NOSTALGIC items dating back more than 100 years have been donated to an iconic Windermere hotel in celebration of its reopening.

The Hydro Hotel, on Helm Road, played host to a special memorabilia Afternoon Tea event which saw more than 30 guests with connections to the hotel attend to share their own memories and stories, some dating back to its original opening day on March 25, 1881.

The event was held to help mark the celebration of the hotel’s reopening following its phase one £1million renovation.

The hotel had appealed to locals for any memorabilia that they may have which could have given an insight into the hotel’s past and they were overwhelmed with just how much history was uncovered in the process.

Items such as miniature china mugs, photographs, menus, receipts and a silver jug were donated to the hotel whilst guests also brought along items such as sales brochures, wedding albums, branded crockery and even a tie which was part of the old uniform.

The donated items will remain a permanent fixture in the hotel creating a 'Hydro through the Years' exhibition.

Stefan Rae, general manager at the Hydro Hotel, which is owned and managed by Squire Hotels, said: “The memorabilia day was a huge success and that really is down to the residents of Windermere.

"The items that were brought in to us were fascinating including pictures dating back 60 years whilst we also saw the first ever article announcing the opening of the hotel itself.

"We’re extremely grateful for all the items that have been donated and it was great to hear people’s memories of the hotel."

On the day, guests shared various stories about the hotel and listened to speeches from Mr Rae and the Mayor of Windermere, councillor Leith Hallatsch, a former DJ at the hotel himself.

Following the speeches, guests were treated to Afternoon Tea before admiring the items that were brought on the day.

Stefan added: "Whilst we ensured we kept some of its key features, the hotel has been completely transformed with its renovation and so we are looking forward to creating the new exhibition to showcase its heritage and keep an area where guests can take a trip down memory lane."