Forest Side Estate

Built in 1853 by the Earl of Lonsdale (the yellow earl), the hotel was built as a Victorian hunting lodge. The Earl, a keen sportsman may be remembered for establishing the Lonsdale belt in boxing and his enthusiasm and vision for the Automobile Association can be found in the yellow background of the AA car badge. One of the last AA boxes is now a listed building located off the main A591 towards Keswick and opposite Dunmail Raise.

The hotel is set within 42 acres of landscaped and wooded gardens, and is positioned on the lower slopes of Butter Crag. Abundant car parking spaces are located a little way down the drive next to Grasmere Lodge.

Within our grounds you will find an abundance of wildlife including deer, Herdwick Sheep, red squirrels, rabbits, three feral cats, and badgers who visit us most evenings and can be viewed from the main lounge window.

Forest Side comes equipped with a drying room including a large sink for washing muddy boots and shoes, and various clothes drying racks so that our guests do not need to have damp clothes within their room.

Grasmere Lodge is located within the estate adjacent to the main car park.