Finding a holiday that keeps everyone happy is no small feat. One child wants to climb trees, the other’s glued to their sketchpad, and you — well, you’re dreaming of five quiet minutes with a decent coffee and no one asking for snacks. That’s why luxury hotels with proper family activities are such a clever idea. They make space for kids to be kids, while giving grown-ups a little breathing room too.
So if you’re planning a Lake District break and wondering whether you really can have it all — comfort, adventure, and no one saying “I’m bored” by day two — this guide’s for you. We’ve handpicked the best luxury family hotels that know how to blend child-friendly fun with proper relaxation. Think paddleboarding mornings, marshmallow-toasting evenings, and rooms where you can all stretch out.
Let’s take a look at why an activity-focused stay makes such a difference — and which hotels do it brilliantly.
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Why Choose an Activity-Focused Luxury Stay?
Family holidays sound lovely in theory — but let’s be honest, they’re not always as restful as they should be. Parents often arrive home more worn out than when they left, and kids, well, they tend to have energy that could power a small village. That’s where activity-focused luxury hotels come in — they make it easier for everyone to actually enjoy themselves.
So what makes these places different? It’s not just about kids’ clubs (though the good ones are brilliant). It’s that everything’s been thought through — from mealtimes that actually work for families, to spacious rooms where you’re not tripping over toys, to proper adventures that kids can dive into while parents sneak off for a coffee or a couple of hours at the spa. It’s all a bit magical, really.
The Lake District, with its hills, lakes, and gentle sense of wildness, is perfect for this kind of break. You’ve got space to roam, air that smells like trees and water, and just enough Wi-Fi for comfort. Whether you’ve got a toddler who loves puddles, a teen who needs a bit of freedom, or just a whole family in need of a laugh around a campfire, the right hotel can give you more than a place to sleep — it gives you shared experiences that feel exciting and easy.
And honestly, that’s what most families want. A little less hassle, a bit more joy, and somewhere to stay that actually feels like a treat for everyone.
Another Place, The Lake — Best for Outdoor Adventure
If your idea of a great family break involves muddy boots, windswept hair, and the kind of tiredness that only comes from a brilliant day outside, Another Place, The Lake is just the spot. Set right on the shores of Ullswater, this relaxed-yet-polished hotel gets families outdoors without ever skimping on comfort.
There’s wild swimming for the brave (yes, wetsuits are on hand), paddleboarding lessons for beginners, and a private lakefront perfect for skimming stones or watching the ducks do their thing. Older kids can book into supervised outdoor sessions run by friendly instructors, while grown-ups might fancy a sauna with a view or a few child-free hours in the hotel’s glassy indoor pool.
What’s especially lovely here is how naturally everything flows. There’s no sense of being shuffled into “family zones” — kids and parents are welcome everywhere, whether that’s the Living Space bar for a casual bite or the firepit area where stories and marshmallows are shared at dusk. Rooms are spacious, many come with bunkbeds or sliding doors, and there’s even a shepherd’s hut-style kids’ den with games, beanbags and movie nights.
Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa — Best for Lakeside Water Play
Low Wood Bay sits proudly on Windermere’s eastern shore, and if there’s a better place for kids to go full water baby, we haven’t found it. This hotel has its own watersports centre just steps from the main building, offering everything from wakeboarding and banana boat rides to kayak hire and beginner sailing.
For families with older kids or confident swimmers, the options are genuinely exciting. And for those with little ones? There’s still plenty of fun to be had on the private beach, paddling and playing, or cheering on siblings from the shore.
Back inside, rooms are modern and roomy enough to avoid the dreaded tripping-over-the-suitcase shuffle. Parents often sneak off to the spa — the thermal journey is a real treat — while the hotel’s family-friendly dining options keep mealtimes fuss-free but still tasty.
The Langdale Hotel & Brimstone Spa — Best for Teens & Tweens
Tucked into a leafy estate near Ambleside, The Langdale Hotel strikes that rare balance between style and substance — especially for families with older kids who’ve outgrown soft play but aren’t quite ready to ‘just chill’.
Here, the outdoors is your playground. There are mapped cycle trails through woodland, guided hikes to hidden waterfalls, and even axe-throwing (yes, really) nearby — all great for adventurous teens. Add to that some very Insta-worthy scenery, and they’ll actually want to come along.
Inside, the vibe is grown-up but welcoming. Families can stay in roomy suites or interconnecting spaces, and if you’re booking Brimstone Spa separately for the adults, you’re in for something seriously special. The on-site Stove Restaurant serves up proper food — burgers, fish, sourdough pizzas — that suits almost everyone’s tastes.
