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Shap Wells Hotel

Cumbria and Lake District · United Kingdom

B6261, Shap, Penrith CA10 3QUView location

8.2/10Excellent650 Reviews
Cleanliness8.4/108.4
Service8.6/108.6
Comfort8.0/108.0
Condition7.6/107.6
Location7.2/107.2
Neighborhood8.6/108.6
Value7.6/107.6
Amenities8.0/108.0
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  • Hotels with charm

Room prices, availability, meal plans and cancellation terms are confirmed for your selected dates.

About Shap Wells Hotel

Nestled amidst a peaceful valley setting close to Penrith, this delightful hotel boasts a stunning location perched in the Cumbrian Fells. The hotel offers the ideal setting from which to explore the Lake District, Peak District, the Yorkshire Fells and Border County.

Guests will find themselves within easy driving distance of Ullswater Lake, Appleby-in-Westmorland and Lake Windermere. Enjoying a charming architectural style, this hotel couples traditional design with sheer elegance. The guest rooms are luxuriously appointed, featuring soothing tones and a relaxing environment.

The hotel affords guests access to a wide range of exemplary facilities, catering to their dining, leisure and business needs to the highest degree of excellence.

Read more about this hotelShow less

With a stay at Shap Wells Hotel in Penrith, you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Yorkshire Dales National Park and Orton Community Park. This hotel is 16.9 mi (27.1 km) from Ullswater and 5.7 mi (9.2 km) from Shap Abbey. Stay in one of 100 guestrooms featuring flat-screen televisions.

Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. Bathrooms have shower/tub combinations and complimentary toiletries. Conveniences include desks and electric kettles, and housekeeping is provided daily. Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.

Popular amenities

Free WiFi
Parking available
Dining services
Concierge
Laundry
Gym
Entertainment
Non-smoking
Business facilities
Banquet facilities
Accessible facilities

Check-in and check-out

Check-in from 3:00 PM
Check-in until midnight
Check-out until 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age 18

Hotel policies

No rollaway/extra beds available Professional property host/manager Pets allowed Service animals are allowed Service animals are exempt from fees/restrictions

Cleaning and safety

Sanitization
Contactless check-in is available Contactless check-out is available Cashless transactions are available
Essential Travel
Essential workers only - NO

Important information

  • You need to know
    • Guests can arrange to bring pets by contacting the property directly, using the contact information on the booking confirmation (surcharges apply and can be found in the Fees section).
    • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.
    • Contactless check-in and contactless check-out are available.
  • Special Instructions
    Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools.
  • Instructions
    • Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
    • Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
    • Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
    • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
    • Cashless transactions are available
    • Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit
  • Minimal age
    18
  • Optional fees
    • Fee for full breakfast: approximately GBP 12.50 for adults and GBP 7.00 for children
    • Pet fee: GBP 15 per pet, per night
    • Service animals are exempt from fees
    • Early check-in fee: GBP 10.00 (subject to availability)
    • Late check-out fee: GBP 10.00 (subject to availability)
    • Crib (infant bed) fee: GBP 10.0 per stay

    The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

  • Spoken Language

    English

Nearby attractions

Orton Community Park 6 km / 3.7 mi
Shap Abbey 9.2 km / 5.7 mi
Great Asby Scar 9.6 km / 6 mi
Tebay Park 9.6 km / 6 mi
Yorkshire Dales National Park 9.6 km / 6 mi
Eden Valley 11.1 km / 6.9 mi
Kennedys Fine Chocolates 15.6 km / 9.7 mi
Smardale Gill National Nature Reserve 16 km / 10 mi
Lowther Park 16.1 km / 10 mi
Riverside Public Golf Course 18.1 km / 11.2 mi
Rutter Force 18.8 km / 11.7 mi
Lowther Castle and Gardens 20.4 km / 12.7 mi
OffRoad Explorers 21.2 km / 13.1 mi
Appleby Leisure Centre 21.2 km / 13.2 mi
Kendal Museum 21.7 km / 13.5 mi

Hotel facilities & services

Services and fees can vary. Check the selected room details and hotel policies before booking.

  • Total number of rooms: 100
  • hotel
  • Car park
  • 24-hour reception
  • Check-in hour
  • Check-out hour
  • Wi-fi
  • Laundry service
  • Hotel safe
  • Lift access
  • Garden
  • Newspapers
Show 10 more facilities & services
  • Luggage room
  • Clothes dryer
  • Library
  • Bar
  • Restaurant
  • Meeting room
  • Picnic
  • Non-smoking establishment
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
  • Fitness
Meal plans

Meal plan types

Meal options depend on the room and rate you choose. Search your dates to see which meal plans are included.

