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United Kingdom
Bowness-on-Windermere
Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa
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75 photos
Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Bowness-on-Windermere Exterior photoMacdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Bowness-on-Windermere Interior photoMacdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Bowness-on-Windermere Exterior photo
Pay on our site
up to 10% less
than on Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From146US$ /night
Check-in
23Apr2026Select date
Check-out
24Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Church Street, Bowness-on-Windermere, United Kingdom, LA23 3DF
-
Next to Lake Windermere
Very good
7.5
7.5
/10
3.1
3.7
/5

Loved by Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa guests

  • Beautiful garden
  • Comfortable beds
  • Excellent location
  • Friendly staff
"We enjoyed using "the library" (immediately left through the entrance) for our group get-togethers."
David P from United Kingdom
read full review
"Pool great for kids also."
Jessica from United Kingdom
read full review
"Breakfast was brought to your table, with a view of the lakes."
Michelle from United Kingdom
read full review

Location

Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa sits on the shores of Lake Windermere, England's largest natural lake. The hotel includes a private jetty and lakeside moorings, enhancing its unique position. Guests have access to picturesque gardens and are just a short walk from the thriving town of Bowness-on-Windermere.

Rooms

The hotel offers 106 traditionally furnished bedrooms, each providing stunning views of Lake Windermere. For those seeking extra comfort, spacious balcony suites are available for an enhanced accommodation experience. Each room is equipped to meet the needs of modern travelers with en-suite bathrooms and luxury toiletries.

Wellness

The hotel's Vital Health & Wellbeing club provides a range of facilities, including a 20-metre swimming pool and a state-of-the-art gym. A variety of ELEMIS treatments are available in the luxurious spa, alongside access to a thermal suite and relaxation room. For guests seeking to unwind, the spa also features treatment options for those living with and beyond cancer.

Dining

Dining at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa features the renowned Lakeview Restaurant, offering seasonal British cuisine complemented by breathtaking lake views. Guests can also enjoy afternoon tea on the outdoor sun terrace, making it a delightful experience for social gatherings. The Terrace Lounge serves a variety of drinks and light snacks throughout the day.

Pet-Friendly

The hotel welcomes pets, offering dog-friendly rooms and amenities to ensure a pleasant stay for furry companions. Dog bowls and special treats are available, along with designated areas for outdoor activity. Owners can relax in The Snug with their pets while enjoying drinks and dining.

Highlights

Location: Shores of Lake Windermere

Rooms: 106 traditionally furnished bedrooms

Dining: Lakeview Restaurant with seasonal British cuisine

Wellness: Vital Health & Wellbeing club with a 20-metre pool

Pet-Friendly: Dog-friendly accommodations available

Business: Stylish meeting rooms with natural daylight

Must-do experiences

  • Take a scenic cruise on Lake Windermere for stunning views.
  • Visit the Beatrix Potter Museum for a delightful journey into childhood.
  • Savor the local delicacy, Grasmere gingerbread, at Sarah Nelson's shop.
  • Hike up to Orrest Head for breathtaking vistas of the lake district.
  • Stroll through Bowness-on-Windermere's vibrant Saturday market for local goods.
View all

Select your room type

Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Standard Twin Room
Standard Twin Room
2 persons
230 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
room details
Standard Double Room
Standard Double Room
2 persons
230 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Deluxe Family Room
Deluxe Family Room
2 persons
230 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Deluxe Double Room
Deluxe Double Room
2 persons
230 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
Show all roomsLess

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Very good
7.6/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Lift
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Dryer

Services

  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's buffet
  • Board games

Spa & Leisure

  • Indoor swimming pool
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Sauna
  • Steam room
  • Back massage
  • Head massage
  • Full body massage
  • Foot massage

Room features

  • Heating
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Separate tub and shower
  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Dryer

