Hotels
Lake District
Dockray
Royal Hotel
Owners access| Independent hotel information website
logo
Select currency
  • ARS
    Argentina, Peso
  • AUD
    Australian dollar
  • BRL
    Brazilian real
  • CAD
    Canadian dollar
  • CNY
    Chinese yuan
  • CZK
    Czech koruna
  • DKK
    Danish krone
  • EUR
    Euro
  • HKD
    Hong Kong dollar
  • ILS
    Israeli new sheqel
  • JPY
    Japanese yen
  • MYR
    Malaysian ringgit
  • NZD
    New Zealand dollar
  • NOK
    Norwegian krone
  • PLN
    Polish zloty
  • GBP
    Pound sterling
  • RON
    Romanian leu
  • RUB
    Russian ruble
  • SAR
    Saudi riyal
  • SGD
    Singapore dollar
  • ZAR
    South African rand
  • KRW
    South Korean won
  • SEK
    Swedish krona
  • CHF
    Swiss franc
  • THB
    Thai baht
  • TRY
    Turkish lira
  • USD
    U.S. dollar
  • UAH
    Ukrainian hryvnia
My bookings
Contact us
Read our FAQs
68 photos
Royal Hotel Dockray Exterior photoRoyal Hotel Dockray Fast Food photoRoyal Hotel Dockray Room photo

ROYAL HOTEL, Dockray

Book directly with us
— up to 10% cheaper
than on Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From$162 /night
Check-in
27May
Check-out
28May
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Dockray, Ullswater, Dockray, true
-
Close to Ullswater
Great
8.9
/10
5.0
4.4
/5

Loved by Royal Hotel guests

Perfect location
Clean rooms
Friendly staff
Delicious breakfast
"Excellent dinner, very tasty and generous portions."
Josephine from United Kingdom
read full review
"The bedroom was spacious and the bed was ginormous!"
Lewis from United Kingdom
read full review
"Lovely hotel; we had a comfy twin room, lots of space & a big bathroom with a lovely deep bath."
Jeh722 from United Kingdom
read full review

Location

Royal Hotel is situated in the picturesque village of Dockray in the Lake District, offering direct access to numerous walking trails and local attractions. The hotel is just a short drive from Ullswater, one of England's most beautiful lakes, providing a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities. Furthermore, the nearby market towns enhance the charm with quaint shops and local eateries.

Accommodation

Guests can choose from a range of rooms at the Royal Hotel, each designed to provide a comfortable stay with essential amenities. The hotel offers well-appointed en-suite rooms featuring picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. Family rooms are also available, accommodating everyone for a memorable Lake District experience.

Dining

The hotel boasts an on-site restaurant offering a selection of seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Breakfast services provide a variety of options to kickstart the day, ensuring guests are well-fed for their adventures. The bar area serves a range of refreshing drinks, ideal for winding down after a day of exploring.

Additional Amenities

Royal Hotel also features a welcoming lounge area where guests can relax and socialize. For those traveling by car, free parking is available, providing convenience for exploring the Lake District. The hotel is pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their furry companions along for the stay.

Outdoor Activities

The surrounding countryside offers ample opportunity for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities, making the hotel a great base for nature enthusiasts. Dockray is located near various points of interest, including breathtaking waterfalls and expansive trails. Guests can enjoy exploring the region at their leisure, with stunning scenery as a constant companion.

Highlights

Location: Lake District village, near Ullswater

Accommodation: Well-appointed en-suite rooms

Dining: On-site restaurant with seasonal dishes

Additional: Pet-friendly policy available

Must-do experiences

  • Hike to Aira Force for stunning waterfalls and scenic views.
  • Taste the famous Herdwick lamb at The Boot & Shoe pub.
  • Visit the unique Rookin House Activity Centre for family fun.
  • Explore the charming village of Glenridding and its shops.
  • Enjoy a lakeside stroll at Ullswater; a perfect picnic spot.

