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Macdonald Leeming House Hotel Watermillock Nature photoMacdonald Leeming House Hotel Watermillock Exterior photoMacdonald Leeming House Hotel Watermillock Exterior photo

MACDONALD LEEMING HOUSE, Watermillock

•
7.9|Very good
Check rooms and rates
From$167 /nightOnly on Our Website-10%
Check-in
01Nov
Check-out
02Nov
Guests
2 Guests
Key details

About the Hotel

Watermillock, Watermillock, CA11 0JJ
-
Next to Ullswater Lake
Very good
7.9
8.3
/10
4.0
4.3
/5

4-Star Regency House Overlooking Ullswater with an AA Rosette Restaurant

Setting & Grounds

Macdonald Leeming House is a Regency house set in 22 acres of grounds overlooking Ullswater and the Cumbrian Fells. The dog-friendly hotel has direct access to the shores of Ullswater, a private helipad, and a private fishing licence on the river. Guests can play croquet on the lawn, use the drawing room, library, and sitting room with log fires in winter, and walk dogs in ample walking areas nearby.

Dining

The Regency Restaurant holds an AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence and serves British cuisine using local ingredients. The conservatory and terrace provide a relaxed setting for informal lunches and dinners. Breakfast in the room is available, and the bar serves wine and champagne.

Rooms & Families

The hotel has 40 en-suite rooms, some with balconies and panoramic views of Ullswater Lake. Family rooms are available, along with board games and puzzles. The restaurant offers kids' meals, and an electric vehicle charging station is on site.

Weddings & Events

The hotel provides customized wedding packages for diverse needs and exclusive use of function rooms with views. Meeting and banquet facilities, a business centre, and outdoor and indoor spaces are available for events. Special celebratory arrangements include gourmet dining options.

Location

Macdonald Leeming House sits on the shores of Ullswater in Watermillock, a 15-minute drive from the M6 motorway. Aira Force, the waterfall Wordsworth wrote about, is 3 miles away, and Penrith is 7.5 miles away. Lowther Castle and Glenridding Village are nearby.

Highlights

Location: 22-acre grounds on the shores of Ullswater

Grounds: Private helipad and direct lake access

Fishing: Private fishing on the river

Dining: AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence

Rooms: 40 en-suite rooms with lake-view balconies

Events: Customized wedding packages and function rooms

Access: 15 minutes from the M6 motorway

Must-do experiences

  • Take a stroll to Aira Force for stunning waterfalls and views.
  • Savor the local Grasmere Gingerbread at the village bakery.
  • Visit the historic Dalemain Mansion and Gardens for a step back in time.
  • Explore Ullswater by booking a scenic cruise on the lake.
  • Don't miss the artsy village of Alston for quirky shops and galleries.

Select your preferred room

Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
  • Deluxe King Room
    2 persons
    21 m²
    1 Double bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
  • Deluxe Double Room
    2 persons
    21 m²
    1 Double bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
  • Deluxe Suite
    2 persons
    21 m²
    1 Double bed
    Bathtub
    Shower
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Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay
Facilities: Very good
7.7/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Luggage storage
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Golf course

Services

  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Picnic area/ Tables
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games
  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

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

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

At Macdonald Leeming House, dining is a celebration of exquisite flavors set against stunning Lake District views. The Regency Restaurant provides an intimate fine dining experience while the inviting Library and Drawing Room offer cozy spaces to unwind before or after meals.
Macdonald Leeming House Hotel Watermillock Restaurant photo
Macdonald Leeming House Hotel Watermillock Restaurant photo
Macdonald Leeming House Hotel Watermillock Restaurant photo

Regency Restaurant

Fine dining with local influences
Ambiance
Elegant dining room overlooking the hotel gardens, Lakeland fells, and Ullswater Lake
Key Offerings
A seasonal menu featuring fresh local produce, with options for indulgent tasting experiences. Guests can enjoy a glass of festive fizz and canapés before dining, enhancing the overall culinary delight.
Reservation
Reservations recommended.
Open for dinner from 18:00 to 21:00, daily.

