Escape to The Armathwaite Hotel & Spa

Situated on the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake in the Lake District is the Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa.

A former stately home dating back to the 17th-century. This luxurious waterside retreat offers an award-winning spa, gym, luxurious outdoor infinity pool and fine dining all in the setting of a historic country house.

Marketing manager, Michael Richards, recently visited this stunning venue and shared some amazing live coverage across our social media channels, here Michael shares the details from his luxurious stay:

"The beautiful main hall oozes character, with its sweeping staircase, array of oil paintings on almost every wall and an inviting open fireplace really set the tone for a perfect countryside escape. The hotel itself is traditional, elegant and friendly, and we were made very welcome on arrival even enjoying a glass of sherry at check-in.

The historic hall stands in a landscape that genuinely deserves to be called awesome. You can't help but not be awe of the majestic landscape that surrounds you. Our stay in early March meant the high peaks were snow-capped adding a further dimension of beauty to the stay.

Our suite was truly jaw-dropping. A vast bed would have been the jewel in the crown if it weren't for more incredible views of the lake outside the windows. Though the storm clouds were gathering outside the beauty of Cumbria could be seen far and wide. We knew we would both enjoy an incredible sleep in the king size bed and Egyptian cotton linen bedding. The bathroom is palatial as it included a separate shower and a bath featuring hydro jets for a Jacuzzi-style feel-with his and hers washbasins. Not to mention the TV installed into the tiling that you can enjoy as you take a soak in their tub.

Robes and slippers are provided in room which we wore down to the spa, as recommend by the reception team. The spa was sumptuous and we were shown round by a member of the spa team. The jacuzzi, sauna or steam room would have all been great places to start however there was only place we were headed and that is their outdoor hot tub which overlooks the gardens and where a glass of wine can be summoned at the push of the intercom button. Pure bliss!

We dined in the two AA rosette awarded Lake View restaurant. The elegantly styled room was the perfect setting for a dinner and our table by the window looked out over the lake. Our three-course meal was so much more than as we were treated to amuse-bouches between courses. Starters of Sesame Pork Belly Tortilla and Chicken Liver Parfait made their way to our table and were both packed with intense flavours. We dined on Flambéed Fillet of Beef and the flambéing took place in the restaurant. It was a feast for the eyes first and foremost. Our meals were completed with Pistachio and Polenta Cake and a Vanilla Panna Cotta. The meal was absolute perfection - the restaurant fully deserving of its accolades. The quality of the produce is matched in both the kitchen and the table service.

There was just enough time left in the day to head to the bar in the hotel. We ordered some of their delicious cocktails and even when we requested a cocktail not on the menu it was no trouble at all for the barman to rustle up. I'm reliably informed it was the best Pina Colada ever!

We headed to bed with our bellies full and wide smiles on our faces as we reached the end of a perfect first day. The next morning, we headed to the gym which offer views into the pool from some of the cardio machines it felt like a completely different workout my normal one. Once we'd worked up a sweat it was time for breakfast. More locally sourced produce awaited us - something that is very important to this hotel. There were numerous options you could order from the menu however the inviting cooked breakfast buffet was too tempting. Not to mention the cereals, yoghurts, fruits and pastries on offer too. We were certainly setup for the day.

We left the hotel and headed out on one their suggested walks taking in what was some amazing scenery. With storm Gareth making its presence felt we got out while the sun was shining, though it was a cold, brisk day. Our walk finished by the water's edge and we were both hypnotised by the beauty of the lake and the sun glistening of the ripples of the water. As we headed back into the hotel grounds, we saw their stunning woodland gazebo. It would make a perfect setting to tie-the-knot with their immaculate grounds and the lake as the backdrop you'd be sure of some memorable wedding snaps if you chose to marry here.

We headed back to the hotel and to the warmth of the spa once more. Our stay included treatments in the Armathwaite Spa. A haven of relaxation we enjoyed a Signature Full Body Massage and a Milk and Honey Body Wrap. The therapists worked their magic during the 60 minutes and we both felt rejuvenated afterwards. We spent some time safely wrapped up in warm blankets in their 'Hush' room before heading back to our room all sleepy and cosy.

We dined that evening in the Courtyard Bar and Brasserie. Offering contemporary and informal cuisine it is the perfect option for anyone looking to enjoy an informal two or three course relaxed dinner. Our two courses here were both excellent. The fish & chips and halloumi and mushroom burger were both delightful - and as we both have a sweet tooth the Sticky Toffee Pudding was the choice we couldn't say no to!

During our dinner snow began to fall. The snowfall added even more romance to what was already an incredible stay at Armathwaite Hall. The following morning before heading back home we took advantage of complimentary access to the Lake District Wildlife Park which is home to over 100 species of exotic animals live at this 25-acre park. We spotted some cheeky lemurs and red pandas enjoying a morning workout in their enclosures. The Two-night stay at The Armathwaite Hall Hotel in Keswick is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. You'll certainly leave with great memories and feeling reinvigorated for sure!

See more from my stay across our social media channels".

To book a stay at The Armathwaite Hall Hotel and treatments in the Armathwaite Spa call 01768 776551 or visit www.armathwaite-hall.com; short breaks start from £290 for two sharing including breakfast; dinner from the a la carte menu is from £46.95 per person for three courses. Overnight guests have a complimentary use of the facilities in the Armathwaite Spa including the sauna, steam room and outdoor hot tub. The Signature Full Body Massage Away and Milk & Honey Body Wrap are £80 for 55 minutes and £75 for 55 minutes respectively.