Community Invited to Preview Restoration of Windermere’s Historic Hotel
Residents and visitors from Windermere and beyond are invited to attend a special open weekend next month to learn about the extensive restoration of The Windermere Hotel, a prominent local landmark.
Situated prominently at the head of Windermere town, The Windermere Hotel first opened its doors in 1847, coinciding with the arrival of the railway. Currently enveloped in scaffolding and protective cladding as part of a careful refurbishment, the Victorian building has generated significant local interest and anticipation.
The Elysium Windermere hotel and spa team, part of the newly established Elysium Collection, will host two informal drop-in sessions at the Marchesi Centre on Holly Road on Friday 16th and Saturday 17th October. The sessions, running from 9:30am to 4:00pm, will allow the public to meet the project team, ask questions, and discover details about the restoration and upcoming opening.
The free event will offer visitors a preview of the hotel’s future amenities, including talks, spa tasters, skincare demonstrations, and refreshments such as prosecco and soft drinks.
The refurbishment aims to preserve the building’s historic character while introducing modern comforts. Upon reopening in spring 2027, the hotel will feature 74 bedrooms, a restaurant led by Stéphane Delourme, formerly Head Chef for Rick Stein, and a spa and health club with an outdoor pool, gym, sauna, steam room, cold plunge, and four treatment rooms. These facilities will be accessible to both guests and local residents.
The project is part of the Elysium Collection’s vision to create British hotels, spas, and health clubs that emphasise warm, welcoming service and attention to detail.
James Routledge, Chief Investment Officer of Elysium Collection, highlighted the significance of the project: “We know how important this building is to the local community, and we want to invite people with us on the journey as we restore it and prepare it for its next chapter. We’re really looking forward to welcoming people from Windermere and the surrounding area to come and meet the team, find out what we’re working on, and share our plans for Elysium Windermere.”
The restoration respects the Grade I listed status of the property, including retaining its traditional Lakeland Slate exterior. The hotel’s reopening is anticipated to provide a substantial boost to the local economy, creating up to 130 full and part-time jobs throughout the year and supporting an extensive supply chain.
The public drop-in weekend will take place at the Marchesi Centre, Holly Road, Windermere, from 9:30am to 4:00pm on Friday 16th and Saturday 17th October. Attendance requires no prior booking.
