The Lake District is one of the UK's most popular holiday destinations, known for its beautiful lakes, dramatic mountains, rolling countryside and picturesque villages. Located in Cumbria in the North West of England, the Lake District National Park is home to England's highest mountain, Scafell Pike, and Windermere, England’s largest lake. Whether you're planning an active walking holiday, a family break by the water or a relaxing cottage escape, the Lake District offers a wonderful mix of outdoor adventures, traditional villages and scenic places to unwind. Read more
Meadow View is positioned in a tranquil setting on the edge of the National Park, between Keswick and Penrith, within a small group of similar lodges. It is four miles from the village of Greystoke, with it's own castle which hosts events, together with a traditional country pub and shop. This very comfortable Scandinavian style lodge, with a wood burning stove, has floor-to-ceiling windows providing extensive open views over the countryside with Blencathra in the distance. It is a haven for wildlife, including red squirrels, rabbits and many species of birds.
A delightful Lakeland holiday cottage converted from a former Watermill with a cottage garden that provides an ideal place to relax and unwind. Located on the outskirts of a small village close to Grizebeck, The Watermill is ideally situated for exploring the Southern Lakes and its popular attractions.
Two self catering cottages peacefully located near the Yorkshire Dales National Park at the head of the picturesque Ravenstonedale Valley. Ashley Cottage sleeps twelve and Beech Cottage sleeps up to four accommodating parties of sixteen together. Set in large wooded gardens with spectacular views over the Howgill Fells this is the perfect venue for large groups to escape to the country for a holiday together.
Sitting in large gardens (with tennis court!), this welcoming bright and airy holiday apartment is perfectly placed in a tranquil location overlooking lake Windermere, yet within just a mile of Bowness-on-Windermere with its shops and eating establishments. The Loft offers the best of both worlds for those who want to relax and unwind whilst being within easy reach of the areas many attractions.
Crummock Cottage is a 5-Star Gold holiday cottage in a stunning Lake District location. It sleeps four people in two bedrooms, with guests having superb views towards Low Fell, Grasmoor and the Lorton Valley. It's ideal for couples or families who want easy access to some of the best walking and cycling the area can offer. Crummock Water and Loweswater are nearby as are Buttermere, Scale Force and dozens of other beautiful locations for which the Lake District is famous. The owner offers secure storage and bike cleaning facilities, and pets are also welcome. Tourist board rating: 5 Star Gold
If Visit England awarded stars for views the way it does for exceptional accommodation, Loweswater Cottage would have 5 Gold Stars all around. This superb holiday cottage has panoramic views down the entire length of Crummock Water from the garden. The fantastic holiday cottage is part of Foulsyke, an old manor house, and incorporates the original carriage house elements in its design. It sleeps six people in three bedrooms, one ensuite, and suits families and extended families who appreciate the footpaths, cycling routes and beautiful sights and attractions on the doorstep. Tourist board rating: 5 Star Gold
Where better to stay in Lakeland to relish the beautiful colours of autumn than the cosy world of Garden Cottage? Head to Tarn Hows, the Grizedale Forest or Coniston Water for the day and then return and relax beside the wood burner at this magical little spot. What makes Garden Cottage special is the love and care that’s devoted to it by the owners, and the striking craftsmanship that’s gone into its creation. It's one of two romantic holiday retreats at Howe Foot, both of them accommodating two people each.
If you’re looking for a romantic holiday retreat for two people this autumn, then head down the little lane to Howe Foot and step into the beautifully crafted cottage of Otley Beck. Set over two floors, with an AGA cooker in the kitchen and a log burner in the snug, the cottage stands in an acre of grounds beside a beck. With Coniston Water a few miles to the north, and Grizedale Forest and the southern tip of Windermere within striking distance too, this is a delightful base from which to explore Lakeland at its autumn best.
Ideally placed with views over Lake Windermere, this modern stylish holiday apartment sits in extensive grounds where guests can enjoy peace and tranquility, along with an all-weather tennis court, putting area and croquet lawn. The many amenities of Bowness-on-Windermere are just a mile away. A perfect retreat to enjoy the many attractions of the Lake District.
