Borrowdale Gates Hotel | Award-Winning Dining & Valley Views

Name: Borrowdale Gates Hotel
Address: Grange-In-Borrowdale, Borrowdale Valley, Cumbria, CA12 5VQ
Price range: US$265+
Rating: 9.2

Key details

About the Hotel

Grange-In-Borrowdale, Borrowdale Valley, CA12 5VQ

Near hiking trails

Great

8.9

9.5

/10

4.8

4.7

4-star country house retreat in Lake District

Description

Borrowdale Gates Hotel occupies 1 hectares of tranquil wooded grounds at the head of Derwentwater, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The hotel has a historical background, originally serving as a private residence, thus embracing the charm of a traditional country house. Alfred Wainwright famously lauded the area, referring to it as the 'loveliest square mile in Lakeland'.

Dining

The hotel boasts an acclaimed restaurant, awarded 2 AA Rosettes for culinary excellence, offering traditional British dishes with a contemporary twist. Guests can savor a menu crafted by head chef Christopher Standhaven, utilizing locally sourced ingredients from the surrounding Lake District. Seasonal changes in the menu highlight the diverse flavors available throughout the year.

Rooms

The Borrowdale Gates Hotel offers a variety of rooms that cater to different preferences and needs. Classic rooms provide a serene escape, while Deluxe rooms feature spacious layouts and amenities such as power showers and mineral water. The pinnacle of comfort is found in the Garden Suites, which include private patios and luxurious living spaces.

Location

The hotel is positioned just a few kilometers from Grange in Borrowdale, putting guests in close proximity to numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty. Nearby attractions include the enchanting Derwent Water and the charming town of Keswick, offering a range of activities and sights. The hotel also provides discounted tickets for the Keswick launch, enhancing the exploration opportunities for guests.

Recreation

The surrounding countryside offers abundant outdoor activities, including a variety of hiking routes directly from the hotel. Rock climbing enthusiasts can find several climbing sites nearby, all within a short drive. For those interested in bird watching, over 50 bird species have been spotted in the area alongside red squirrels and deer.

Highlights

Location: 1 hectares of wooded grounds

Dining: 2 AA Rosette for culinary excellence

Rooms: Classic rooms and Garden Suites

Recreation: Variety of hiking routes from doorstep

Must-do experiences

Hike to Lodore Falls for breathtaking views and a picnic spot.
Try the Keswick cheese at the local farmers market on Thursdays.
Visit the quirky Theatre by the Lake for a fantastic show.
Discover the ancient stone circle at Castlerigg for history.
Savor homemade cakes at the cozy Cafe Bar at the Borrowdale Hotel.

Select your room type

Borrowdale Gates Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Deluxe Double or Twin Room
2 persons
280 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Heating
room details
Superior Double Room
2 persons
295 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Heating
Coffee machine
room details
Garden Suite
2 persons
295 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Heating
Coffee machine
room details

Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Borrowdale Gates Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.9/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
Parking
VIP check-in/ -out
Concierge desk
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Security
Luggage storage
Allergy-free rooms
Lift
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Canoeing
Hiking
Cycling

Services

Housekeeping
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Board games
Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

Sun terrace
Garden area

Room features

Heating
Sitting area
Patio
Garden furniture
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

Borrowdale Gates Hotel offers a delightful onsite dining experience at its inviting restaurant, where traditional British cuisine meets locally sourced ingredients. Guests can expect a warm family-friendly atmosphere in a charming 19th-century setting, perfect for indulging in hearty meals and relaxing moments alike.

Restaurant #1

Traditional British with Vegetarian options

Ambiance

Family-friendly setting in a cozy open plan lounge and bar area

Key Offerings

Signature dishes include local treats such as Fell bred Herdwick Lamb and Borrowdale Trout, alongside vegetarian delights. A fine selection of both old and new world wines complements each meal.

Reservation

Reservations recommended for dinner.