Select your preferred room

Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
    Standard Double Room
    2 persons
    12 m²
    1 Double bed
    Heating
    Shower
    room details
    Premier Double Room
    2 persons
    15 m²
    1 King-size bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
    room details
    Standard Twin Room
    2 persons
    12 m²
    2 Single beds
    Heating
    Shower
    room details
Show all rooms

View our calendar

Check prices and secure your dates today
May 2026 - May 2027
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
May 2026
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
June 2026
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
July 2026
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
August 2026
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
September 2026
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
October 2026
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
November 2026
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
December 2026
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
January 2027
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
February 2027
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
March 2027
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
April 2027
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
Choose dates to see prices
Check-in/ Check-out

Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay
Facilities: Great
8.8/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • Pets allowed
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking
  • Cycling

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Pet amenities available
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Picnic area/ Tables
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games
  • Children's menu
  • Children's play area
  • Game room

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Heating
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

At The Royal Hotel, guests are treated to a delightful array of onsite dining options that celebrate local Cumbrian flavors. Whether enjoying a hearty breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a romantic dinner, the welcoming atmosphere makes every meal a memorable experience infused with homey charm.
Royal Hotel Dockray Restaurant photo

The Royal Hotel

Traditional Cumbrian fare
Ambiance
Family-friendly yet romantic, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for all occasions.
Key Offerings
A new Main Menu featuring local specialties alongside an extensive bar menu for refreshments; options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free meals available.
Reservation
Reservations are not required.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and High Tea served daily.

Royal Hotel Location

Dockray, Ullswater, Dockray, true
Explore Dockray
Explore Dockray
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Aira Force
Aira Force
20-minute walk
Aira Force features stunning waterfalls and scenic trails, perfect for nature lovers and great photo opportunities.
Gowbarrow Park & Aira Force
25-minute walk
Combining park and waterfall, this spot offers peaceful trails with beautiful views, ideal for picnics and leisurely strolls.
Matterdale Church
Matterdale Church
11-minute walk
A historic church with beautiful architecture, perfect for those interested in local history and serene surroundings.
Hiking to Ullswater
50-minute walk
Enjoy a thrilling hike around Ullswater, offering stunning lake views and potential wildlife sightings. Ideal for adventure seekers.
Wellness Retreat at Rookin House Activity Centre
10-minute drive
Relax at a wellness retreat, featuring spa services and yoga classes, located near picturesque landscapes for a tranquil experience.
The Royal Hotel Restaurant
1-minute walk
This cozy restaurant offers delicious local dishes and a warm atmosphere, making it perfect for casual dining or special occasions.
The Royal Hotel
5-minute walk
Serving hearty meals with farm-to-table ingredients, this hotel dining spot has a relaxed vibe and is great for family gatherings.
Local Music Nights at The Royal Hotel
1-minute walk
Enjoy live music evenings featuring local bands, offering a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxation and mingling with fellow guests.
Ullswater Steamers
Ullswater Steamers
10-minute drive
Take a scenic boat trip on Ullswater Lake, ideal for family outings and picturesque views of the surrounding hills.
Getting around the city
  • City Centre
    Dockray 2 min  ·  100 m
  • Airports
    Carlisle Lake District (CAX) 89 min  ·  59.1 km
    Newcastle (NCL) 184 min  ·  122.5 km
  • Bus
    Bus stop 20 min  ·  13.1 km
Want to unlock exclusive early deals?
Access members-only prices today
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Royal guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free.
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
12

Guest ratings and detailed reviews

Feedback about Royal Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Guests consistently praise the Royal Hotel's convenient location near Ullswater, making it ideal for exploring the Lake District, and its proximity to Keswick is appreciated. Many highlight the tasty and good-value evening meals. The breakfast receives frequent positive mentions, with a varied selection including vegetarian and Full English options, also guests can relax in the garden at the front of the hotel which is a nice feature with benches. Some guests have noted a dated feel or mentioned a damp smell on the first floor.
Show moreShow less
Review score
Based on 690 verified reviews
8.9 /10
Great
95 %
Recommend
Staff
9.5/10
Free WiFi
9.3/10
Facilities
8.8/10
Breakfast
8.9/10
Pros
Friendly staff
Good food
Great location
Cons
Tired rooms
Thin walls
Mouldy toiletries
Guest reviews
based on 690 reviews
8.9/10
based on 1265 reviews
8.9/10
michael from germany
Single
standard double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 16, 2026
9.4/10

charming stay near ullswater!

