Lindeth Fell: A Hidden Lake District Gem

Did you know one of Windermere’s most beautiful hotel gardens was designed by the same landscape architect who shaped Thomas Mawson’s most celebrated Lake District estates?

Lindeth Fell is a hidden gem near Bowness-on-Windermere, in the Lake District, offering stunning views, peaceful surroundings, and a rich history.

If you’re planning a trip to the Lake District or just love local history, this blog post will take you through the captivating past of Lindeth Fell—from its early days to its present as a charming country house hotel.

Lindeth Fell at a Glance

📍 Location: Bowness-on-Windermere, Lake District
🏛️ Built: 1907, designed by George Henry Pattinson
🌳 Gardens: 7 acres, terraced grounds attributed to Thomas Mawson
🏨 Became a hotel: 1978
⭐ Current rating: 4-star hotel, AA 5-Star Gold Award
🛏️ Style: B&B since 2014
👪 Notable owners: Pattinson family, then Air Commander Pat Kennedy & Diana Kennedy (1984), now part of the Storrs Collection (2023)
🌄 Views: Windermere Lake and surrounding fells

Edwardian Beginnings: The Early Days of Lindeth Fell

Lindeth Fell’s story begins in 1907, a time when the Lake District became a popular retreat for wealthy families seeking fresh air and breathtaking landscapes.

The house itself was built in 1907, designed by local builder George Henry Pattinson. The house is typical of Pattinson’s Arts & Crafts houses of this era.

Lindeth Fell is bedded into the hillside, via terraced gardens attributed to Thomas Mawson, the famous landscape architect.

Both the house and garden were finally completed in 1909.

The Wartime Years

Lindeth Fell remained in the Pattinson family until 1922, being leased to a series of wealthy residents who had the means to lead a life of Edwardian leisure.

In the decades following the First World War, the house changed hands several times.

As with many sizeable properties, its running costs became challenging for many.

From Private Home to Country House Hotel

In 1978, as tourism boomed, the house was transformed into the luxury country house hotel we know today.

The hotel has kept much of its original charm, which reflects its Edwardian heritage.

Guests today can enjoy the same stunning views over Windermere Lake and the fells that the Pattinson family would have admired over a century ago.

In 1984, Lindeth Fell was bought by Air Commander Pat Kennedy and his wife Diana for £250,000.

Ireland-born Pat had been a highly decorated Hurricane pilot during World War Two, before going on to work for British Aerospace.

Diana had been a BOAC stewardess on trans-Atlantic flights aboard the Stratocruiser.

The hotel was a great success with their guests from the start, continuing the tradition of relaxed and generous hospitality the house had been built for.

Lindeth Fell Today: A Luxurious Retreat

Now a 4-star hotel, Lindeth Fell is known for its warm hospitality, beautiful gardens, and elegant rooms.

The hotel converted to Bed and Breakfast accommodation in 2014, and has retained AA 5-stars and a Gold Award for quality every year since.

The hotel’s 7 acres of gardens are a highlight, offering peaceful walks with panoramic views. The design still reflects the Arts and Crafts movement, with terraced lawns, rhododendrons, and winding paths that invite exploration.

In 2023, the Kennedy daughters retired, and Lindeth Fell was bought by the Storrs Collection to become the sister hotel of nearby Storrs Hall Hotel.

Why Visit Lindeth Fell?

If you’re visiting Windermere or Bowness, Lindeth Fell is worth a stop—even if just for afternoon tea in the garden. Here’s why:

✅ Stunning Views – Overlooking Windermere and the surrounding fells.
✅ Rich History – A beautifully preserved Edwardian house with original features.
✅ Tranquil Setting – Away from the busier tourist spots but still close to amenities.
✅ Luxurious Stay – Perfect for a special occasion or relaxing break.

Final Thoughts

Lindeth Fell is more than just a hotel—it’s a piece of Lake District history.

From its beginnings as a grand family home to its wartime role and modern-day luxury status, it has stood the test of time.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful escape, Lindeth Fell offers a unique glimpse into the past while providing a first-class stay.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a pet-friendly holiday cottage with easy access to Lindeth Fell, ring 07785944194 or enquire here.

How to Book Kents Bank Holiday Cottage

Booking Kents Bank Holiday Cottage in Grange-over-Sands is quick and simple. Just visit our website at kentsbankholiday.co.uk or give us a call on 07785944194.

We’re always happy to answer your questions and help you find the perfect dates for your stay.

Our friendly team makes the whole process easy, so you can focus on looking forward to your relaxing holiday in the Lake District.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Where is Lindeth Fell located?
Lindeth Fell is near Bowness-on-Windermere in the Lake District, overlooking Windermere Lake and the surrounding fells.

2. Who built Lindeth Fell and when?
The house was built in 1907 by local builder George Henry Pattinson, in the Arts & Crafts style typical of his work at the time.

3. Who designed the gardens at Lindeth Fell?
The terraced gardens are attributed to Thomas Mawson, a renowned landscape architect. The gardens and house were completed together in 1909.

4. Is Lindeth Fell a private house or a hotel today?
It’s now a 4-star country house hotel, having converted from a private family home in 1978. It switched to Bed and Breakfast accommodation in 2014.

5. Who owned Lindeth Fell before it became a hotel?
The Pattinson family owned it until 1922, after which it passed through several private owners before its transformation into a hotel.

6. Who were Pat and Diana Kennedy?
Air Commander Pat Kennedy, a decorated Hurricane pilot in WWII, and his wife Diana, a former BOAC stewardess, bought Lindeth Fell in 1984 for £250,000 and ran it successfully as a hotel for decades.

7. Who owns Lindeth Fell now?
In 2023, the Kennedy daughters retired and the hotel was bought by the Storrs Collection, making it the sister hotel of nearby Storrs Hall Hotel.

8. What can visitors expect from the gardens?
The 7 acres of gardens feature terraced lawns, rhododendrons, and winding paths, all reflecting the original Arts and Crafts design.

9. Do you need to be a hotel guest to visit Lindeth Fell?
No — many visitors stop by simply for afternoon tea in the garden while exploring Bowness or Windermere.

10. Is there pet-friendly accommodation near Lindeth Fell?
Yes — Kents Bank Holiday Cottage, a pet-friendly holiday cottage in Grange-over-Sands, offers easy access to Lindeth Fell and the wider Lake District. Call 07785944194 or visit www.kentsbankholiday.co.uk to enquire.