An informative guide to Lake District cottages
From the rabbit-warren of cobbled lanes in Hawkshead to the glimmering surface of Ullswater, the stone-faced mills of old Ambleside to the soaring tops of Scafell Pike, there are countless wonders waiting in this corner of Cumbria. That’s why Lake District cottages are always in such high demand, offering a bolthole in the midst of the glorious backcountry. Use this guide to find out all you need to know before booking yours.
What types of Lake District cottages can I get?
From sprawling manor mansions to cosy boltholes with a hot tub, there’s a real mix of different lettings on offer in the Lake District. Consider these 3 hints to decide what type of stay you might need this year.
Luxurious Lake District cottages
Treat yourself to some pampering, Cumbria style, by opting for one of the Lake District’s more luxurious cottages. You may need to crank up the budget a little but the pay-off is a selection of rentals with en suite bathrooms and hearty country kitchens, not to mention those with bubbling hot tubs sitting plush in the garden.
Lake District cottages for larger groups
Bringing the whole family to hit the hiking paths of Skiddaw? Thinking of a New Year break to Cumbria’s green valleys? Whatever the reason, or the size of your travelling party, you can rest assured that Lake District cottages can cater. There are plenty of places with multiple bedrooms and large-scale kitchens and dining areas that are great for big groups.
Pet-friendly Lake District cottages
Tail-wagging travellers are made to feel truly welcome in the Lake District. There are pooch-ready pubs dotting the banks of Lake Windermere, while 4-legged visitors can even ride on the vintage steamer boats across Ullswater. To keep your pup comfy, be sure to check if the cottage you’ve picked has a pet-friendly policy.
The key to getting cheap Lake District cottages
Trips to England’s Romantic country don’t have to come at a high cost. You can often find some enticing deals by following the 3 top tips below.
Last-minute Lake District cottages can be a steal
Pining for a bout of mountain wind and bracing Cumbrian countryside? You could nab yourself a great deal on a cottage stay by coming last minute. Granted, you won’t have the same wide choice of homes, as many will be pre-booked, but there’s a chance that renters will lower rates to get feet through the door.
Booking ahead is often best
Being spontaneouscouldget you a bargain Lake District cottage, but it’s still not as reliable as booking as far in advance as possible. Being prepared and having that Windermere bolthole sorted months before even getting close to your trip will maximise the amount of great deals you can choose from.
A Lake District cottage outside the Lake District
While being immersed in the fells, crags and waters of the national park itself is an enticing prospect, there’s a similar rural vibe in towns like Kendal, which actually sit just outside the designated boundaries of the reserve. The upshot is you’ll still only be a short drive from the famous hikes but could get cottages with lower rates.
Some of the best spots to book your Lake District cottage
The Lake District isn’t short on chart-topping towns and villages. From romantic hamlets strewn with blooming rhododendrons to historic literary haunts, there’s bound to be a cottage nestled somewhere you’ll love.
Relaxing breaks in Lake Windermere cottages
You can find Lake Windermere cottages all around the banks of the iconic body of water. The most enchanting spot is surely found with the half-timbered mix of pubs and tearooms that heralds Bowness-on-Windermere. Literary buffs can walk with Peter Rabbit in those parts thanks to the immersive World of Beatrix Potter exhibit.
Hawkshead for quaint Lake District cottages
There’s something undeniably Tolkien-esque about Ye Olde Hawkshead. In many ways it’s the stand-out jewel of the South Lakeland region, with moss-growing cobbled streets and whitewashed cottages that unfold in a pop-up book of rural charm. The National Trust-run Hill Top home is another place to unravel the life and works of writer Beatrix Potter nearby.
Choose Keswick for the hiking
Keswick’s vibrant old market might thrum with bookshops and food stalls throughout the summer, but it’s the hiking that really draws the crowds to Lake District cottages in these reaches. Trailheads beckon those with the boots in tow to the tops of Skiddaw and Ullock Pike, where sweeping panoramas of the Derwent Water and the town itself unfold below.