Business Details
Luxury Hotel in the Heart of the Lake District
Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, The Forestside stands as a testament to timeless elegance and natural beauty. Our journey began with a vision to revive a historic gothic mansion, transforming it into a sanctuary where luxury meets the serenity of Wordsworth's Grasmere. Under the culinary leadership of Head Chef Paul Leonard, our award-winning restaurant celebrates the region's freshest seasonal produce, paired with an exclusive selection of organic wines. The hotel's 20 beautifully designed bedrooms, ranging from Cosy to Master suites, offer unparalleled comfort and vistas of our meticulously restored gardens. We pride ourselves on curating unforgettable experiences, whether through intimate private dining, bespoke weddings, or immersive explorations of Grasmere's cultural and natural heritage.With a commitment to sustainability, we source ingredients from local farms, ensuring every dish reflects the authenticity of the Lake District. Our dedication to excellence has earned us recognition as a premier destination for discerning travelers seeking both tranquility and sophistication. From the handcrafted interiors by James Mackie to the bespoke amenities by Farrow & Ball, every detail reflects our passion for craftsmanship and hospitality. We invite guests to indulge in a fairytale retreat where history, nature, and modernity harmonize seamlessly.
Services
Award-Winning Restaurant
Luxury Accommodations
Wedding Venues
Private Dining
Gift Vouchers
Lake District Tours
Wine Tasting
Cocktail Experiences
Christmas Events
New Year Celebrations
Highlights and features
- Award-winning Michelin-starred restaurant with seasonal local cuisine
- Historic gothic mansion set in 5 acres of landscaped gardens
- 20 individually designed bedrooms with Farrow & Ball interiors
- Exclusive wedding and event venue in Wordsworth's Grasmere
- Sustainable sourcing from Cumbrian farms and artisan producers
Services
Award-Winning Restaurant
Our Michelin-starred restaurant showcases the Lake District's culinary heritage through seasonal tasting menus. Head Chef Paul Leonard crafts artful dishes using hyper-local ingredients from Cumbrian farms and artisan producers. The dining experience combines innovative techniques with traditional methods, all within a light-filled space offering panoramic fell views and bespoke reclaimed timber furnishings.
Luxury Accommodations
The hotel features 20 individually designed bedrooms across three categories: Cosy, Superb, and Master. Each room blends Victorian elegance with modern comforts, featuring Farrow & Ball paints, Zoffany textiles, and Harrison Spinks mattresses with 10,000 springs. Dog-friendly options and accessible rooms ensure every guest experiences the Forest Side luxury.
Wedding Venues
As an exclusive use venue, Forest Side offers romantic settings for weddings and celebrations. The private dining room seats 10 with organic menus, while the estate's grounds provide picturesque backdrops for ceremonies. Our team specializes in creating personalized events that reflect each couple's unique vision within the historic Lake District landscape.
Private Dining
The private dining room accommodates intimate celebrations with tailored menus from our Michelin-starred kitchen. Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or business gatherings, the space combines culinary excellence with personalized service. Guests enjoy curated wine pairings and access to our sommelier's expertise for enhanced gastronomic experiences.
Gift Vouchers
Our luxury gift vouchers offer flexible experiences ranging from fine dining to overnight stays. Options include four-course Michelin-starred meals, three-night luxury getaways, and customizable monetary vouchers. Presented in special edition boxes, these gifts provide memorable experiences in the heart of the Lake District's literary and natural heritage.
People
Paul Leonard
Head Chef
Paul Leonard leads our culinary team with a passion for seasonal Lake District produce. His innovative approach combines traditional techniques with modern presentation, creating tasting menus that reflect the region's natural bounty. With extensive experience in fine dining, he has earned the restaurant its Michelin star through consistent excellence.
Questions
How do I book a stay at Forest Side Hotel?
Visit our website to explore room options and availability. We recommend booking directly through our online reservation system for the best rates and guaranteed reservations.
What dining options are available?
Our Michelin-starred restaurant offers seasonal tasting menus using local Cumbrian ingredients. The private dining room accommodates exclusive events, while the lounge provides casual cocktail and wine experiences.
Can I host a wedding at Forest Side?
Yes, we offer exclusive use weddings with personalized planning support. Our grounds and private dining spaces provide romantic settings for ceremonies and receptions in the Lake District.
Are pets allowed in the hotel?
We welcome dogs in designated rooms with special amenities. Please inform us at booking to ensure appropriate accommodations and access to our pet-friendly facilities.
What nearby attractions are accessible from the hotel?
We're near Dove Cottage, Allan Bank, and Wordsworth's daffodil garden. The hotel provides easy access to Grasmere's walking trails, Rydal Water, and the historic St Oswald's Church where Wordsworth is buried.
Do you offer special packages or promotions?
Yes, we feature seasonal packages like our Michelin Star Dinner & Stay from £429 and the Luxury in the Lakes three-night experience. Check our website for current offers and limited-time promotions.
Reviews (5)
Riding With Strides
Dec 04, 2021
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Stayed for 1 night in a suite with the 8 course tasting menu.
Cannot fault anything. Lovely touches in room like fresh milk and a welcome cake.
Taster meal was amazing and all the staff were attentive and friendly.
Loved every moment.
Cannot fault anything. Lovely touches in room like fresh milk and a welcome cake.
Taster meal was amazing and all the staff were attentive and friendly.
Loved every moment.
Eric Berthoud
Dec 03, 2021
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A great few nights stay at the Forest Side. The food is superb, breakfast also lovely. The staff are all very friendly. Allowed me to charge the electric car there too which was a nice touch. Situated very close to Grasmere. Room had high ceilings and had character. Bathroom spacious and modern. Mattress slightly too soft for my taste.
Robert Lees
Dec 02, 2021
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Amazing, go here, you won't be disappointed. We ended our honeymoon here and everything was spot-on. Staff were attentive, helpful, friendly. The master room was spacious and well decorated, the bathroom walls were getting a little tired, but it was still fantastic. The food was spot-on, we had the 8-course menu twice and had the wine flight the second time. The second night the menu had changed considerably, maybe only 2-3 courses were exactly the same. The only thing we could comment on is that the waiters could speak a little louder to account for their masks. The breakfast was also great, really
Gary Moss
Nov 23, 2021
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How this place is only rated 4.7 is beyond me.We are staying in the Master Suite and had the 8 course taster menu last night.If you include the snacks and homemade bread its like having 12 course really.My wife and I were extremely pleased with our experience at Forest Side and we havnt even had the breakfast yet .The breakfast I already know will be equal or better than any I've had before as last night's food was an experience you really should treat yourself too at some point.The Chef is a genius to put it accurately, the lamb belly snack was so nice .The sea bass was as fresh as you could Finld
Colin Davies
Oct 23, 2021
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We have visited The Forest Side 3 times now. Each time it has been genuinely outstanding. So good in fact we decided to host our Wedding reception there and we could not have been more pleased with the way the whole team looked after us in the run up to and after the day itself.
Paul and his team produced unbelievably high quality food which blew our guest away. The wine pairings were unique and delicious in equal measure and the highlight of the whole experience was the warm professionalism of the reception and waiting team. I cannot recommend treating yourself to an experience at the Forest
Paul and his team produced unbelievably high quality food which blew our guest away. The wine pairings were unique and delicious in equal measure and the highlight of the whole experience was the warm professionalism of the reception and waiting team. I cannot recommend treating yourself to an experience at the Forest
