The image of windswept and desolate moors only paints half the picture of an extensive county like Cumbria. In between the picturesque landscapes and ancient history lie bustling towns and cities providing an exciting and varied experience for all those who visit Cumbrian cottages.
The third largest county in England, Cumbria, can be found on the northwest coast bordering Scotland to the north, Northumberland and Durham to the east and Lancashire and Yorkshire to the south. It is home to the world renowned Lake District National Park and its landscapes consist of scenic lakes and green lowlands. Read more
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.
Meadow View is positioned in a tranquil setting on the edge of the National Park, between Keswick and Penrith, within a small group of similar lodges. It is four miles from the village of Greystoke, with a traditional country pub and shop. This very comfortable Scandinavian style lodge, with a wood burning stove, has floor-to-ceiling windows providing extensive open views over the countryside with Blencathra in the distance. It is a haven for wildlife, including red squirrels, rabbits and many species of birds.
A comfortable cosy holiday cottage in a lovely rural location within Cumbria & the Yorkshire Dales National Park near the unspoilt village of Ravenstonedale. Conveniently located for exploring the many attractions of both the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, ideal for walkers and bird watching. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Nestled in beautiful countryside near the Cumbrian village of Dent in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and within easy reach of Windermere and the Lake District National Park, Gibbs Hall Barn is ideal for families and friends who want to spend as much time as possible walking and cycling during the day, with the opportunity to relax in a hot bath and stretch out in front of a roaring fire in the evening. The cottage has been skilfully converted from an old farm building and sleeps up to seven people in three bedrooms. It is less than three miles from Dent, and close to regional attractions that include the Settle-Carlisle Railway and White Scar Caves.
A delightful Lakeland cottage ideally situated in a tranquil position near the popular village of Bowness-on-Windermere within the Lake District National Park. Ferry View Cottage provides a cosy base from which to explore all this stunning area has to offer with super walking opportunities and an abundance of attractions.
With the village shop a short stroll away, an excellent bus service in to The Lake District, Carnforth & Lancaster with excellent footpaths leading from the village, it's no surprise that Hutton House Cottage is popular with couples, families and friends. The two-bedroom holiday home is in the quiet community of Burton-in-Kendal and close to the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, Forest of Bowland, and Arnside and Silverdale AONB. You're only five miles from beautiful Morecambe Bay and 20 miles from Windermere, with Kendal, Keswick, Ullswater and Scafell Pike all nearby for days of climbing, walking, mountain biking and sightseeing.
Dentdale and the Yorkshire Dales National Park have what are arguably some of the best views in the UK and you can enjoy the sight of Rise Hill and Coombe Scar from this charming terraced holiday cottage. The cafes, pubs and shops in Dent are all within walking distance, and there are footpaths and cycling trails from the door. Kendal and the Lake District National Park are a short drive away, as is the Forest of Bowland AONB. Leeds and Carlise are also within easy reach either via car or on the Settle-Carlisle Railway. Sunnyside Cottage sleeps three people in two bedrooms and is perfect for couples, solo travellers or small families.
A delightful dog friendly holiday cottage with wonderful views perfectly placed near to the historic market town of Kirkby Lonsdale where the stunning Lake District meets the rolling Yorkshire Dales. Ideal for walkers or anyone wanting to discover the many attractions of Lancashire, Cumbria and North Yorkshire.
Ideal for couples, walkers, cyclists, explorers and families, in the perfect location with Historical Hadrian's Wall, stunningly beautiful Talkin Tarn and Gelt woods nearby. Amazing walks and cycleways all on your doorstep. With the Lake District National Park, Dumfries, Galloway Coast and surrounded by 3 areas of Outstanding National Beauty/National Landscapes. At the end of a quiet country lane you will find beautiful, Wall and Lakes cottage with its large garden, parking for two vehicles and open fields behind. All just a short stroll into the friendly market town of Brampton with its pubs, shops and amenities. As you walk up to the bungalow there are steps with study handrails to both the front and side porch doors leading to level access within the bungalow. Comfortable and clean Wall and Lakes Cottage provides quality and value, sleeps 4 in luxury bedding with a cosy stove and beautiful countryside views. Family friendly the front king size bed can also split into 2 small singles (2ft 6"). A highchair and baby bath can also be provided, if requested at time of booking, please bring your own travel cot and baby bedding.
