Charlotte and Martin were married recently at Lancaster House and enjoyed a beautiful day with family and friends. With Charlotte’s Nan having a hand in them getting together, Charlotte takes up the story …

He’ll Have You!

We met at the nursing home where Martin works, and where my Nan, who has dementia, lives. At the top of her voice, my Nan asked how my husband was. I replied, “Nanna, I don’t have one”. Pointing to Martin, she said, “He’ll have you!”

After that, Martin and I messaged each other and arranged tea out as ‘friends’. We had both recently separated from previous relationships, and joked about not wanting to be in a relationship. So, not sure how that happened, but very soon we were dating.

The Key to My Heart

When we discovered I was pregnant, Martin decided to ask me to marry. He attached a white gold diamond ring to my car keys, hoping I’d see it… Three days later he was getting edgy in case I’d lost it. He even made excuses to go to the supermarket so that I would use the trolley coin it was attached to. I only went and chose a trolley that was already unlocked! All his little hints where going right over my head. Eventually he said, “Please look at your keys, I can’t do any more”. I finally saw the ring but was arguing that it wasn’t mine, and asking how it had got there. Martin just shouted out WILL YOU MARRY ME. I laughed and, forgetting to say ‘yes’, rang my mum to tell her.     

Our Perfect Wedding Venue

I’ve been to a great wedding at Lancaster House before, so it was an obvious choice for us. Before I knew it, Mum and I were meeting with Lisa, the Wedding Co-ordinator. She was so lovely and easy to get on with. It went from there. We liked that Lisa didn’t pressure us, and was honest and interpreted exactly what we were looking for.  In fact, Lisa was amazing from start to finish, and our whole day ran like clockwork.

The Dress

When you find the dress you just know it’s the one, I just fell in love with mine. It has a beautiful fitted lace bodice with a jewelled belt detail. Martin kept in with my baby pink and grey theme.

Wedding Breakfast

We wanted something simple, but tasty. We chose the chicken dinner in the end, and it was perfect.    We had our sample 3 course tasting meal months before, and were confident that everything would be great.  

Table Settings

I’m a crafter myself, so I made a lot of the table setting items and favours myself. The seating plan was on a mirror with vinyl stickers. I also made the silver glitter number holders and filled jars with pastel coloured jelly beans, tied with pink ribbon for the favours.

Cake Design

Julie from Hilltop Cakery in Heysham made our cake. We went to her house for cake tasting and she made us feel so welcome and made it a fun part of our wedding planning. We used some of my bridesmaid flowers on it, and favours that would be on the tables in the evening reception.

First Dance

It took us ages to decide on the music. We have special songs, but nothing we wanted to use as a first dance. In the end we picked an up-beat song so that we could dance rather than slow move. We had an exploding balloon which we knew our 2 year old daughter would love, so we made her part of the dance. We planned it so that it would go off when she was under it. Perfect timing. I also did a 1^st dance with my Dad. He’s quite shy and didn’t want to do one, but just before the wedding he  found a song that he thought was perfect and said he would do it. I was so chuffed!

We wish Charlotte and Martin every happiness as they start life together as husband and wife. 

Planning Your Wedding? 

Lisa, our Lancaster House Wedding Co-ordinator, would be delighted to show you around the hotel, and help you on the journey to your dream wedding. Give her a call her on 01524 585175.  

If there was ever any proof needed that Low Wood Bay can do small and intimate weddings, as well as grand affairs, Vicky and Chris’ wedding provides just that. With a wedding package ‘Just for Two’, Vicky tells us their romantic story and how the team at Low Wood Bay became part of their perfect day.

Meeting on the Thin Blue Line

We both work for Greater Manchester Police, and first met in 2015. Chris is a police officer and I am a Radio Operator. He used to come up to the communication room for brews. We started talking for a few months and, after a lot of persistence on his part, we finally met up for a drink. The rest is history as they say!

Precisely Timed Proposal

In February 2017 I was dreading turning 30! It had always been my ‘scary age’ and really wasn’t looking forward to it. We booked 3 nights in Paris and stayed in a beautiful hotel, just around the corner from the Arc de triumph. My birthday tradition is that I always stay awake until just past midnight, until the time I was born. We went out for a meal on my birthday-eve, came back to the hotel room and were watching TV. When it was exactly 00:17 Chris proposed. It was very personal and low key, just the 2 of us – no fuss and no audience! In the morning Chris had roses, cake and champagne delivered to the room for breakfast.

