The Inn on the Lake Hotel

The Inn on the Lake Hotel

Overview

Tucked just off Watling Street in Shorne, on the outskirts of Gravesend, The Inn on the Lake Hotel is a roomy Kentish retreat wrapped around tranquil lakes and sweeping lawns. Its convenient location less than 5 miles from Ebbsfleet International makes it a handy base for those seeking to blend scenic relaxation with local exploring, or for couples and families planning a short gourmet break near the Thames estuary. The hotel’s lakeside views lend the venue a distinct sense of escape while offering straightforward access to both the Kent countryside and London via the A2.

Eat

The Inn on the Lake Hotel Food provides numerous dining spaces, including the Lake View Restaurant, Ramblers Bar, and an extensive outdoor terrace that overlooks the water. The kitchen produces classic British comfort cooking—think fish and chips, pies, and freshly grilled steaks, with options updated for the season. Menus are designed to cater to a range of tastes, from afternoon teas served indoors and out, to all-day dining curated for both locals and visitors. Service is brisk and family-friendly, with recent additions like vegan burgers and creative non-meat dishes broadening its appeal. While it’s not wedded to a showpiece tasting menu, diners will find hearty portions and sweeping lake views a hallmark of the experience, alongside regular themed nights and social events in the adjacent function rooms.

Sleep

The hotel offers a generous variety of rooms, many featuring pine furnishings and homely touches. Some ground-floor accommodations benefit from patio doors that open directly onto the lakeside, perfect for a morning coffee with a waterside backdrop. Larger suites add four-poster beds and extra living space, making them a solid choice for those marking a special occasion. All rooms come with TV, tea and coffee making facilities, and the comfort is matched by the quiet, semi-rural setting. Families and pet owners are made welcome, and accessible rooms are available on request.

Retreat

Guests can unwind with a book on the lakeside terrace or stroll around manicured gardens and the tree-fringed lakeside paths. The setting is peaceful, ideal for light rambling or simply birdwatching in serene surrounds. Those keen to explore further will find historic Rochester with its imposing castle around a 15-minute drive away, while the Bluewater Shopping Centre and Gravesend’s riverside heritage sites sit within easy reach. Direct train lines from Gravesend put London St Pancras less than 30 minutes away. With ample free parking on site, The Inn on the Lake works just as well for guests looking to savour the Kent countryside as for those stopping off en route to Dover or the Channel Tunnel.