HB

Half Board

Usually includes breakfast and one additional meal.

RO

Room Only

Accommodation only. Meals are usually not included.

BB

Bed & Breakfast

BED AND BREAKFAST

Breakfast is included with your stay.

Upon availability

Room types

These are the hotel's room types, rather than live offers. Choose your travel dates to see available rooms, prices and booking conditions. Check availability

  • DOUBLE GARDEN VIEWDOUBLE • GARDEN VIEWDBL.GV

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Shap Wells Hotel

    DOUBLE GARDEN VIEW

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    GARDEN VIEW

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.GV

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE GARDEN VIEW ONE BEDROOMDOUBLE • GARDEN VIEW ONE BEDROOMDBL.B1-GV

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Shap Wells Hotel

    DOUBLE GARDEN VIEW ONE BEDROOM

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    GARDEN VIEW ONE BEDROOM

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.B1-GV

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • QUADRUPLE Accessible WITH VIEWSQUADRUPLE • Accessible WITH VIEWSQUA.H6-WV

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Shap Wells Hotel

    QUADRUPLE Accessible WITH VIEWS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    QUADRUPLE
    View / characteristic
    Accessible WITH VIEWS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: QUA.H6-WV

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • TRIPLE GARDEN VIEW ONE BEDROOMTRIPLE • GARDEN VIEW ONE BEDROOMTPL.B1-GV

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Shap Wells Hotel

    TRIPLE GARDEN VIEW ONE BEDROOM

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–5 • Adults: max. 3 • Children: max. 4
    Room type
    TRIPLE
    View / characteristic
    GARDEN VIEW ONE BEDROOM

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: TPL.B1-GV

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SINGLE BASICSINGLE • BASICSGL.Z1

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Shap Wells Hotel

    SINGLE BASIC

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–1 • Adults: max. 1 • Children: max. 0
    Room type
    SINGLE
    View / characteristic
    BASIC

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SGL.Z1

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • TWIN GARDEN VIEW ONE BEDROOMTWIN • GARDEN VIEW ONE BEDROOMTWN.B1-GV

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Shap Wells Hotel

    TWIN GARDEN VIEW ONE BEDROOM

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    TWIN
    View / characteristic
    GARDEN VIEW ONE BEDROOM

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: TWN.B1-GV

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

Guest reviews

What other guests saying about Shap Wells Hotel

8.2
Excellent
650 Reviews
Cleanliness
8.4 /10
Service
8.6 /10
Comfort
8.0 /10
Condition
7.6 /10
Location
7.2 /10
Neighborhood
8.6 /10
Value
7.6 /10
Amenities
8.0 /10
100 reviews shown
8/10
Excellent
22 Jul 2026
Sheryl
A grand old hotel with interesting history and beautiful walks close by
8/10
Excellent
22 Jul 2026
Pamela
Excellent restaurant, quick service by friendly, helpful staff and super food.
Two problems that occurred - firstly, it was a warm, muggy day and night and there were no fans available in any of the rooms. Thankfully, I was travelling by car and had a rotary fan in my boot 'just in case' so I was okay, but most of the guests had a dreadful night as there was no air movement even if you could open the windows (they barely opened).
The second problem was finding the hotel as my Sat Nav sent me completely the wrong way down a rough track. When I turned around and found my way to the A6 and Shap I, apparently, shouldn't have turned towards Shap at all - and then, when I did go the correct way the signage off the A6 to the hotel was appalling, totally unreadable when you're driving and concentrating on the road and traffic, and it's not helped as the entrance to the hotel drive looks like farm buildings which convinces you it's not the hotel at all.
10/10
Exceptional
19 Jul 2026
Linda
We have been several times over the years. The rooms are clean and comfortable. The food is ok. The setting is lovely and quite.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
19 Jul 2026
Amanda
Had a lovely welcoming stay loved the character and history of the hotel, food was excellent, very peaceful quiet setting for relaxing has a stream in the woods were you can feed the red squirrels and birds, would definitely stay there again 😊
Partner
8/10
Excellent
19 Jul 2026
Alan
Great Hotel a bit off the beat on track but well worth the effort to find.
We would return on another trip.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
18 Jul 2026
shirli
my first nite of an extensive trip through UK .. and it will be hard to find another property that is as good as this.. dont get me wrong it likely wont suit everyone .. it was built in 1833 and is just wonderful - so full of character - but what makes it memorable is the staff ..couldnt do enough to make you feel welcome and meals (dinner and Breakfast) were both fabulous .. i would be back here in a heartbeat if circumstances allow .. love love loved it
Self
4/10
Poor
05 Jul 2026
Brian
A grand hotel in the countryside, it's a shame the state it's in now.
The carpet is worn out in place's, the game's room is a complete mess and the hotel smells damp & musty.
The dining room is grand and well maintained, the food is pretty good.
The staff are friendly and helpful.
Self
6/10
Pleasant
02 Jul 2026
Mark
We were having a heat wave and there were a lot of problems that were beyond the control of the staff. It would be totally unfair to be hypocritical. The staff were amazing.