Dragon Cottage is welcoming and comfy and is a nice base to return home to after a long day exploring the Yorkshire Dales or Lake District (within driving distance). Right in the centre of Dent's picturesque cobbled village (with pubs and a shop close to hand), this is a great choice for walkers and explorers with an abundance of attractions just waiting to be discovered. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Forest Field is a delightful holiday cottage within the Rusland Valley providing the perfect self-catering base for couples to relax and explore the beautiful Lake District and its many attractions. Set within unspoilt rolling countryside, the views are simply stunning and the walks are equally as lovely. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Made just for two, this dog-friendly self-catering cottages offers all the right ingredients to relax and unwind. Lovely walks by day with the use of a hot tub to bubble your aches away afterwards. A great base for exploring the tranquil beautiful Ellen Vale sandwiched between Cockermouth and the Solway Coast, as well as the many attractions of the nearby Lake District. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Tailor-made for two, Parlour Cottage is a romantic retreat in the peaceful Ellen Vale between Cockermouth and the Solway Coast in Cumbria. Within easy driving distance of the Lake District National Park, there are an abundance of great days out for couples as well as lovely walks on the doorstep. Sit back in the hot tub and enjoy the peace, tranquility and bird song! Tourist board rating: 4 Star
A Tailor-made romantic holiday retreat for two in the peaceful Ellen Vale, in Cumbria, between Cockermouth and the Solway Coast and within easy distance of the Lakes. With the use of a hot tub, couples are sure to get lots of relaxation on holiday. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
With stunning views over the fells and surrounding Eskdale Valley, this large airy holiday home sleeps five guests and is an ideal self-catering choice for those who like peace, tranquility and outdoor activities with great walks, cycling, climbing and canoeing amongst the many adventures on offer. Brantrake House is a great base for exploring the Western Lake District and Central Fells. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Exceptional both inside and out, this stylish well presented lodge sits in one of the most enviable positions in the Lake District with lovely views over Lake Windermere. Enjoy an alfresco meal on the terrace watching the sun set over the lake by night, and by day discover the many attractions of nearby Bowness and Windermere.
This fabulous holiday home, with its own private jetty, affords an exceptional position overlooking Lake Windermere in the very heart of the Lake District National Park. Enjoying a truly magical setting overlooking Lake Windermere, this exceptional holiday home offers guests the chance to enjoy an abundance of attractions, superb lakeland walks and plenty of opportunity to relax and unwind. Just a short drive from Bowness with excellent amenities close to hand and perfect for boaters with its own private jetty for mooring (you can launch just half a mile away).
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.
A 17th Century holiday cottage located in a peaceful position amongst beautiful countryside just three miles from the Cumbrian cobbled village of Dent in the Yorkshire Dales and within easy reach of the Lake District. Ideal for walking, relaxing or visiting the areas many attractions and with a fire for winter nights and pretty garden with glorious views, it is the perfect place to escape away from it all and relax. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Popular towns in and around The Lake District:
AlstonAmblesideApplebyArnsideBaggrowBarrow in FurnessBootleBowness on WindermereBowness-on-WindermereBramptonBurton-in-KendalCaldbeckCarlisleCarnforthCartmelCleatorCockermouthConistonConiston WaterDeepdaleDentEskdale GreenEskdale ValleyGosforthGrasmereGrizebeckHawksheadIrebyKendalKeswickKirkby LonsdaleKirkby StephenKirksantonLoweswaterMilnthorpeNewby BridgePenrithRavenglassSedberghUllswaterUlverstonWasdaleWhittingtonWigtonWindermereSearch within North West England
The Lake District and the Lake District National Park are undoubtedly the highlights of Cumbria. They have served as an inspiration to numerous writers, painters and artists and have been featured heavily in television and film.
With an area of 885 square miles, the Lake District has a diverse range of natural sights including narrow valleys, oak woodlands which are filled with wildlife native to the area and, of course, tranquil waterways and lakes. There are various trails and walks around the county too.
The Pennine Way comes through Cumbria and is a 267-mile walk that starts from Kirk Yetholm in Scotland and finishes up in Derbyshire with a significant portion running through Cumbria itself. The Cumbria Way is another well-known scenic walk and goes through rolling farmlands, mountain views, old market towns as well as enchanting valleys to provide an all-around experience of the county.
