WORK has started on a £7 million expansion at a Lake District hotel.

The Lodore Falls, at Borrowdale, closed last week as work got under way on its planned extension and new spa.

Over the next six weeks the full ground floor will be renovated including the bar, lounges, reception, restaurant, lobby.

The function room will be completed around July or August and will see a conservatory extension with more space for private parties and events.

The next stage of the refurbishment later in the year, will include 18 new luxury bedrooms, four with private balconies in the main hotel and the other 14 based in the new spa building across the river.

Opening in summer 2018, the spa will feature four treatments rooms, thermal suites, steam rooms, hot and cold open-air showers, relaxation area, a Finnish-style sauna, nail bar and infinity and hydro pool.

It will be based in a new building that will replace the existing leisure facilities, outdoor swimming pool and squash court.

A 70 seater brasserie-style restaurant and terrace will also be based in the new building overlooking Watendlath Beck. It will be opened early 2018.

Grounds and garden space will also be landscaped to allow guests to enjoy the surroundings and be used for drinks receptions and events.

The hotel, which overlooks Derwentwater and is part of Lake District Hotels group.

The Graves family, owners of seven hotels in the Lake District, will work with architects and interior and spa designers to create a contemporary feel to the 146-year-old property, while retaining its identity.

Designs and colour schemes will be used to complement the local landscape.

The owners said guests who will be staying at the hotel while work is being carried out, will be a priority and they will ensure the developments will not impact on the stay.

Charles Graves, director of Lake District Hotels, said "It's a natural progression for the hotel and will ensure that this iconic hotel remains synonymous with luxury and the hotel maintains its position among the leading hotels in Cumbria.

"We are approaching the development with new and creative decisions while respecting the hotel's history and its beautiful surroundings."

The build area will be fenced off with work planned for between 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.