Pakistani/Indian cuisine would be good to go with the existing English menu.

The main thing is that we would return to what is a purpose built hotel with unique history and features; needs some TLC.

The location is ideal for exploration, Lowther Castle is exceptional - totally recommend along with Lake Ullswater.

We were there for two nights en route to Scotland.
Friends_and_family Friends
4/10
Poor
02 Jul 2026
David
Sadly this hotel has seen better days and
4/10
Poor
28 Jun 2026
Vivien
Changed rooms due to excessive noise of the outside air-conditioning only to get a room which took your breathe away by the heat of the hot water pipe running through the room. Baring in mind it was still very hot outside. It's the first time we've slept in a room which was on par with a sauna. Not at all pleasant or comfortable. Told by reception they couldn't put the water pipe off as it supplied hot water for the other rooms. Very disappointed the room we had. All other parts of the hotel were almost irrelevant. Reluctance to return to room after breakfast.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
26 Jun 2026
James
Amazing value for money. Well run, characterful hotel with lovely staff. A great stepping stone for the Lakes.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
26 Jun 2026
Rita
A lovely 2 day stay with good food and pkesent friendly staff. Wills Ray again when we are ng ext on the area.
Partner
4/10
Poor
19 Jun 2026
Richard
Bath was brown (from stains, should have been white) - there is no way I'd want to be in that.
Endless fire & safety violations - fire doors held open, poor signage, cables across areas people were walking.
Staff were rude and dismissive when we arrived.
Food was bland
Partner
8/10
Excellent
14 Jun 2026
Sarah
A lovely period hotel, with amazing grounds.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
13 Jun 2026
Mwara
What a brilliant hotel! It was such a surprising place - we had walked over from Patterdale to Shap so needed a lift to the hotel. It is 4 miles outside the village along a busy road. The hotel is run by such kind, helpful staff who took great care of us. Our room was great, spacious, clean and warm. Food is good, breakfast generous. Good atmosphere with plenty of friendly guests. Highly recommend.
Friends_and_family Friends
6/10
Pleasant
12 Jun 2026
Hannah
Overall my stay was satisfactory, but the level of noise coming from back of house staff late at night was appalling. My room was directly above the kitchen/loading area and it was honestly unbelievable how much noise the staff were making \"cleaning up\" in the evening, consistently from about 8pm-11:30pm when I had enough. It was like they were literally throwing metal containers around and shouting across the space at full volume. I live in central London and have never experienced disruption like this, especially considering the hotel is located in a remote part of the Cumbrian countryside where you expect peace and quiet.

The front of house staff were friendly and helpful but reluctant to make any direct attempts at stopping the noise, and after two complaints I finally asked to be moved to a different room.

Both rooms were satisfactory but a bit run down and some corners were cut with the cleanliness.

The food was also edible but not great for a vegetarian, and the service could be better (e.g. I was never offered water at dinner).

It does what it says on the tin but I won't be making a return trip, purely because of the disdain the back of house staff had for paying customers and disregard of their peace and quiet.
Self
8/10
Excellent
08 Jun 2026
Sarah
The hotel is in a beautiful spot famous for red squirrels. It was once a spa hotel therefore has a grand and historic reception area.
The staff throughout the hotel were very welcoming and helpful.
The hotel was very clean as was the room however our room needed some minor repairs to the decor etc.
Our Sat Nav took us on an 'interesting' route to the hotel which was a track through fields of sheep! There is a much easier route from the M6 so just be aware.
Partner
2/10
Poor
07 Jun 2026
Laura
DO NOT STAY HERE. UNSAFE
I would not recommend this hotel. Our stay was disappointing from start to finish and well below acceptable standards.

