Rothay Manor

Independent Minds: Jamie & Jenna Shail, Rothay Manor

The Lake District takes a trendy turn with this country house haven for foodies and nature enthusiasts

Long drawing ramblers and dog walkers to its poet-praised landscape of rugged fells, soaring peaks, and twinkling tarns, the Lake District is undoubtedly one of the best destinations for back-to-nature breaks in the UK – though has been a little on the ‘rough and ready’ side, until now. The recently renovated, Grade II-listed Rothay Manor is bringing country chic to the Lakes’ camping and ‘pubs with rooms’ scene, putting the picturesque village of Ambleside firmly on the map for boutique hotel lovers. Husband and wife hoteliers, Jamie and Jenna Shail, have created a relaxed, ‘put your feet up’ atmosphere for guests to luxuriate in the Lakes – think crackling fires, free-standing bathtubs, and impossible-to-leave beds.

This month, the hotel’s extensive five-year renovation works will be completed with the opening of eight new (dog-friendly) Pavilion Suites in a separate wing from the main manor house, which come with private courtyard gardens and soul-stirring views. Surrey and Cornwall-based Dynargh Design were tasked with weaving the colours of the Lakes throughout the interiors, and have succeeded in bringing the glorious outdoors in. From the award-winning restaurant which takes inspiration from the wild local landscape, to the cosy snug and dedicated dog washroom, the Shails have dreamt up and delivered every little luxurious detail.

 

We ensure our guests enjoy every moment of their stay and experience all the natural beauty that the Lake District has to offer.

Do you have a vision for the future of the hotel?

We have just completed an 18-month building project during which we have created eight luxury guest suites in a separate annex to the main building. These rooms, although more contemporary in feel to the main hotel, still mirror the country house style, and the interiors truly reflect the fells which surround us. There are plans in place for a spa journey within the grounds, and for that, you will have to watch this space…

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