friendly staff delicious dinner
I found the staff friendly and professional! my lamb shank dinner was delicious. breakfast was very nice too. The setting is beautiful. it's a relaxing place, very close to ullswater. I will stay again.
The shower drain was clogged. The shower tray filled quickly. it meant i could only take short showers! the decor felt a little tired and could use an update.
Rooms
9/10
The room was super clean and cozy, it had a beautiful mountain view. the bed was super comfortable. I had everything i needed. all clean.
Location
9/10
this is a very quiet, rural location, just a short drive from ullswater! it's easy to find, and there are lovely views. the hotel is set in a beautiful area, i really liked it!
Dining
10/10
the evening meal and breakfasts were excellent. the menu had a great selection of wine and beer. i was able to order extra portions of roast potatoes. the food was delicious!
Service
10/10
The staff was friendly, polite, and professional. the team was really friendly and helpful. they were very accommodating. Issues were dealt with quickly. nothing was too much trouble.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel is full of character, in a quiet location. it has a very relaxed atmosphere! there is a nice lawn outside to relax and enjoy a drink. this place is very good value.
0 Helpful
|
Show less
Mason from Canada
Single
Standard Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 21, 2025
9.5/10

great stay

comfortable bed upgraded bathroom tasty breakfast
the room was very comfortable, and the bed was very comfy. i appreciated the recently upgraded bathroom. the breakfast was also tasty, a good start to the day.
The shower was not great. I noticed mould on the tile grout and shower door edges.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel offers easy access to nearby walking routes directly from its doorstep. guests can enjoy sitting in the bar. a fire is available for relaxation after a long day hiking.
Location
9/10
the hotel is situated in a super calm place. the location is convenient. it provides good parking facilities . it is near the northern lakes great routes.
Dining
10/10
the breakfast was superb, and the selection met all dietary needs. evening meals were also amazing. packed lunches were available for the day. the bar facilities were very nice.
Service
10/10
the staff were very friendly and accommodating mornings and evenings. they made sure everyone was welcomed. they also served guests quickly. they are a valuable asset to the hotel.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Rowan from United Kingdom
Couple
Standard Twin Room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: October 18, 2025
7/10
ample parking friendly staff weak shower tatty decor
I found ample parking upon arrival. The staff was friendly and helpful throughout my visit. I particularly appreciated the warm welcome I received. The breakfast was fantastic.
The shower was terrible. I also noticed some cobwebs on the ceiling. The decor seemed tatty. The bathroom required more through cleaning.
0 Helpful
victoria from united kingdom
Couple
standard double room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: October 04, 2025
9.0/10

charming stay with excellent service

helpful staff early bags good breakfast
The staff was helpful. They allowed us to leave our bags early before check-in. they even timed the room cleaning to accommodate our schedule. i greatly appreciated the chef driving us to pick up our car when a taxi was unavailable. the breakfast was quite good.
Rooms
8/10
the room featured a comfortable bed. it also had sufficient space for luggage and personal items. the bathroom included fresh towels and essential toiletries.
Service
10/10
the staff responded promptly to requests. they also provided helpful information about nearby attractions. i found them to be consistently polite and professional !
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Parker from United States
Single
Standard Twin Room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: September 08, 2025
6/10

Slightly Underwhelmed Despite Claims

many flies old bed sheets
The room needed some attention. There were many flies in the bedroom and hallways. I probably squashed at least 15 flies in my tiny room. The bed sheets also looked like they had seen better days and some cobwebs seemed undisturbed for a while. The entire place needs a proper clean, not only a change of bed sheets.
0 Helpful
Thomas from United Kingdom
Single
Standard Double Room
3 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed: July 01, 2025
9.0/10