On arrival, we were given a cold, dark room that smelled musty, had dirty access steps, a window that would not close, and no electricity. We were initially told a room change was impossible and were only moved after further complaints, wasting much of our evening.

The restaurant was equally poor. Menus had no prices, staff could not provide clear pricing, and we were only told after ordering that drinks were cash only, leaving us with tap water. My burger arrived burnt, and management offered no apology when the issue was raised.

Customer service throughout was dismissive. Concerns were met with indifference, and obtaining complaint details was unnecessarily difficult.

The most serious issue occurred around 3am when the fire alarm sounded. Guests evacuated without guidance, as there was no visible management presence, no instructions, no roll call, and no reassurance during the 30-minute wait outside. The apparent lack of an emergency procedure was alarming and left guests feeling unsafe.

The next morning, several guests said repeated fire alarms and poor management responses were common. Despite multiple opportunities, management offered no meaningful apology or acknowledgement.

Overall, the accommodation, food, customer service, and handling of a serious safety incident fell far below expectations.
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
06 Jun 2026
Biswaroop
Great stay and a very beautiful hotel! All staff were very courteous and helpful. Would definitely go back.
Friends_and_family Family
8/10
Excellent
01 Jun 2026
S
Clean room. Great area.
10/10
Exceptional
31 May 2026
Drew
Astaff very friendly, very accommodating with my daughter's medication storage needs. Nice room decorated in the Victorian style, beds were clean and comfy. Dinner was delicious and well worth the price of only £25 for two courses.
Beautiful setting in the fells of shap lovely for a walk with red squirrels to spot while out and about star gazing is possible with extremely low light pollution.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
30 May 2026
Boguslawa
Nice, old fashion hotel.
8/10
Excellent
28 May 2026
Richard
We loved the red squirrels nearby. It's a nice walk and the path is well maintained. We also liked the old-fashioned lift.
Family
10/10
Exceptional
28 May 2026
Anika
Loved our stay here! The staffs were great and the breakfast was excellent 👌
Friends
8/10
Excellent
25 May 2026
RAJARAM
This hotel gets 4star because of the creaking noise from wooden floor as someone walks. It probably reflects the century old construction! But otherwise it’s been a pleasant stay.
Be prepared to expect a very very .. remote building out of nowhere!
The nearest habitable building is few miles away which is the Shap town!
Friends_and_family Friends
8/10
Excellent
25 May 2026
Derek
Lovely building and setting. The food was ok, but the staff seemed so disorganized -- epecially at breakfast. Admittedly it was on a bank holiday and was very busy. Walls are thin so, but everyone around me was very respectful during quiet hours
Self
10/10
Exceptional
25 May 2026
Brenda
Brilliant staff,loved the brothers, grounds are beautiful, will stay again.
Friends_and_family Family
8/10
Excellent
22 May 2026
Vicki
The hotel is very remote so we ate at the hotel restaurant. The menu was not vast but offered enough variety to cater for most.
There is a huge hotel bar and hotel reception which offers plenty of seating.
Rooms are fairly basic but sufficient for an overnight stay
Would use again if in the area
Pretty stream and waterfall immediately outside reception.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
21 May 2026
Sharon
Like something I had only seen in movies, very special. Worth staying there to experience it
Friends
10/10
Exceptional
21 May 2026
hugh martyn
we had a great 3 day stay, first time back since the new owners had taken over a year ago ,but it was still spot on carn't wait to go back again
Friends_and_family Family
8/10
Excellent
15 May 2026
Ryan
I had a pleasant and comfortable stay. I only ate at the hotel one evening but the salmon fillet was delightful. All of the staff were polite and friendly whilst remaining very professional. Nevan, in particular, was remarkably calm, professional and attentive in the face of multiple large coach-parties in addition to private guests, making him a true asset to the establishment. Thanks all!
Self
8/10
Excellent
14 May 2026
David
Very good breakfast. Staff very helpful, friendly and polite. Good location and room, but lacking in a few basics found in other places, e.g. tissues,biscuits, safe, iron. Good value though and worth staying in. Recommend access from A6. Poor TV reception, no doubt due to location but presumably could be boosted.
Family
10/10
Exceptional
05 May 2026
John
The staff were very friendly, welcoming and efficient. The food was very good. The hotel is very comfortable, well furnished and very quiet being a little remote. No outside noise and very little noise inside the hotel even with coach parties staying over. Looking forward to my next visit.
Friends
8/10
Excellent
03 May 2026
Jillian
Nice and quiet! Sheep near the road.
10/10
Exceptional
23 Apr 2026
graham
Brilliant stay, staff and management extremely friendly, breakfast and evening meals plentiful and location ideal.
10/10
Exceptional
23 Apr 2026
Robin
Excellent service and accommodation every one was very helpful and friendly
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
20 Apr 2026
Michael
Magnificent building retaining its original decor. Staff were friendly, food good, quiet setting with good access to main roads.
Friends_and_family Friends
8/10
Excellent
17 Apr 2026
Sandra
Wow. Amazing to find a Hotel like that in the middle of nowhere. While the decor is dated, the staff and food were great. We didn’t see any squirrels- which was a bit disappointing. Great walks around the area.
Family
8/10
Excellent
05 Apr 2026
Mahmoona
It's in a remote location which is nice if you want to get away from it all. Good value. The sat navigation took us down a very potholed road but the road on the other side was in better condition so just something to be aware of. Characterful hotel, particularly the foyer.