Wedding for Two

We decided straight away that we wanted a ‘wedding for 2’. We liked the idea of it being personal, intimate and (probably selfishly) exactly how we wanted it. We love the Lake District and have spent anniversaries and birthdays in and around Windermere, so there was no question where we would look for a venue. We came across Low Wood Bay while looking for intimate weddings. We didn’t want to feel ‘lost’ in a venue, because we had no guests. Low Wood Bay had a specifically tailored ‘just for 2’ package. It was perfect. It felt like it was specifically catering for two people, rather than just fitting us into the ‘traditional’ wedding day. It included everything we were looking for and the views over the lake are amazing.

Our Perfect Venue

We booked an appointment with the wedding team to look around, and booked it there and then! It was the first and only place that we looked at. It was just perfect.

The wedding team was amazing. We weren’t made to feel like we were being picky or fussy about anything. They pre-empted our questions and requests before we even had to ask! Our duplex suite in the Winander Club was just so luxurious – direct access to the roof terrace with stunning views, and 2 floors/2 bathrooms, so that Chris could have his own privacy on the wedding morning, whilst the hairdresser/makeup artist and photographer were trying to work their magic on me!

We felt like VIPs

From the moment we arrived we were made to feel so special, from the Gate Keeper who knew who we were on arrival, to the prosecco on check in and the congratulations card given to us by the Blue Smoke staff the evening before. Chris had asked for flowers to be delivered to the room on our wedding morning, and I was greeted with a dozen of the most beautiful red roses, along with a delicious breakfast in the room and prosecco and beer to settle any nerves!

Low Key but still the Bride

As it was a very low key wedding I didn’t want to stand out too much and go for the big meringue dress! I opted for an ivory 2 piece, top and trousers by Catherine Deane, which I found in a lovely bridal boutique in Clitheroe called Kimberley Anne Bridal Boutique. It was perfect. I still felt like a bride, but not too conspicuous. Chris looked very handsome in a blue Hugo Boss 3 piece suit.

Relaxed and Friendly Ceremony

We were married in a very relaxed ceremony with just a handful of guests, consisting of hotel staff, wedding planners and our photographers. It certainly took the pressure off any mistakes during the vows!

As we had no guests, Rachel, our Wedding Co-ordinator, and James, our Master of Ceremonies were witnesses. Rachel was also ring bearer! We don’t know who was more excited. By the end of the day it felt like the wedding team were our wedding guests! After the ceremony when we were having our photographs taken, everywhere we turned, James was there with drinks in hand. They even came to meet us for a celebratory drink after they had finished for the day, dressed with fascinators, waistcoats and ties! The whole team really did go above and beyond to make us feel so special.

Wedding Afternoon Tea

We didn’t have the ‘traditional’ wedding breakfast. We started married life with Afternoon Tea in the Atrium overlooking the lake and spent our evening in the Windermere restaurant enjoying yet another delicious meal.

The Low Wood Bay setting is stunning with plenty of opportunity for scenic pictures, the jetty onto the lake is very picturesque, and we went for a wander around the back of the hotel and ended up with some new wedding guests – the sheep!

Our Honeymoon Heaven

For our honeymoon we flew to the Dominican Republic 2 days later, for 10 nights of pure luxury at the stunning Excellence El Carmen resort. We had a swim out suite, all inclusive, numerous restaurants and bars, and lived in pure relaxation for ten days!

When we returned we celebrated with family and friends at Cosy Club Manchester for our ‘evening do’…. Aka an excuse to wear our outfits again and eat cake!

Weddings at Low Wood Bay

We wish Vicky and Chris every happiness in their life together. As Vicky said, we don’t know who was most excited and thrilled on the day! 

If you are planning your wedding and would like to chat through your dream wedding wish list, whether large or small and intimate, call Low Wood Bay wedding team on 0330 4042 693

Annabel Berry, Low Wood Bay Spa Manager, tells us about her own pregnancy journey, and some of the treatments and products that The Spa can offer new Mums and Mums-to-be.

Annabel Berry, Spa Manager at Low Wood Bay

Congratulations! When are you due? 

Thank you! We are so excited to welcome our little boy on the 25th August. 

How would you describe your pregnancy so far? 

Annabel and Joe celebrating their Baby Shower on the lawns at Low Wood Bay

It’s actually been relatively normal (at least as normal as it can be). Everyone has been very supportive and I have felt completely looked after throughout my pregnancy.

It’s a boy! How are you preparing for his arrival?  

Well, we are a family full of girls, so everything is very new to me. Luckily Joe’s sister is an amazing mum, and is also pregnant again. I pretty much ask her everything.

