The Lake District is one of the UK's most popular holiday destinations and is famed for being the largest national park in England, along with having the country’s highest mountain (Scafell Pike), its largest natural lake (Windermere) and its deepest lake (Wastwater).
Located in the North West of England in Cumbria, the Lake District boasts a simply stunning landscape that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is a place that has inspired writers, artists and poets alike including Wordsworth, Coleridge, Southey and Beatrix Potter, and a holiday destination you will want to return to time and time again. Read more
Craftsman's Loft is a charming one-bedroom holiday cottage in Hawkshead, ideal for couples planning a peaceful self-catering holiday in the Lake District. You'll find the Queen's Head pub, delightful tearooms, and unique shops a short walk away. The cottage offers modern amenities, including fast WiFi and a cosy wood burner. Explore the enchanting village, steeped in Beatrix Potter's history, with her home, Hill Top nearby. Enjoy scenic walks to Tarn Hows and local attractions, or take day trips to Keswick and Windermere for sailing and hiking. Craftsman's Loft promises a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
The Farmhouse, a charming Georgian holidy home near Ulverston, offers a perfect Lake District escape for up to six guests and their dogs. Nestled on a family smallholding with views of The Old Man of Coniston, it’s ideal for walking enthusiasts, with the Cumbrian Way and numerous trails nearby. Ulverston provides all essentials, including farmers' markets and welcoming pubs. Explore Morecambe Bay, Broughton-in-Furness, or the Duddon Valley, and enjoy activities like hiking, biking, sailing, and visiting attractions such as Hill Top and Scafell Pike. Cosy and inviting, The Farmhouse ensures a delightful self-catering holiday for families in the Lake District.
The Cottage, at Crooked Birch, is situated on a working small holding in the Lake District National Park. Guests enjoy feeding and petting the goats and Herdwick sheep as well as interacting with our ducks, hens and rare breed sheep and lambs. We live on-site so are on-hand to give help with places to visit and explore or we can leave guests to enjoy the peace and quiet! The Cottage is a beautiful newly refurbished barn situated in the Lakeland Fells only a few miles from the vibrant, festival town of Ulverston. With views of Weather Lamb and The Old Man of Coniston from the large picture windows, The Cottage is the perfect place to relax, take in the views and get away from it all. With the Cumbrian Way and footpaths located within and around the property, enthusiastic walkers can explore the stunning countryside, pet the goats and sheep and enjoy Coniston Water, which is only a few miles from The Cottage.
Ellen Brow 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.
At the southern tip of Cumbria, in the centre of the South Walney Nature Reserve, Lighthouse Cottage is a stunning 3 bedroom, one-of-a-kind property. Encircled by untamed wildlife and with extraordinary ocean views, it's the ideal place to visit for a truly memorable stay.
At the southern tip of Cumbria, in the centre of the South Walney Nature Reserve, is Lighthouse Hide, a one bedroom en-suite cottage. This unique and tastefully decorated property is encircled by untamed wildlife and with extraordinary ocean views, it's the ideal place to visit for a truly memorable stay.
Availability, prices and bookings are available on our Website www.bayviewsilverdale.com This fabulous house sleeping up to 24 people has magnificent views over Morecambe Bay. It's ideal for several families holidaying together or a large group of friends. The house is ideally placed in an area of outstanding natural beauty just on the edge of the lake district and only a short drive from the Yorkshire Dales. One of the best sunset views in the world is in winter over the bay when the tide has been out long enough for some of the sand to dry.
No.2 Roseville - If you would like a cosy and homely stay in the Western Lakes, look no further. No.2 Roseville is a Victorian terraced cottage in the lovely village of Gosforth in the Lake District National Park, close to the beautiful valleys of Eskdale and Wasdale, home to England's highest mountain Scafell Pike, and the amazing, unspoilt beaches of the western coastline. Offering accommodation for up to four guests in a double and a twin room, plus additional infant. It’s a great base for couples, friends and families. I work hard to meet guest needs and make each trip a special one.
You can't beat the Lake District as a holiday destination. Just ask the 15 million people who flock to the national park every year to escape into the majesty of its mountains and lakes. While some visitors love being remote and removed, others prefer the convenience of being close to its most famous sights. Fairoak is perfect for you if you want to see as much as possible during your stay. The three-bedroom self-catering holiday cottage is on a quiet street about 100 metres from Windermere's shops, cafes and restaurants and within easy reach of the train station and ferry. It sleeps five people and is excellent for families or couples. Perfect for three-generation family stays!
Finkle Cottage is around the corner from Sedbergh Main Street, across the road from the church and a short walk from shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants. It's an ideal self-catering holiday cottage for couples or individuals touring the western Yorkshire Dales and Lakes, giving easy access to superb walks, cycling routes, sights and attractions. The place is pet-friendly, with a cot available for guests travelling with an infant. Period features are brought up to date with comfortable furnishings and modern appliances, making this one-bedroom holiday home welcoming in all seasons.
