Luxury Cottages Lake District

• Lake District cottages cover a wide range across the national park, from the central lakes, including Windermere, to more remote valleys and fells.

• The Best Places to Visit in the Lake District guide highlights a mix of lake-edge towns, scenic valleys, and upland passes – so it all depends on your priorities (lake views, walking access, tranquillity or convenience).

• For balance, staying close to one of the principal lakes (Windermere, Coniston, Ullswater) gives good access to water activities, walks, and village amenities, while still allowing access to more remote areas.

Things to do in the Lake District:

• Walking & hiking in the fells – from gentle valley paths to challenging summits including Scafell Pike and Helvellyn.

• Boating, kayaking, paddleboarding – on lakes, tarns, or rivers

• Scenic drives & passes – e.g. exploring via Kirkstone Pass, Hardknott, Wrynose

• Visiting towns & historic attractions – Ambleside, Grasmere, Hawkshead, Beatrix Potter sites, heritage houses

• Gardens & estates – visiting gardens, lakeside estates, historic homes

• Wildlife & nature spotting – birds, woodland, moors

• Relaxation & scenery – simply enjoying peace, views, lakeside sitting, local cafés and photography

• Luxury Cottages offers a range from cosy cottages to more luxurious properties in prime locations, so pricing can vary significantly.

• Properties close to the lakes or with water views, high-end amenities, or in peak season will typically command higher rates.

• More remote cottages (further from main attractions) or options in off-peak times will tend to be more attainable.

The Best Places to Visit in the Lake District:

• Ambleside – central, with shops, cafés, walks

• Grasmere – quaint, scenic, literary associations

• Windermere/Bowness — for lake access and amenities

• Hawkshead – charming, historic, peaceful

• Keswick – northern base, good for exploring Derwentwater and fells

• Coniston/Brantwood – for those wanting quieter lakeside areas

Each has its own character – some more bustling, some more peaceful.

To pick a cottage that matches your desires:

1. Proximity to a lake or water access – if lakeside or views are important to you.

2. Ease of walking access/trails from cottage – so you can head out without needing to drive.

3. Amenities – log fires, hot tubs, privacy, gardens, parking, creature comforts.

4. Size & group composition – whether it’s a couple, family, or group.

Yes, here are practical ideas:

• Public transport: buses connect many towns (though service can be limited in remote areas).

• Water transport: in some lakes, there are passenger ferries or boat services that link lakeside villages.

• Walk or hike: you can plan routes or line walks that start from nearby towns or cottages.

• Bike hire: for shorter distances between villages.

• Local taxis or shuttle services: to connect trailheads or get you from base to further reaches.

• Combining modes: drive partway, park, then hike or take boats to other areas.

The Best Times to Visit the Lake District:

• Late spring through summer (May to August) offers the best chance for fair weather, long daylight hours, and full access to services, paths, and attractions.

• Shoulder months (April, September, early October) can be great: fewer crowds, vibrant scenery, and still decent weather.

• Autumn brings beautiful colours, crisp air, and atmospheric walks.

• Winter is quieter and peaceful, ideal for cosy cottage stays and dramatic landscapes, but expect shorter days, possible snow or ice, and some facilities may have reduced opening hours.