Any pregnancy aches and pains? 

I’ve struggled with my hips near the end of pregnancy, however taking regular breaks and taking less stairs has helped. One of the perks of working in the Spa is that I use the pool a lot. This really helps to relax me and ease any aches and pains! 

Pool with a view – The Spa at Low Wood Bay

Booking a pregnancy massage after the first trimester also has lots of benefits. It can reduce some of the normal discomforts, such as backache, stiffness, headaches and swelling. It is also a great as a stress buster and can aid a good night’s sleep.

… and cravings? 

Annabel’s dream craving

I think it’s more of an excuse to eat everything unhealthy! But all I’ve been craving is bacon butties, and cheese and ham toasties! It’s so hard to stay healthy when all baby wants is fatty food.

How have you managed diet, health, beauty during pregnancy? 

I think it’s the one time in your life where you can go back for seconds, although I do stay active. I have quite a physical job and can’t seem to sit still when I’m home, so even though I have avoided the gym, I tend to do a lot of moving around.

I haven’t stopped doing anything different with my beauty routine. However I do make sure everything is safe for baby. I love to have a pamper night, so a full body scrub, bath and face mask is a must when you’re feeling a little bedraggled after a hard day at work.

Top health & beauty tip for pregnancy 

My number one tip is MOISTURISER. I have been using an amazing stretch mark balm which I apply morning and night. It has kept me from getting any stretch marks and kept the itching away.

I have also been using the most amazing ESPA cooling body moisturiser for my legs and ankles. Unfortunately one of the down sides of pregnancy is that you can swell if you get to hot. I use this moisturiser to keep me cool in the warm weather.

What does The Spa offer in the way of pregnancy treatments?

We have a range of body and facial pre and post-natal massages. Our highly trained therapists will always take time to tailor the treatment to ensure that it is just right for each new Mum or Mum-to-be.  

ESPA Baby-&-Me Massage is amazing for pregnant women. When I was creating the treatment, I knew from my industry experience, and other brands that I’ve worked with, that it would be a truly enjoyable experience for an expectant mother. Now that I’m pregnant myself, I can more fully identify with all the benefits of the Baby & Me Massage.

The Spa at Low Wood Bay

For more information about any of the pre and post natal massages available at The Spa at Low Wood Bay as well as the products available, please call 015394 39303 to speak to one of our Spa therapists.

If you are in any doubt about having a treatment during your pregnancy, please ensure you check with your GP prior to making your reservation.

There are literally thousands of magnificent Lakeland views that we could show you, but we’ve had to narrow it down to ten. Here are our top picks to help you plan your Lake District break. 

Orrest Head

Twenty minute uphill walk to one of the most impressive views in the Lake District. Clearly marked, the walk starts on the A591, opposite the Windermere bus station. It’s an easy walk through woodlands and out onto an open fell top, with benches and a mountain viewing plaque. Great views over Windermere and the mountains beyond. From here there are paths leading off in various directions, or you can return to the village by the same route.

Grasmere & Rydal Water

Loughrigg Terrace is a path running along the side of Loughrigg Fell. From here you get great views of both Grasmere and Rydal Water. There are plenty of benches to stop and take in the splendour of the area. Autumn offers spectacular festival of warm orange and red bracken tones whilst late May turns the fellside a violet hue in bluebell season.

Gummer’s How

At the southern end of Windermere, a short but steep climb up Gummer’s How rewards you with great views across the lake and on a clear day a panoramic view taking in several of the Lake District’s central fells, Coniston Old Man and Morecambe Bay. 

Tarn Hows

Although not officially a lake, being a man-made body of water, Tarn Hows is one of the most popular and accessible walks in the Lake District. There are delightful views from the wooded path around the circular path.

Claife Heights

Claife Viewing Station is on the western shore of Windermere, very close to the Windermere Car Ferry terminal, and easily accessible as a foot passenger. Built in the 1790s, this would have been one of the first tourist attractions as the area became popular with visitors. The purpose of the windows was to help ‘frame’ the view and the coloured glass helps create a range of unusual effects.

Loughrigg Fell

Slightly over 1,000 feet, Loughrigg is small in comparison to many of the Lake District mountains. However, it provides some magnificent panoramic views of Grasmere and the surrounding mountains. 

Friar’s Crag

The bench at Friar’s Crag must be one of the most popular seats in the Lake District. An easy 20 minute walk from Keswick, you are rewarded with a spectacular view down Derwentwater, towards Borrowdale.  