The breakfast was ok, very filling. Service was a bit chaotic with no plates when we arrived so had to wait.

Rooms were nice and clean. Staff were welcoming. The games room has seen better days.
Family
8/10
Excellent
05 Apr 2026
Fran
Quiet room on first floor. Friendly staff. Very clean but a bit dated (added to its charm). Adequate breakfast - cereals, fruit, toast, bacon, eggs etc, fruit juice.
Very isolated from anything else so ate evening meal in restaurant. Nothing special but filling.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
04 Apr 2026
Thomas
Really basic foods, no table service, no pride, just basic like a work canteen
10/10
Exceptional
23 Mar 2026
Patricia
Shap Wells was an unexpected gem! The hotel was wonderfully decorated with stained glass and an “old world” feel. The room and hotel was clean and the food was excellent! The staff was very friendly and helpful. Parking space was generous and we certainly felt safe! Beautiful place to stay with an interesting history!
Friends
10/10
Exceptional
23 Mar 2026
Trevor
One of the increasingly rare number of hotels that retain some character of a bygone age of hospitality. An original Victorian spa hotel used by royalty and the aristocracy of the period it has a lot of old charm about it.
I tried a couple of the more expensive rooms (though the rates are very reasonable) and they were very comfortable, extremely quiet and nicely warm in the cold weather.
I only had breakfast, and it was the typical fare and well prepared. An impressive Art Deco dining room!
The staff were extremely pleasant, helpful and efficient.
The hotel is renowned for its isolated location in the Shap Fells, but, in reality, it is only a stone's throw from the main M6 motorway and the old A6 road.
Well worth a visit to recall the style of hotels as they used to be but not lacking modern comforts.
Also \"hats off\" to the owners for looking after a colony of red squirrels which only exist, as far as England is concerned, in the Northern counties due to the dedicated work of volunteers controlling the invasive grey squirrel.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
21 Mar 2026
karen
Wonderful stay hotel full of character with lots of little hidden areas to just sit and chill. Very remote but if looking for a relaxing time ideal place. Also had red squirrel sanctuary on site.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
01 Mar 2026
Diane
A quaint hotel in the middle of nowhere. Good room, friendly staff and a reasonable breakfast. Dinner was excellent.
Self
8/10
Excellent
17 Feb 2026
Sue
It was clean .. hotel was very nice
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
04 Jan 2026
Kenneth
Good basic cooked and continental breakfast selection
Self
10/10
Exceptional
03 Jan 2026
Sarah
What a lovely hotel. So much original character. Really enjoyed it here. The location was beautiful especially with all the greenery around. Breakfast was lovely, a buffet with plenty to choose from. The best thing about the hotel besides the character was the staff, the Owner/manager was very friendly, welcoming and seems very proud of the hotel. Overall it was definitely a place I would recommend others to visit. The only request I would make is that when you book a room, ask for one in the main building if you can 🙂
Partner
8/10
Excellent
31 Dec 2025
Aiden
Good service
Self
10/10
Exceptional
27 Dec 2025
LUIGI
Great service and lovely evening meal in a historic hotel that should really be a 4 star.
Partner
4/10
Poor
22 Nov 2025
Robert
Arrived after 10pm and found an envelope on the reception with my name and room 35 written on it. (Not quite the 24hr desk)

Went to room 35 and tried the key - to spot the tag said room 36. Tried that and access... Just glad no-one was in room 35, that would have been very awkward.

