The image of windswept and desolate moors only paints half the picture of an extensive county like Cumbria. In between the picturesque landscapes and ancient history lie bustling towns and cities providing an exciting and varied experience for all those who visit Cumbrian cottages.
The third largest county in England, Cumbria, can be found on the northwest coast bordering Scotland to the north, Northumberland and Durham to the east and Lancashire and Yorkshire to the south. It is home to the world renowned Lake District National Park and its landscapes consist of scenic lakes and green lowlands. Read more
This 'away from it all' holiday cottage is off the beaten track and perfectly positioned to give access to some of Cumbria's favourite footpaths and cycling routes. Pendragon View sits between the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, with good access to the North Pennines. The landscape is spectacular in all seasons, with plenty of opportunities for fun and adventure. Pendragon View is only four miles from Kirkby Stephen, is dog-friendly, and sleeps up to four guests in two bedrooms. The high standard of accommodation, incredible views and location make it perfect for couples, families or friends wanting to get away from it all. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
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 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.
Large groups of up to fourteen guests are sure to love the space and privacy that Cowgill Grange (sleeps 10 in 5 bedrooms) and The Coach House (sleeps 4 in 2 bedrooms) provide. Both set within grounds just a few steps apart, this is a superb choice for extended families and large groups who appreciate plenty of space and privacy whilst away. Fantastic opportunities for walkers and cyclists and within walking distance of Dent Railway Station on the picturesque Settle to Carlisle line. An ideal self-catering base for exploring both the Yorkshire Dales and the nearby Lake District. Rates are reduced when Cowgill Grange (5 bedrooms sleeps 10) is booked without The Coach House. (2 bedrooms sleeps 4)
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.
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.
The Lake District is one of the UK's best-loved holiday destinations. Even if you have been there a hundred times, there is always a beautiful new view or a friendly cafe to discover. The Derwent Farmhouse is a period farmhouse with lots of character in a riverfront location close to Grange in the Borrowdale Valley. It comfortably sleeps up to six people in three bedrooms and there are footpaths and cycling routes leading from the front door, while Scafell Pike, Skiddaw and Derwentwater are all nearby. The location is ideal whether you want to relax in peace and solitude or do as much as you can during the time you have.
Sleeping up to six guests, this Grade II listed traditional Lakeland farmhouse dates back to the 17th Century and nestles amongst peace and tranquility in the Eskdale Valley. Offering seclusion and wonderful scenery the farmhouse is perfectly placed for exploring the Western Lake District as well as the Central Fells. Excellent for walking and climbing with Scafell nearby. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Experience The Old Brewery, a super large detached house in Cowgill, Dentdale, sleeping seven guests across four bedrooms. This spacious property sits in Yorkshire Dales National Park countryside and direct access to the Dales Way. The group holiday home features modern amenities including a woodburner, utility room, and en-suite facilities, plus convenient access to Whernside, Arten Gill Viaduct, and spectacular fell walking. Handy for Dent village cafes, pubs, village store & The Heritage Centre, with Dent Railway Station & The Sportsman's Inn a pleasant walk up the road, this holiday rental in the Yorkshire Dales provides an authentic base for exploring England's most dramatic limestone landscapes and peaceful valley walks & less than 30 miles to Windermere & The Lake District National Park.
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
A comfortable cosy holiday cottage in a lovely rural location within Cumbria & the Yorkshire Dales National Park near the unspoilt village of Ravenstonedale. Conveniently located for exploring the many attractions of both the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, ideal for walkers and bird watching. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Located on a Lakeland sheep farm amongst lovely Cumbrian countryside close to Coniston Water, this holiday cottage provides the perfect place for a relaxing holiday with walking from the door and an ideal self-catering base for exploring the Lake District National Park and its many attractions. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
A 17th Century holiday cottage located in a peaceful position amongst beautiful countryside just three miles from the Cumbrian cobbled village of Dent in the Yorkshire Dales and within easy reach of the Lake District. Ideal for walking, relaxing or visiting the areas many attractions and with a fire for winter nights and pretty garden with glorious views, it is the perfect place to escape away from it all and relax. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Why limit yourself to the Lake District when you can also explore the Forest of Bowland and Yorkshire Dales? Milo's Retreat is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty between Arnside and Milnthorpe. It's perfect for a romantic retreat or a solo escape, sleeping two people in one sublimely comfortable superking bed. Your day can include scaling mountains, hiking through fells, sailing over lakes or cycling around the coast. Throw in a region renowned for its fantastic food and all the comfort and charm of this wonderful self-catering holiday cottage, and you have a holiday you won't forget.
