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The Derwentwater Hotel Portinscale Exterior photoThe Derwentwater Hotel Portinscale Interior photoThe Derwentwater Hotel Portinscale Interior photo

THE DERWENTWATER HOTEL, Portinscale

•
6.9|Nice
Check rooms and rates
From$43 /nightOnly on Our Website-10%
Check-in
01Nov
Check-out
02Nov
Guests
2 Guests
Key details

About the Hotel

Portinscale, Portinscale, CA12 5RE
-
Next to Derwentwater
Nice
6.9
7.0
/10
1.0
/5

Historic Lakeland hotel in 18 acres with lake access, on-site dining, and self-catering apartments

Rooms & Accommodation

The Derwentwater Hotel offers individually furnished en-suite rooms, some with views of Derwentwater. Self-catering apartments, including one-bedroom and two-bedroom options, are available for extended stays. Family rooms can accommodate larger groups, and all rooms come with TVs and tea and coffee making facilities.

Dining & Bar

Deer's Leap restaurant serves a selection of traditional dishes and contemporary options. The conservatory bar offers a light and airy space with views of the grounds and lake. A buffet breakfast is available, with hot and cold options replenished frequently.

Grounds & Location

The hotel is set within 18 acres of well-maintained gardens that lead down to the Derwentwater shore. It is located in the village of Portinscale, just 2 miles from Keswick, providing easy access to the town's shops, restaurants, and pubs. Nearby outdoor activities include hiking on Cat Bells peak and fishing on Derwentwater, as well as walking trails on the hotel's doorstep.

Pet-Friendly & Family

The Derwentwater Hotel is dog-friendly and makes specific arrangements for pets, including ground-floor rooms near exits for easy garden access. Family rooms are available, and the large grounds provide space for children to play. The gardens include a picnic area and outdoor furniture for relaxation.

Services & Amenities

The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and dry cleaning services for guests. Meeting and banquet facilities are available for business functions or events. The property has 24-hour security, CCTV monitoring, and safety deposit boxes in rooms.

Highlights

Rooms: Individually furnished en-suite rooms and self-catering apartments

Dining: Deer's Leap restaurant and conservatory bar

Grounds: 18 acres of gardens with Derwentwater access

Location: 2 miles from Keswick, near Cat Bells and Derwentwater

Services: 24-hour front desk, dry cleaning, meeting facilities

Pet Policy: Dog-friendly with specific pet arrangements

Must-do experiences

  • Hike up Catbells for stunning views of Derwentwater.
  • Visit the quaint village of Grange for local crafts and charm.
  • Taste the famous Cumberland sausage at the local butcher's shop.
  • Explore the hidden gem of the Armitt Museum in Ambleside.
  • Take a leisurely cruise on Derwentwater for breathtaking scenery.

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Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Lift
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Private parking is possible on site at GBP 6 per day.

Services

  • Dry cleaning

Dining

  • Picnic area/ Tables

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

The Derwentwater Hotel offers a delightful dining experience set against the backdrop of 16 acres of stunning grounds and gardens. Whether indulging in a meal crafted by a talented team of chefs or sipping a drink while enjoying captivating views, guests can relish in authentic flavors and warm hospitality.
The Derwentwater Hotel Portinscale Restaurant photo
The Derwentwater Hotel Portinscale Restaurant photo

Deers Leap Restaurant

Contemporary English with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options.
Ambiance
A warm and inviting atmosphere featuring comfortable seating, perfect for both casual dining and special occasions.
Key Offerings
Savor expertly prepared dishes that cater to all palates, crafted with care by a fantastic team of chefs.
Reservation
Yes
Hours vary.

Conservatory Bar

Light bites and refreshments with a focus on local beverages.
Ambiance
A bright and airy setting with breathtaking views of the surrounding gardens, ideal for relaxing with a drink or casual conversation.
Key Offerings
Enjoy a selection of drinks while taking in stunning vistas, making it a perfect spot for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Reservation
No
Hours vary.