Macdonald Leeming House Location

Watermillock, Watermillock, CA11 0JJ
Map view
Nearby
Distant Horizons UK
40 m
Restaurants
Regency Restaurant
10 m
Macdonald Leeming House Hotel Ullswater
Explore Watermillock
Explore Watermillock
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Oldchurch Bay
8 minutes' walk
A tranquil bay with stunning views of Ullswater, perfect for relaxing walks and picnics. Ideal for nature lovers.
Aira Force
Aira Force
5 minutes' drive
A picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush woods. Famous for scenic trails and various wildlife spotting opportunities.
Ullswater
Ullswater
5 minutes' drive
Lake Ullswater features beautiful landscapes and water activities, perfect for boating and scenic strolls by the water.
Hallin Fell
Hallin Fell
5 minutes' drive
A popular hiking spot offering panoramic views of Ullswater. Great for outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure.
Hiking Hallin Fell
5 minutes' drive
Hiking trails for various skill levels, offering stunning views. Access via local route maps and no booking needed.
Ullswater 'Steamers'
10 minutes' drive
Historic boat rides on Ullswater. Great for family outings with beautiful scenery along the route. Ticket prices vary.
Relaxing at Aira Force Gardens
5 minutes' drive
Nature walks and tranquil garden settings. Perfect for unwinding amidst nature without advanced bookings.
Adventure climbing at Steilson Crag
25 minutes' drive
Thrill-seeking climbing experiences suitable for all levels. Equipment rental available and prior bookings are recommended.
Regency Restaurant
Regency Restaurant
1 minute' walk
Local dishes with a contemporary twist. Family-friendly atmosphere and seasonal specials; reservations recommended.
The Pooley Bridge Inn
10 minutes' drive
A cozy pub known for traditional fare and local ales. Offers vegetarian options and a lovely garden patio.
The Watermillock Café
5 minutes' drive
Known for its hearty breakfasts and homemade pastries. Casual dining with gluten-free options available.
The Old Mill Inn
10 minutes' drive
A lively venue featuring live music events and quiz nights. Family-friendly with a relaxing pub atmosphere.
Ullswater Theatre
15 minutes' drive
Hosts a variety of theatrical performances and community events. Great for culture enthusiasts of all ages.
Getting around the city
  • City Centre
    Watermillock 9 min  ·  700 m
  • Airports
    Carlisle Lake District (CAX) 78 min  ·  51.4 km
    Newcastle (NCL) 168 min  ·  111.6 km
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Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP 26.0 per person.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Polish
Number of rooms:
40

Guest ratings and detailed reviews

Feedback about Macdonald Leeming House from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Macdonald Leeming House is prized for its stunning location and beautiful surroundings, offering amazing views from many rooms, some overlooking mountains. The hotel itself has character, with a historic building set in a wooded area, and the terrace view is especially appreciated; though a few guests have noted that the decor looks a little tired. Breakfast receives positive feedback with a choice of continental and cooked options, and some have enjoyed visiting the nearby Brackenrigg Inn, Pooley Bridge Inn, and The Secret Garden.
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Review score
Based on 6 verified reviews
7.7 /10
Very good
100%
Recommend
Location
9.4/10
Staff
9.0/10
Free Wi-Fi
6.8/10
Value for money
7.1/10
Pros
Welcoming staff
Stunning setting
Tastefully decorated bedroom
Comfortable bed
Cons
Cigarette smoke smell
Cold showers
Toilet seat issue
Limited veggie options
Guest reviews
based on 6 reviews
7.7/10
based on 816 reviews
7.9/10
riley from australia
Single
deluxe king room
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 20, 2026
7/10

decent stay with a few hiccups

lake views friendly staff food quality excessive charges unavailable menu small portion
The views were amazing (i spent ages just looking at the lake!). the hotel staff were polite and friendly. holly. That was really nice. the food quality was fabulous at breakfast.
the supplement charges felt excessive. menus weren't available online. the menu presented at the table was different from the emailed copy i got. the portion sizes felt small for the price paid.
0 Helpful
Emily from United Kingdom
Couple
Deluxe King Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 03, 2026
9.0/10

lovely stay

superb location helpful receptionist special experience magnificent view
the hotel has a great location, the surroundings look beautiful. bassel, the receptionist, was lovely and helpful to me. the food in the restaurant reminded me of a special experience, i did find it perfect. the room had magnificent views, it had special charm.
the room looked a bit tired and in need of a refresh. i think updates would ruin the effect, it is still great.
Location
9/10
the location offers fine views of the surrounding area. the hotel is near many popular attractions, and the landscape was great. i noted that the bus service directly outside the hotel runs on schedule.
Service
10/10
the staff were polite and friendly to me. i want to mention holly, because she. i believe the management and staff are always helpful, it's amazing.
Rooms
8/10
the rooms are spacious, well cleaned, and very comfortable, i must say. the decor and lighting are of high quality. the beds are comfortable, and the rooms are spacious. i could make full use of all the space.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel has great facilities such as the restaurant. the food was fabulous, both at breakfast and in the evening. the quality and choice available were great. i could enjoy the many options.
0 Helpful
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Victor from United Kingdom
Family with children
deluxe double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 10, 2025
6/10

