Review: Ees Wyke Country House in Lake District offers idyllic getaway in nature

Richard Lee has been welcoming guests to Ees Wyke Country House Hotel in Near Sawrey for over 20 years, but the guesthouse that overlooks Esthwaite Water and its fells has a rich history beyond that.

The whitewashed Georgian house was originally built as a Lake District retreat for a Lancashire mill owner in 1742.

The name is drawn from Norse meaning “east area” in relation to Esthwaite Water. An inlet on the nearby lake is known as Ees Wyke Bay. Wykes often refer to a slip of land while a Thwaite is a clearing in a wooded area.

Richard acts as a chef (an outstanding one at that), maintenance manager, gardener, host and fascinating storyteller to all guests walking through the front door.

Welcome tour

Upon arrival guests are greeted by either Richard (often found in his chef whites) or one of his friendly staff members who give a tour around the nine-bedroom home that has traditionally furnished rooms - floral fabric sofas, dado panelling, open fires and plenty of windows to really embrace the Lakeland views.

Each bedroom has been decorated and named after a delicate soft colour.

The bedroom comes with cosy beds, pretty wallpaper, antiques to maintain its period features, a complimentary decanter filled with sherry sits on the bedside table for those who need a nightcap and even slippers and a dressing gown which can be worn to access the bathroom.

There is also a kettle in the room to enjoy a cup of coffee, tea or even hot chocolate if visiting in the winter months.

Delicious food

After the tour it was time for the three-course dinner all prepared by Richard.

The dining room is quintessentially English with its crisp white linen table cloths and delicate china.

The menu changes daily, so it is unlikely a guest would get the same dish twice.

For starters was delicious wild mushrooms in butter tossed with parsley, tarragon and cream.

Then the mains were noisettes of local lamb pan fried and served with a wine jus with mint and just a hint of garlic.

And finally, dessert was summer pudding with whipped double cream flavoured with Cointreau, which was very refreshing and in season.

Richard explains that he prides himself on getting the best locally sourced produce and ingredients for his guests.

To finish the evening off, it is highly recommended to enjoy a drink while watching the sun set over breathe-taking views of Langdale Pikes on the veranda or in the living room.

The next morning breakfast featured locally-made sausage and dry cured bacon from their butcher with homemade bread.

There is also a very generous buffet full with cereals, freshly squeezed juices, compotes, porridge and plenty of freshly-baked pastries.

Ees Wyke has been awarded its 15th AA Rosette for Culinary Experience and maintained an entry in the Good Hotel Guide for 18 years.

Retreat for writing

Much-loved children's author Beatrix Potter, stayed at Ees Wyke on several occasions when the family rented the house as a holiday home.

Anyone visiting can understand why Beatrix enjoyed this country house as it is simply a relaxing oasis.

Later she purchased nearby Hill Top Farm (which is a five minute walk from the hotel but booking in advanced is strongly advised), the setting for six of her books of which the first was 'The Tales of Peter Rabbit'. 

If not a literature fan there is also plenty of walks on offer such as to Windermere for those who love to ramble or within a 10 minute drive is Hawkshead where there is plenty of local shops, cafes, restaurants and a chocolate factory.

It is clear from start to end of the experience that Richard and his staff will do everything to ensure your stay at Ees Wyke is enjoyable as possible. It is welcoming, peaceful and the escape to nature we all need.

For more information and to book your stay at the hotel eeswyke.co.uk