The Derwentwater Hotel Location

Portinscale, Portinscale, CA12 5RE
Map view
Nearby
Womenrock
150 m
Keswick Extreme Outdoor Activities
230 m
Restaurants
Chalet
190 m
Restaurant
Explore Portinscale
Explore Portinscale
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Derwent Pencil Museum
Derwent Pencil Museum
20 minutes' walk
Home to the world's largest pencil collection, the museum offers interactive exhibits and a unique insight into pencil production.
The Puzzling Place
The Puzzling Place
20 minutes' walk
A fun-filled family attraction with optical illusions and mind-bending puzzles, perfect for both kids and adults looking for a challenge.
Derwent Water
Derwent Water
30 minutes' walk
Breathtaking views and tranquil waters make this lake ideal for boating, picnicking, and exploring the surrounding trails.
Keswick Museum and Art Gallery
Keswick Museum and Art Gallery
25 minutes' walk
Showcasing local history and artwork, this museum offers a glimpse into the vibrant culture and heritage of the Lake District.
Kayaking on Derwent Water
8 minutes' walk
Rent kayaks at Derwent Water Marina for a thrilling time on the water with stunning lake views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Whinlatter Forest Park
10-minute drive
Enjoy diverse mountain biking trails and walking paths in this scenic forest park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Yoga sessions at nearby studios
5-minute drive
Find tranquility with yoga classes available at local studios, ideal for unwinding and rejuvenating during your stay.
Chalet
3 minutes' walk
Cozy atmosphere with a menu of locally sourced dishes, featuring hearty breakfasts and delicious lunches that cater to all tastes.
The Square Orange Cafe
2 minutes' drive
A casual eatery serving up a variety of international dishes, known for its vibrant ambiance and options for dietary restrictions.
The Dog and Gun
5 minutes' drive
A traditional pub with a warm atmosphere, serving locally brewed beers and classic British dishes, reservations recommended on weekends.
Theatre by the Lake
Theatre by the Lake
25 minutes' walk
Enjoy a variety of performances from drama to comedy in this picturesque venue, offering something for everyone, including family shows.
Keswick Labour Club & Institute Ltd
15 minutes' walk
A local favorite spot for live music and quizzes, this club features a relaxed atmosphere and is open to visitors, lively on weekends.
Getting around the city
  • City Centre
    Portinscale 2 min  ·  100 m
  • Airports
    Carlisle Lake District (CAX) 105 min  ·  69.5 km
    Blackpool International (BLK) 236 min  ·  157.2 km
  • Bus
    Bus stop 14 min  ·  1.1 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-20:00
Check-out
from 08:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site at GBP 6 per day.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of floors:
4
Number of rooms:
53

Guest ratings and detailed reviews

Feedback about The Derwentwater Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Derwentwater Hotel generally impresses guests with its convenient location near Keswick and its beautiful surroundings, often mentioned as being right on the lake. The spacious rooms, some featuring a separate lounge area and large, comfortable beds, are frequently appreciated; the conservatory offers amazing views. While the hotel is considered excellent value for money, some guests have pointed out that the decor in some areas appears a little dated and could benefit from updating.
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Review score
Based on 5 verified reviews
9.1 /10
Perfect
100%
Recommend
Pros
Great breakfast
Dog-friendly hotel
Perfect location
Cons
Strong food smell
Run-down decor
No dinner service
Guest reviews
based on 5 reviews
9.1/10
based on 4743 reviews
6.9/10
Isaac from United Kingdom
Family with children
Standard Double Room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: December 30, 2025
9.3/10

Satisfactory Stay with Excellent Staff

helpful staff lovely garden varied choice
The location is great with easy access to the lakeside. The staff were very helpful and pleasant. The hotel also provides a good breakfast with varied choices. The garden offers a lovely space to relax. I found it easy to get to nearby attractions.
I noticed some areas of the hotel looked a bit tired and could use some updating. Some aspects need a freshening up. The decor is old.
Service
10/10
The staff members were pleasant and helpful. They addressed our needs promptly. They are doing a grand job. Their friendly attitude improved my stay. I appreciated their assistance.
Facilities
8/10
The hotel has a garden that guests can access. The hotel bar served well-kept cask beers. It came from a local independent brewery. Parking is easy, available at the front or in a free car park at the side.
Dining
9/10
The breakfast was a self-service style. It offered a good selection of items. There was a varied choice. The food was of good quality, the items were always well stocked, and every one was happy.
Location
10/10
The hotel is near the lake, offering easy access to the waterfront. Its location is ideal for walks. The hotel is in a quiet area. I found the area charming.
0 Helpful
|
Jonathan from United Kingdom
Family with children
Superior Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 14, 2025
8.5/10

