This 200-year-old structure on the shore of Windermere has been given an amazing transformation.
It was built not long after we’d defeated Napoleon so enthusiasts could follow a rather more peaceful passion of boating on Windermere. With a dock below and a loft used for stowing kit and accommodating the occasional sailor prepared to rough it, boat houses grew into one of the most enduring, romantic lakeside scenes.
Over the years, many have been spruced up but few will have had the sort of £500,000 make-over lavished on it like the Grade II listed boathouse in secluded woodland at the Storrs Hall Hotel at Windermere. It has been transformed into one of the Lake District’s most exclusive holiday destinations.
Anyone who knew the newly-built boathouse 200 years ago would be baffled by the technology and the levels of luxury inside this rustic stone structure today. For a start, it has a unique American black walnut bed, Arte three-dimensional textile wall coverings and a Keuco bathroom.
It also has an iPad-controlled mood-lighting and sound system which activates everything from the window blinds to the Sonos music equipment. Craftsmen have installed solid oak woodwork, a huge spa shower which becomes a steamroom and underfloor heating.
Both the bed and the bath face the picture window, making the most of the beautiful location. A 50-inch television is almost redundant with views as good as this although guests can use it to enjoy the lake’s vista without even venturing outside thanks a the personal CCTV system.
If guests want to hide away, a Storrs Hall chef will barbecue for them at the side of their own lily pond, or they can have room service delivered and served by the staff. If they choose to dine in the main hotel, they can take a wander through the lovely gardens or be transported across the estate by golf buggy. Outside, there is a private hot-tub and firepit along with terrace dining for six people, all with the backdrop of Windermere.
There are other exclusive boathouse treats, too. Upmarket wellies from Hunter are lined up at the door, and there are Harris Tweed blankets if the temperature drops. Inside, there are full-sized Bath House toiletries, made in nearby Sedburgh, along with a mini afternoon tea on arrival, and a food hamper with everything a guest needs if they fancy a midnight feast.
Mark Hindle, the owner of Storrs Hall, said: ‘l Iove the idea that boathouse guests will be able to explore the lake, perhaps hiring a boat and taking along a picnic made by the Storrs Hall chefs, then come back to relax, with a glass of Champagne at their side, from their private hot tub. The views of the lake from Storrs Hall’s sweeping lawns are renowned, but being able to enjoy the vista from your own exclusive accommodation will be a whole new experience.’
