As autumn rolls around, most people think to hibernate inside with a good film, what with the longer, colder nights and miserable weather, but some are more prone to embracing the changing of the seasons, and that can be extremely rewarding. One way to embrace autumn is to embark on a staycation, and for us in Manchester, the Lake District is a no-brainer for outdoor exploration and a good bit of grub. We were lucky enough to stay at the wonderful Swan Hotel and Spa in Newby Bridge, near Ulverston in Cumbria, and we can honestly say it’s the perfect autumn getaway in the Lake District.
The Swan is a historic, 4-star hotel located near the southern tip of Lake Windermere and has a rich history dating back several centuries. It is believed to have been established in the late 17th or early 18th century. Originally a coaching inn, it provided accommodation and services for travellers passing through the region. The picturesque location of Newby Bridge and its proximity to Lake Windermere made it a popular stop for visitors exploring the Lake District.
Over the years, the Swan Hotel underwent several expansions and renovations to meet the growing demand of tourism in the area, becoming renowned for its hospitality and warm ambiance. The hotel’s architecture features traditional elements like sash windows, original beams and characterful public and private spaces, reflecting the local heritage and charm of the Lake District.
Whether you’re after some R&R, a slap up meal or great Lake District walks this autumn, The Swan Hotel will deliver for you. With a gorgeous selection of the highest standard boutique rooms and suites, The Swan provides comfort and familiarity with a touch of eccentricity – that glorious home away from home feeling that’s so hard to come by. Rooms are of the highest spec, with luxurious roll-top baths, double-aspect options with updated yet traditional sash windows, and unique touches that make each one special.
The Holte Spa is what makes this place particularly special, and after a long day there’s nothing better than lying down and getting rubbed. Choose from a myriad of treatments from massages and facials, to manicures, pedicures and so much more, ensuring you leave feeling rejuvenated and relaxed. Elsewhere in the wider spa area, expect specifically tailored thermal journeys; with an authentic outdoor Finnish sauna, minimal chlorine, naturally filtered pools and cosy relaxation spaces.
The thermal pool seamlessly takes your from indoor to outdoor, providing a Scandinavian-style experience with the temperature contrast – and believe us, you’ll want to stay for hours. From the naturally filtered jacuzzi pool and 100% humidity steam room, to both outdoor and indoor Finnish saunas and hot and cold experience showers for your wellness, you can truly immerse yourself in the Holte Spa and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life – perfect for an autumn wellness session.
With a spa cafe and packages that include Champagne, afternoon tea and other treats, you’ll not be short of indulgent grub for a well-rounded experience. The food offering doesn’t stop there, as the beautiful Brasserie is famed for its unique style and high quality menu. With slap-up three course meals on offer, you’d be forgiven for thinking it was an overly glamorous affair, but the restaurant at The Swan Hotel is classic Lake District: casual, cosy and bloomin’ delicious.
With cosy options including camembert to dip, warming puddings and classic pub grub, alongside delicately cooked fish and meticulously crafted plates that wouldn’t look out of place on Masterchef, the world is your oyster, or more accurately, seabass. Indulge in gorgeous bottles alongside cheese boards or grazing plates, if you don’t fancy a huge plate, but whatever you do, please try your hand at lunch or dinner in the cosy yet eclectic surrounds.
As the photos would suggest, the Swan Hotel is a pretty long, thin building – of coach house tradition – so the journey from the Brasserie to the spa is a fair stroll, but it’s definitely worth it. Cavernous social rooms peel off from the main corridor, creating cosy nooks to sit and read, have a drink or chat with friends, with pool tables and games to keep the family entertained. Characterful fireplaces and wooden beams adorn the interiors of The Swan, and this all culminates in the entrance area, where a chimney breast shoots up, giving way to a gorgeous, wood-clad sitting area, making you feel completely relaxed.
Th Swan Hotel sits in Newby Bridge, at one end of the eponymous bridge, which can only be seen as a glimpse from the main road. The surrounding area provides numerous beautiful walks for every taste, with gorgeous woodland and wide open vistas over the Lake District that really ground you in nature. A steam railway line runs past The Swan to the back, offering a fun activity for all the family, and you can even take a stroll over the railway line onto a restored bridge, giving wonderful views all around.
The location is also great for getting to countless areas of the Lake District, so those who fancy a hike in Coniston, a wander around Grasmere, or just a float up the river to Windermere, there are plenty of options, with The Swan sitting in wait to welcome you back into the warmth. So, if you’re looking for a cosy, quality bolt hole for your next staycation with a partner, family or friends, consider the gorgeous Swan Hotel for all your Lake District getaway needs – given it’s the UK’s favourite holiday destination.
Find booking options for The Swan Hotel and Holte Spa here.
📍 The Swan Hotel and Spa, Newby Bridge, Ulverston LA12 8NB.