Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Bowness-on-Windermere Exterior photoMacdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Bowness-on-Windermere Interior photoMacdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Bowness-on-Windermere Exterior photo
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From146US$ /night
Check-in
16Apr2026Select date
Check-out
17Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Church Street, Bowness-on-Windermere, United Kingdom, LA23 3DF
-
Next to Bowness Bay
Very good
7.5
7.5
/10
3.1
3.7
/5

Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa - A lakeside retreat with spa facilities, fine dining, and panoramic views of Windermere

Set on the shores of Lake Windermere, Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa offers 106 traditionally furnished rooms, including balcony suites with views of the lake and surrounding fells. Guests can enjoy modern British cuisine at The Lakeview Restaurant, which features seasonal dishes and panoramic lake views, or relax with afternoon tea on the sun terrace. The Vital & Wellbeing Club includes a 20-meter pool, gym, and thermal suite, while ELEMIS spa treatments are available for relaxation. Located a short walk from Bowness-on-Windermere, the hotel provides easy access to marinas, sailing centers, and attractions like The World of Beatrix Potter. Business amenities include free Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and a lounge for post-work drinks.

Pros

The lakeside location offers direct access to Windermere and proximity to Bowness-on-Windermere.

ELEMIS spa treatments and full-day spa packages provide relaxation options.

The Lakeview Restaurant serves seasonal British cuisine with panoramic lake views.

Dog-friendly rooms and outdoor spaces accommodate pets with special treats.

Cons

Some rooms may have limited availability during peak seasons.

Children's swim times restrict pool access between 10am and 5pm.

“This property certainly benefits from its prime waterfront location in Bowness-on-Windermere, with many rooms offering stunning lake views. Spacious family rooms and a well-regarded spa enhance the appeal, though the extra charge for parking is worth considering. Staff are frequently mentioned as particularly helpful, rounding out a stay that emphasizes both comfort and convenience.”
Hotel logo
Isla BrownEditor-in-Chief at Bedfontlakes
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Select your room type

Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Standard Twin Room
2 persons
21 m² 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Standard Double Room
2 persons
21 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Deluxe Family Room
2 persons
21 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Deluxe Double Room
2 persons
21 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check latest rates for your lake stay!

Facilities

Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Very good
7.6/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Lift
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Dryer

Services

  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's buffet
  • Board games

Spa & Leisure

  • Indoor swimming pool
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Sauna
  • Steam room
  • Back massage
  • Head massage
  • Full body massage
  • Foot massage

Room features

  • Heating
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Separate tub and shower
  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Dryer

