top tips when visiting Thanet Well
- activities
- family-friendly
- food and drink
- holidays
Our stunning Thanet Well Lodge Retreat in Penrith makes the perfect destination for a relaxing escape in the Lake District.
Thanet Well is the perfect resort for couples and families whether you are wanting a peaceful escape with plenty of walking or are after an adventurous family experience. Whether this is your first time in the Lake District or not this blog will be handy for you to keep and look back on before you check in and whilst you’re on holiday. From things to do to closest shops and even places to eat. If you have any questions about the resort head over to Thanet Well FAQs page.
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what to do before checking in?
There is so much to see and do around Thanet Well so you might as well start by doing something before you check in. Check in is at 4pm but we recommend making your way to the Lake District in the morning and take a trip to Dalemain Historic Mansion & Gardens before you get to the resort. It’s only 20 minutes away from the resort and it is the perfect way to spend the day before checking in. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there is plenty to see and do, from exploring the mansion and gardens to enjoying a bite to eat at the tearoom or buying some treats from the shop.
what are the top things in the area?
You will probably want to enjoy a few days out during your stay at Thanet Well Lodge Retreat, so we’ve put together a list of some things to do in the area. All the things listed below are within a half an hour drive away from the resort making the perfect half day out.
1. Penrith Castle
19 min drive from resort
Penrith Castle was begun in the 14th century by Ralph Neville who was defending the area against the Scots. After this it was transformed into the residence of Richard III. It’s an impressive part of English Heritage which is worth a visit if you want to learn more about the history of this area.
2. Aira Force Waterfall
24 min drive from resort
The perfect day out if you are wanting to enjoy a day out in nature. Aira Force is a 65-foot waterfall surrounded by plenty of woodland trails to explore. The area is also home to many red squirrels so make sure you keep an eye out whilst your there. There is also a tearoom serving hot and cold drinks and snacks.
3. Lowther Castle & Gardens
30 min drive from resort
Enjoy the dramatic ruins of the castle, the stunning gardens, and an adventure playground during your visit to Lowther Castle and Gardens. It was built in the 19th century but was demolished by 1957 so just the façade and outer walls remained standing. Now it is one of the most intriguing sites to see and worth a visit.
4. Hutton-in-the-Forest
11 min drive from resort
This historic house and garden are just a short drive away from the resort and is an incredible place to visit. It was bought by the family in 1605 and was already at least 250 years old. Enjoy exploring the gardens and woodland and all the unusual architecture during your visit. Throughout the year they also host a range of outdoor events so make sure you keep an eye out on what’s on.
5. Lake District Wildlife Park
31 min drive from resort
The Lake District Wildlife Park is the perfect day out with the family. With over 24 acres of parkland and over 100 species of animals there is plenty to see and do. You’ll see animals like lemurs, meerkats, zebras, yak, owls, snakes, pythons and more. Along with various talks throughout the day like meerkat talks, bird of prey displays and other animal talks.
closest shops for essentials?
At Thanet Well all our lodges are self-catering so they are fitted with everything you’d need in a kitchen to cook up a storm. But that does mean you will probably need to know about the closest shops to the resort incase you’ve forgotten something or are planning on buying your food for your holiday once you are there.
- Booths, Penrith – 18 min drive from resort
- ALDI – 18 min drive from resort
- Morrisons – 18 min drive from resort
- Sainsbury’s – 20 min drive from resort
- M&S Simply Food – 20 min drive from resort
where to eat out?
Even though you’ll be in a self-catering lodge so you can cook your own meals you will probably still want to enjoy a meal out or two during your holiday. So, we’ve done some research and put together this list of where to eat out close to Thanet Well.
1. The Gun and Dog Inn
9 min drive from resort
Receive a warm and friendly welcome when you enjoy a meal at The Gun and Dog Inn. There is no menu online only a sample menu so it can give you an idea of the things they offer. You can expect to see things like lamb leg, steak, halibut, risotto and even truffle and parmesan chips. They were also awarded a Michelin Star in 2022.
2. The Oddfellows Arms Caldbeck
13 min drive from resort
Using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, The Oddfellows Arms offers delicious meals to suit all. Along with seasonal menus for specific events throughout the year so its worth checking the website before your visit to see what food is on offer. They have years of experience and together create incredible food options.
3. La Casita Penrith
19 min drive from resort
La Casita in Penrith is the perfect place to enjoy some amazing Spanish cuisine using all the best ingredients in Cumbria. With authentic cocktails and a genuine Spanish setting right in the heart of Penrith. They offer some delicious Spanish tapas dishes like Pollo al Pobre, Gambas and Papas Bravas. Along with some mouth-watering desserts.
4. Woodstone Pizza & Flame Grill
20 min drive from resort
There is a Woodstone Pizza & Flame Gril in Keswick and Penrith but it’s the Penrith one that is closest to the resort. They offer both takeaway and eating in so you can do whatever suits you most on the day. The menu has everything from succulent steaks, burgers, kebabs, pizzas and more so there is something for everyone on their menu.
5. 1863 Restaurant with Rooms
24 min drive from resort
Just a short walk from Ullswater Lake, 1863 Restaurant is the perfect stop for some delicious food created by head chef Phil Corrie. They offer various options when dining with them from a 3-course dinner to a 7-course tasting menu and even a 3-course lunch or a 5-course lunch tasting menu. It’s the perfect stop if you are wanting something a little different for one night on holiday.