Another Place, The Lake: Unwind and Explore in Dog-Friendly Luxury on Ullswater

In the quest for exceptional getaways, especially those welcoming our beloved canine companions, discerning travelers are constantly seeking destinations that perfectly blend luxury with adventure. Our journey recently led us to Another Place, The Lake, a truly remarkable hotel nestled on the shores of Ullswater in the breathtaking Lake District. As the inaugural property from the visionary team behind Cornwall’s acclaimed Watergate Bay, this establishment promised an experience unlike any other, and we couldn’t resist the call to discover its unique charm for ourselves.

The Lake District, a jewel in the crown of the British Isles, offers landscapes that captivate the soul. Among its many wonders, Ullswater stands out as an awe-inspiring destination. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer of the Lakes, the majestic fells, crystal-clear waters, and serene ambiance of Ullswater leave an indelible impression. Remarkably accessible compared to some of the more secluded corners of the region, the journey to Another Place is a seamless transition from the motorway to the heart of nature. Within a short drive, you’re transported from the everyday into the tranquil embrace of the beautiful Cumbrian countryside, instantly feeling disconnected from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Embracing the Landscape: Adventure and Serenity at Another Place

At the very core of Another Place’s philosophy is an authentic connection to its stunning natural environment. This isn’t just a hotel with a view; it’s a destination designed to immerse guests in the beauty and adventure of the Lake District. Many of the elegantly appointed rooms offer breathtaking vistas of Ullswater and the surrounding fells, ensuring that the majestic landscape is always a part of your stay. The hotel actively encourages guests to embrace the myriad outdoor activities that this spectacular region provides.

Mornings at Another Place begin with an invigorating sense of possibility. Downstairs, a welcoming blackboard invites you to sign up for an array of water-based adventures. Imagine gliding across the calm waters of Ullswater during a paddleboarding session, or exploring hidden coves in a canoe. Should you desire a different kind of exploration, the hotel readily arranges bike hire, perfect for tackling the scenic trails around the lake. For those drawn to the water’s edge, sailing lessons are available from the hotel’s private jetty, offering a unique perspective of Ullswater’s grandeur. And, of course, for guests traveling with their four-legged friends, the endless walking opportunities around the hotel and beyond make it a veritable paradise for dogs and their owners alike.

After a day filled with exploration and fresh air, the hotel offers sanctuary and rejuvenation. The 20-meter indoor pool, aptly named ‘Swim Club’ to reflect the hotel’s active leisure focus, boasts spectacular views across the lake. This isn’t merely a place to swim laps; it’s a tranquil oasis where you can unwind while soaking in the natural beauty outside. While the name suggests activity, relaxation is equally encouraged, whether you choose to lounge poolside or indulge in the warmth of the sauna. For an unparalleled experience, the wonderful outdoor cedar hot tub provides the perfect setting to soothe aching muscles under the open sky, perhaps even under a canopy of stars.

Indulge and Recharge: The Wellness Experience at Another Place

Speaking of soothing aching muscles, setting aside time for some pampering is an absolute must during your stay at Another Place. Complementing the hotel’s focus on active adventure is a thoughtfully curated wellness offering, designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. While my companions, Graham and Albert, ventured out to conquer one of the nearby fells, I had the pleasure of indulging in a much-needed treatment. After a summer of energetic tennis matches, I arrived with a few persistent aches and pains, making an invigorating full body massage the perfect choice. My therapist was exceptionally skilled, meticulously working out every knot and tension in my back and shoulders. It was a truly transformative experience, reminding me just how essential regular self-care, like a good massage, can be.

A Symphony of Design: Connecting Old and New with Nature

Every corner of Another Place, from the tranquil treatment rooms to the vibrant public spaces, exudes exquisite design. The overarching design concept for the hotel was masterfully crafted by the Shoreditch-based firm, Household Design. Their philosophy was deeply rooted in the unique character of the Lake District, aiming to create an experience that felt intrinsically connected to its environment.

Siu-Lan Choi, Creative Director at Household Design, eloquently articulated their vision: “What makes The Lake different is its authentic and considered connection to the environment, with this idea forming the central part of the brand experience. The concept is about fusing the location into the brand and using its unique energy to define and design the experiences, so that it becomes more than just a location, more than just a hotel; it’s Another Place.” This dedication to local immersion is palpable throughout the property.