Ashness Bridge & Surprise View

Two-in-one view, Ashness Bridge is the most photographed bridge in the Lake District. It is a small packhorse bridge, best viewed from above, looking down upon it. Walking across the bridge, it is a short walk to Surprise View where you get stunning views across Derwentwater.

Buttermere

There are many fantastic photo opportunities on the four and a half mile walk around Buttermere.  The tiny village of Buttermere has an air of calm with a beautiful little church a focal point. Magnificent views across the water to Fleetwith Pike and Warnscale Bottom from the village, and, on the northern shore, the famous ‘Buttermere tree’ – providing great Lake District photo opportunity.

View from Here

We couldn’t finish without showing you our very own view of Lake Windermere from our Fellside Pool. This could be you, if you book a room at Low Wood Bay. Call 0333 2203 105 or check the Low Wood Bay website.  

Visiting the small towns and villages around the Lake District will give you a real sense of the culture and heritage that we prize so highly. There are many to choose from, but we’ve suggested five to put on your Lake District itinerary. 

Ambleside

One of the most popular Lake District villages, Ambleside is a bustling and vibrant place to visit. It’s rural setting with narrow lanes and ginnels, surrounded by mountains on three sides and the lake to the south, make it seem compact and picturesque. Stone and slate built houses, including 38 listed buildings dating as far back as the 17^th century, are of architectural interest and speak of the rich heritage of local quarrying.

Of particular note is Bridge House, a tiny house built over Stock Beck. Now owned by the National Trust, Bridge House is one of the most photographed houses in the Lake District. Previously however, it was used as a counting house for Rattle Ghyll Mill, a shop for a cobbler, a weaver and a chair maker, a tea room, as well as a home. It is free to pop in to view the scantily furnished rooms. You will be amazed that this once housed a family of eight people!  

It is worth taking a turn around Armitt Museum in the centre of the village. This has a collection of archaeological finds (there has been a settlement here since Roman times), paintings, books, manuscripts and local memorabilia. There’s also a room dedicated to the life of author and Lake District land owner, Beatrix Potter.

You should not visit Ambleside without taking a short walk up to Stock Ghyll Force, a magnificent 70 foot waterfall in a shady wooded area just above Ambleside. The force of the water was used to drive two water mills in their day.

Another pleasant stroll is through Stagshaw Gardens, situated on the edge of the village. This has a magnificent collection of rhododendrons, azaleas and other interesting shrubs, particularly

In August, Ambleside Sports is one of the best attended traditional Lakeland shows where you can experience, among a host of other interests, Lakeland wrestling and the local sport of hound racing.

Cartmel

Although technically on the edge of the Lake District National Park, we’ve squeezed it in to our ‘must see’ villages as it is pretty as a picture. Built around the 12^th century Cartmel Priory, there is an enduring beauty and air of peace that seems to emanate from the Church. The building itself has beautiful stained glass windows, ancient choir stalls and a real sense of history. Cartmel Priory Gatehouse is now a heritage centre that tells the rich and interesting story of the Priory and the village.

Emanating from the village square, with its traditional market cross, water pump and fish slabs, there are a pretty array of shops and tea rooms. Chris Evans described the village as, ‘a thimble full of diamonds’. One famous export of the village is Cartmel Village Shop’s Sticky Toffee Pudding – whatever else you do on holiday, make sure you sample some of this dark and delightful gooeyness.

Cartmel Race Course, like the rest of the village, is small and perfectly picturesque. There are races here in June, July and August when visitors surge to the village and the population temporarily explodes. There is, of course, an ancient tradition of racing in the village. The 16^th century monks were known to have raced mules around the site for pleasure. The Racecourse also plays host to concerts and events throughout the season – Sir Cliff Richard himself will be performing at one of the Race meets in June 2019.  

Carrying forward the trading heritage of the village, the monthly food market, selling a wide range of locally produced foods and goods, is well worth a visit. A great place to soak up the atmosphere and sample Cumbrian culture and lifestyle.

Grasmere

Although there is one name always associated with this village, there’s more to Grasmere than the Lake District’s favourite son, William Wordsworth. Having said that, it is definitely worth a visit to Dove Cottage, his family home from 1799 to 1808. The 13^th century Church at the heart of the village draws thousands of visitors each year. Here you can see the simple grave stones of William and his wife, Mary, and other members of their family.

Most of the buildings in the village are Victorian stone and slate construction, but there are also a mix of older buildings, including many of the farms in the area. Church Stile, now owned by the National Trust, is a row of 17^th century cottages just across from the Church. It was here that William Wordsworth, his brother, John, and Coleridge stayed during their Lake District tour in 1797.