Breakfast: 08:00 - 09:30, Lunch: 12:00 - 14:00, Dinner: 18:00 - 20:30, High Tea: 15:00 - 17:00

Borrowdale Gates Hotel Location

Grange-In-Borrowdale, Borrowdale Valley, CA12 5VQ

Map view

City landmarks

Landmark

Derwent Water

2.0 mi

Landmark

The Bowder Stone

1.2 mi

Landmark

Castle Crag

1.1 mi

Landmark

Surprise View

1.3 mi

Landmark

Cat Bells

1.4 mi

Landmark

Rosthwaite Stepping Stones

1.4 mi

Bridge

Ashness Bridge

1.7 mi

Waterfall

Lodore Falls

1.8 mi

Landmark

Brandlehow Park

1.7 mi

Landmark

Great Crag

2.2 mi

Landmark

Dale Head

2.3 mi

Landmark

St Herbert's Island

2.2 mi

Bay

Derwent Bay

2.3 mi

Landmark

High Tove

2.4 mi

Island

Rampsholme Island

2.4 mi

Landmark

Honister Slate Mine

3.1 mi

Bay

Copperheap Bay

2.5 mi

Bay

Calfclose Bay

2.5 mi

Landmark

Alpacaly Ever After

2.8 mi

Landmark

Great Wood Car Park

2.6 mi

Landmark

Lord's Island

2.7 mi

Landmark

Derwent Island and House

2.9 mi

Museum

Derwent Pencil Museum

3.8 mi

Landmark

Ruskin Monument

2.9 mi

Bay

Strandshag Bay

2.8 mi

Landmark

Derwent Island

2.9 mi

Landmark

Swinside

3.0 mi

Landmark

View point over Derwent water

2.9 mi

Museum

The Puzzling Place

3.7 mi

Nearby

Holy Trinity Church

1500 ft

Restaurants

Borrowdale Gates Hotel Restaurant

600 ft

Grange-in-Borrowdale

Grange Cafe

1100 ft

Grange View

Grange Bridge Cottage Tea Shop

1300 ft

Grange Bridge Cottage

Explore Borrowdale Valley

Local Experiences

The Bowder Stone

25 minutes' walk

A notable giant boulder with impressive views; ideal for photography. Access is free, making it a perfect stop for everyone.

Castle Crag

20 minutes' walk

A prominent hill offering stunning landscapes. The summit rewards hikers with picturesque views of Borrowdale.

Derwent Water

35 minutes' walk

A beautiful lake featuring boating and scenic walks. Ideal for a relaxing day by the water with picturesque vistas.

Surprise View

25 minutes' walk

A breathtaking viewpoint over Derwent Water and the surrounding fells. Perfect for a serene picnic or a leisurely stroll.

Hiking to Cat Bells

25 minutes' walk

Exciting hike with great views, suitable for various skill levels. Paths are well-marked, making it a popular activity.

Lodore Falls Walk

25 minutes' walk

A peaceful trail leading to stunning waterfalls. Excellent for nature walks or a reflective escape into tranquility.

Borrowdale Gates Hotel Restaurant

5 minutes' walk

Offers a mix of local and seasonal dishes. Ideal for intimate meals with a cozy atmosphere.

Grange Cafe

5 minutes' walk

Casual café with an inviting atmosphere, serving delicious coffee and homemade pastries. Great for a light lunch.

The Borrowdale Hotel Bar

10 minutes' walk

Relaxing bar atmosphere featuring local ales and occasional live music. A great spot for evening relaxation.

Getting around

City Centre
Borrowdale Valley 10 min · 2700 ft
Airports
Carlisle Lake District (CAX) 114 min · 46.9 mi
Blackpool International (BLK) 211 min · 87.1 mi
Bus
Bus stop 9 min · 3.7 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-22:00

Check-out

from 08:00-11:00

Internet

Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP 19.5 per person.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Year renovated:

2009

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Borrowdale Gates Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 4 verified reviews

9.2 /10

Perfect

100%

Recommend

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Comfort

9.2/10

Facilities

8.9/10

Free Wi-Fi

9.0/10

Location

9.6/10

Staff

9.2/10

Value for money

8.4/10

Georgia from United Kingdom

Couple

Superior Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 18, 2026

9.3/10

Really good Hotel Experience

good facilities beautiful location fresh ingredients

The room had good facilities. Location was beautiful. I particularly enjoyed a very good breakfast with fresh ingredients. Overall I found the staff to be friendly and efficient.

During the night, there was a noticeable draft from the window. It affected the room's temperature negatively.

