Brimstone Hotel

Brimstone Hotel in Ambleside, United Kingdom, a Michelin Key Selected property, consistently receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, lauded for its exceptional luxury, personalized service, and stunning Lake District setting. It stands out as a unique adult-only retreat, blending contemporary design with the natural beauty of its surroundings.

Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Brimstone Hotel is exceptionally positive, with guests frequently describing it as a "brilliant hotel", an "adults-only haven of luxurious rooms and suites", and providing an "unparalleled guest experience". The hotel garners high praise for its ability to deliver a truly indulgent and memorable stay.

Key Highlights

Guests consistently highlight several standout features of the Brimstone Hotel. The personalized "host" service, replacing traditional reception desks, is a major draw, offering a bespoke and attentive experience from pre-arrival contact to on-site assistance. Complimentary access to the elaborate Brimstone Spa, with its thermal experiences and indoor/outdoor relaxation pool, is a significant amenity, particularly after a day of exploring the fells. The exclusive Reading Room, stocked with complimentary snacks, wine, local beers, and soft drinks available throughout the day, is another much-loved perk. The hotel's design, which thoughtfully integrates local materials like slate and wood, creating a high-end ski chalet ambiance, is also frequently appreciated. Additionally, practical touches like the Epicentre Bootroom, offering complimentary outdoor gear, enhance the guest experience for those looking to explore the Lake District.

Room Quality

The rooms and suites at Brimstone are celebrated for their spaciousness, comfort, and luxurious design. Options range from "Plush Rooms" to various suites, including Fireside, Mezzanine, Duet, and Spa Suites. Each is lavishly appointed with emperor beds, premium Egyptian cotton linens, and often features private balconies, cozy wood-burning stoves, and freestanding bathtubs, with some Duet Suites even boasting two side-by-side baths. The interiors reflect the surrounding natural landscape, incorporating earthy tones and textures. Thoughtful amenities such as GHD hairdryers and straighteners, and even dental kits, are often provided.

Dining Experience

Brimstone Hotel offers diverse and high-quality dining experiences. Breakfast, included with the stay, can be enjoyed at The Stove Restaurant or delivered directly to the guest's room. The Stove Restaurant, a short walk from the hotel, serves a menu of both classic and contemporary dishes, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients like Herdwick lamb. It is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, and guests praise its quality and service. For a more casual atmosphere, Wainwrights' Inn, a traditional Lakeland pub also part of the Langdale Estate, provides excellent food and a selection of local ales. Light bites and beverages are available at the Spa Deli within the Brimstone Spa. The Reading Room further enhances the culinary offerings with complimentary snacks, wine, local beers, and soft drinks, including afternoon tea and cheese boards. Guests have also enjoyed complimentary cocktails delivered to their rooms.

Service & Staff

The service at Brimstone Hotel is consistently described as exceptional and highly personalized. Guests are greeted by dedicated "hosts" upon arrival, rather than a traditional reception, who guide them to their rooms and explain the hotel's amenities. These hosts act as personal concierges, assisting with everything from arranging activities and providing wet-weather gear to delivering forgotten items or extra firewood. Pre-arrival phone calls to discuss guest preferences further exemplify the hotel's commitment to tailored hospitality. This proactive and friendly approach leaves guests feeling "special and thoroughly looked after".

Location & Accessibility

The hotel is nestled within the 35-acre Langdale Estate in the heart of the Lake District, near Ambleside. Its location offers a sense of remoteness and tranquility, while still being accessible to popular areas. It serves as an excellent base for outdoor activities, with numerous hiking routes through the Great Langdale Valley easily accessible from the estate. Nearby picturesque villages like Ambleside and Grasmere are a short drive away, offering local attractions, shops, and cafes. For those arriving by public transport, the hotel offers transfers from the train station in a Land Rover Defender.

Value & Pricing

While acknowledged as a luxury property, Brimstone Hotel is generally considered to offer good value for the indulgent experience it provides. In 2019, Plush Rooms were priced around £350 per night, with suites ranging up to £490. More recently, Plush Rooms have been noted from approximately £416.50 per night, which typically includes breakfast and full access to the spa, Reading Room, and Bootroom. The extensive complimentary offerings, such as spa access, all-day snacks and drinks in the Reading Room, and use of outdoor gear, significantly enhance the perceived value. The hotel also offers various special promotions, including advance purchase rates and spa break packages, which can provide discounts.

Common Complaints

Reviews of Brimstone Hotel are overwhelmingly positive, with very few recurring complaints. Guests consistently praise all aspects of their stay, from the opulent rooms and outstanding service to the exceptional amenities and beautiful location. There is no evidence of significant or recurring criticisms, with some guests explicitly stating they "couldn't fault" the hotel.

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