There is a plethora of quaint shops selling gifts, local produce and novelty items. The Heaton Cooper art gallery and studio is a delight. William Heaton Cooper bought a piece of land beside the village green in 1937 and the following year his art gallery and home were completed. It continues to draw many visitors each year. There are three galleries exhibiting the art work of the Heaton Cooper family, and there are over a hundred prints by various artists in the family. They also sell a wide range of artistic materials for those feeling inspired.

The popular Sarah Nelson’s Gingerbread Shop is a must for popping in to purchase a freshly baked slice or two of award-winning Grasmere Gingerbread. This recipe was created in 1854 by Victorian cook, Sarah Nelson. It remains unchanged, a delicious spicy-sweet biscuit-cake.

It is a short walk from the centre of the village to the edge of the lake, and a beautiful circular walk around all the way round. For those who would rather take to the water, there are rowing boats for hire.

Allan Bank, another former home of Wordsworth, is a superb National Trust property. Unlike any other, particularly for it’s very comfortable and informal atmosphere. Take a seat beside the cozy fire and read your book, or help yourself to a cuppa in the kitchen. There’s a dressing up room, art spaces and even indoor picnic areas.

Other local attractions include Grasmere Sports Day at the end of August. From late July to September, the Lake Artists Society exhibit their art in the village hall – this is always a treat with magnificent talent on display.

Keswick

With a name that means ‘Cheese Farm’, Keswick has a distinct market town heritage reaching back to 1276. The heart of the village is Market Square where the Grade II listed Moot Hall stands proud right at the centre. Today it houses the Information Centre. Previously it served its purpose as a covered market, courthouse, museum and a prison.

There are plenty of interesting and quirky shops and galleries that span out from Market Square. Each Saturday, following an 800 year tradition, there is a vibrant open market. This is a great opportunity to sample local produce or pick up a unique piece of local art or crafts.

Two public parks offer space for all the family to enjoy the beautiful Lake District setting. Hope Park sits between the village and the lake and offers crazy golf, pitch and put and some well-tended gardens. Fitz Park is a superb play area for children and has riverside picnic tables.

Most people will explore the lake that Keswick sits beside. Derwentwater, 3 miles long and a mile wide, is a short stroll from the centre of the village. There are paths around the shore of Derwentwater, but many people choose to board the Keswick Launches on the regular cruises around the lake.

Another popular attraction is the Pencil Museum, home to the very first pencil. Production began here in 1832 and this is a treasure trove of information about the history of pencil making. There are art workshops and interesting demonstrations.

About 1.5 miles south east of Keswick there is the intriguing Castlerigg Stone Circle. The original purpose of this 4000 year old circle is not known, but it is a dramatic sight with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Check out the Theatre by the Lake which is, as the name suggests, right beside the shores of Derwentwater. Just a few minutes walk from the village, it has outstanding views and a full itinerary of productions through the summer season.    

Coniston

Nestled under The Old Man of Coniston, this village is a hive of walkers and climbers. The original settlement was based around Coniston Hall, a 16^th century farmhouse. The re-vitalised copper mining industry in the mid-1800s brought new life to the area.

The village is situated beside Coniston Water which is five miles long and half a mile wide. Most people take a cruise down the lake in one of the two launch services, the National Trust Steam Yacht Gondola, or the Coniston Launch. Both services have a stopping off point at Brantwood.

Brantwood was the home of John Ruskin from 1872 until his death in 1900. This historic house is crammed with Ruskin’s character, his paintings, furniture and personal effects. Visitors are free to roam around the house and gardens and there are activities for children to participate in. From the gardens there are superb views of Coniston Water and the surrounding mountains. There are fine examples of exotic plants as well as ancient woodland and a riot of colour.

Donald Campbell is famous for his successful water speed record on Coniston Water in 1955. Sadly, he died attempting the record again in 1967. There is a memorial to him on the village green.

Another famous character associated with Coniston is Arthur Ransome who based several of the locations in his book, Swallows and Amazons, around places known to him around the lake.

Very close to Coniston is the National Trust owned Tarn Hows, a man-made lake, that fits beautifully into its setting. It offers a 1.75 mile accessible circular walk around the water with great views – a lovely place for a picnic and a paddle.