The main historical attraction in Cumbria is Hadrian's Wall, which was built by the Romans. The longest visible stretch of the wall that is still intact is found at the edge of the county. Cumbria is a Roman historian's paradise, as it hosts the tallest Roman structure in England – Ravenglass Bath House – and various museums offer a captivating glimpse into Roman Britain and how the local area changed over this period.
Before booking one of our holiday cottages in Cumbria, you can find all the information you need for your trip here. For more tips, check out our complete North West England Guide.
Every season delivers its own charm in Cumbria. The sparkle of winter frosts is accompanied by the smell of log fires providing a warm welcome in cottages and pubs. A visit in spring or summer allows for a myriad of footpaths like the Pennine Way. Autumn is also pretty special, with places like The Lake District National Park displaying stunning colours of browns and golden hues.
Summers in Cumbria typically range from mild to warm, with the occasional hotter day. The days are at their longest, making for plenty of light to explore the stunning countryside. Temperatures average around 19-20°C making for a comfortable summer climate.
Cumbria in spring provides visitors with a mix of pleasant sunny days and some cooler, wetter weather. For those aiming to get outdoors whilst staying here, spring is a great time to visit as the cooler temperatures of around 9°C to 15°C make for the perfect weather to get active. The scenery is also stunning in spring, as the flowers start to blossom and cover the countryside in colour.
Winter holidays in Cumbria can get pretty chilly. There is a high chance of snow during this time and a drop in temperature to highs of around 6°C. It’s a beautiful time to visit for those who want to see lakes frosted over and snow-capped peaks in the background. You can choose to get wrapped up and wander through the towns and villages or stay in and get cosy by the fire.
Adventure lovers can take part in a multitude of outdoor pursuits that are on offer. The Lake District National Park is home to sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking as well as rock climbing, and the makeup of the environment makes Cumbria the perfect place for outdoor activities.
Alongside the rural and dramatic landscapes is the urban sprawl of Carlisle with its modern shopping facilities and lively nightlife. There’s also the West Cumbrian coastline with its golden sands and rich industrial history.
Cumbria is also home to some unique culinary delights such as sticky toffee pudding, Grasmere Gingerbread, the Cumberland sausage and, of course, Kendal Mint Cake - it’s a county that truly caters for all tastes.
If you are travelling from one of the major cities in the UK, below shows an average distance to Cumbria, so you know what to expect when choosing to visit by car.
London: 299 miles
Birmingham: 177 miles
Glasgow: 123 miles
Liverpool: 106 miles
Bristol: 258 miles
Manchester: 102 miles
Leeds: 114 miles
Edinburgh: 127 miles
There are multiple ways to travel to Cumbria. Its excellent public transport links mean you can journey by train or bus from many major UK cities, although stations around the area are pretty scarce. If you travel by car, there are some great service stations to stop off and rest up whilst on your trip and alternative routes depending on what roads you prefer to drive on.
Scafell Pike in the Lake District is the highest mountain in England at 978 metres and falls within the county limits. It forms a part of what is known as the Southern Fells, a dramatic range of mountains and hills, and on top of Scafell Pike, you can see as far away as the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland and Snowdonia in Wales. The habitat of the area is characterised by heather, bogs, bracken and moorland, which gives it an altogether raw appearance.
Cumbria holidays offer a vast range of things to do and incredible places to visit, so it is hard to narrow it down to one. Choosing the best area ultimately depends on what you are looking to get out of your stay here.
Those seeking the great outdoors and adventure tend to head to the stunning Lake District, for quaint towns to stroll around, Keswick, Ambleside and Kendal are popular options.
There are several other excellent places to see around Cumbria, with Lake Windermere being a popular spot for those seeking a pretty town and bustling lakeside atmosphere. For adventure seekers, Mount Helvellyn is a great place to hike, with an ascent of 950 metres and an iconic sharp edge that runs along the mountain.
If you prefer to pursue history and heritage, a trip to Hadrian’s Wall is a great option, you can walk along the ancient wall that provides stunning countryside vistas.
A place full of history, gorgeous scenery and breathtaking countryside, Cumbria really does have it all.
Cumbria is best known for being home to the Lake District National Park. Here you will find beautiful lakes, some of the country’s tallest peaks and multiple idyllic towns and villages.
When considering how expensive it is to visit Cumbria, you need to consider multiple factors. If you choose to visit the numerous towns and villages in the Lake District, expect to pay a little more as this is a tourist hot spot. For those seeking to spend their time in the countryside in more rural locations, you will find that your trip is less expensive.
