some signs of wear around the pool area and the ladies’ changing rooms could do with a little TLC. Everything was functional and stocked with lovely Elemis products, but it just lacked that polished 5-star feel. We ate at Mizuumi and had been slightly concerned after reading some negative reviews. Honestly, we were left wondering whether people had reviewed the wrong restaurant because we had a fantastic experience. The setting was lovely, the food was excellent, and we would absolutely recommend it and happily eat there again. The location is another huge plus – just a 5 minute walk into Bowness, making it ideal for exploring the area. Was our stay perfect? No. But would we stay again? Absolutely. There are some issues that need addressing, so don’t go expecting a flawless 5-star experience. However, if you’re looking for a comfortable stay, friendly service and a fantastic location, Lakes Hotel & Spa is a great option and one we’d happily return to.

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“Overpriced & not 5 starts.”

As the title suggests, this hotel is defiantly not five starts. I’m assuming is a self rating. Middle of the road four start at best. Overpriced is putting it mildly. Location is great, just a few minutes walk down hill into Bowness. Limited car parking, although I did manage to find a space on b… more

As the title suggests, this hotel is defiantly not five starts. I’m assuming is a self rating. Middle of the road four start at best. Overpriced is putting it mildly. Location is great, just a few minutes walk down hill into Bowness. Limited car parking, although I did manage to find a space on both days. Hotel operates a Bently Azure to drop you off in town, but didn’t need it. Booked well in advance (room choice was very limited even two month prior) & was pleased to be given an ‘upgrade’ upon arrival. However once in the room could not actually determine what our upgrade consisted of, as the room seemed to be identical to what we’d booked. Reception staff & the concierge / porter were all very pleasant, friendly & knowledgeable about the hotel & surrounding area. Bedroom was spacious enough & clean (apart from cobwebs in the bathroom), however lacked basic, minimum amenities to be considered 5 stars. No air conditioning, insufficient wardrobe / hanging space, no fridge, no coffee machine, little in the way of sound insulation etc. Bathroom stocked with miniature bottles of Elemis products & good quality towels although insufficient heat from the towel rail. Hot tub on the balcony was good temperature, fully operational, clean & well enjoyed. We visited the spa, which bizarrely you have to enter via the on site pub, across the car part. Was told to go there in pool attire, however there are lockers & changing rooms over there, so no need to wander over wrapped in your bath robe. Pool & bar area was pleasant & comfortable, however very limited space if you want to sit, lie down or relax for any length of time. Onsite pub lacked atmosphere, one local real ale on hand pull, regular common lagers & only four kinds of cocktail available for some reason the staff either cannot make or are not permitted to make any other cocktails. Inside the main building, the cocktail lounge there is far better, staff can make a wide range of cocktails, however no real ale in here. People also dine in this area, so it’s not exactly a cocktail lounge. Onside Asian restaurant offered good quality food. Price was justified, however service was very below standard. Staff vacant, preoccupied, forgetful & inefficient. Breakfast is a similar inefficient affair. Dining areas is barely big enough to sit all the guests at popular times. Buffett style hot & cold food is presented in a very small area, which leads to congestion as guests dither about in a confused state. Staff here on both mornings were slow to seat everyone, paying no attention to you afterwards, but quick to whisk your plate away if they thought you had finished. Coffee was on average quality. Overall our stay was acceptable, however you don’t get value for money, its not 5 stars & there is lots of room for improvement in all areas. If I had to stay here again I would, but considering the nearby options I would choose somewhere else next time.

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