mixed experience at the hotel

inexperienced staff persistent stink
the room was warm and also well equipped. that was fine.
The newer staff seemed a little inexperienced. this led to minor inconveniences at times, i must say. more concerning was the cleanliness. My pillow had what looked like blood on it. the toilets regrettably had a persistent stink of urine. It was quite unpleasant.
0 Helpful
taylor from united kingdom
Couple
deluxe double room
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 01, 2025
9.3/10

picturesque escape

picturesque location friendly staff cozy area quiet atmosphere
the hotel provided an picturesque location with beautiful surroundings. the staff members were very helpful and friendly . i found the lounging areas quite comfortable with open log fires. the quiet atmosphere throughout the hotel allowed for relaxation.
i noted a slight limitation with phone signal, though i recognize it contributed to a quieter environment.
Dining
9/10
The hotel offered tasty breakfasts each morning. This was a highlight. i found the quality of meals to be excellent . This enhanced my overall experience. the restaurant staff were very attentive.
Service
10/10
the staff were amazing and quite accommodating to my needs. every member of staff i interacted with were fantastic. their professionalism and friendly demeanor contributed positively. i appreciated their assistance.
Facilities
9/10
The room was equipped with festive treats. I found them quite enjoyable upon arrival. i had a large comfortable room. It provided fine views of the garden and lake. detailed itineraries of the stay proved very helpful.
0 Helpful
|
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Mason from United States
Couple
Deluxe King Room
3 nights in August 2026
|
Reviewed: September 06, 2025
9.0/10

Lake View SERENITY

peaceful setting fine garden attentive staff
I found the setting SO peaceful. The gardens were fine, a PERFECT place to unwind. Breakfast was gorgeous, prepared with SUCH care. The hotel staff were very attentive, always ensuring I had what I needed.
I did note that there were some limited options on the menu and the prices was a bit high.
Location
9/10
The hotel IS situated off the road in its OWN grounds. It gives peace and quiet to every guest. Views extend across a large lake, a beautiful sight visible from many points.
Rooms
8/10
The beautiful king room featured a balcony, overlooking the gardens. This balcony gave us wonderful views. The room was also a decent size, allowing plenty of space to relax and enjoy OUR stay.
Facilities
10/10
ALL amenities were sparkling clean . The hotel offers short distance to the lake. These combined offerings provide convenient and enjoyable EXPERIENCES for every guest.
Dining
9/10
I had dinner in the hotel restaurant each night of my stay. The food was first class, prepared with care. Each dish was tasty, with an attention to detail THAT stood out.
0 Helpful
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Sebastian from Germany
Couple
Deluxe King Room
3 nights in June 2026
|
Reviewed: August 12, 2025
6/10
incorrect directions dismissive service
I was frustrated with a few things . the directions to the room were incorrect. It meant hauling my luggage around a bit more than i needed to. then, when i tried to have dinner after 9pm, i was denied service, though i was told the kitchen staff were still around. It felt dismissive. also, breakfast was basic, and the staff seemed bothered when i asked for water. The eye-roll was not appreciated at all!
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Macdonald Leeming House
What are the check-in and check-out times at Macdonald Leeming House?
Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is Macdonald Leeming House from Penrith?
The hotel is 12 km from Penrith.
What dining options are available at Macdonald Leeming House?
The hotel features the award-winning Regency Restaurant and two bars offering modern British cuisine.
Is there a parking facility at Macdonald Leeming House?
Complimentary public parking is available on-site.
How far is Macdonald Leeming House from Ullswater Lake?
Ullswater Lake is located only 1 km from the hotel.
What amenities are available in the rooms at Macdonald Leeming House?
Rooms include air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, seating areas, and some have balconies with lake views.
What leisure activities can be enjoyed at Macdonald Leeming House?
Guests can enjoy croquet on the lawn and private fishing on the river.
Are there any nearby attractions to visit from Macdonald Leeming House?
Nearby attractions include Aira Force Waterfall (5 km) and Lowther Castle (11 km).
Does Macdonald Leeming House offer breakfast?
Breakfast is available at the hotel for an additional charge of 26 GBP.
What business services are provided at Macdonald Leeming House?
The hotel features a business center and four meeting rooms equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi.
Is there free Wi-Fi available at Macdonald Leeming House?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.

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