blissed out bride

Blissed Out Bride: Brimstone Hotel, The Lake District

Rachel Hirst

People’s idea of indulgence varies, but for me it’s all about being immersed in calm and comforting surroundings, lavishing on fine food and drink, and experiencing all-out relaxation.

This may just be the reason that I felt like I’d quite literally arrived in heaven during a recent complimentary stay at one of the North West’s most luxurious establishments, Brimstone Hotel.

Located in the heart of the Lake District National Park and forming part of the Langdale Estate near Ambleside, the hotel is so much more than a place to stay; it’s a place to admire, experience and absorb. Even the drive there meandering through some of the most splendid scenery in the country is enjoyable and sets the operation dial to ‘chill’, not to be increased again until at least hitting the M6 on the journey back home.

Comprising 16 stunning suites and rooms, each with their own design and quirks, plus an extensive spa and modern restaurant all encased in the unrivalled beauty of The Lakes, you might never want to leave.

Visiting to experience how the hotel could serve as a dream location for sophisticated hen dos, a romantic pre-wedding break or the (ultimate!) minimoon, we were keen to explore its facilities following a warm welcome by one of Brimstone’s ‘hosts’. There to look after your every need during your stay, the attentive team (identifiable by their country-chic tweed waistcoats) can help you with your luggage (of course), kit you out with walking gear should you want to explore the surroundings (handy!) and even arrange a lift to a nearby restaurant or beauty spot for you in Brimstone’s chauffer driven Land River Defender (now that’s just spoiling us!!).

Images provided by Brimstone Hotel

Before heading to the spa our host introduced us to The Reading Room, a cosy and stylish space in which to unwind and indulge with a stack of high-end glossy mags to leaf through, plus refreshments on tap – and unlike other spa hotels, we’re not talking being subject to a 24-hour involuntary detox via lemon water and apples, no, no! Instead the sideboard is set with complimentary cakes and scones (later switched for cheeseboards), plus wine, beer and hot beverages. Though tempted to remain here for the duration, we did venture to the spa following a welcome 11s cream tea, but with rose wine instead of the tea!

Setting itself apart once again, we found Brimstone Spa to be in a league of its own with a host of sensory experiences, Pure Alchemy and Elemis treatments and chill out areas all part of the offering.

Our treatments were up first – a 55-minute back massage and facial – which for me offered the perfect combination in a medium-pressured massage to niggle out the numerous knots situated in my shoulders, neck and lower back, followed by an luxurious facial to rid my complexion of dull, dean skin cells and reveal brighter, more radiant skin.

Now, with the operation dial set deeper into chill mode, we moved onto Brimstone’s impressive thermal experience with seven differing areas and rooms to discover all sharing the brand’s gorgeous contemporary design, which makes the most of the wonderfully picturesque surroundings. Ranging from hot to cold, steam to sauna, herbal to mineral, each experience offers a varying health benefits and promotes overall wellbeing for an instant lift.

Another highlight has to be the relaxation pool, open to the pure air of The Lakes with the most idyllic of views. We took a moment to rest outdoors in one of the alfresco chill out areas, enjoying a glass of wine by a log burning fire, a real autumnal treat!

And while Brimstone is what I would describe as a low-traffic and exclusive spa, if you were looking for some ultimate couple time away from others, there is the option of booking The Bubble Private Spa area, with dual treatments, spa bath, feature shower and My Spa Heaven Cabin for two all part of the luxurious parcel!

As if we hadn’t been spoilt enough, we were yet to dine in Brimstone’s bar and restaurant, Stove, but first it was time to check into our room. As mentioned, each of the hotel’s suites and rooms and individually designed though all equally stylish, varying from Spa Suites to Plush Rooms.

We found ourselves in the Mezzaine Loft Suite, complete with sumptuous seating area, wood burning fire, king-size bed and ‘surprise bath’ concealed behind sliding doors, plus a large balcony with woodland views. For a second time I found myself resistant in leaving such appealing surroundings, though dinner was calling.

A short walk from the hotel, Stove provides a highly attractive and atmospheric setting for drinks and dining. Seated at our table with a glass of prosecco, we ordered starters of smoked haddock ‘Scotch Egg’ and baked camembert, each beautifully presented and every mouthful a delight. Our mains of chicken Caesar salad and pan-fried Scottish salmon with crab arancini, romesco sauce and roasted fennel, were equally deliciously and surprisingly filling leaving us no space for desserts, though the lemon and olive oil cake with blueberry sorbet and white chocolate did sound hugely appealing!

Needless to say, drifting off to sleep in such comfort and tranquillity that night was not a problem!

Waking feeling refreshed the next morning, we had one more treat lined up before departure, Brimstone’s breakfast in bed. Delivered direct to our door, the tray was laden with granola and natural yogurt jars, thick sourdough toast, flaky croissants and fruit juice.

So, if your definition of indulgence is anything like mine, all that remains is to decide which of Brimstone’s amazing rooms to book for your very own indulgent spa trip. And whether it be with the girls or your significant other, I can guarantee the only disappointment will be when it comes to checking out!

Brimstone Suggests

Sophisticated Hen

The Brimstone Spa Break packages are great for groups of ladies. The packages include a one-night stay (two guests per room) a 55-minute treatment of choice for each guest, lunch, flip-flops, breakfast in bed, treats in the Reading Room, outdoor wear and spa access throughout the day.

Pre-bridal Prep

The Brimstone Spa Break package also works well for a pre-bridal overnighter. In terms of a particular treatment, the ‘Pure Alchemy’ Scintillate Facial would be perfect for a pre-wedding glow! It is a 55-minute unique facial experience to enhance the complexion with hydrating nourishment for skin health, delivering the quintessence of nature through a unique and unprecedented massage application.

Minimoon

We would definitely recommend that newlyweds book The Bubble Spa as part of their stay with us. This a luxe private suite in Brimstone Spa complete with twin treatment beds, a double feature shower and huge spa bath as well as a My Spa Heaven cabin for two which offers a combination of relaxation and wellness with both heat and steam experiences.

For more information on Brimstone Hotel, visit the website.

 

Contributors

this is a sponsored post

Contact Loved Up North for details of our sponsorship packages and feature opportunities.

Contact us to be featured on Loved Up North