Armathwaite Hall — Best for Nature Exploration
Families looking for a gentler kind of adventure often fall in love with Armathwaite Hall. Right beside Bassenthwaite Lake, and home to the Lake District Wildlife Park, this country-house hotel weaves nature into every part of the stay.
Guests get discounted access to the wildlife park next door — a huge hit with younger children — where red pandas, zebras, and meerkats wait just a short stroll from your breakfast table. The hotel also offers woodland walks, falconry displays, and animal encounters during school holidays.
Inside, you’ll find classic country charm (think roaring fires and tall windows), but it’s all surprisingly relaxed for a hotel of this calibre. The spa welcomes families at certain times, and the staff are brilliantly warm with kids — which makes a big difference, especially after a muddy ramble or an unexpected downpour.
Another Place: The Treehouse — Best for Creative Indoor Activities
Technically part of Another Place, this unique accommodation deserves its own shout-out. The Treehouse is a self-contained, family-friendly haven perched among the branches — ideal for rainy days, imaginative play, and uninterrupted quality time.
The setup is cosy and clever: there’s space to cook together, read stories by the fire, or bring out the art supplies without worrying about hotel carpets. When the weather’s kind, you’ve still got access to all the lakeside activities of the main hotel — but here, the pace is slower. It’s a chance to be together in a space that feels like it belongs to you, even just for a while.
The Swan Hotel & Spa, Newby Bridge — Best for Rainy Day Fun
You know those days when the clouds roll in, and you need more than a pack of Uno to survive until bedtime? The Swan Hotel gets that. It leans into family comfort with thoughtful extras like a kids’ play zone, a warm indoor pool, and board games available on request.
Set at the southern tip of Windermere, this colourful riverside spot is great for younger kids in particular. There’s a garden play area, family spa swims, and themed afternoon teas that feel like a treat. Rooms are bright, with bunkbeds and bold décor, and there’s even an on-site bakery if you’re craving something sweet.
It’s not fancy-fancy — and that’s part of the charm. The staff are welcoming, the food’s hearty, and you’ll leave feeling like someone actually thought about how families really travel.
Planning Tips for Active Family Getaways
Active family holidays are brilliant — but they do ask for a bit more thought than your usual flop-and-drop break. That said, planning doesn’t have to be stressful. A few small tweaks can make things go a lot more smoothly, especially when everyone’s got different ideas about what makes a great day out.
1. Think in blocks, not minute-by-minute.
Kids (and honestly, most adults) cope better with flexible plans. Pick one activity for the morning, leave the afternoon open for whatever you fancy — a walk, a paddle, or just a nap in a big squishy bed.
2. Pack for layers and leftovers.
The Lake District weather has its moments. Waterproofs, wellies, sun cream and extra socks might all be needed on the same day. Don’t forget snacks and reusable water bottles either — trails and boat trips tend to bring out the appetites.
3. Choose a hotel that feels like part of the adventure.
You’ll enjoy things more if your hotel isn’t just a place to crash. Whether it’s a swimming pool, a games den, or direct lake access, these little extras often mean the difference between “Can we go home yet?” and “Can we come back next year?”
4. Don’t overschedule.
It’s tempting to cram in every trail, animal park and watersport — especially with so many great things to do. But downtime is your friend. So is an unhurried hot chocolate while the kids poke sticks in a stream.
5. Pick your season wisely.
Easter and summer holidays tend to be busier but full of energy. If your kids aren’t tied to school dates, consider late spring or early autumn — quieter trails, better value, and often some of the best views.
Book Your Active Family Stay
So many family holidays promise the moon — but the right hotel in the Lake District can actually deliver. Whether your kids are little explorers or big adventure fans, these luxury spots give you space to play, unwind, and reconnect without the usual stress. You’ll find that when the kids are busy and happy, you actually get a proper break too.
Take a look at our full list of family-friendly hotels and pick the one that feels most like you. Because making memories shouldn’t feel like hard work — it should feel like joy.
FAQs: What Families Usually Ask
Are babysitting services available?
Some hotels do offer babysitting or evening creche services, especially during school holidays. It’s always best to ask when booking, as availability can vary and may need to be arranged in advance.
Do these hotels cater to teens as well as younger children?
Yes — many of the hotels we’ve featured are great at providing age-appropriate options. From paddleboarding and climbing walls to teen-only spa slots or supervised lake sessions, older kids aren’t left out of the fun.
Are meals included for kids?
In most cases, kids’ meals are available on the main menu or as part of a dedicated children’s offering. Some packages include breakfast or half-board deals for children — worth checking when you book, especially if you’re staying a few nights.