“You can look in your bedroom and it looks old fashioned, yes there might be a TV and a kettle, but fundamentally, you feel like you’re stepping back in time. We really want you to come and feel relaxed, almost as if you are in a different age. People will come and say it's like stepping into an Agatha Christie novel, and that to me is a sign of success.”

We’re in great company with Steve O’Sullivan, Owner of the Haweswater Hotel, an Art Deco hotel he happened upon and meticulously restored to its former grandeur. Reminiscent of the 30’s rich textures and vivid textures, the Haweswater embodies a design defying the passage of time. 

Here, guests can experience this unique and characterful hotel in an extraordinarily secluded spot, set amidst a stunning haven for wildlife in the Lake District of Cumbria, England. All are welcome to go for a short stroll or pack a picnic for a long hike, sit by the fireplace sipping on a craft cocktail or savor the regional flavors refined by renowned chef Mark Greenaway. 

In this episode, as we begin to celebrate the festive season, Steve tells of the hotel’s storied past, how his team brings it to life today, and how he is invested in seeing it so for generations to come. 

Top Takeaways

[1:40] From studying at Cambridge to spending a career in consulting, Steve saw a lot of similarities in his business experience that he wanted to invest in his next project - the “wounded animal” that was the Haweswater Hotel. 

[5:15] “You know how Google works, you try to find something and it tries to sell you something. In this case it tried to sell me a hotel.” Was it a mistake or meant to be? 

[6:40] Steve shares the history of the storied halls of the Haweswater Hotel over the past 90 years since its inception in 1937, a magnificent piece of Art-Deco Architecture for its time as part of the Haweswater Dam project enacted during the global depression.

[13:20] What exactly is Art Deco design? “We look back on it with nostalgia, but at that time it was futuristic. A time of travel, of reinvention.”

[15:50] Why staying at the Haweswater Hotel is a cross between a scene from Snow White and a visit to your slightly wealthy relative’s house. 

[20:45] Expect to Dine In Good Company in the English countryside - from an expertly crafted and refined tasting menu upon arrival to the hearty comfort food perfect after a long day’s hike. 

[32:10] The Spirit of Christmas is very much alive at the Haweswater Hotel - with the classical Christmas jazz playing as guests cozy up by the fireside with a glass of mulled wine or a plate of mince pie. 

Notable Mentions

High Street Walk

Haweswater Reservoir Walk

Old Corpse Road Walk

Lowther Castle

Visit For Yourself

Haweswater Hotel Website

@thehaweswaterhotel