Luxury Cottages in the Lake District

From stunning natural lakes to sweeping hillsides, the Lake District is a top holiday spot for outdoor adventurers. Allowing you to slip on your hiking boots, pack a lunch and take to the mountains, this region offers a welcome reprieve from the busyness of daily life. 

Even if you've got a more relaxing itinerary in mind, you should definitely consider the Lake District for your next staycation - largely undeveloped and sprinkled with quaint local villages, this peaceful area offers the perfect place to unwind with family. Plus, with our luxury selection of holiday homes and cottages in the Lake District, you'll have a beautiful base from which to explore it all.

Why visit?

  • As England's largest national park, you'll never be short of new trails to discover, allowing you to get away from the crowds.
  • As one of the UK's most secluded spots, you can head to the mountains and stargaze beneath clear open skies while breathing in the fresh air.
  • Creative minds like William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter drew inspiration from the region - retrace their steps or perhaps come up with your own work.

Find out more about the Lake District

Why stay with us?

Style and character are everything at Oliver’s Travels, and our collection of handpicked cottages in Snowdonia have this in spades.

We have destination experts who know the ins and outs of all our regions, picking holiday homes and luxury cottages in the Lake District that aren’t only unique, but also in the best locations. What's more, our country houses are 100% family-friendly, and have the ‘wow’ factor.

Our helpful concierge team are on-hand to make your stay extra special. Whether you want a fully-stocked fridge, a local in-house chef to cook your meals, housekeeping or any other extra service – consider them your holiday genie, who will happily grant your wishes.

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Luxury Cottages in Lake District: Our Top Picks

Why visit the Lake District

Stunning scenery, flourishing wildlife, intriguing history and a strong heritage draw millions to the Lake District year after year. 

Not only does it offer a stress-free, rejuvenating break for UK residents (there'll be no worrying about border closures, entry requirements and airport security here) but all are welcome - from grandparents looking to soak up their surroundings, all the way down to four-legged friends who get to roam alongside you.

However, despite its continued popularity, the sheer size of the region means its tranquil atmosphere remains intact - steer only a little clear of the most trodden paths and you'll find a calming spot to enjoy all to yourself.

 

Things to do

Exploring the Lake District's natural beauty will likely be the main reason for your visit. At 978m, Scafell Peak serves as England's highest peak while also being a war memorial. Even if you're not up for the challenge, ample walking routes can be found in the area that every member of the family can enjoy.

Prefer your adventures to be water-based? Take a boat cruise across Lake Windermere, or hire a canoe in Derwenwater to enjoy dramatic views from all sides. And for the cyclists, you'll also find many dedicated paths through the woods and up the mountains.

However, it's important that you also take some time to unwind while here. Whether you grew up reading her stories or enjoy sharing them with your own kids, Beatrix Potter has a firm place in the hearts of millions. The World of Beatrix Potter brings her timeless tales to life, which she wrote and set in the Lake District.

Prefer history to fiction? Head to Wray Castle and marvel at its dramatic Gothic Revival structure, exploring the turrets and towers as you go.

Check out our full list of things to do in the Lake District to get your trip planning underway.


Food and drink

You may be surprised to learn that the Lake District has become something of a foodie mecca. 8 Michelin-star restaurants can be found across the region, but even if you spend all your time hopping between cafes, pubs and more casual establishments, you'll still be treated to a variety of dishes made from locally sourced produce.

Meat eaters should definitely take this chance to enjoy authentic Cumberland sausages, preferably served with creamy mash for a fuss-free, comforting meal post-hike. Looking for something a little sweeter? Afternoon tea remains popular throughout the various towns and villages, while Grasmere gingerbread is perfect for enjoying straight away or taking home as a souvenir.

Why it's perfect for families

  • Great for babies: There are many stroller-friendly walking routes, meaning your young one gets a front-row seat to all the adventure even when their little legs get tired.
  • Great for kids: Energetic children can let off some steam as they roam around this natural playground. Then, take a trip to the Lake District Wildlife Park and make some new furry friends.

  • Great for teens: Up for a challenge? Head to Grizedale Forest to traverse one of nine cycling trails or off-road mountain bike trails. Along the way, discover the various art sculptures hidden throughout the forest.

