Ravenstone Manor Hotel is a wonderfully relaxed, family owned hotel in the heart of England’s Lake District. It’s in a great location overlooking Bassenthwaite Lake and Skiddaw. This was Freya’s second stay; she enjoyed the first so much, she recommended it to me to test whether they could cope with two lively cockapoos. It didn’t disappoint as you’ll see from my review.
The Paw Award
Friendly & welcoming atmosphere
From the moment you arrive you feel positively spoilt with everyone stopping to say hello. The lady on reception was so friendly, explaining that although there were the restraints of Covid to consider, they wanted us to feel as relaxed as possible, while keeping us safe. Naturally, not a concern for us, but good news for humans.
We aim for a comfortable informal feel. No table cloths and uniforms but simple service in an unfussy atmosphere.
Helpful staff
Nothing was too much trouble. If you needed anything the staff were only too pleased to help – from advice on walks, to ensuring that you had a plentiful supply of goodies in your room.
Accommodation suitability & cost per dog
There’s no fee for dogs, which is a real bonus as most hotels charge at least a nominal amount for cleaning. And, best of all, we were allowed everywhere, except in the kitchens and on the sitting room sofas.
We think it is unkind to lock your dog into a strange room so it can stay with you at all times.
Guests can either eat in the large restaurant (with us dogs by their side of course), with views looking over the stunning lakeland scenery, or in the elegant bar area. The sitting room is large with several intimate areas for relaxed conversations over a drink or two; we ignored these “intimate areas’ and just chatted to all the friendly dogs in the room.
Little extras offered
We had a lovely bedroom overlooking the lake, with plenty of space for our beds. There was a large walk in shower with removable head and a bath. However, there’s a temperature controlled wash station for dirty paw days at the entrance, with plenty of towels just for us.
Every day at breakfast a lovely lady brought us a sausage each, cut up and ready to eat. These went down a storm as you can imagine.
There were also plentiful dog biscuits offered if you gave a paw, or sat beautifully. We absolutley loved it!
Location and dog walks
There’s a garden and easy short walks directly from the hotel, perfect for our toileting, with a handy dog bin near the wash station.
Better still, the delights of Dodd Wood are just a 5 minute walk away, where you could take a gentle stroll or walk all the way to the top of Wainwright’s smallest fell, Dodd. Freya’s done this three times and I’ve done it twice – very proud.
With Keswick just a few miles away and the myriad of walks the Lake District offers, it’s the perfect place to spend your holiday or enjoy a weekend away.
Frankie awarded Ravenstone Manor 5 Paws
You can discover more with images of the rooms on Ravenstone Manor’s website.