The Derwentwater Hotel

The Derwentwater Hotel is in the village of Portinscale, about two miles from Keswick in the Lake District. The hotel stands in extensive grounds with views over Derwentwater and the surrounding fells.

Why it suits LGBTQ+ couples

This hotel for couples who want a small, focused wedding in the Lake District. Only one wedding is held each day, so the staff and the spaces belong to your party alone. The lake and fells give you a setting that needs little styling, and a modest guest list suits the rooms well. A modest guest list also fits the hotel well, since the restaurant is a single room and the whole day happens in one place. Couples marrying in the colder months can plan around log fires and fell walks rather than a large garden party.

Ceremonies

The wedding room is the Deers Leap Restaurant. The hotel can also advise on options for different sizes of celebration. For a civil ceremony, check availability with the hotel and with the local registrar, since registrar fees are paid separately.

Receptions and food

The restaurant takes up to about 90 guests for a formal meal, or up to about 110 for an informal reception. The chefs offer formal wedding breakfast menus, and buffets are available for daytime and evening receptions.

Staying

The hotel has 47 rooms, including twin, double and family rooms, so many guests can stay on site. Dogs are welcome in selected rooms. Parking is available for a charge.

Getting there and the area

Portinscale sits just west of Keswick, a market town with shops, pubs and the lake shore close by. The grounds cover many acres, and the lake and the fells offer walks and boat trips for guests with free time. Keswick has no railway station, so most guests arrive by car or bus. Penrith lies on the main rail line to the east, and a bus or taxi covers the remaining distance to Keswick.

Good to know

• Only one wedding is held per day.
• Dogs are allowed in selected rooms.
• Parking carries a charge.