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
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
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.
The Farm House at Rowling End sits in an oasis of calm in the picturesque Newlands Valley, in the heart of the Lake District close to Derwent Water (fifteen minute walk) and Keswick (four miles). With fabulous walks straight from the front door (many which are favourites of Wainwright!), The Farm House is an excellent choice for walkers as well as those looking to explore the many attractions of the National Park or simply relax in a stunning setting.
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.
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.
Dunningwell Hall is a magnificently refurbished stately Victorian mansion, ideal for hosting families, friends, or corporate retreats. This pet-friendly estate offers the ultimate getaways for parties of up to 22 guests, where magical and memorable family gatherings, special occasions, and once-in-a-lifetime celebrations are the order of the day.
Holly Cottage is a four-bedroom holiday cottage in Keswick sleeping six, set on a quiet street just a few minutes’ walk from the market square and Derwentwater. This traditional terraced house combines original character with thoughtful modern touches, including a king-size four-poster bed, two bathrooms, secure bike storage and private parking. Dog- and family-friendly, it offers WiFi, gas central heating, a fully equipped kitchen, and a small front patio for sitting outside. With pubs, cafés, shops and walking routes all close by, this self-catering holiday rental in Keswick makes an easy and comfortable base for exploring the Lake District.
Dating back three hundred years, this Lakeland holiday cottage has lots of character features and provides comfortable traditional accommodation. Well located, the self-catering cottage sits in a peaceful position in the village of Ambleside near Lake Windermere in the heart of the Lake District National Park. Perfect for walkers and those wanting to explore this beautiful part of the UK.
Offering ground floor self-catering accommodation, this comfortable holiday home sits in an enviable position in the heart of the Lake District National Park in the popular town of Ambleside. Windermere and a host of attractions are a stone's throw away and the area offers super opportunities for walkers, water lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
With space for up to eight people to stay in four bedrooms, The Old House is ideal for large families and friends to relax and enjoy the beauty of the western Lake District National Park. The cottage is close to the coast and only a few miles from Ravenglass, within easy reach of Scafell Pike and Munster Castle. There are excellent opportunities for walking, mountain biking and fishing in an area renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. There is the lovely Byre cafe and also a bike rental 200 metres away.
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.
Large Cumbrian Holiday Cottage sleeps 16 guests (or 20 using sofa beds), this 1794 grade 2 listed self-catering retreat is just perfect for large groups for milestone events, birthdays or anniversary celebrations & get togethers and is located within the Yorkshire Dales National Park and alongside the Lake District National Park with easy access to the attractions of both . Full of country charm, Fawcett Mill beautifully combines fabulous original features such as a old style range and log burner & open fires, wooden beams, & 4 poster beds with modern comforts including a sauna, seven bedrooms and internet access ensuring the whole party can relax in comfort. In a picturesque setting with water fall and a stream running through the grounds, this welcoming holiday rental for large groups is just perfect for celebrating milestone birthday, anniversaries, family events & for walking , cycling, relaxing and catching up with friends and family.
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.
Tucked away on a peaceful lane a short walk from the centre of High Casterton (with pub) and just 1.5 miles (20 minute walk) from cosmopolitan Kirkby Lonsdale with a great choice of pubs and shops, Norwood Cottage is a fantastic holiday home for couples or families who love spectacular scenery, great food and plenty of variety. There is good access to both the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, with fantastic sights like Cragg Hill, Dentdale and Levens Hall all nearby. The flexible layout accommodates four people in two bedrooms, with the second bedroom being able to be configured as either a double or a twin, depending on your needs.
Enjoy the wonderful year-round hospitality of this refurbished self-catering apartment in Selside, close to both the Lake District National Park and the Yorkshire Dales National Park. It's dog-friendly, with a spacious bedroom that accommodates couples or individuals. Walking, mountain biking and potholing are just three of the many ways to explore the incredible landscape, with local attractions including Sizergh Castle, Lowther Castle, Ullswater and the Ullswater Steamers, while Bowness on Windermere is only 25-minutes away. Kendal is a short drive from the apartment, with an excellent variety of places to eat, drink and shop.
Surrounded by breathtaking views and gorgeous countryside, this charming 17th century farmhouse is a true gem. Perfectly combining character with modern day comforts, the owners of Hill House have created a cosy and welcoming holiday cottage in the beautiful Upper Eden valley. Hill House is located in the small village of Winton, just a 30 minute walk to the traditional market town of Kirkby Stephen. Explore a new footpath each day or enjoy meandering around the picturesque towns and villages. With the North Pennines and Yorkshire Dales on your doorstep, and the Lake District just a stone's throw away, there are endless opportunities for exploring this stunning part of the world.
Eight good-sized, individually decorated bedrooms (2-ensuite). Sleeps 16-20 (sleeps 15 singles in separate beds). Ideal for all ages - especially family holidays and celebrations, short breaks available. Two sitting rooms with real log fires (logs provided in winter). Large garden, games room with pool table. Two well-behaved pets welcome. Large private car park (5/6 cars)
Waterside Retreat is a welcoming holiday home with views over Morecambe Bay to the mountains of the Lake District. It is in the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and within easy reach of the southern shore of Windermere, the Forest of Bowland and the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The property sleeps four people in two bedrooms and is ideal for couples or families, being just across the road from the water and enjoying spectacular views. The owners have recently refurbished the house, decorating it with a subtle nautical theme to suit the environment.
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.