Location

10/10

The hotel is near to walking routes. Access to areas like Cat Bells and Ashness Bridge is excellent wanting outdoor activities. This location offers both relaxation and adventure.

Service

9/10

The front of house staff are warm. Restaurant service is very good. The staff are friendly and very helpful. This level of attentiveness enhanced the overall experience.

Rooms

9/10

The rooms feature a mix of rustic and modern decor. Comfortable beds and great bathroom facilities are present. A sitting area and outdoor decked area overlook the gardens.

Facilities

9/10

Fine dining creates a mouthwatering experience. Breakfast and dinner were really good. The restaurant is among the best. I found excellent service everywhere.

0 Helpful

Duncan from United Kingdom

Couple

Deluxe Double or Twin Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 08, 2026

9/10

A Romantic Escape

excellent food beautiful dishes peaceful area

I found the food to be excellent. The dishes were beautifully presented. The hotel's location provided very quiet and peaceful area. The staff ensured nothing was too much trouble.

0 Helpful

Frank from Germany

Single

Classic Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 17, 2025

9/10

spacious room well-appointed design

the classic double room had a well-appointed design. the room was spacious (i found it quite comfortable for one person).

the bar prices seemed slightly high (but perhaps that is just me).

0 Helpful

Patricia from United Kingdom

Couple

Deluxe Double or Twin Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 09, 2025

9.5/10

Lakeland Luxury Redefined!

quiet hotel excellent restaurant attentive staff comfy room

This hotel offers a restaurant with AMAZING food and talented chefs. The meals were prepared to order and were piping hot. The staff are excellent, very attentive, and polite. I booked to return!

The communal carpets seemed grubby, and rooms were not cleaned thoroughly, with dirty crockery left. Loo roll was not replenished unless I specifically requested it.

Rooms

9/10

The room was immaculate. I saw a high-quality carpet. The ensuite shower was separate from the bath. Hot chocolate was included alongside the standard drinks selection.

Facilities

9/10

The bar area is good. The dining area has comfortable seating. The seating areas are extensive. There is immediate access to Cat Bells.

Service

10/10

The staff was perfect. They are very professional and kind. They always anticipated needs with delicacy and discretion. This is REAL service!!!

Location

10/10

The setting is great. I found it surprisingly better internally. There are good views. Great walks are available from the doorstep.

0 Helpful

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Questions of the users

About Borrowdale Gates Hotel

Are there any parking options available at the hotel, and if so, what are they?

02 February 2024

The hotel features a large on-site car park for guests, ensuring ample parking space even during peak occupancy.

Is there a lift available for guests who may have difficulty with stairs?

15 March 2024

Yes, the hotel is equipped with a lift, making it accessible for guests with mobility challenges.

Are there facilities for electric vehicle charging at the hotel?

10 April 2024

Charging points for electric vehicles are available in the hotel car park, and an app can be downloaded for convenient management.

Can guests with dietary restrictions find suitable breakfast options?

22 May 2024

A selection of vegan breakfast items, such as tomatoes, beans, mushrooms, and vegetarian sausages, are available to cater to dietary needs.

What is the pet policy at the hotel, especially for guests concerned about allergies?

01 June 2024

There are four designated dog-friendly rooms; however, dogs are not permitted in common areas like the bar or restaurant.

Is the hotel's restaurant dress code the same for breakfast and dinner?

18 July 2024

Dinner requires a smart casual dress code, while breakfast is a bit more relaxed.

Is there a nearby public transport option for guests wishing to explore the area?

29 August 2024

Yes, a bus stop is conveniently located just a three-minute walk from the hotel, providing easy access to nearby towns and attractions.

Are there walk-in shower facilities available in the hotel rooms?

04 September 2024

Select rooms come with walk-in showers, subject to availability during your stay.

How can I arrange for a ground-floor room suitable for someone with limited mobility?

11 October 2024

For accommodations tailored to guests with mobility considerations, it is best to contact the hotel directly to discuss available options.

What types of nearby activities and attractions can guests enjoy?

23 November 2024

The hotel is ideally situated for hiking and exploring the stunning landscapes of the Lake District, with numerous trails and local attractions accessible from the doorstep.