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Hotel
5 star

The Forest Side

Edge of village, on the Keswick road · Hotel

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Photo: Forest Side Hotel

A Victorian Gothic mansion in 43 acres of woodland with a Michelin-starred restaurant built around its own kitchen garden.

Photos

Photos via Google

About The Forest Side

The Forest Side occupies a restored Victorian Gothic mansion set within forty-three acres of woodland and gardens on the edge of Grasmere, a short walk from the village centre. The house has been renovated with a deliberately understated, contemporary interior that leans on natural materials and muted colours rather than heavy country-house furnishing, and many rooms look out over the gardens towards the surrounding fells.

The hotel's restaurant, under chef Paul Leonard, holds a Michelin star and five AA rosettes, with tasting menus built substantially from the hotel's own kitchen garden and produce sourced from farms within ten miles. Breakfast, lunch and dinner all draw on the same larder, and the dining room and adjoining bar are open to non-residents as well as guests.

Beyond the restaurant, the extensive grounds include the kitchen garden itself, woodland walks, and direct access to paths up into the fells above Grasmere, making the hotel a genuinely useful base for walkers as well as diners. Rooms range from standard doubles to larger suites, several with wood-burning stoves or freestanding baths.

Reception hours

Monday
7:30 AM – 12:00 AM
Tuesday
7:30 AM – 12:00 AM
Wednesday
7:30 AM – 12:00 AM
Thursday
7:30 AM – 12:00 AM
Friday
7:30 AM – 12:00 AM
Saturday
7:30 AM – 12:00 AM
Sunday
7:30 AM – 12:00 AM

Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.

What guests say

Susan Culshaw

We recently stayed at Forest Side for a special occasion after being recommended by a family member. On arrival we were warmly greeted and delighted to receive a complimentary upgrade to our stylish room. We had booked the tasting menu with wine pairing for our evening meal which was a wonderful experience. My husband has some dietary requirements which were fully covered by slight ammendments to the menu. This really is a beautiful hotel with lovely grounds and gardens, we were even treated to seeing red squirrels from our breakfast table. We can highly recommend Forest Side.

4 months ago · via Google

Emma Franklin

My daughter and I treated ourselves to the 6 course lunch menu, as part of our annual holiday in the Lakes, after seeing Neil on GBM. Best decision I ever made! The food was out of this world! I found myself coming out with all the phrases I've learnt on cooking shows and running out of superlatives! From the unbelievable herb juice in the starter to the glorious sorbets, the depth of flavour and range of textures was astounding throughout. The courses just kept coming and the whole event (surroundings, presentation and service) was worth every penny. Thank you so much to everyone involved!

3 months ago · via Google

David Clough

A fantastic location for a quiet romantic break. We went for the taster menu and wine pairing which was exceptional, although the price was about £750 for two (including room rate) which may be high for some. The welcome at the hotel was nice and friendly, and we later enjoyed the comfortable bar and lounge area for pre drinks. Staff were knowledgeable of the produce on sale (including local ales and lagers). The Chestnut suite was a good size with comfortable soft bed and a huge bathroom, all immaculately clean. Room had an assortment of tea and coffee with fresh milk, but no water, although that could be bought downstairs. The only negative was that our room was a constant 25°c which was too hot for us. We opened the windows to try and compensate but to little effect.

3 months ago · via Google

Alan Spedding

One of our Lake District gems . Forest side is a stunning escape for both the serious foodie , romantic or anyone with an excuse to celebrate. The food is stunning, it's a Michelin 1 star but personally I think it's leaning towards a 2 . We had a 12 course lunch and every single course was totally faultless. The courses are very small but highly technical and such a lot of effort goes into a few bites. Bread is amazing and if you're still feeling hungry then simply ask for more bread. Desserts....world class. Wine and service are at the highest levels and the rooms are stunning. My tip.... stay over, treat yourself and enjoy the full package of food, wine, room and breakfast. Keep a look out for special mid week offers. I shall return very soon for more.

4 months ago · via Google

See all reviews on Google →

Diners like this restaurant's exceptional tasting menus, featuring beautifully executed dishes with rich flavors and meticulous attention to detail. They also highlight the warm, genuine, and attentive service from the staff, who are knowledgeable about the offerings. Guests mention the beautiful dining room aesthetic and the comfortable, immaculately clean rooms.

Summary via Google

At a glance

Address
Keswick Road, Grasmere, Ambleside, LA22 9RN Get directions
Property type
Hotel
Location
Edge of village, on the Keswick road
Star rating
5 star
Guest score
9.3 / 10 (480 reviews)
Prices from
£295 per night
Good for children
No
Destination
Grasmere