The Perfect Base for Visiting Farnborough
Just 10 minutes from Farnborough town centre, we're a comfortable, independent hotel that you can rely on when you visit Farnborough. Whether you're here for the world-famous airshow, flying into Farnborough Airport, or exploring Hampshire's aviation heritage, we'd be delighted to welcome you.
Free parking • Lakeside setting • 10 minutes from Farnborough
Benefits of Staying at Lakeside
When Farnborough hotels are full, we've got room - When the Farnborough International Airshow comes around every two years, or when big events like Screwfix Live, The British Motor Show, or major trade exhibitions hit the conference centre, Farnborough hotels book up fast. We're just 10 minutes away with 99 rooms, free parking, and usually better availability.
Skip the exhibition centre prices - Hotels right next to the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre naturally charge a premium, especially during events. We offer the same convenience – you're still only 10 minutes away – but at honest, independent hotel prices. No corporate mark-ups, no event surcharges. Just fair rates, year-round.
Free parking (yes, actually free) - If you're driving to Farnborough Airport, attending an event at the exhibition centre, or visiting local businesses, parking matters. Ours is completely free with no restrictions. No meters, no permits, no surprise charges. Just leave your car and go.
A quieter alternative to town centre hotels - After a long day at the airshow, a trade conference, or meetings around Farnborough, coming back to a lakeside view beats a business park every time. You're close enough for convenience, far enough for a proper night's sleep.
Perfect for early flights from Farnborough Airport - Whether you're catching a business flight or meeting someone arriving, we're minutes from the airport. Check in the night before, sleep well, and skip the motorway rush in the morning. Much more sensible than a dawn dash down the M3.
Walks Around Farnborough
One of the joys of staying with us is the countryside right on your doorstep. Farnborough and the surrounding area offer some lovely walks, whether you're after a gentle stroll or something more ambitious.
Basingstoke Canal
A local gem that's perfect for a leisurely walk or cycle. The towpath offers flat, easy walking with plenty of wildlife to spot along the way. You can join the canal at several points and walk as far as you fancy – it's peaceful, pretty, and wonderfully restorative.
Rowhill Nature Reserve
Just a short distance from Farnborough, this reserve features a variety of habitats connected by a network of paths. There's even an accessible path for those with mobility needs. The Rowhill Nature Reserve Society manages it beautifully, and it's a lovely spot for nature lovers.
Blackwater Valley Path
Following the River Blackwater, this path offers a longer walk through varied countryside. It's well-maintained and takes you through some of the prettiest parts of Surrey and Hampshire. Perfect for clearing your head after a day of meetings or sightseeing.
Hawley Common and Woods
For those who enjoy a proper countryside ramble, the trails around Hawley offer woodland walks with a bit more elevation. The autumn colours are particularly stunning, and you might spot deer if you're quiet and lucky.
Heritage Trails Rushmoor
Heritage Trails Rushmoor Borough Council has created interactive heritage trails celebrating Farnborough and Aldershot's rich history going back 160 years. It's a wonderful way to explore the area's aviation and military heritage while getting some fresh air.
All of these walks are easily accessible from Lakeside, and our team can point you in the right direction with local knowledge and tips.
Places to Eat
Farnborough's dining scene has something for every taste and occasion. Here are some local favourites worth trying during your stay.
Lakeside International
Our own restaurant here at Lakeside serves hearty, honest food with lovely views over the lake. Sometimes the best option is right on your doorstep.
The Crab & Anchor
A cherished destination for those who appreciate quality seafood and expert cooking in beautiful Hampshire surroundings. With Executive Chef Rosario leading the kitchen, you're in for a treat.
Dolce Italia
For a taste of Italy, Dolce Italisa satisfies any pasta craving with authentic antipasti, pizza, and those delectable desserts that Italians do so well. It's the kind of place locals return to again and again.
The Squirrel
The Squirrel offers that perfect pub atmosphere – family friendly, dog friendly (they even have a special menu for four-legged guests), and seasonal menus that change throughout the year. Exactly what you want from a proper British pub.
Rushmoor Café
For a quick bite or a proper café experience, Rushmoor Café on Camp Road has been serving the community for years – the kind of long-running family business that knows how to do breakfast and lunch properly.
Events in Farnborough
Farnborough International Airshow
The crown jewel of Farnborough's events calendar, this world-renowned airshow takes place every two years (next showing in July 2026). It's one of the most important aerospace events globally, attracting over 100,000 visitors and featuring incredible flying displays and static aircraft exhibitions. Book well in advance – hotels fill up fast during airshow weeks, and we're perfectly positioned for easy access to the exhibition centre.
Farnborough International Space Show
A newer addition to the calendar, taking place in March 2025, this show celebrates the UK's growing space industry. It's an exciting time for British aerospace, and Farnborough continues to be at the heart of it all.
British Motor Show
The British Motor Show brings supercars, EVs, cherished classics and tyre-smoking stunt displays to Farnborough each August. We’re just 10 minutes from Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre. With free parking with your stay, we're the ideal option when nearby hotels sell out fast.
Year-round events
Throughout the year, the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre hosts trade shows, conferences, and industry events. If you're visiting for business, our proximity and comfortable rooms make us a sensible choice for delegates and exhibitors.
Local community events Rushmoor Borough Council organises various events throughout the year, from heritage walks to seasonal celebrations. Our team can let you know what's on during your stay – we've been here since 1988, so we know the area rather well.
Attractions in Farnborough
Farnborough might be famous for one thing, but there's plenty more to discover in this historic Hampshire town.
Farnborough Air Sciences Trust (FAST) Museum
Dive into Britain's aerospace heritage at this fascinating museum. It's where aviation history comes alive, telling the story of Farnborough's crucial role in British aviation. A must-visit for anyone interested in flight, engineering, or British innovation.
St Michael's Abbey
This striking building with its distinctive dome is the final resting place of Napoleon III and his family. The architecture alone is worth the visit, and the history is absolutely fascinating. It's not often you find a piece of French Imperial history in Hampshire.
Farnborough Airport
Even if you're not flying, the airport itself is part of Farnborough's aviation story. As one of the UK's leading business aviation airports, it's where private jets and business aircraft come and go – a reminder of the town's continuing importance in British aviation.
Nearby attractions From Lakeside
You're brilliantly positioned for day trips further afield. Thorpe Park, LEGOLAND Windsor, and Chessington World of Adventures are all within easy reach – perfect if you're combining business with a family break.