We are really pleased to introduce the newest member of the Wedding & Events team at Lancaster House. Although new to the team, Lisa Ng has a history with the Lancaster House family that goes back 18 years. She is now organising Lancaster House weddings for other brides, but in 2007 Lisa was organising her very own Lancaster House wedding. She tells us the story …

Lisa Ng, Lancaster House Wedding and Events Co-ordinator

My Second Home

My connection to Lancaster House starts in 2001. My partner, Damien, worked as a Commis Chef in Lancaster House kitchen. Through Damien’s job I’ve made many friends with the team throughout the years. Quite often I would bring the children Callum, Aalyiah and Sienna to Lancaster House to enjoy the facilities in Sandpiper Leisure club. Over the years Lancaster House began to feel like a second home.

Young Love

Damien and I met when we were just 18 years old. I was working in an off licence in Lancaster at the time, and Damien was visiting his home town of Lancaster having worked in Hertfordshire for 2 years.

Lisa’s husband, Damien, now Head Chef at Lancaster House

It wasn’t long before we had our first child, Callum. Time flies – that’s Callum who is currently doing his GCSE exams and who also works at Lancaster House on weekends! Callum, along with his siblings, have always loved staying over at their home away from home, Lancaster House Hotel.

Our Kind of Romance

Damien is not a bend down on one knee kind of a man – so it wasn’t a romantic proposal as such. Anyway, I would probably have demanded he got straight back up if he had! It was more a subtle hint of marriage. Although not romantic in that way, Damien shows his love in other ways, such as cooking a meal and washing the dishes afterwards!

We got married at Lancaster House Hotel in July 2007 and had a perfect day. 

Running Like Clockwork

Lancaster House is the same place as when we got married. Perhaps a few new faces, but it is still as friendly, runs like clockwork, and continues to go the extra mile for guests. It remains a great venue for weddings.  

Helping Wedding Dreams Come True

After leaving University in 2018, I came to work at Lancaster House myself, initially working in Housekeeping. I had only worked there 4 months when I came across the advertisement for Wedding Co-Ordinator. I applied for the job and was successful.

Now I help people plan and enjoy their perfect day as much as I enjoyed my own wedding in 2007. It feels great to be a part of so many couples special day, I always try my best to make sure they experience their dream wedding and feel the way I did back in 2007.

Planning Your Special Day?

Lisa would love to hear about your wedding plans and dreams, and help you make them a reality. For more information and a no obligation chat, phone the Lancaster House wedding team on 01524 585 175.

The Lake District has enjoyed recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2017. The opening of Windermere Jetty, museum of boats, steam and stories, is a fitting addition to the area and showcases the fascinating history and heritage of life on and around our lakes.

Managing Director Simon Berry and Liz Moss, Chief Operating Officer at Lakeland Arts and Windermere Jetty

Family Connection

Norman Buckley, Great Uncle of Simon and Tim Berry

One particular boat exhibited at Windermere Jetty has a very personal connection to English Lakes, and is a source of nostalgia and pride for the Berry family.

Norman Buckley MBE, great uncle of managing director, Simon Berry, and original owner of Low Wood Bay, secured no fewer than four world water speed records on Lake Windermere in the 1950s. Mr Buckley launched several speed attempts from the lake shore in his own designed and built boats. His speed boat, Miss Windermere IV, is now housed at Windermere Jetty. 

World Speed Record

Norman Buckley and Donald Campbell prior to speed record attempt

In Pathe News footage from 1956, Donald Campbell is seen shaking hands with Mr Buckley as he departs in an attempt at the one hour world waterspeed record. The record was held by German speedster Charles von Mayenburg who had covered over 64 miles in 60 minutes. Mr Buckley, then a 48-year-old solicitor from Manchester, drove his boat at an average speed of over 79 mph during his hour on the course.

English Lakes Managing Director, Simon Berry, commented

“It’s a fantastic story to recall. The record attempt was filmed from the historic Windermere Jetty by Donald Campbell, with great uncle Norman’s Jaguar engine boat Miss Windermere III running smoothly”.

Windermere Jetty

We can thoroughly recommend a visit to the steamboat museum. Arrive by boat on a Windermere Lake Cruise launch, or take a stroll along from Bowness-on-Windermere. You will be treated to sights, sounds and smells of steam launches, sailing yachts, motor boats and record-breaking speed boats. The exhibits are spread across the site in exhibition galleries, the boathouse, and on the water. There’s also a live conservation workshop where you can observe the historic boats as they are painstakingly restored.

Osprey, restored Edwardian steamer

There are daily heritage boat trips on Osprey, a fully restored Edwardian steamer, and free twice daily Conservation Conversation talks outside the Conservation workshop. On 16^th May, 6 pm former Curator, Meredith Greiling, will give an in-depth lecture about the boats in the collection, looking at their significance both to Windermere and the wider part they play in the national story.  

