Holly Cottage, Keswick, Cumbria, The Lake District, England - Sleeps 6

About Holly Cottage

Holly Cottage is on a peaceful side street in the centre of Keswick, close enough to wander into town in a few minutes but far enough away to feel calm once you close the door. It's a traditional terraced Lake District holiday house arranged over three floors, sleeping six across four bedrooms, and it has the sort of atmosphere that makes you relax straight away. Sally, your host, has preserved the original features where they matter while ensuring everything works as it should for a proper holiday stay. The main bedroom has a king-size four-poster bed and an original fireplace, while the second bedroom is equally suitable for adults or older children and includes a desk for catching up on work if needed. Upstairs, a double and a single bedroom look out towards the surrounding fells. With two bathrooms, one on the first floor and one on the top floor, mornings stay refreshingly straightforward.

Downstairs, the lounge and dining area is a comfortable, lived-in space with leather sofas, a solid oak table and a large bay window overlooking the front patio. It's a good room for slow breakfasts, board games in the evening or planning the next day's walk. The kitchen is well-equipped and practical, with everything you need for cooking after a day on the hills. At the back of the cottage, there's an outhouse with a washing machine, tumble dryer, freezer and secure, lockable storage for two bikes, which is a real bonus in Keswick. You also have a private parking space behind the cottage, something many central properties can’t offer. One well-behaved dog is welcome, and families are catered for with a cot and high chair if needed. It feels like a place to settle into, not just somewhere to drop your bags.

Keswick itself is one of the most sociable towns in the Lake District. The market square is the hub, with Moot Hall at its centre and shops, cafés and pubs radiating outwards. The Dog & Gun is famous for its goulash and its muddy-boot welcome, while the Pack Horse Inn is known for its quiz nights and live music. The Wainwright on Penrith Road celebrates fell walking in all its forms. For food, there's everything from Thai at Mizu to burgers at The Round, curry at Lakeland Spice and relaxed breakfasts at Abraham's Tea Room. Jasper's Coffee House is a favourite with dog owners, and Derwent Walker Café Bar is good for cocktails and small plates. You also have Theatre by the Lake for evening shows, the surprisingly interesting Derwent Pencil Museum, and The Puzzling Place for something light-hearted. Derwentwater is about a ten-minute walk away, where you can hire boats and paddleboards, and stroll or cycle along the lakeside paths.

Open your front door and head straight onto the fells. Latrigg is an easy introduction, Catbells is short and steep with big rewards, and Skiddaw dominates the skyline for those wanting a longer day out. Castlerigg Stone Circle is just outside town, sitting dramatically among the hills, and Whinlatter Forest offers walking, cycling and forest views. Borrowdale Valley leads south from the Lake towards Lodore Falls and some of the most striking scenery in the area. Whether you’re here for walking, food, scenery or simply being based somewhere lively and characterful, this holiday cottage in Keswick puts everything within easy reach.