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa offers a delightful array of onsite dining experiences that blend luxurious comfort with stunning views of the Lake District. Guests can indulge in a range of culinary options, from beautifully presented meals in the Lakeview Restaurant to relaxing drinks in the stylish Seagrave Bar, all crafted to enhance memorable gatherings and personal indulgence.
Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Bowness-on-Windermere Restaurant photo
Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Bowness-on-Windermere Restaurant photo
Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Bowness-on-Windermere Restaurant photo

Lakeview Restaurant

Contemporary cuisine with options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free dietary needs
Ambiance
Set against breathtaking views of the Cumbrian countryside, this restaurant provides a tranquil and elegant dining environment, perfect for both intimate dinners and celebratory gatherings
Key Offerings
Enjoy a delicious two-course lunch and savor evening meals that highlight local ingredients, all served in a serene setting that complements the natural beauty outside
Reservation
Recommended
Breakfast and Dinner

Seagrave Bar

Casual bar menu with a selection of fine wines and spirits
Ambiance
A chic yet welcoming lounge area, perfect for relaxing with pre-dinner drinks or enjoying a quiet evening with friends, ideal for private functions or casual meetups
Key Offerings
An extensive choice of Champagne and craft cocktails, alongside a curated selection of wines, making it a great place for both relaxation and celebration
Reservation
Not needed
Evening hours; specifics vary

Terrace Bar

Light bites and refreshing drinks in a casual setting
Ambiance
A relaxed outdoor atmosphere where guests can enjoy drinks while taking in stunning views of the lake and gardens, perfect for unwinding after a busy day
Key Offerings
Relax with a drink in hand on the terrace, an ideal spot for casual gatherings and enjoying the seasonal weather
Reservation
Not needed
Evening hours; specifics vary

Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Location

Church Street, Bowness-on-Windermere, United Kingdom, LA23 3DF
Map view
Church Street, Bowness-on-Windermere, United Kingdom, LA23 3DF
City landmarks
Landmark
Windermere Jetty Museum of Boats
2900 ft
Museum
National Trust Hill Top
2.1 mi
Landmark
Belle Isle
2900 ft
Gallery
Blackwell The Arts and Crafts House
1.4 mi
Landmark
Aquarius Amusements
2000 ft
Landmark
Windermere Steamboat Museum
1.0 mi
Landmark
Cockshott Point
2600 ft
Landmark
Brant Fell Viewpoint
3500 ft
Gallery
Cook House Gallery
1.2 mi
Gallery
Thuline Studio
1.2 mi
Landmark
High Street
1.3 mi
Store
Windermere Canoe and Kayak
3800 ft
Landmark
Orrest Head
1.7 mi
Landmark
Storrs
4200 ft
Landmark
Windy Hall
4600 ft
Landmark
St Mary's Church
1.3 mi
Landmark
Claife Heights
1.3 mi
Landmark
Queen's Park
1.1 mi
Gallery
North South Gallery
1.1 mi
Bay
Mitchell Wyke Ferry Bay
1.4 mi
Landmark
Windermere
3.0 mi
Nearby
Park
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
900 ft
Windermere Marina Village Ferry Nab
Lake Windermere
1400 ft
Church
St Martin's Church
300 ft
The Fun Factory Glebe Road
The Fun Factory Bowness
1700 ft
Store
Love the Lakes
600 ft
Station Road
St Michael and All Angels Church
700 ft
Bowness Bay
800 ft
Theatre
The Old Laundry Theatre
800 ft
Square
The Glebe
1500 ft
Restaurants
Village Inn Bar & Grill
300 ft
Lake Road
Jackson's Bistro
500 ft
West End
Terrace Coffee Lounge & Cocktail Bar at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa
300 ft
23 Church Street
Bodega Tapas Bar
400 ft
Ash Street
Caffe Riva
400 ft
St. Martins Square
The China Boat
300 ft
Church St
Villa Positano
600 ft
Villa Positano Ash Street
Hyltons
500 ft
Ash Street
Lake View Garden Bar
300 ft
Saint Andrews
The Albert
600 ft
Queens Square
Explore Bowness-on-Windermere
Nearby Attractions
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
4 minutes walking
A delightful family-friendly experience showcasing Beatrix Potter's characters through interactive exhibits and beautiful gardens.
Lake Windermere
Lake Windermere
6 minutes walking
The largest lake in England, perfect for a scenic stroll or a boat trip, offering stunning views and outdoor activities.
Windermere Jetty Museum of Boats
Windermere Jetty Museum of Boats
11 minutes walking
A fascinating museum featuring a collection of historic boats and engaging exhibits about the lake's maritime past.
National Trust Hill Top
National Trust Hill Top
16 minutes drive
Home of Beatrix Potter, this charming house offers insights into her life and works, surrounded by picturesque gardens.
Windermere Canoe and Kayak
Windermere Canoe and Kayak
15 minutes walking
Exciting canoeing and kayaking experiences on Lake Windermere, ideal for adventure seekers looking to explore the waters.
Brockhole on Windermere
11 minutes drive
An exhilarating outdoor activity center with zip wires, gardens, and trails, along with serene spots ideal for relaxation.
Terrace Coffee Lounge & Cocktail Bar
1 minute walking
A cozy spot at the hotel serving specialty coffees, cocktails, and light bites with lakeside views, ideal for a relaxed meal.
Jackson's Bistro
Jackson's Bistro
2 minutes walking
A stylish bistro offering a variety of dishes with a focus on local ingredients, perfect for a casual yet refined dining experience.
Bodega Tapas Bar
Bodega Tapas Bar
2 minutes walking
A vibrant tapas bar with a lively atmosphere, serving an array of Spanish dishes-great for sharing with friends.
Aquarius Amusements
8 minutes walking
A family-friendly arcade offering various gaming options, perfect for a fun evening out with the kids.
Love the Lakes
Love the Lakes
3 minutes walking
A local craft store with events and workshops, offering a unique cultural experience for those interested in the arts.
Getting around
City Centre
Bowness-on-Windermere3 min  ·  700 ft
Airports
Carlisle Lake District (CAX)124 min  ·  51.2 mi
Blackpool International (BLK)150 min  ·  62.2 mi
Bus
Bus stop27 min  ·  1.4 mi
Interested in Exclusive Early Booking Rates?
Take advantage of special rates!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-23:59
Check-out
from 07:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site at GBP 25 per day.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Macdonald Old England & Spa guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, Spanish, Italian, Czech, Hungarian, Chinese, Polish, Arabic, Slovak
Year renovated:
2007
Number of floors:
4
Number of rooms:
106

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa boasts a superb location in the center of Bowness, right next to Lake Windermere and within easy walking distance of Bowness Pier Head, where you can find lake cruises and buses to Ambleside and Grasmere. Many rooms offer wonderful views, some with balconies overlooking Bowness Pier Head. Guests appreciate the spacious rooms and comfortable beds, though a few have mentioned minor cleanliness issues. An excellent breakfast is provided, and the hotel is conveniently close to shops, cafes, restaurants, and supermarkets.
Show moreShow less
Review score
Based on 1216 verified reviews
7.1/10
Very good
64%
Recommend
Location
9.5/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.5/10
Breakfast
6.1/10
Value for money
6.8/10
Pros
Exceptional service
Spacious rooms
Delicious breakfast
Helpful staff
Cons
Billing issues
Spa control
Guest reviews
based on 1216 reviews
7.1/10
based on 1992 reviews
7.5/10
Tony from United Kingdom
Single
Deluxe Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 24, 2025
9/10

fantastic hotel experience!