Visitors can pre-book their tickets online, including lake trips on Osprey.

Admission:

March – October, 10.30 am to 5 pm (4 pm Nov – Feb)

• £9 adult
• £7 child (under 16)
• £27 family ticket for 2 adults /3 children
• £18 family ticket for 1 adult / 3 children
• Free for children aged 4 and under

Book a Break in the Lakes

Our Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa is the perfect place to start your Lake District adventure. Call 0330 4042 929 or take a look online to check out our full range of facilities for all the family.

Low Wood Bay was privileged to host the initial leg of the 11^th Flying Scotsman Vintage Motor Rally. The exciting and challenging route started from the hotel early on 5^th April, before travelling through the Northern Pennines, the Scottish borders and finishing in Gleneagles. 

One of the competitors, and seasoned rally driver, Bill Cleyndert took a moment to tell us why he loves endurance rallying, and how he first met Betsy, his 1928 Ford.         

    Bill and Betsy at Low Wood Bay

Opening Up a Whole New World

I got involved in rallying about 10 years ago encouraged by Philip Young (the founder of The Endurance Rally Association, and rightly credited with the success of the rally scene as it is today). Since entering my first rally it has rather taken over my life and opened up a world that I feel privileged to belong to. We have travelled the world and met the most amazing people whilst enjoying our cars to the full.

For this year’s Flying Scotsman (our 8^th) I will be driving my favourite car, Betsy, a 1928 Ford Model A. Betsy and I go back a long way and we have had some amazing experiences together, including past Flying Scotsmans, the Peking to Paris rally in 2013, the Sahara Rally (which we won outright) and numerous other events.

Whimsical and Fun

I came across Betsy in Holland whilst negotiating on another car back in 2006. I couldn’t get the deal that I wanted on the car that I had gone to see, but this bright, shiny whimsical car caught my eye sitting in the back of the showroom. To cut a long story short, I came away with two cars that day – hence, unexpectedly, I became the custodian of Betsy not realising just how much fun lay ahead of us!

This will be my 8^th Flying Scotsman. I hadn’t a clue about rallying when I first started, the 2011 Flying Scotsman being my first vintage rally. Since then I’ve learned a lot, experienced a huge amount and have had pretty good success. My best result on the Scotsman was coming 2^nd overall in 2015.

One Big Adventure

Life is one big adventure when rallying. I have met the most amazing people, seen the world and had my most amazing experiences whilst rallying. It has been, and continues to be a privilege that I hope I can enjoy for some time to come.

As always, this year’s Flying Scotsman is expected to be tough. Leigh Powley has kindly offered to sit next to me as navigator. I’ve known Leigh for a number of years and he is a very experienced navigator although this will be our first event together. We have a good chance of success but as always luck will have a bit part to play, luck and Betsy behaving herself!

Betsy, Bill and Leigh Take First Place

Congratulations and thanks to Bill who, we are delighted to report, did indeed, take first place in the 11^th Flying Scotsman Rally. It was great to meet you, and we wish you and Betsy many more years of happy motoring

Low Wood Bay – a Great Rally Stopover

We are happy to tailor a rally pit stop at Low Wood Bay to meet your requirements. Take a look at the features on offer within the resort, or call 015394 39469 to speak to one of the team.

Lancashire has such a broad range of things to do and places to discover, and Lancaster House Hotel makes the perfect base to start your discovery.

Here are some of our favourite places to visit and things to do while you’re with us. 

Lancaster Castle

Sitting on top of of Castle Hill, Lancaster Castle has guarded Lancaster for over 1,000 years and has been used for nearly all that time, most recently as a prison, which closed in 2011. Today though, visitors can enjoy fantastic guided tours around the beautiful castle. Tours cover all aspects of the castles history including tales of witchcraft, crime and punishment, rehabilitation and much more. You can even try out one of the Georgian prison cells out for size. 

The castle is open to adults, children and families and is a great start on learning more about the history of Lancaster. 

Williamson Park & Ashton Memorial

The Ashton Memorial is one of the defining features of Lancaster. It’s visible from practically everywhere and even from all the way across Morecambe Bay. Williamson Park is the beautiful grounds where the Ashton Memorial sits, 54 acres of park and woodland to explore with stunning views across Lancaster, Morecambe and onto the Lake District.

The Ashton Memorial is a grade 1 listed building and was a folly commissioned by Lancaster industrialist Lord Ashton , completed in 1909. Inside the memorial is often used to weddings, art exhibitions and other events but is open all through the week for visitors to enter and learn about its history. 

