Cumbria is one of the most rural counties in England. Much of it is covered by the Lake District National Park - a staggeringly beautiful province which includes England's highest peak, Scafell Pike. Millions of visitors come to experience this area every year, yet it rarely feels crowded. Cumbria could have been designed to showcase the best of Britain - not only does it have mountains and lakes, but unspoiled beaches, locally produced food and drink of the highest quality, and towns like Keswick, Carlisle, and Kendal to give it excitement.
As well as having an abundance of natural charm, Cumbria has a generous amount of historical features and pretty cottages. National Trust properties include the Beatrix Potter Gallery, Wordsworth House, and Wray Castle; while English Heritage is responsible for the care of the Roman forts at Ravenglass and Birdoswald, Carlisle and Penrith Castles, and the ancient sites of Castlerigg Stone Circle and King Arthur's Round Table.
It isn't all standing around ooh-ing and ah-ing at the scenery. Carlisle has a wide variety of all your favourite shops, and you'll find the high streets in the towns lined with independent boutiques of all kinds. Finally, food is a pleasure whether you buy fresh ingredients from farm shops and markets, or dine at a fantastic pub or restaurant.
View holiday cottages to rent in Cumbria