superior roomamazing view
i found the breakfast perfect. the upgrade to a superior room on arrival included an amazing view. i enjoyed the vast array of different areas. the location was great too!
0 Helpful
andrew from united kingdom
Couple
deluxe double room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed:December 22, 2025
9.3/10

lake view delight

river viewsmiling staffhelpful planner
the room had an amazing river view. the staff were always smiling , providing excellent service. i found the wedding planner to be helpful .
i noticed the pool closed quite early , limiting its accessibility returning late from daily activities.
Service
9/10
the staff ensured a timely check-in , allowing me to settle into my room quickly. they addressed all my queries promptly and efficiently , showing a genuine willingness to help with any requests that arose.
Rooms
9/10
the beautiful double room provided ample space , with a large bed , moreover the beds were comfortable , ensuring restful sleep each night, the room included a shower and a bath.
Location
10/10
the hotel's location offered convenient access to nearby shops , additionally it was close to both restaurants and various activities , this made exploring the area easy and enjoyable , i could walk to most places of interest.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Jade from United Kingdom
Couple
deluxe double room
2 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 16, 2025
6/10

underwhelming anniversary stay

cold poolchair crumbs
We returned for our anniversary, following a previous positive experience. this time, the spa pool area was noticeably cold. i felt concerned for a young family with a baby, as the baby must have gotten cold quickly. breakfast had also changed. Staff brushed food crumbs onto the chairs when wiping tables. the room allocated had, arguably, the worst view i have seen at this hotel.
0 Helpful
Victoria from United Kingdom
Couple
Deluxe Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:November 21, 2025
9.5/10

lakeside dream

perfect locationlovely staffawesome spaslow service
location was perfect. the hotel felt so comfortable. staff helped me a lot. i saw the lake from my windows and it was divine. i also used the spa and it was awesome. treatment staff were so lovely, they were kind too.
i found the breakfast had a couple small issues. service felt a touch slow one morning. but overall, it was a small bump in an otherwise perfect stay.
Dining
9/10
breakfast includes vegan options and drinks were offered. the restaurant provides lake views, a gorgeous setting for all meals. breakfast was better than i expect, a positive surprise indeed.
Rooms
10/10
the rooms have comfortable beds and clean bathrooms. our room looked out at the lake and gave us fine views every morning and evening. bottled water was available, so was tea and coffee.
Location
10/10
this hotel is in a central location, right on the lake. downtown restaurants are just a few yards walking distance, so convenient. it is very close to many shops.
Facilities
9/10
the spa treatments are fantastic and invested in spa facilities. i found the spa facilities to be wonderful with its new locker system. the pool offers cool temperature, a different sensation.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Victoria from United Kingdom
Single
Super Deluxe Double Room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed:November 13, 2025
9/10

surprised by my stay!

lakeside roomsuper beautiful roomcomfortable bed
the lakeside super beautiful room was lovely. waking up to the sounds of water and birds was a treat. i enjoyed a peaceful night's sleep and found the bed was very comfortable.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa
What is the distance from Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa to the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction?
The hotel is located just 0.5 km from the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Is parking available at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Private parking is available on-site for £25 per night without the need for reservation.
Does Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa have a swimming pool?
The hotel features a heated indoor swimming pool that is open year-round.
What dining options are available at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
The hotel offers an on-site restaurant serving a modern British menu, as well as a lounge and bar area for light meals and afternoon tea.
What room amenities are provided in the accommodations at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Rooms include a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities, mineral water, and complimentary toiletries.
Are spa services available at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
The hotel features a full-service spa offering a variety of ELEMIS treatments and wellness facilities.
What is the closest airport to Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
The nearest airport is Carlisle Lake District, located approximately 85 km away.
What activities can guests participate in at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Guests can enjoy spa and wellness services, use the fitness center, and participate in walking tours.
Are there any children's facilities at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
The hotel provides children's swim times in the swimming pool from 10:00 to 17:00.
How far is Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa from Bowness-on-Windermere town center?
The hotel is located a 20-minute walk from the center of Bowness-on-Windermere.

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Check-in
23Apr2026Select date
Check-out
24Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
  • Overview
  • Rooms
  • Price calendar
  • Facilities
  • Location
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