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Location

Church Street, Bowness-on-Windermere, United Kingdom, LA23 3DF
Map view
Church Street, Bowness-on-Windermere, United Kingdom, LA23 3DF
Nearby
Park
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
270 m
Windermere Marina Village Ferry Nab
Lake Windermere
420 m
Church
St Martin's Church
80 m
The Fun Factory Glebe Road
The Fun Factory Bowness
510 m
Store
Love the Lakes
180 m
Station Road
St Michael and All Angels Church
190 m
Bowness Bay
220 m
Theatre
The Old Laundry Theatre
240 m
Square
The Glebe
450 m
Restaurants
Village Inn Bar & Grill
90 m
Lake Road
Jackson's Bistro
150 m
West End
Terrace Coffee Lounge & Cocktail Bar at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa
80 m
23 Church Street
Bodega Tapas Bar
120 m
Ash Street
Caffe Riva
110 m
St. Martins Square
The China Boat
70 m
Church St
Villa Positano
170 m
Villa Positano Ash Street
Hyltons
150 m
Ash Street
Lake View Garden Bar
70 m
Saint Andrews
The Albert
180 m
Queens Square
Explore Bowness-on-Windermere
Explore Bowness-on-Windermere
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
4 minutes walking
Interactive exhibits bring Beatrix Potter's beloved characters to life with gardens and storytelling experiences.
Lake Windermere
6 minutes walking
As England's largest lake, it's perfect for boating, picnicking, and stunning lakeside views.
Windermere Steamboat Museum
20 minutes walking
Showcases historic boats and maritime artifacts, offering insight into Windermere's boating history.
National Trust Hill Top
35 minutes walking
Beatrix Potter's home filled with her artwork and charming gardens, showcasing a slice of literary history.
Windermere Canoe and Kayak
15 minutes walking
Rent canoes or kayaks for an adventurous paddle on the lake, suitable for all skill levels and available seasonally.
Holehird Gardens
45 minutes drive
Explore beautifully landscaped gardens with a variety of floral displays, perfect for relaxation and self-guided tours.
The Fun Factory Bowness
7 minutes walking
A family-friendly indoor play area filled with slides and games, offering a great outlet for kids' energy.
Brant Fell Viewpoint
15 minutes walking
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of Lake Windermere, ideal for hikers looking for a peaceful escape.
Jackson's Bistro
2 minutes walking
Intimate setting serving locally sourced dishes, with a special focus on seasonal ingredients and vegetarian options.
Bodega Tapas Bar
2 minutes walking
Vibrant atmosphere specializing in Spanish tapas; perfect for casual dining and sharing plates with friends.
Village Inn Bar & Grill
2 minutes walking
Casual pub offering classic British fare and a selection of local ales; great for families after a day of activities.
Terrace Coffee Lounge & Cocktail Bar
1 minute walking
Relaxing space for coffee or cocktails, featuring local pastries and light bites with stunning lake views.
Aquarius Amusements
8 minutes walking
Family-friendly arcade with various games and amusements, perfect for a fun evening out for all ages.
The Old Laundry Theatre
15 minutes walking
Local theater hosting a variety of performances, from plays to music, providing cultural entertainment for all.
The Lakeside Bistro
10 minutes driving
Charming venue with live music events; perfect for a lively night out with food and drinks by the lakeside.
The Peddler's Café
5 minutes walking
A relaxed café offering art exhibitions and live performances, ideal for enjoying coffee while soaking in creativity.
Exploring the lakeside
City Centre
Bowness-on-Windermere3 min  ·  200 m
Airports
Carlisle Lake District (CAX)124 min  ·  82.4 km
Blackpool International (BLK)150 min  ·  100.0 km
Bus
Bus stop27 min  ·  2.2 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-23:59
Check-out
from 07:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site at GBP 25 per day.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Macdonald Old England & Spa guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, Spanish, Italian, Czech, Hungarian, Chinese, Polish, Arabic, Slovak
Year renovated:
2007
Number of floors:
4
Number of rooms:
106

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 1215 verified reviews
7.1/10
Very good
64%
Recommend
Breakfast
6.1/10
Cleanliness
8.2/10
Comfort
8.4/10
Facilities
7.6/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.5/10
Location
9.5/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.4/10
Staff
8.1/10
Value for money
6.7/10
Pros
Lake Windermere location
Comfortable rooms
Friendly staff
Spa facilities
Good breakfast
Cons
Dated decor
Slow service
Parking issues
Guest reviews
based on 1992 reviews
7.5/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa
What are the check-in and check-out times at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa from the centre of Bowness-on-Windermere?
The hotel is approximately 1 km from the centre of Bowness-on-Windermere.
What popular attractions are close to Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Nearby attractions include the Beatrix Potter Exhibition (0.5 km) and Bowness Bay Marina (1 km).
Is parking available at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Private parking is available on-site for £25 per night.
What dining options does Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa offer?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant serving modern British cuisine and a terrace bar offering traditional afternoon teas.
What amenities are included in the rooms at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Rooms include a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, tea/coffee-making facilities, and free toiletries.
Does Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa offer a spa?
The hotel offers a full-service spa featuring a range of ELEMIS treatments and wellness facilities.
What leisure facilities are available at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Guests can enjoy a heated indoor swimming pool, fully equipped gym, and wellness amenities including a sauna and steam room.
What are some nearby dining options to Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Nearby restaurants include Villa Positano, The Albert, and Bodega Tapas Bar, all located within 0.5 km.
Check-in
16Apr2026Select date
Check-out
17Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room