Buttermere Cottage is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life in a quiet and secluded spot close to Crummock Water and Loweswater in the Lake District. The former hay barn has been sympathetically converted into a welcoming holiday home for one or two people, with accommodation all on one level. Buttermere is one of three cottages at Foulsyke, where the owner is justifiably proud of their 5-Star Gold rating. There are stunning walks and bike rides from the door, secure bicycle storage and facilities for washing and drying bikes and kit, and lots of little touches that make Buttermere Cottage an excellent place to stay in any season. Tourist board rating: 5 Star Gold
Four bedrooms, sleeps six, with a kingsize, doubles, and twin beds, with hotel style mattress's all with lovely views. Two bathrooms, one with bath and shower, the 2nd with large walk in shower.
Alice Howe, part of the Terrace Windermere a private row of 5 holiday houses in the heart of The Lake District National Park. The property benefits from a 7-seat covered hot tub in the garden and a 15-seat cinema complete with Smart TV in the cellar. There are 7 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms and a beautifully appointed lounge and dining room. We welcome all kinds of gatherings from Milestone birthdays to girls’ getaways.
Bannerrigg is located at the heart of in Windermere Village. This 4 star property sleeps 16 all in single beds. Bannerriggs stand out features are its hot tub in its own building in the garden and an 18 seat cinema in the cellar. Whether you're looking to book a family break, a milestone birthday party or a girls getaway Bannerrigg is a fabulous choice.
Boston House is one of 5 houses to rent on the Terrace Windermere, a private row of holiday homes in the heart of The Lake district. The property’s stand-out features are its 7-seat hot tub in the rear garden and a secret 15-seat cinema with Smart TV in the cellar. Boston house has 7 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms, a comfortable lounge, elegant dining room and large sociable kitchen. Whatever you reason to visit be it a Milestone birthday, 3 generation family gathering or girls’ getaway Boston House is the perfect choice.
Number One sleeps 14 in 6 bedrooms. Located in Windermere village at the centre of The Lake District National Park, this luxury house is the perfect venue for milestone birthdays,3 generation family gatherings and girls' weekends. The property features a large lounge and dining room, hand-built kitchen with AGA and second range cooker, 6 lovely bedrooms and 4 bath/shower rooms. Number One's stand out features are its 7 seat hot tub and 15 seat cinema in the cellar.
Orrest Head House sleeps 14 in 5-star luxury. This majestic house is located a couple of minutes’ walk from Windermere village. The property can be hired with Orrest Head Cottage to increase your party numbers to 20. The House has many stand-out features including its very own bar. All of the 6 bedrooms are ensuite, 2 have in bedroom baths which overlook the extensive garden. We welcome all kinds of parties including, milestone birthdays, family gatherings and girls getaways.
White Moss is part of The Terrace Windermere a private row of houses all to rent in at the heart of The Lake District. The property sleeps 12 and features a 7 seat hot tub in the rear courtyard and a private 12 seat cinema with 75inch Smart TV. The lounge and dining room both have woodburning stoves to keep you warm and cosy in the winter. We welcome milestone birthdays, family gatherings and girls’ weekends.
Orrest Head Cottage's superpower is its location. The property is situated on the famous Orrest Head Walk. It features a very contemporary lounge, some amazing views, 3 bedrooms and 2 bath/shower rooms. Within a couple of minutes walk you can be in Windermere village with all of its pubs, restaurants and independent shops - what's not to like!
Landrigg Howe is a spacious, single-storey property on a quiet cut de sac in Bowness-on-Windermere, ideal for families or groups of friends. It accommodates six guests across three bedrooms, with two bathrooms. The property enjoys a large communal garden at the front, a tiered terrace at the rear with garden furniture and private parking for three cars, two on the drive & one in the garage. The convenient village location means you can easily explore without a car. A ten-minute walk takes you to the shores of Lake Windermere and the pier for Windermere Lake Cruises. Nearby, you'll find plenty of cafés, restaurants, and bars, including the popular Bodega Tapas and The Angel Inn is a 2 minute walk away, perfect for dining out.
Surrounded by glorious Cumbrian countryside, Granary Cottage is an excellent base for exploring the Lake District National Park and the Cumbrian Coast. Sandwiched between Cartmel and Newby Bridge, close to the southern tip of Lake Windermere, the cottage is surrounded by stunning scenery with wonderful walks, cycle rides and a wealth of attractions within easy reach. A popular choice for families and friends at any time of the year with a large garden, dining sun room and log burning stove for cosy winter breaks.