Centrally located in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, this well presented farm cottage offers peace, tranquility and superb walks (plus a pub!) on the doorstep and all the amenities of Ambleside just 2.5 miles away. The area is a walker's paradise and a great base for exploring the many attractions of this beautiful part of Cumbria. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Treat the family to a stay at Sandown, a lovely holiday cottage on the edge of Bowness village only a short stroll from shops, cafes, pubs and beautiful Windermere. Guests can access lovely walks and bike rides from the door and are close to favourite attractions including the World of Beatrix Potter and Wray Castle. Explore Windermere by boat, kayak, or on a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing ferry. Sandown sleeps up to seven guests in four lovely ensuite bedrooms and is perfect for families and friends.
Windermere is at the heart of the Lake District, and Kempton is close enough that guests can stroll to the water's edge and drink in the views of this beautifully scenic landscape. The three-bedroom self-catering retreat comfortably sleeps up to six people, giving them space and privacy within easy reach of shops, cafes and pubs, as well as sightseeing cruises and favourite Lake District attractions. Kempton is perfect for families and friends as well as couples who appreciate a little extra space around them on holiday.
A welcoming retreat ideal for families, friends and couples, nicely placed in a quiet backwater in the pretty Cumbrian village of Dent within the Yorkshire Dales. Pubs, cafes and shops on the doorstep along with superb walking - ideal for exploring both the Dales and Cumbria (including the nearby Lakes) with their many attractions.
Modern and comfy, Coldgill View is perfectly placed between the Solway Coast and fells of the Lake District National Park, providing an excellent base for those who want to walk, explore or simply relax. Popular with families, friends and dog owners, this well presented holiday home sleeps up to seven guests in four bedrooms and sits in the Cumbrian village of Great Broughton close to Cockermouth (five minutes drive), Keswick, Bassenthwaite Lake and the coastal town of Maryport.
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.
Lake Cottage is a charming 200 year-old cottage with a private jetty on beautiful Hawes Water Lake, an unspoiled nature reserve teeming with birds and wildlife yet close to the village and seaside beaches at Silverdale and Arnside on Morecambe Bay. Enjoy miles of glorious walks right from the doorstep or take a short drive to the nearby Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, Cumbria and Trough of Bowland in Lancashire. The sunny courtyard is perfect for summer barbeques with lawned gardens, wildflower sitting areas and small orchard leading onto a 100m boardwalk meandering through willows and reedbeds to emerge at the lake and jetty. Swim in crystal-clear water, relax with a book, have a fish, watch dragonflies or just immerse in the sounds of the swallows, buntings and warblers. The traditionally-furnished cottage with its farmhouse kitchen, inglenook range and log-burning stove is warm and cosy in autumn and winter and a delight in spring and summer. The recently refurbished bathroom has a
Popular towns in and around The Lake District:
AlstonAmblesideApplebyArnsideBaggrowBarrow in FurnessBarrow-in-FurnessBassenthwaiteBoltonBootleBordering Yorkshire DalesBowness on WindermereBowness-on-WindermereBraithwaiteBramptonBroughton-in-FurnessBurton-in-KendalCaldbeckCarlisleCarnforthCartmelChapel StileCleatorCockermouthConistonConiston WaterDeepdaleDentEden ValleyElterwaterEnnerdaleEsk ValleyEskdaleEskdale GreenEskdale ValleyGlenriddingGosforthGrange Over SandsGrange-over-SandsGrasmereGrassingtonGrizebeckHaverthwaiteHawksheadIrebyKendalKeswickKirkby LonsdaleKirkby StephenKirklintonKirksantonLake DistrictLindaleLoweswaterMillomMilnthorpeNether WasdaleNewby BridgeNewcastletonOrtonPenrithPooley BridgeRavenglassSeascaleSedberghStaveleyTroutbeckUllswaterUlverstonWasdaleWastwater LakeWhitehavenWhittingtonWigtonWindermereSome local suggestions:
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The Lake District and the Lake District National Park are undoubtedly the highlights of Cumbria. They have served as an inspiration to numerous writers, painters and artists and have been featured heavily in television and film.
With an area of 885 square miles, the Lake District has a diverse range of natural sights including narrow valleys, oak woodlands which are filled with wildlife native to the area and, of course, tranquil waterways and lakes. There are various trails and walks around the county too.
The Pennine Way comes through Cumbria and is a 267-mile walk that starts from Kirk Yetholm in Scotland and finishes up in Derbyshire with a significant portion running through Cumbria itself. The Cumbria Way is another well-known scenic walk and goes through rolling farmlands, mountain views, old market towns as well as enchanting valleys to provide an all-around experience of the county.
