The Samling Hotel, Lake District
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Dress can be found here.
We left the sunshine behind in Herefordshire. Driving North the sky became more dramatic and by the time we arrived at Lake Windermere I’d added both a cotton jumper and a raincoat to my sundress.
We stopped for coffee in Grasmere before checking into our hotel. A quaint and beautiful town, scented by the Victorian Gingerbread that people still queue down the street for. An kind, elderly gentleman smiled at my, now very soggy, inappropriate footwear. I insisted that “It was sunny at home” to which he replied “You don’t come to the Lake District for sunshine, but I don’t think we need it”. He’s right.
Whatever the weather, the lakes never fail to take my breath away. The calm, shimmering water and hushed, unspoiled mountains have inspired poets & painters for centuries.
An adult-only boutique hotel nestled in a bowl of Lakeland fellside with panoramic lake views, south along Windermere and west towards the Coniston Old Man mountain range.
It’s an incredibly tranquil place with flower filled landscaped gardens, soothing birdsong the gentle babbling of water features. On arrival we were immediately greeted by a member of their brilliantly attentive team, who took the heavy bags from our hands and invited us to sit. It’s a world away from the hustle and bustle of every day life, we couldn’t help but feel immediately relaxed.
The Windermere Suite
I really believe that it’s the people who make a place special, and the team at The Samling are the key to the magic of this unique hotel experience.
We were shown to our suite, The Windermere. A spacious, open plan cottage with its own private patio overlooking the lake. Minimalist, modern and luxurious interiors that contrast with the traditional exterior of the hotel and work in harmony with the lake views.
The bathroom was a highlight for me, with two huge sash and case windows, an elegant copper-clad freestanding bath and a huge walk in shower.
The room was so light and airy, but with blackout curtains and one of the most comfortable hotel beds we’ve ever experienced, you wouldn’t be blamed for never wanting to leave.
67 Acres
But of course we did leave, eventually.
There’s 67 acres here to roam free with red deer and wild rabbits by your side. A beautiful sunken hot tub is hidden in the trees, perched on the hill top (just a short, robe & slippers walk from the suites) with one of the best views in the area. There’s a kitchen garden, with sheep, ducks and even their own honey bees which provide inspiration and ingredients for the restaurant menu.
Dress can be found here.
Food & Drink
And what a restaurant it is! Food is the main event at The Samling. Their ultra modern & award winning glass walled restaurant is a celebration of seasonal ingredients and refined simplicity.
We had the 7 course tasting menu with wine pairing both nights, and it was a feast for our eyes & bellies. There is something so incredibly relaxing and indulgent about eating such outstanding food while watching the sun set over the lake and mountains.
The Wine List
With (officially!) one of the best wine lists in the world, and a bar to match, the knowledgeable staff took us on a journey all over the world with their stories surrounding the pairing wines, and Col enjoyed his night cap in the candle lit mirrored bar after dinner.
Breakfasts are equally satisfying, with an impressive menu, fresh juices and really great coffee. Just when you think you couldn’t eat another thing, you walk past someone enjoying perfectly cooked eggs Benedict and suddenly you find some space.
Recharge & Reconnect
There really is so much to love about this amazing hotel, which still feels like a hidden gem. We could’ve stayed longer, but actually two nights was the perfect amount of time to rest, reconnect and indulge as a couple, not as parents. Then, there’s nothing like returning to the warmth of home and squashing your babies faces again. We feel very lucky indeed!