The room felt dated, and quite cold. I like a cold bedroom, so didnt think this would be an issue - how wrong could I be. Woke up a few times shivering.

Didnt really want to get up next morning due to the cold!

Went to breakfast, really short staffed. After 10 minutes, I had 3 slices of toast and no-one had even noticed I was sat there. The other 2 tables that were occupied sent their food back as it was cold. I went to the main desk and found the manager. He came and proceeded to deal with other tables!

When he took my order, it was either cold, cremated or both. Oh, and missing the fried bread.

Apparently the evening meals are lovely - but I wont be rushing back to find out.

On a plus, the rooms were quiet, erm - thats about the most positive I can find. I guess it makes you realise how good other places can be.
Business Self
10/10
Exceptional
16 Nov 2025
Stuart
Friendly staff
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
31 Oct 2025
Robin
Could not have been better, hotel obviously now going place's
Friends_and_family Family
8/10
Excellent
23 Oct 2025
Mark

Business trip

Although the room looked a little dated (it is an old building) the staff were very pleasant and food was excellent.

Drinks were a little on the expensive side, even for a hotel
Business
8/10
Excellent
21 Oct 2025
john
Stayed 1 night. Staff very pleasant. Area beautiful and did briefly see one of the famous red squirrels. Seems to cater mainly for coach trips but they were well organised with this and it wasn't that impactful on us. Main eating area felt like a canteen. Room was reasonably comfortable
8/10
Excellent
20 Oct 2025
Tom
We had a nice break at the Shap wells hotel food was very good, unfortunately on the Saturday night they were hosting a young farmers do and at 3amwe were woken by loud music, people shouting, banging and knocking of doors this was happening in the corridor outside our room this went on till 4 30am,.This was completely out of the control of the hotelwho were very apologising, so just makesure you dont go when there's a large do going on .
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
09 Oct 2025
Kate
Lovely quaint hotel.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
05 Oct 2025
Linda
The room was very clean, parking was good and service at the bar was excellent. The staff in,particular were very kind and friendly, we enjoyed our stay very much and would stay there again,thank you.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
02 Oct 2025
Daniel
Old fashioned, isolated and wonderful
8/10
Excellent
26 Sep 2025
Gregory
Lovely location.
Staff extremely helpful
Business
2/10
Poor
20 Sep 2025
Mrs Olivia

Disaster! Fawlty Towers!

All in all, we would not recommend!

They didn’t seem to know we were arriving with a baby and a dog, despite several messages from me. They showed us to a room far too small and through the dining room so we wouldn’t be able to get our dog to it. We were given a new larger room which smelt strange and we had to call to ask for towels. No cot was provided, although we were offered one later on. We were told there was no food on the menu available as it had been pre-booked by the coach guests and we should have pre-booked, despite an email saying we didn’t need to - we were told to go to the local pub, which was also full. The supper that we did eventually get was simple but mainly good and breakfast was basic canteen food - alright but very greasy and tasteless.

Neither the food nor the hotel were worth the money and we will definitely not be returning.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
17 Sep 2025
Joan
An excellent facility. A true surprise!
Leisure
10/10
Exceptional
14 Sep 2025
Alec
Friendly staff, classic oldy worldy feel to the hotel
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
13 Sep 2025
Alan
A really friendly hotel
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
31 Aug 2025
Kamal
Everything
10/10
Exceptional
29 Aug 2025
gerald

Very pleasant stay

Easy check in from friendly helpful man on reception. Twin room was clean and a fair size .Beds were comfortable. An abundance of tea and coffee was available.
Friends_and_family Friends
6/10
Pleasant
27 Aug 2025
Debra

Stopover

Nice old worlde hotel . Beautiful location . Easy check in . First room smelt of stale smoke so was promptly moved .
Cold shower and when I mentioned this I was told maintenance were working on it . A warning might of staved off the shivers . Booked dinner sadly that was cold and when I mentioned that there was no solution . Great choice for breakfast but sadly that was also cold
Business
6/10
Pleasant
26 Aug 2025
Binita
Disappointed about cleanliness
Friends_and_family Family
8/10
Excellent
25 Aug 2025
Patricia

