‘I book this hotel every year — I can’t stop going back’

I’ve been privileged to travel to some of the world’s most exotic locations throughout my career, but one destination I consistently return to is the Lake District.

There’s nothing more satisfying than a day spent traversing Cumbria’s famously breathtaking landscapes, culminating in a visit to a quaint country pub and a warm welcome at a comfortable hotel.

I’ve had the delight of staying at several wonderful hotels here, including Storrs Hall, Lodore Falls and The Samling, all of which I can’t endorse enough. But Brimstone Hotel and Spa is one that continually lures me back; it ticks every box for this type of retreat.

Nestled on the Langdale Estate just north of Ambleside, Brimstone is an adults-only sanctuary of luxurious rooms and suites, many featuring balconies, log fires and freestanding bathtubs. Unlike the ‘country house’ style of interior design often seen in five-star hotels, Brimstone’s decor is modern and opulent, with open-plan spaces, grey tones and chic lighting choices.

Brimstone also operates a bit differently. There’s no reception desk; instead, you’re welcomed by one of the establishment’s amiable hosts who escorts you to your room and explains where everything is,

Instead of a bar, there’s a ‘reading room’ filled with complimentary wine, drinks and snacks. It’s a relaxed atmosphere devoid of any pretentiousness, and you’ll quickly feel completely at ease.

Earlier this year, before their break-up, Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury also enjoyed a stay at this location.

If you’re planning a visit with children or are seeking a more budget-friendly option, consider booking into the estate’s Langdale Hotel, or one of the self-catering properties within the complex.

The Brimstone Spa is a regular feature on lists of the best UK spas. It offers a variety of thermal rooms to explore before ending your journey in the outdoor hydro-pool by a roaring log fire, perhaps with a glass of bubbly from the spa deli.

Despite being open to all guests staying on the estate, it never feels crowded when I’ve visited. Guests at Brimstone get free spa access, and strolling over in slippers and robes is the ideal way to unwind after a day of walking.

One of the main reasons we love staying at Brimstone is its location. My partner and I love a challenging hike up some of the Lakes’ breathtaking peaks, but we prefer to start and finish our walks from our hotel rather than driving to a starting point, and there are plenty of these routes around the Langdale Estate (you can borrow gear from the hotel’s Boot Room if you’re not fully prepared).

Our favourite is a tough climb up to Silver How, where you’re greeted with spectacular views from the top, before descending to the charming village of Grasmere (don’t forget to pick up some of Grasmere’s renowned gingerbread).

A delightful 45-minute walk by Elter Water is a must, with the added perk of a pit stop at Chesters By The River, a popular vegetarian bakery serving up delicious treats.

While The Langdale Estate has its own restaurant, Stove, many choose to enjoy traditional pub food at nearby Wainwrights’ or The Britannia Inn, or venture out to renowned fine dining establishments in the Lake District like The Samling or Forest Side. Guests at Brimstone can indulge in Stove’s buffet, or have it delivered to their room.

Despite the high cost and the recruitment challenges facing hospitality businesses in the Lake District, I believe staying here is worth every penny. Guests are pampered with unlimited access to snacks and drinks in the reading room, a Brimstone Land Rover Defender for rides (pre-booking required), and a boot room offering high-end hiking gear.

Each visit to Brimstone unveils something new; this time, it was the pre-dinner cocktail trolley service, in-room purchasable gifts “for the kids or the ones looking after them”, and an undiscovered second level of the spa with inviting day beds. It’s this combination of prime location, luxurious rooms and relaxed atmosphere that makes Brimstone a long-standing personal favourite.

Prices for rooms at Brimstone Hotel and Spa start from £416.50 per night, which includes breakfast and access to the Boot Room, Reading Room and Spa.