Top tips

  • It's always a good time: Don't be afraid to visit in the winter - the Lake District is a year-round destination, and while some may be put off by the heavier rainfall, it's the perfect time to enjoy the region's cosier pubs.
  • Give a person the right shoes... and they can conquer the Lake District! The importance of proper footwear cannot be overstated - particularly if you're hoping to tackle some of the steeper inclines. 
  • Plan. Plan. Plan. There's so much to see and do here, so it can be easy to get overwhelmed. That's why we'd recommend looking up routes in advance and choosing a luxury cottage in the Lake District that's nearby.

What Oliver loves

The Castlerigg Stone Circle is like Stonehenge's lesser-known sibling - and that's why we think it's well worth a visit! Enjoy weaving your way around the stones with lower crowds and a stunning view of Keswick in the distance.

Towns and villages in the Lake District

Nestled below the Lake District's towering hilltops and stunning mountains you'll find some of the most picturesque towns and villages in the UK. Cobbled streets, winding lanes, cosy cafes and local shops abound, offering quiet spots to unwind after a day spent hiking. 

Paying respect to their lengthy history, many continue to boast bustling market squares, and some even have ties to certain famous writers. Whichever you choose to visit, you'll never be short of unsuspecting corners to explore throughout your stay.

Oliver’s Hidden Gem

The Quaker Tapestry Museum boasts over 350 years of history displayed across 40 embroidered panels. Not only is it all housed in a gorgeous Georgian Meeting House, but it's a perfect rainy day activity.

This car-free village is filled with historical buildings, but the most significant draw of all is its ties to Beatrix Potter. Explore her charming works at a dedicated gallery, before moving onto the equally-as-sweet Chocolate Factory.

One for the foodies, Cartmel is famous for its award-winning sticky toffee pudding. However, you'll also find a cheese delicatessen, two Michelin-star restaurants and plenty of traditional pubs to enjoy a hearty lunch in.

Once a woollen textile hotspot, Kendal today is more well known for its Mint Cakes - an excellent pocket-sized, sugar-packed hiking snack. Grab a few on your way through but be sure to check out the Kendal Castle ruins before leaving.

Grasmere's Dove Cottage was once the home of William Wordsworth, with keen readers flocking to visit the small house-turned-museum each year. Many of its surrounding buildings also date back to the 19th century, so you'll feel immersed in history just by walking around.

A popular home base from which to explore the wider Lake District, Ambleside is filled with characterful Victorian buildings that will have you feeling whisked away to simpler times. Stock Ghyll Force is well worth a visit too - the 20m waterfall is just a short walk away.

This tiny hamlet is often overlooked as merely a starting point for several key hikes, located at the foot of Honister Pass. However, underground adventures also await at the Honister Slate Mine - get ready for vertical climbs and rope-bridge crossings!

Lake District travel: Getting there and around

The Lake District is easily accessible from across the UK. You'll find the M6 motorway to the east of the region, so you can get there from London in around 5 hours and Manchester in 90 minutes. However, given the luscious scenery of Cumbria, getting there is truly part of the adventure!


By train

Key railway stations such as Penrith, Carlisle and Oxenholme offer easy links with London and Glasgow via West Coast train services. Windermere, Kendal and Staveley also have stations, meaning you can get here by rail from just about anywhere in Great Britain.


By bus

Even if you arrived in the Lake District by car, you don't have to be tied to navigating the roads by yourself. Instead, you can buy a "park and explore" ticket which covers a day's parking plus bus travel around the region. 

You can also grab a Lakes Dayrider ticket to enjoy unlimited Stagecoach travel for 5 people around the region.


By air

If you're flying in from further afield, the closest airports are Manchester to the south and Glasgow to the north. Carlisle Lake District Airport also offers limited flights to and from Dublin, London, Southend and Belfast.


By car

If you arrived by train or plane and don't want to wait around for public transport, consider renting an electric car to fully explore the region. These can be found at various Lake District train stations, with several charging points located throughout the region.


By foot

Of course, one of the main reasons many visit the Lake District is its ample walking trails. You'll find both low-level strolls and high-intensity hikes here, meaning amblers of all ages and abilities can enjoy the beautiful scenery. Just remember to bring suitable shoes, wear breathable layers, pack your suncream and consider investing in walking poles for tougher routes.

Top tips

  • Phone service can be patchy, so invest in an old-fashioned map and compass to make sure that you're not caught out!

  • Get familiar with the signs for footpaths, bridleways and byways ahead of your trip to navigate the area like a pro. 
  • Minibus tours and group guides are great if your time in the region is limited and you want to see as much as possible.

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