A glorious Lake District hotel is just about the last place
I’d expect to start offering facials, massages and manicures to the over 12s.
I’ve been to Armathwaite Hall lots of times. A magnificent
castellated manor house with lawns bordering the shores of Lake
Bassenthwaite, it has views as far as the fells and the dramatic peak of
Skiddaw beyond. My in-laws held their golden wedding anniversary party there
and the hotel did them proud.
But I’d have thought Armathwaite Hall would have had more sense
than to launch a teen spa. The hotel is offering everything from 30-minute
make-up lessons for 12 to 14 year-olds (at £28 each) to a £150 “just be
together” package for a parent and their teenager. The name is as cringeworthy
as the idea.
Maybe I’m old-fashioned but there’s just one thing the over
12s should be doing in the Lake District – and that’s enjoying the great outdoors.
A hearty walk up Catbells (above) and along Maiden Moor is one of
the best days out in the world – whatever your age. The
fresh air is far better for your skin than a facial, while striding up the fells
will do more for your well-being (not to mention your thighs) than a massage
ever can…