Standards have dropped

Used the hotel as a stop over for travelling north. Have stayed before but in all honesty feel like it’s not as good as the last few times we have stayed. Dirty towels and not so clean room. Breakfast wasn’t up to its usual standard. But there were two coach loads in so maybe they were stretched.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
21 Aug 2025
Pallavi
Just stayed the night. Quiet, clean, standard breakfast.
6/10
Pleasant
20 Aug 2025
David

Mediocre with potential

This place has the potential but is tired. For some reason I was given an accessible room on the ground floor (not sure what happened to the “garden view”? But having been on the road I wasn’t going to argue .The room felt cold and the decor seemed tired. The bed was ok and I managed to get through the night.
Disappointed to find they stopped serving food when I arrived and I was sent to Shap but there was nothing appealing.
Breakfast was self serve buffet. Note the turkey bacon.
Business
8/10
Excellent
17 Aug 2025
Andrew
Excellent for the price a little dated but very clean Breakfast buffet style but very good, red squirrels in the grounds are a must see
10/10
Exceptional
17 Aug 2025
kerry
This Hotel building has soooo much character! It was a true delight and the staff were all so friendly and upbeat! Beth from the bar/dining room was especially fun with a great sense of humor! She made our stay even more enjoyable! Shebby (sp?), Waffi (sp?)) and Nevin (sp?)were also very fun and pleasant! We will never forget the wonderful three days that we spent here and can’t recommend this place enough!
Leisure Friends
10/10
Exceptional
13 Aug 2025
Julian

Impressive Layout -full of Character- & So Quiet..

It’s Lovely venue, we arrived late due to traffic congestion on M6 , (think the Hotel Sign just off the Motorway -should direct via the A6 it’s a much better road-than the very rough track -a nightmare from B road- Sat Nav Directions-!,). Breakfast was lovely, Bed Comfort excellent - as we arrived late I was concerned we might wake others as floor boards in room were creaky, we were not at the Hotel but a few hours but very impressed with the place and over the top .helpful day manager and Staff (on 2nd if August)if we venture North again we will certainly stay again -hopefully longer next time-. Feeling of a taste of Luxury, With impressive surroundings and Friendly Helpful -staff . In fact everyone we met were relaxed and commented about the historical side -other people passing through- ‘it has character’, Well Established .
Friends_and_family Family
6/10
Pleasant
10 Aug 2025
Bryony
Very pleasant staff. Beautiful furnishing and fittings not fully utilised.
Very disorganised. No one at reception because they are in the dining room.
Room was tired but functional.
Lovely setting. Such potential.
Leisure Partner
6/10
Pleasant
03 Aug 2025
Andrew

Great for an overnight stay

This is a great hotel for an overnight stay.Our room was a little cramped and the decor was looking a bit tiredbut it was clean and comfortable. We booked our breakfast slot after the coach parties and there was not a lot left to eat. Check-in was excellent but staff could have been more attentive at breakfast time.
Friends_and_family Family
8/10
Excellent
22 Jul 2025
Hazel

Wonderful.

We love this hotel. The staff can’t do enough for you. The setting of the hotel is wonderful with many walks and the red squirrel sanctuary. The hotel is spotlessly clean. We will definitely go again.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
13 Jul 2025
Peter
Basic and dated but good value for money. Staff very friendly
.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
12 Jul 2025
William
Very good service, room comfortable with a lovely Lounge and Bar with beautiful fittings and decor. An amazing lift and great ambience in the Dining Room. A delicious dinner and breakfast. A stunning after dinner walk in picturesque surroundings. Could do with an advertising board nearer the M6 as you are such a hidden gem!
Partner
8/10
Excellent
06 Jul 2025
Godfrey
A good stop overnight stopover. Excellent location and great seeing red squirrels in the grounds. Dinner too was top rate.
Leisure Friends
8/10
Excellent
03 Jul 2025
Robert