Sitting quietly tucked away in a very impressive setting in the centre of Grasmere village near the River Rothay, Rowan at Grasmere is a luxury self-catering holiday home sleeping 6 guests in 3 ensuite bedrooms providing quality accommodation and landscaped gardens with stunning views. Grasmere is arguably the loveliest village in the beautiful Lake District Nation Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a short level walk to village shops, cafes, pubs, restaurants and other amenities and access to fantastic footpaths from our front door. William Wordsworth immortalised his love for Grasmere in his writing, calling it "...the loveliest spot that man hath ever found." Our guests say Rowan at Grasmere is exceptional. Once you stay we think you'll agree.
Luxuriate in elegant surroundings with stunning views in this Windermere lakeside holiday home. North Highfield was built as a gentleman's residence and boasts beautiful Victorian details with modern comforts. It sleeps 12 people in six well-appointed bedrooms, with four reception rooms, five bathrooms, and extensive grounds. It's a fantastic location for your next family reunion or get together with friends. Windermere village and Bowness-on-Windermere are both within easy reach, as are places like Scafell Pike and Orrest Head.
This romantic barn oozes character and charm and provides a luxurious 5 Star retreat right in the heart of the Lake District in the stunning Troutbeck Valley. Sleeping two guests in one king-sized bedroom, and located just a short stroll from Lake Windermere and an excellent pub, Townfoot Barn is the perfect retreat for couples looking for a slice of Cumbrian paradise. Dogs are welcome too. Sorry but short breaks are not available, just weekly or longer bookings taken throughout the year. Tourist board rating: 5 Star
The Stables is ideally placed in the centre of Warton, a village with connections to George Washington, with two public houses serving real ale and home-cooked food, an independent micro brewery and Warton Crag which is perfect for walks and to see glorious coastal views. Within an easy drive, you can be strolling around the coast of Morecambe Bay, sailing on Windermere, hiking through the fells or climbing a mountain. The Stables is a delightful stone holiday cottage on a quiet street in the village, a short walk from all the action with a walled courtyard garden and space to sleep six people in three bedrooms (plus one additional person on a sofabed in the sunroom). Families, couples and friends love it here because of it's relaxed, community feel, with lots to see and do throughout the year.
Rivendell is a family-friendly holiday cottage in the Lake District village of Bassenthwaite, sleeping six people in three bedrooms. The recently renovated farmhouse is close to Bassenthwaite Lake and the Skiddaw range with lots of indoor and outdoor space. Guests enjoy a wide variety of activities that include fell walking and mountain biking and easy access to places like Keswick, Penrith, Ullswater and Windermere. A holiday in the Lakes can be as relaxing or adventurous as your heart desires, yet it will always leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
The Farmhouse at Street Farm is perfect for large groups sleeping up to 14 guests. Stylish and beautifully presented, this luxury holiday home is ideal for catching up with friends or celebrating a special occasion with family. Sitting within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the farmhouse is a 10-minute stroll through meadows to the Fat Lamb Inn and just over half an hour's drive to the Lake District National Park. Fantastic opportunities for outdoor adventure on the doorstep and an abundance of opportunities for day trips out.
The Coach House at Street Farm accommodates groups of up to eight guests in three bedrooms. Surrounded by glorious Yorkshire countryside, this stylish holiday home sits in the Yorkshire Dales National Park but is conveniently located within half an hour drive of the Lake District, making it a great place for exploring the area and its many attractions. Whether you want to get out and about or simply stay put in the beauty that surrounds with fabulous walking and cycling, The Coach House is a popular choice for families and friends.
Sleeping two guests, Stone End is just perfect for couples who want to explore this beautiful part of the UK sitting within the Yorkshire Dales and being just half an hour away from the Lake District. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, the area is perfect for those who enjoy walking, cycling and horse riding with a stylish holiday cottage to return home to at the end of the day (and The Fat Lamb Inn just a short walk away!).
Stoneheights is just perfect for couples with a king-size bedroom. Enjoying an idyllic position nestling amongst the glorious countryside of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the cottage is one of a collection of five and just perfect for those who enjoy outdoor adventure with endless opportunities for walking, cycling and horse riding. The Lake District National Park is only half an hour away by car and The Fat Lamb Inn is a ten minute stroll away through the meadows. Plenty of attractions, beautiful scenery and an abundance of fresh air await!
The Roost is a fantastic holiday cottage in the heart of Hawkshead, within walking distance of shops, cafes and pubs yet peaceful thanks to its spacious garden with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside that includes Grizedale and Latterbarrow. The period cottage has received a modern facelift to offer a high standard of accommodation for up to six people in three bedrooms, with facilities including a games room and a master bedroom with a big TV. It's the perfect Lake District cottage for families and friends who want to be close to everything while still enjoying space and privacy.