The interior aesthetics draw direct inspiration from the majestic landscape. “We were inspired by the landscape and chose earthy tones and seasonal accents, with wools and tartans representative of the locality,” explained Choi. This thoughtful approach ensures that guests feel a constant dialogue with the outside world. Much of the bespoke furniture features rich, rustic colors, harmoniously integrated with cherished original antique pieces retained from the Georgian residence. To achieve a perfect balance of old and new, cloudy limestone surfaces and contemporary weaves in upholstery and curtains were introduced, creating a sophisticated yet comfortable ambiance that respects the building’s heritage while embracing modern luxury.

A crucial aspect of the design was maintaining the architectural integrity of the original Georgian house while infusing it with a contemporary sensibility. This was achieved through careful selection of colors, furniture, and accessories, ensuring a cohesive and unified feel across both the historic sections and the newer wing of the hotel. The Creative Director emphasized, “We want guests to still be able to enjoy the architectural beauty of the Georgian residence, but have not tried to recreate this in the new wing by creating any faux features. Authenticity is key, and this drives an honesty in our approach to keep old as old and new as new.” Instead of imitation, the new wing was conceived as a luxurious ‘barn’ complementing the original house, drawing inspiration from barn door motifs and a simple, rustic functionality, all executed with impeccable style and attention to detail. This thoughtful juxtaposition creates a dynamic and engaging environment for guests.

A Welcoming Hub: Dining, Socializing, and Canine Comfort

Another Place distinguishes itself with an array of relaxed and inviting public spaces, designed for comfort and connection. Guests can easily find a cozy nook in one of the many comfortable sofas to unwind with drinks, reflecting on their day’s adventures. The heart of the hotel’s social scene is ‘The Living Space,’ an informal yet stylish area perfect for both dining and relaxation. This vibrant hub seamlessly adjoins the Swim Club and the newer wing of the hotel, forming a semi-enclosed courtyard that proves to be a popular outdoor gathering spot, especially during warmer months.

A significant highlight for many travelers is the hotel’s genuinely dog-friendly policy. While the more formal The Rampsbeck Restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience in an elegant setting, dogs are warmly welcomed in most other areas of the hotel. This means you can comfortably dine with your furry companion in The Living Space, enjoying the convivial atmosphere without compromise. The culinary offerings here are characterized by their unpretentious nature, simple yet elegant presentation, and, most importantly, their utterly delicious quality. From hearty breakfasts to satisfying dinners, every dish is crafted with fresh, local ingredients, reflecting the rich bounty of Cumbria.

What truly sets Another Place apart is its remarkable ability to cater thoughtfully to a diverse range of guests. Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic retreat, a dog owner yearning for adventure with your pet, or a family enjoying a memorable holiday with young children, everyone feels perfectly at home. The hotel has masterfully struck a delicate balance, fostering an atmosphere that is both friendly and sociable. We found ourselves engaging in delightful conversations with fellow guests far more often than we typically do at other establishments. This congenial ambiance is largely attributed to the relaxed, open-plan design of the public spaces, which encourages interaction. However, for those moments when a little more privacy is desired, numerous quiet corners offer sanctuary. The Library, a magnificently designed, slightly more formal space within the original Georgian house, stands out as a true gem. It’s the perfect spot to retreat with a book, or to quietly savor a pre-dinner gin and tonic as the sun majestically sets over Ullswater, painting the sky with an array of colors.

The Winning Formula and Future Horizons

Another Place, The Lake, truly embodies a winning formula, offering an unforgettable blend of luxury, adventure, and genuine hospitality. If you’re contemplating a visit, we wholeheartedly recommend booking for at least a few days. A longer stay allows ample time to fully immerse yourself in all the incredible experiences the hotel and its spectacular surroundings have to offer – we could have happily stayed for an entire week!

During our visit, owner Will Ashworth shared exciting insights into their future plans for several more “Another Place” hotels. Each new property will follow the same successful blueprint, focusing on active outdoor breaks in exquisitely beautiful locations across the UK. This vision for a collection of design-led, experiential hotels dedicated to connecting guests with nature is truly inspiring, and we will undoubtedly be following their journey with immense interest. Another Place is not just a destination; it’s a new standard for luxury, dog-friendly, and adventure-filled escapes.

Design Hunter was a guest of Another Place, The Lake.

Selected images courtesy of Another Place where stated. All other images by Design Hunter.

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