Santa and his elves will take centre stage next month as a famous Portinscale hotel celebrates its first Christmas under new management.
The 200-year-old Derwentwater Hotel was bought by Bespoke Hotels last year, and has undergone major refurbishment both inside and out.
With the pandemic having put the hotel at risk of permanent closure last year, a bumper summer since its reopening means the hotel will approach the winter with a sense of confidence after some impressive quarter success.
The hotel reopened in April, and according to deputy general manager Pamela Wilson its 47 bedrooms have been booked solid ever since. Now preparations are under way for a special Christmas party on December 4.
“It’s been incredibly busy, we’ve barely had time to draw breath,” she said. “But we really wanted to celebrate Christmas this year, and give people a chance to come and see for themselves all the work that’s been going on.”
The Christmas Tree Lighting event is open to all and starts at 7pm.
There will be a grotto for the children and Santa will be appearing at 7.30pm.
It will also include festive music, complementary mulled wine and mince pies. Entry is free but donations can be made to the air ambulance.
“Looking back on what we’ve achieved over the summer we are extremely proud, but it’s important we focus on carrying this success forward into the festive season,” said Rachel Salmon, the new general manager.
“In hospitality, Christmas is a time to spread joy and we want people to know our doors are very much open.”
The Derwentwater Hotel is part of the newly formed Coast & Country Hotel Collection, which consists of 37 properties in England, Scotland and Wales.