The main historical attraction in Cumbria is Hadrian's Wall, which was built by the Romans. The longest visible stretch of the wall that is still intact is found at the edge of the county. Cumbria is a Roman historian's paradise, as it hosts the tallest Roman structure in England – Ravenglass Bath House – and various museums offer a captivating glimpse into Roman Britain and how the local area changed over this period.
Before booking one of our holiday cottages in Cumbria, you can find all the information you need for your trip here. For more tips, check out our complete North West England Guide.
Every season delivers its own charm in Cumbria. The sparkle of winter frosts is accompanied by the smell of log fires providing a warm welcome in cottages and pubs. A visit in spring or summer allows for a myriad of footpaths like the Pennine Way. Autumn is also pretty special, with places like The Lake District National Park displaying stunning colours of browns and golden hues.
Summers in Cumbria typically range from mild to warm, with the occasional hotter day. The days are at their longest, making for plenty of light to explore the stunning countryside. Temperatures average around 19-20°C making for a comfortable summer climate.
Cumbria in spring provides visitors with a mix of pleasant sunny days and some cooler, wetter weather. For those aiming to get outdoors whilst staying here, spring is a great time to visit as the cooler temperatures of around 9°C to 15°C make for the perfect weather to get active. The scenery is also stunning in spring, as the flowers start to blossom and cover the countryside in colour.
Winter holidays in Cumbria can get pretty chilly. There is a high chance of snow during this time and a drop in temperature to highs of around 6°C. It’s a beautiful time to visit for those who want to see lakes frosted over and snow-capped peaks in the background. You can choose to get wrapped up and wander through the towns and villages or stay in and get cosy by the fire.
Adventure lovers can take part in a multitude of outdoor pursuits that are on offer. The Lake District National Park is home to sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking as well as rock climbing, and the makeup of the environment makes Cumbria the perfect place for outdoor activities.
Alongside the rural and dramatic landscapes is the urban sprawl of Carlisle with its modern shopping facilities and lively nightlife. There’s also the West Cumbrian coastline with its golden sands and rich industrial history.
Cumbria is also home to some unique culinary delights such as sticky toffee pudding, Grasmere Gingerbread, the Cumberland sausage and, of course, Kendal Mint Cake - it’s a county that truly caters for all tastes.
If you are travelling from one of the major cities in the UK, below shows an average distance to Cumbria, so you know what to expect when choosing to visit by car.
London: 299 miles
Birmingham: 177 miles
Glasgow: 123 miles
Liverpool: 106 miles
Bristol: 258 miles
Manchester: 102 miles
Leeds: 114 miles
Edinburgh: 127 miles
There are multiple ways to travel to Cumbria. Its excellent public transport links mean you can journey by train or bus from many major UK cities, although stations around the area are pretty scarce. If you travel by car, there are some great service stations to stop off and rest up whilst on your trip and alternative routes depending on what roads you prefer to drive on.
Scafell Pike in the Lake District is the highest mountain in England at 978 metres and falls within the county limits. It forms a part of what is known as the Southern Fells, a dramatic range of mountains and hills, and on top of Scafell Pike, you can see as far away as the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland and Snowdonia in Wales. The habitat of the area is characterised by heather, bogs, bracken and moorland, which gives it an altogether raw appearance.
Cumbria holidays offer a vast range of things to do and incredible places to visit, so it is hard to narrow it down to one. Choosing the best area ultimately depends on what you are looking to get out of your stay here.
Those seeking the great outdoors and adventure tend to head to the stunning Lake District, for quaint towns to stroll around, Keswick, Ambleside and Kendal are popular options.
There are several other excellent places to see around Cumbria, with Lake Windermere being a popular spot for those seeking a pretty town and bustling lakeside atmosphere. For adventure seekers, Mount Helvellyn is a great place to hike, with an ascent of 950 metres and an iconic sharp edge that runs along the mountain.
If you prefer to pursue history and heritage, a trip to Hadrian’s Wall is a great option, you can walk along the ancient wall that provides stunning countryside vistas.
A place full of history, gorgeous scenery and breathtaking countryside, Cumbria really does have it all.
Cumbria is best known for being home to the Lake District National Park. Here you will find beautiful lakes, some of the country’s tallest peaks and multiple idyllic towns and villages.
When considering how expensive it is to visit Cumbria, you need to consider multiple factors. If you choose to visit the numerous towns and villages in the Lake District, expect to pay a little more as this is a tourist hot spot. For those seeking to spend their time in the countryside in more rural locations, you will find that your trip is less expensive.
