We stayed here in autumn 2005 for one night, booked at short notice and it wasn't cheap so we were expecting something above average. The hotel is in a lovely position and the communal areas were pleasant enough but the bedroom was very disappointing. I suspect we had the last and consequently least well-appointed room in the hotel, as looking at their website the other rooms depicted look relatively pleasant. The furniture was slightly shabby and the whole room looked as if it needed refurbishment, particularly the bathroom which was very basic, didn't have a shower and had old-fashioned fittings that looked as if they had been there since the 50s. Whilst I realise we may have drawn the short straw in the room choice, that should have been reflected in the price. It may be that the place has been refurbished since we stayed - I hope so.

I stayed here in October of 2005 with my boyfriend. we had a wonderful three day break and will certainly be going back. Our room was comfortable, but we could see that much redecorating was happening throughout under the new ownership. The views were breathtaking and the food was excellent. All the staff were very friendly and it felt like home from home with non of the usual 'country house hotel' stufiness. Perfect for people who want to get out walking and return for a warm relaxing rest.

Beware of booking this hotel on the net. Instead of getting a cheaper rate - you are likely to be charged more than what you would be charged if you turned up at the door. Certainly the prices in the leaflet 'on the gate' were far cheaper than what I paid.
Beware also of booking a superior room with "lake, fell and garden views" - when I questioned the room I was given they said it was a "garden room" - it was a basement room, that had a very unpleasant smell, and it was quite difficult to see out the window at all - the window was so high.
They did offer another room for my second and third nights - but by then disappointment had set in.