EXCELLENT Stay Near Keswick!

comfortable sofas beautiful grounds spacious room good pressure
The location IS ideal for walks, placing you just outside the main town. The conservatory offers comfortable sofas with ample seating for everyone. The hotel grounds are beautiful. I particularly enjoyed the walking path to Keswick town center (a good short walk!). My room was spacious. The bathroom included a large shower with really good water pressure.
The hallways needed tlc. The doors looked chipped and marked.
Service
9/10
The reception was genuinely helpful, offering assistance and organizing services. I REALLY appreciated this.
Dining
8/10
The breakfast had MANY options, starting the day off right. There was a variety of food, with options for every taste and requirement. IT WAS a plus.
0 Helpful
|
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Camila from Brazil
Double Room Lake View
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 06, 2025
9.8/10

charming stay!

friendly staff relaxing gardens breakfast buffet ample parking
i found the staff friendly. the location offered beautiful views and relaxing gardens. the breakfast buffet included a wide variety of options. ample parking spaces are available, very helpful, especially with a fully loaded car.
the wifi was a bit spotty at times.
Facilities
9/10
there is plenty of room in the hotel to relax. excellent gardens offer a tranquil space . parking is available right next to the hotel, a convenient feature.
Rooms
10/10
The rooms are clean. The size was massive and lovely. rooms feature fine views from the windows. hot water and water pressure in the shower are great.
Dining
10/10
breakfast was excellent. the hotel offers magical breakfast and drinks. you can purchase additional items if you want. a wonderful garden has tables if you wish to eat outside.
Service
10/10
the staff were amazing and friendly . reception was also friendly. they were very helpful and polite. it made the stay very enjoyable and homely
0 Helpful
|
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Shaun from United Kingdom
Single
Standard Double Room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: December 01, 2025
9.0/10

Comfortable Stay Near Keswick

outdoor seating area nice view spacious room good shower
The outdoor seating area offered a lovely view. I could walk into the town centre using the walking path. The room was spacious and clean, with a large bathroom. Shower water pressure was consistently good , so that was a plus.
The hotel's age shows slightly in certain areas.
Service
9/10
The staff was helpful and cute .. I appreciated their positive attitude.
Location
10/10
The hotel is conveniently near the town centre. A walking path offers an easy route to local attractions, so it was very enjoyable. The setting provided a quiet atmosphere.
Rooms
8/10
The room had ample space and was clean upon arrival. The bathroom featured good water pressure in the shower. All the essentials were present, contributing to a comfortable stay.
Dining
9/10
The breakfast service offered a good variety of options. The dining area was kept tidy and well kept. The conservatory area allowed for a meal with a view..
0 Helpful
|
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Christina from United States
Couple
Standard Double Room
3 nights in June 2026
|
Reviewed: September 09, 2025
9/10

Solid Stay Near Keswick

convenient location great view friendly staff
I found the location very convenient. It was near the lake. The grounds offered great views from the bar. The staff members were quite friendly. That was nice.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About The Derwentwater Hotel
What is the check-in and check-out policy at The Derwentwater Hotel?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 10:00.
How far is The Derwentwater Hotel from Keswick town centre?
The hotel is located 3 km from the centre of Keswick.
Where can I dine at The Derwentwater Hotel?
The on-site restaurant, Deer's Leap, offers a superb choice of modern and traditional dishes.
Are there any nearby attractions to The Derwentwater Hotel?
Nearby attractions include Derwentwater Lake (0.5 km), Keswick Museum and Art Gallery (2 km), and Cat Bells hiking peak (4 km).
What room amenities are available at The Derwentwater Hotel?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities, and en-suite bathrooms.
Is breakfast available at The Derwentwater Hotel?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge of 12 GBP.
What recreational activities are available at The Derwentwater Hotel?
Guests can enjoy activities such as hiking and fishing on-site.
What languages are spoken by the staff at The Derwentwater Hotel?
The staff primarily speaks English.
What features enhance the stay at The Derwentwater Hotel?
The hotel features beautiful grounds, a conservatory bar with lake views, and 24-hour front desk service.

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