Popular towns in and around The Lake District:
AmblesideBowness-on-WindermereCartmelCockermouthConistonGrasmereGrizebeckHawksheadKendalKeswickKirkby StephenPenrithRavenglassSilverdaleUllswaterUlverstonWasdaleWindermereSome local suggestions:
Dog friendly Lake District cottagesLuxury Lake District holiday cottagesLake District cottages with a hot tubRomantic Lake District cottagesOr search further afield:
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The Lake District is in Cumbria, in the North West of England. Its landscape of mountains, valleys, lakes and woodland has inspired generations of writers and artists, including William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. The area is easy to explore on foot, by boat or by car, with a choice of lively lakeside towns, traditional villages and quieter rural locations.
The best place to stay depends on the type of holiday you're planning, from lively lakeside towns to quieter valleys surrounded by mountains.
Whether you're planning a special occasion or a relaxing countryside break, explore our luxury cottages in the Lake District for a comfortable stay in beautiful surroundings. Alternatively, our Lake District cottages with a hot tub offer a relaxing way to unwind after a day exploring the fells and lakes.
Planning a romantic escape? The Lake District's peaceful lakes, scenic walking routes and cosy village pubs make it a lovely choice for couples. Discover our romantic cottages in the Lake District for a special break together.
The Lake District is a year-round destination, with each season offering a different experience.
The weather can change quickly at any time of year, particularly in the mountains, so suitable clothing and preparation are important.
Walking is one of the Lake District's biggest attractions, with routes ranging from gentle lakeside strolls to challenging mountain hikes. Visitors can also enjoy cycling, climbing, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing and boat trips on the lakes.
There are plenty of options for families, too, including historic houses, gardens, museums and indoor attractions for rainy days. For a slower-paced holiday, explore traditional villages, sample local food, watch wildlife or enjoy the scenery on a lake cruise.
Planning a short break? Our Lake District things to do guide includes ideas for making the most of a weekend in the area.
The Lake District is accessible by car, train and bus. The M6 provides the main road connection, with routes into the national park from junctions including 36, 37 and 38, depending on your destination.
The West Coast Main Line serves Oxenholme Lake District, with onward rail connections to Windermere. Other useful stations include Penrith North Lakes, which provides access to the northern and eastern parts of the region. Local buses connect many towns and villages, although services and journey times vary, so planning ahead is recommended.
Travelling by car gives you more flexibility for exploring remote valleys and smaller villages, while public transport can be a good option for visiting popular towns and walking routes.
Beyond the Lake District National Park, Cumbria offers a varied landscape of coastline, countryside, historic towns and traditional villages. Explore the quieter areas of the county, discover coastal walks and beaches, or visit historic attractions and local food producers.
Cumbria is also a great destination for a holiday with your dog, with scenic walking routes, open countryside and dog-friendly places to eat. Many local attractions and outdoor spaces welcome four-legged visitors, making it easy to explore together. Browse our dog-friendly cottages in the Lake District to find a base for your next adventure.
Local specialities worth trying include Grasmere Gingerbread, sticky toffee pudding, Cumberland sausage and Kendal Mint Cake.
The best area depends on your plans. Bowness-on-Windermere is popular for boat trips, shops and restaurants, while Ambleside and Keswick are good bases for walking and outdoor activities. Ullswater, Coniston and the quieter valleys offer scenic surroundings and opportunities to escape the busiest tourist spots.
The Lake District is famous for its lakes, mountains and dramatic scenery, as well as its literary heritage. It is associated with writers and artists such as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Costs vary depending on the season, location and type of accommodation. Popular towns and school holidays can be more expensive, so booking early or considering quieter areas and travelling outside peak periods may offer better value. Alternatively visit our last minute offers page to see if you can pick up any late deals.
This depends a lot on personal preference. Derwentwater is admired for its mountain backdrop and wooded shoreline, while Ullswater is known for its dramatic scenery. Windermere is popular for boat trips and lakeside attractions, and smaller lakes such as Buttermere offer a quieter setting.
Yes. Train services, local buses and boat trips make it possible to explore parts of the Lake District without driving. Windermere, Ambleside and Keswick are useful bases, although public transport options are more limited in some rural areas. Check local timetables before travelling.
