A cherished hotel in the Lake District with over 300 years of history has received over 800 tales to add to its archives.

The Swan Hotel and Spa at Newby Bridge issued an open request for guests to contribute drawings, pictures, and stories of the esteemed hotel.

This Lakeside retreat was established in the late 17th century, offering accommodation and services to passing travelers.

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Read more: 17th century Lake District hotel refurbishment approved

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Over time, its stunning location near the foot of Lake Windermere made it a preferred destination for extended stays and important celebrations.

The hotel's marketing manager, Becky Edmondson, said: "So we invited all our lovely visitors to send stories, pictures and memories from their stays.

"The idea for creating a memory archive came after talking to a guest whose family have been visiting for at least four generations.

"We were absolutely staggered to receive over 800 entries, from locals who treat themselves to a regular spa break, to visitors from across the world.”

The Westmorland Gazette: Nicola Brown won the competition with a romantic tale of becoming engaged to her now-husband,

To encourage more contributions, guests were enticed to submit their stories through a giveaway on social media where the winning entry would receive a free stay at the Hotel.

As we near Valentines Day, the winning entrant, Nicola Brown from Heaton Mersey, Stockport, shares a heartwarming tale.

She was first brought to The Swan by her now-husband, Martin, on her birthday in February 2012, where he proposed.

The couple celebrated their honeymoon at The Swan after their December 2013 wedding, and their ten-year anniversary in December 2023.

Upon learning about her win, Mrs Brown said: "We can't believe it; The Swan holds a special place in our hearts.

"To win a free stay is wonderful, I can’t wait to come back in April and relive that magical engagement visit with Martin."

The hotel has had several updates since Mrs Brown's first visit in 2012, including a lavish restoration after flooding.

Its evolution from a coaching inn to a hotel, wedding venue, and health spa has now been documented through the project, archived digitally for all guests to relive and even contribute to, as the collection constantly grows.

Ms Edmondson added: "It’s clear The Swan has been loved by generations, who often comment on our real ‘home from home’ feel.

"First-time or long-time visitor, we love talking to guests about their experiences, and now we're preserving them.

"We're adding to the digital display all the time, so come and share your memories, or post them via our social media and we’ll include them."