Excellent Stay

extra pillows quiet access great breakfast
The staff accommodated my request for extra pillows. I found this VERY helpful. The breakfast included many choices, giving me a great start to the day.
The floorboards creaked a LOT. I reminded me of it needed some soundproofing.
Rooms
9/10
My room included a comfortable bed and spacious bathroom. It had a lovely deep bath for relaxation. Cleanliness was clearly a priority, because the room was super clean upon arrival, which i appreciated greatly.
Facilities
8/10
Decent parking was available at the hotel. This gave me peace of mind . The beer garden provided a pleasant outdoor space. It allowed me to unwind after a day of hiking in the fells.
Service
10/10
The staff was very friendly and helpful. Attentive service extended to the restaurant, WHERE my dining experience was positive, with staff addressing my requests promptly.
Dining
9/10
Generous portions were served at dinner, and the food was delicious! Breakfast had many options. I found it very satisfying to start my day. I enjoyed the value for money, given the quality and quantity of the meals.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Show more reviews
FAQs
About Royal Hotel
How far is Royal Hotel from Ullswater?
Royal Hotel is located 2 km from Ullswater.
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Royal Hotel?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 10:30.
Is parking available at Royal Hotel?
Free private parking is available on-site without the need for a reservation.
Does Royal Hotel allow pets?
Pets are allowed at Royal Hotel, with possible additional charges.
What dining options are available at Royal Hotel?
Royal Hotel features an on-site restaurant serving traditional Cumbrian dishes and a bar with a selection of wines and ales.
How far is Royal Hotel from Carlisle Lake District Airport?
Royal Hotel is 60 km from Carlisle Lake District Airport, which takes about 47 minutes by car.
What room amenities are provided at Royal Hotel?
Rooms at Royal Hotel feature Freeview TV, ironing facilities, and en suite bathrooms with hairdryers.
Are there activities available for children at Royal Hotel?
Royal Hotel offers a children's playground and a games room for kids.
What are some nearby attractions to Royal Hotel?
Nearby attractions include Helvellyn and Aira Force waterfalls, as well as the Ullswater Yacht Club.
Is breakfast available at Royal Hotel?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge of £9.
What languages do the staff at Royal Hotel speak?
The staff at Royal Hotel predominantly speak English.
What activities can guests enjoy at Royal Hotel?
Guests can engage in activities such as hiking and cycling in the surrounding area.
Does Royal Hotel have a bar area?
Yes, Royal Hotel has a bar that serves a variety of drinks including Real Ales and malt whiskies.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.
The RuddingsThe Ruddings
Braithwaite, United Kingdom
9.489 reviews
145 USD/night
The Lion And The LambThe Lion And The Lamb
Seascale, United Kingdom
7.852 reviews
107 USD/night
Waterfoot ParkWaterfoot Park
Pooley Bridge, United Kingdom
9.456 reviews
533 USD/night
The Brantwood HotelThe Brantwood Hotel
Penrith, United Kingdom
8.895 reviews
136 USD/night
Windermere Boutique Hotel Spa Suites & Hot TubsWindermere Boutique Hotel Spa Suites & Hot Tubs
Windermere, United Kingdom
9.6121 reviews
324 USD/night
Ox Hotel CarlisleOx Hotel Carlisle
Carlisle (Cumbria), United Kingdom
7.1179 reviews
33 USD/night
Bridge HotelBridge Hotel
Buttermere, United Kingdom
9.274 reviews
175 USD/night
The Black Bull InnThe Black Bull Inn
Sedbergh, United Kingdom
8.5156 reviews
154 USD/night
Red Dragon InnRed Dragon Inn
Kirkby Lonsdale, United Kingdom
9.193 reviews
100 USD/night
Station Inn B&BStation Inn B&B
Kendal, United Kingdom
8.8102 reviews
94 USD/night
Solway Lodge HotelSolway Lodge Hotel
Gretna Green, United Kingdom
8.3200 reviews
84 USD/night
Ambleside Salutation Hotel & SpaAmbleside Salutation Hotel & Spa
Ambleside, United Kingdom
9.3457 reviews
187 USD/night

Popular hotels all over the world

Find your perfect hotel stay today
8.1/10353 reviews
Pleasant InnThe Pleasant Inn San Diego Hotel
San Diego, United States
12 km to University of San Diego, 15 min drive to San Diego Zoo
View hotel
8.2/1078 reviews
Comfort Suites Red Bluff Near I-5Comfort Suites Red Bluff Near I-5 Hotel
Red Bluff, United States
Adjacent to Sacramento River, Short drive from Win-River Casino
View hotel
8.5/1046 reviews
MontclareThe Montclare Llandudno Hotel
Llandudno, United Kingdom
80 metres from Llandudno North Shore Beach
View hotel
Hotel Shore View Hotel Hollywood
1.1 km to Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, 139.4 m² two-bedroom suites
Travelodge Seattle North Of Downtown
2 km from Woodland Park Zoo, 8 km from Space Needle
Village Inn Marysville
47 spacious rooms, King Jacuzzi Suites
Hotel Rodeway Inn Rifle
Right off Interstate 70, Rooms with kitchens available
Uptown Suites Extended Stay Denver Co -Westminster Hotel
EV charging stations, Kitchenette facilities
Hotel Ibis Paris Bastille Faubourg St Antoine
900 m from Place de la Bastille, 290 m from Ledru-Rollin Metro Station