Why not switch up the classic New Year’s resolutions and opt for a new lifelong skill instead? Start 2022 as you mean to go on with these activities at the Lake Districts Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa. Matching the pace of any staycation, there’s something perfect for everyone to start their year.
Best for Nature Enthusiasts – Forest Bathing
Master the skill of relaxation and balance this New Year with a grounding Forest Bathing session. Encouraging people to slow down, reconnect with the outdoors and soak up nature’s sensory elements, this two-hour experience encourages people to leave their worries behind in 2021 as they embark on a sensory journey like no other.
Featuring a ‘nature reset’ walk by an accredited forest bathing guide, guests will discover the benefits of being grounded in the outdoors, including lower blood pressure and cortisol levels, enhancing sleep levels and boost energy. Promoting emotional regulation, guests will also experience a private ancient Pranayama breathwork session which works to release supressed emotions and instead tigger a flood of happy hormones. Now up to speed on this particular meditation type, guests can incorporate this into their daily routine for the remainder of their year. This retreat also includes a 55-minute Temple Spa full body massage which calms frazzled nerves, winds down an active mind and relieves tension in the body built up by stress.
The Two-Hour Forest bathing experience at Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa costs £110 per person (based on a minimum of two people booking)
Best for Water Babies – Wild Swimming
A skill favourite amongst celebrities including Fearne Cotton, The Body Coach and Jack Whitehall, cold water swimming can increase white blood cell count, boost immunity and release antioxidants to defend body cells*. Addressing the demand for a more intimate connection with nature and its healing water sources, Armathwaite Hall now offers a bespoke Wild Swimming & Waterfalls package, including a short introduction to open and cold-water swimming and the safety requirements of this skill.
Under the careful guidance of wild swimming coach Ali Phillips, guests can spend a half day hopping across the area’s beautiful water features including the silky smooth Bassenthwaite Lake, the hidden Gin Pool, a natural infinity pool with beautiful views and a string of spectacular waterfalls in Buttermere. With cold water therapy balancing hormones and building mental resilience, guests are sure to return to the warm spa feeling ultra-energised, reset and completely at peace. What better way to start the New Year?
The Wild Swimming package starts from £90 per person (minimum of two people participating) and from £320 per room based on two people sharing (including the experience, breakfast, lunch and dinner).
Best for Sporting Superstars – Tennis
With Emma Raducanu’s stellar win at the US Open earlier this year, and her recent award of Sports Personality of the Year, tennis has continued to soar in popularity with many looking to either learn or work on their skill. And where better to practice than in the countryside courts at Armathwaite Hall! Budding tennis enthusiasts can work on their game with private lessons from an LTA level 2, featuring expert tips on form and swing. Suitable for all abilities, from complete amateurs to those already playing advanced club tennis, there is both individual lessons and private sessions for up to four people available.
Private tennis lessons begin from £50 per hour
Best for Adrenaline Junkies – Fell Walking
Without a doubt the Lake District’s biggest attraction, the spectacular mountains and fells offer walkers 360-degree views of the nation’s favourite park. With a mixture of challenges available from gentle stroll trails to more techy rock scrambling summits, Armathwaite Hall offer several fell walking experiences and routes. Depending on how they prefer to learn a new skill, guests can either book on with a mountain leader who will safely guide them across the fells, or alternatively, they can freely explore themselves uncovering new adventures and well-trodden paths along the way.
Price upon application
Alternatively, if you’re looking for something a bit quirky, fun and different… Alpaca Walking
Take a short two-minute walk across the Deer Park and meet Armathwaite Hall’s very own Alpaca Keeper where alpaca brothers Buzz, Hugo, Hector and Herbie will be waiting! It’s been proven that holding and stroking animals like alpacas can reduce blood pressure, lower pulse rates and alleviate any feelings of tension and anxiety. As friendly and inquisitive animals, they enjoy fresh air and exercise so bring a camera, get the walking boots on and stroll alongside the Lake District Mountains with these beautiful Alpacas! What a way to start the New Year.