Lovely old building in beautiful surroundings

Very comfortable and spacious rooms. Good, large portion meals. Beautiful river and red squirrels. Some hiccups with staff and systems, needs a good manager!
Partner
8/10
Excellent
14 Jun 2025
David
Okay room after third time our original room had wasps nest outside our window and the second hadn't been served so got an upgrade to a larger one. Having said that the food was excellent.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
04 Jun 2025
David
Couldn't fault it, definitely on the list fir stop offs on our regular trips up to Scotland and back.
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
01 Jun 2025
Chris
the hotel was slightly dated, we were not ware that having a dog meant we we were not in the main hotel and we had to then dine separately meaning we were the only diners in that area so a little disappointing
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
06 May 2025
Mark
Very remote location. Hotel was a little tired but the room was clean and the staff were very friendly and helpful. Food was excellent. Large car park and good WiFi. Would recommend.
Business
8/10
Excellent
05 May 2025
Joanne
Stayed on numerous occasions as is just a lovely quiet getaway. Do need your own transport if you want to get about and see towns and villages around the area. Staff amazing as always and make you feel right at home. Hotel is dated if a little shabby but this is the charm and character of the place. Surrounding grounds are perfect for just relaxing and watching the red squirrels and a variety of birds. The breakfast is great and evening meal offers plenty of choice.
Leisure
10/10
Exceptional
04 May 2025
Christine
Characterful hotel with an interesting history. Our garden room was clean and comfortable and the staff were friendly and helpful. Good choice of dining options provided.
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
28 Apr 2025
Ross
Friendly and welcoming
Business Partner
10/10
Exceptional
21 Apr 2025
Susan
Great hotel rooms were large and everything we needed. Super value for money. The staff were amazing considering it was Easter and how busy they were, still managed to smile and make time for us. Would highly recommend to stay there as more than reasonable and near the Lakes and The Dales .. will definitely return… thank you guys
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
19 Apr 2025
Angela
Best hotel so quiet and beautiful surroundings
Leisure Pet
10/10
Exceptional
13 Apr 2025
Keith
Lovely 'ArtDeco' hidden gem off the M6. Old quaint place that looks like a set off Hercule Poirot. Dining room is like being on the Titanic !
Lovely staff and great breakfast. Enjoyed our stay.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
23 Mar 2025
Robert

A very pleasant stay.

Very pleasant staff, from arrival check in to departure this stay was first class. The hotel is quaint, traditional and provides a very pleasant atmosphere. Food selection was good and also value for money. I will certainly use the hotel again in the future and would not hesitate to recommend it to family or friends.
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
22 Mar 2025
Jan

Hotel and squirrels

I went for two night stay and I was very lucky with the weather. At times it felt like summer and I was able to sit and wait for squirrels in the nearby reserve. The hotel was comfortable. I had a very nice room which was slightly old-fashioned, but then that’s how the Shap Wells hotel is. It has a very quirky lift which, when you reach the first floor, it opens at the side.
Downstairs, there’s a smaller room where we had breakfast and dinner, but there’s also a couple of other areas as the hotel does cater for quite a lot of people. There’s a bar and a few odds and ends like chocolate and cans of drink that are sold at reception.
The staff were very friendly and helpful. A couple came into dinner and sat behind me coughing and sniffing and I was very worried because I’m going in for an operation in two weeks and didn’t want a cold. I was accommodated by the young lady in charge of the dining room and moved to the bar area so I could eat my extremely nice sticky toffee pudding away from the germs.
This hotel is pretty isolated, even though it’s not very far off the M6 but it’s well worth a visit and it’s so nice to have the squirrel reserve just across the road. Highly recommended.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
21 Mar 2025
James
Really nice stay, beautiful surroundings, really friendly staff, rooms dated but comfortable, great shower, fresh towels every day and the breakfast was excellent. Would definitely stay again.
Business
10/10
Exceptional
02 Mar 2025
Peter
Seeing red squirrels
8/10
Excellent
26 Feb 2025
Tim

Jewel in remote location

Good value hotel stay including breakfast.
Staff helpful and friendly, room good size, comfortable and clean.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
24 Feb 2025
richard

Lovely hotel

Great stay, lovely art deco features and a red squirrel wood just a few minutes from reception.
Friends_and_family Friends
6/10
Pleasant
24 Feb 2025
Adrian
Staff were very helpful and property was clean and tidy, however the heating wasn't working in the room and it was very cold. Property is also a bit dated. Very good value for money overall.
Business
10/10
Exceptional
18 Feb 2025
John
lovely hotel in a lovely location
Business
8/10
Excellent
08 Dec 2024
Verified traveler
Very welcoming & friendly. Love the traditional feel and original features.
Friends_and_family Family

Location & surroundings

Shap Wells Hotel
B6261, Shap, Penrith CA10 3QU, Penrith, United Kingdom

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Shap Wells Hotel

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