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 most popular tourist spot is Bowness-on-Windermere, where many head for boat trips, cobbled streets and great restaurants. This beautiful town never gets old, no matter how many times you visit.
If you seek less hustle and bustle and more of the great outdoors, then perhaps Ambleside is the one for you? With cottage-style shops and a town encompassed beautifully by mountains, there is plenty of exploring to do here.
For thrill-seekers aiming to tackle Scafell Pike, Keswick is where you want to go. Twinkling waters paired with mighty mountains make this a very popular destination in the Lakes.
The Lake District is home to many impressive lakes, the second largest being in Ullswater. If you seek rolling hills, a magnificent National Park and plenty of water to explore then Ullswater is the perfect place.
Before booking your holiday cottage in the Lake District, you can find here all the information you need for your trip.
For more tips, be sure to check out our complete guide to the Lake District.
The Lake Districts’ dramatic and rugged landscape is its main attraction, with noble peaks, heather-clad moors, tumbling waterfalls, sparkling lakes and dense forests. Ever-changing, each season has something incredibly special to offer.
In the spring the landscape bursts into life with lush green pastures alive with playful Herdwick lambs. In the autumn, the trees are ablaze with colour making it incredibly photogenic.
The summer months attract plenty of visitors to the hills, villages and lakes, but the warm weather provides the ideal climate for wild swimming and long days of walking.
The winter months are breathtaking, with snow-capped mountains and friendly Lakeland pubs serving hearty traditional food with a roaring fire crackling in the background.
Being one of the country's largest outdoor playgrounds, the Lake District attracts outdoor enthusiasts of all types who visit to enjoy incredible walking opportunities, climbing, sailing, mountain biking, kayaking and winter mountaineering.
It also has plenty of options for family days out (including lots of things to do on a rainy day) and is great for those seeking relaxation and a quieter time with its beautiful tranquil landscape providing the perfect setting for bird watching, painting, photography and lazy lake cruises.
If you happen to be visiting the Lake District for the weekend, there is still plenty to do! Whether you choose to have a night with the stars or take a cruise atop one of the many lakes, check out our essential weekend guide to visiting the Lake District.
If you are travelling from one of the major cities situated in the UK, below shows an average distance from the town of Bowness-on-Windermere, so you know what to expect when choosing to visit by car.
London: 275 miles
Birmingham: 159 miles
Glasgow: 150 miles
Liverpool: 88 miles
Bristol: 240 miles
Manchester: 86 miles
Leeds: 81 miles
Edinburgh: 155 miles
Newcastle: 110 miles
There are many ways in which you can travel to the Lake District. With its great public transport, you can journey from many of the major UK cities by train. If you choose to travel by car, there are some great service stations to stop off and rest up whilst on your trip, as well as alternative routes depending on what roads you prefer to drive on.
Cumbria is a part of the Lake District and is a county with a unique and diverse character. It has miles of wonderful scenic coastline, pretty villages and historic towns and is steeped in history with ancient forts, disused mines, historic homes, castles and literary attractions. This is an area that is also exceptionally pet-friendly with many Lakeland cottages and attractions welcoming dogs.
It is also famed for its culinary specialities, including the sticky toffee pudding, Grasmere Gingerbread, the Cumberland sausage and Kendal Mint Cake – the perfect energy boost for hillwalkers!A popular destination for both short breaks and longer holidays, we offer a huge selection of self catering Cumbrian cottages.
Finding the best part of the Lake District to visit will all depend on what you are looking for. Bowness-on-Windermere is definitely the most popular for tourists and day-trippers, however, there are many other great towns to visit such as Keswick, Ambleside, Grasmere and Coniston.If you are looking to spend more of your trip to the Lake District adventuring then places like Ullswater, Wasdale and Great Langdale are perfect for their impressive mountains and scenery.
The Lake District is famous for its huge lake offering, rugged landscape and dense forests. Many famous artists have come from the Lake District, names such as Beatrix Potter, William Wordsworth and John Ruskin all created some of their best works here.
Being a unique and beautiful spot is what makes the Lake District more expensive than other UK holiday locations. With some of the highest peaks and best hiking trails here, it is a very popular destination for people all over the UK. The prices are higher than some other holiday locations in the UK, but you get to explore a diverse range of terrains and activities in a unique part of the country, which is well worth the price.
Derwentwater has been labelled as the most charming lake in the Lake District as it offers impressive fells and is surrounded by outstanding peaks. However, there are many other lakes and hidden waterfalls that are all situated around the Lake District, all of which will take your breath away with their beauty.
