A very imposing hotel with outstanding views of Bowness and lake Windermere, whilst it obviously has had a 'former glory' the service and friendliness of the staff with great attention paid to detail makes up for slight flaws in appearance. Food is very high standard and consists of a small but well thought out menu with wines to suit. The landscaped gardens sloping down to the bay are outstanding particularly when the rhodadendrums are in full bloom. Sit in the outdoor cafe in the afternoons and take tea and gaze at the crystal sparkling lake below. The location is absolutely ideal, no driving is required as you can easily walk to the 'promenade' at Bowness and browse shops and restaurants, take a lake cruise or buy a rover ticket to take buses to further afield. Plenty of walking opportunities are nearby too which suits a range of capabilities.