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
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
Longthwaite Farmhouse, is a Grade II listed traditional seventeenth century farmhouse at the head of the Borrowdale. The house’s unique location makes it a perfect base for walkers and climbers as it offers immediate access by foot to the best loved Lakeland peaks, Scafell, Great Gable, the Langdale Pikes and Buttermere Fells. Great on and off road cycling routes and access to both rowing & sailing on nearby Derwentwater ensures that there is something for everyone. Its riverside location offers endless paddling and dam-building opportunities for children (and adults) and many species of birds to spot. Exact location can be seen using this What3Words link https://w3w.co/horizons.scouting.minivans
A luxurious holiday lodge ideally positioned in Loughrigg within the Langdale Valley under three miles from Ambleside in the Lake District National Park. With Coniston, Grasmere and Lake Windermere nearby, and the many amenities of Ambleside close to hand, this is a good base for exploring the areas many attractions, walking or simply relaxing in stunning scenery.
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.
Sunny Bank is a stylish two-bedroom holiday cottage in a quiet location within walking distance of the centre of Keswick. There is space for up to four people, so the self-catering Lake District cottage is ideal for couples or families who want a comfortable place to stay while exploring the Northern Lakes, climbing Skiddaw, walking the fells and sailing on Derwentwater and Ullswater. Cumbria and the Lake District National Park are a favourite holiday destination at any time of the year because the scenery is so amazing and there is plenty to see and do. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
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.
Sitting in the stunning little hamlet of Elterwater surrounded by mountains, Townfoot Cottage offers all the right ingredients for those who appreciate a stylish interior mixed with country cottage charm (log burner included!). Dog-friendly with superb walking from the front door. This stylish holiday cottage is an ideal base for exploring the Lake District National Park. Weekly (or longer) bookings offered all year round, sorry but short breaks are not available. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
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.
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.
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.
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
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
4 Mell Fell View is a beautiful holiday cottage with fantastic views of Little Mell Fell, Great Mell Fell and Helton Fell that surround Lake Ullswater. The owners have carefully restored the 17th Century property to provide very comfortable accommodation for four people with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It is in the quiet Lake District village of Penruddock, close to Ullswater, Keswick and Penrith and within walking distance of the excellent Herdwick Inn. The cottage is dog-friendly and available all year round, providing a lovely holiday home for families, friends and couples.
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.
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.
Carr Crag Cottage in Ambleside is a stunning Lake District holiday home with modern interiors and incredible views of the Langdale Fells. Perfect for groups or families, the luxurious house accommodates up to eight guests in four bedrooms and bathrooms. Ambleside offers scenic walking and cycling routes, plus three Michelin-starred restaurants within eight miles. The village has independent shops, cafes, and galleries, while nearby Lake Windermere is ideal for boat rides, paddle boarding and kayaking. Families can enjoy the Lakes Aquarium, Beatrix Potter Gallery, and historic sites like Castlerigg stone circle. With breathtaking views and loads of space, the cottage provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments.
Oakland West is a luxury holiday home sleeping 14 in a quiet and exclusive area of Windermere. This former grand hall and has been painstakingly restored and provides the perfect space for large groups and family gatherings.
1 Brathay Fell is an opulent, ground floor apartment that offers magnificent accommodation and bids the perfect abode for your time in The Lake District. Nestled at the foot of Loughrigg Fell and with views from the apartment towards the northern end of our best-known lake, Windermere, 1 Brathay Fell is ideal.
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.