Williamson Park is also home to the Butterfly House, a classic Edwardian palm house home to hundreds of butterflies and birds as well as other animals like meercats. 

Black Knights Parachute Centre

Take the plunge! Just fifteen minutes from Lancaster, The Black Knights Parachute Centre offer a range of skydiving courses. It is the longest running centre in the country, being in operation for over 50 years. They offer Accelerated Freefall and Static Line courses throughout the year and can offer Tandem skydiver to 15,000 ft – the highest in the UK.

Cost: £230, or if you do it for charity, getting family and friends involved, you will need to raise a minimum of £350, (but contact the charity to get their guidelines before booking).

RSPB Leighton Moss

Turn Twitcher for the day and discover a host of beautiful birds and butterflies. Leighton Moss is the largest reedbed in north-west England, and has a selection of trails and hides, most of which are suitable for wheelchairs. There’s also a nature trail along two coastal lagoons where you will see lots of wading and water birds.

There are free wildlife explorer backpacks available for children and they will enjoy the interactive display panels in the visitor centre.

Throughout the year there is a full programme of events including, from 6 – 31 July ‘Wonderful Wetland Wildlife’ family trail, and 9^th – 12^th August ‘Meet the Moths at the Moss’. Other things to look out for in summer include

• Red deer grazing around the pools – best seen in the evening
• Butterflies and dragonflies drifting by, searching for food
• The incredible sight of marsh harriers passing food to each other mid air

Reserve open all year round, dawn to dusk (except Christmas Day) Visitor Centre open 9.30 am to 5 pm

Cost: Adults £7, Children £3.50 (first child and under 5s free); Concessions £4.50. RSPB members and those who have travelled to the reserve by public transport or bike, get in free!

Crook o’ Lune

The Crook O’ Lune is a great spot for a picnic and a gentle walk down the River Lune with some beautiful surroundings. The name comes from the 90 degree angle the Lune takes forming a natural ‘crook’ and visitors can enjoy stunning views all the way onto Inglebrough in the Yorkshire Dales. 

The Crook O’ Lune is only a short drive outside Lancaster, easily accessible from the motorway and from Lancaster House Hotel. 

A Great Place to Visit

These are just a few of our favourite spots to visit while you’re discovering Lancashire but there are many more things to do and see while you’re here. Ask at reception for any directions or guides to find places and our team will be happy to help. 

With details of the return of the Low Wood Bay season of Dragon Boating classes on Windermere, there is something here for experienced paddlers, but, brand new for 2019, a Beginner’s Guide to get you into the rhythm. 

Spring Season at The Health Club

Spring is here and slowly but surely The Health Club at Low Wood Bay outdoor classes are budding into life. Soon you’ll see us working out on the front lawn, water bottles dripping with condensation under the summer sun and, of course, you’ll see our Nordic walkers pulling their poles through the dirt of our local fells, talking about everything and anything as they disappear into the distance.

Dragon Boat Classes 

But that’s not all you’ll see as the days get longer and the temperatures rise. Monday nights, if you cast your ears toward the lake between 6 and 7pm, you may hear the faint beat of an approaching drum, and the smooth stroke of a troop of paddlers as they break the water. Possibly even the distant laugh of a crew member as they are engulfed by splashes that maybe… maybe… could have been avoided.

Begin Here …

However, this well-oiled machine was not made in a day. If you are interested in becoming a part of the Dragon Boat team here at Low Wood Bay, we have an evening session perfect for you! Every Thursday, from 6pm to 7pm,  we offer a Beginners Guide to Dragon Boating, designed specifically to get you up to scratch and confident enough to progress onto Monday night sessions.

Dragon Bay Boat Race

By 29th April our teams of paddlers will have improved and be working week by week to iron out any creases, becoming one perfect uniform collection. The end goal is to take part in The Dragon Bay Boat Race held here at Low Wood Bay. This will be our third year competing in the tournament-style Regatta. The first year we finished a tantalisingly close second, and last year we managed to take the pole position.  The day involves a series of races, fancy dress, tug of war, and other fun sporting events which will take place on Sunday 7^th July 2019.

Book Now to Avoid Disappointment

If you’re interested in becoming a member of the Low Wood Club Dragon Boat Team, or a returning member from last year wanting to know any more information, please contact The Low Wood Club reception on 01539 439344 and ask to speak to Andy, Nathan or Joe.

Dragon Boat classes start Monday 29^th April 2019 with team training sessions Monday 6-7pm and taster sessions Thursday 6-7pm, available to book now. All safety equipment is provided and we recommend you wrap up warm.