Finding the best places to stay at lake district is the crucial first step to crafting an unforgettable UK holiday, a decision that shapes every sunrise over the fells and every cosy evening by the fire. This guide is designed to navigate you through the stunning mosaic of villages, valleys, and watersides that make up this beloved national park.
We’ll explore the unique character of each region, from the bustling shores of Lake Windermere to the tranquil Cumbrian fells. Whether you seek the refined comfort of luxury hotels, the rustic charm of a self-catering cottage, or a basecamp for endless hiking trails, the perfect spot awaits. The Cumbrian countryside offers a diverse tapestry of experiences, and matching your accommodation to your travel style is the key to unlocking its magic. For those interested in lakeside attractions beyond the UK, exploring the dynamics of other locations can offer a broader perspective; you can get a sense of this by reading about what to do at twin lakes, which provides a different flavour of waterside recreation.
Contents
- What Fellow Travellers Say About Their Lake District Stays
- Which Part of the Lake District is Best to Stay In?
- Exploring the Top Towns: Where to Find the Best Places to Stay at Lake District
- What Types of Accommodation Can You Find in the Lake District?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Lake District Stays
What Fellow Travellers Say About Their Lake District Stays
Before diving into specific locations, it’s always insightful to hear from those who have walked the paths and rested their heads in the local inns. The overwhelming consensus from visitors is one of awe, but the advice is nuanced. Many highlight the importance of location based on activity; a family with young children might rave about their stay near the visitor-friendly Bowness, while a serious fell walker will sing the praises of a quiet cottage in the Borrowdale Valley. A common thread in reviews is the sheer quality of hospitality, whether in a grand hotel or a humble B&B. Visitors often mention that the magic isn’t just in the fells but in the warm welcome they receive, making their choice of lodging a core part of the cherished memory.
Which Part of the Lake District is Best to Stay In?
The Lake District isn’t a single, uniform destination; it’s a collection of distinct areas, each with its own personality and appeal. Choosing the right region is fundamental to planning your trip, as the atmosphere can shift dramatically from one valley to the next. Your decision will likely hinge on whether you crave convenience and buzz or solitude and untamed landscapes.
The Southern Lakes: Bustling Hubs and Serene Waters
The South Lakes area, home to Windermere and Coniston Water, is often the first port of call for visitors. It’s the most accessible part of the park, with excellent transport links and a high concentration of amenities. Towns like Ambleside, Bowness, and Windermere offer a vibrant atmosphere with a plethora of shops, restaurants, and attractions. This region is ideal for first-time visitors or those who enjoy having everything on their doorstep. While it can be the busiest area, especially in peak season, you’re never far from a quiet footpath or a peaceful lakeside viewpoint. The accommodation here is incredibly varied, catering to every possible taste and budget.
The Northern Lakes: Dramatic Scenery and Quiet Retreats
Journeying north reveals a more rugged and dramatic side to the national park. Centred around Keswick, Derwentwater, and Ullswater, this region is a haven for adventurers and photographers. The landscape is dominated by towering fells like Skiddaw and Blencathra, offering some of the most challenging and rewarding hikes. While Keswick is a lively market town with a strong outdoor community, the surrounding valleys like Borrowdale and Newlands offer a profound sense of tranquillity. If your idea of a perfect holiday involves breathtaking vistas and a feeling of being immersed in nature, the North Lakes should be your focus. This area is particularly known for its charming guesthouses and traditional inns. While the architectural styles are deeply rooted in local tradition, it’s always fascinating to see how modern developments are integrated into natural landscapes elsewhere. For a look at a different approach to lakeside living, one might observe the planning behind projects like lennar at ranches at lake mcleod, which showcases a very different kind of property development.
According to Eleanor Vance, a seasoned travel writer for Cumbria Today, “People often ask me for the ‘best’ place, but the truth is, the Lake District offers a different kind of ‘best’ for everyone. The key is to match your travel style to the village’s personality. A thrill-seeker will find their heaven in Keswick, while a couple seeking quiet romance might feel more at home in a secluded Ullswater B&B.”
The Western Lakes: Untouched Wilderness and Coastal Charm
For those truly looking to get away from it all, the Western Lakes are a revelation. This is the most remote and least-visited part of the Lake District, featuring Wastwater (voted Britain’s Favourite View), Ennerdale, and Eskdale. The scenery here is raw and powerfully beautiful, defined by steep scree slopes and a profound sense of isolation. Accommodation is sparser and often more rustic, with traditional farmhouses and country pubs providing a warm refuge after a day of exploration. This region is perfect for experienced hikers, wild swimmers, and anyone seeking solitude. It requires more effort to reach, but the reward is an authentic and untamed Cumbrian experience, far from the summer crowds.
Exploring the Top Towns: Where to Find the Best Places to Stay at Lake District
Once you’ve chosen a region, the next step is to select a town or village as your base. Each settlement has a unique charm, offering different amenities and access to the surrounding fells and lakes. This is where your holiday truly begins to take shape.
Ambleside: The Perfect Base for Hikers and Explorers
Nestled at the northern tip of Lake Windermere, Ambleside is arguably one of the best-located towns for exploring the entire national park. It strikes a perfect balance between being a bustling hub and providing immediate access to iconic walking routes. From the town centre, you can easily embark on hikes to Loughrigg Fell, the Fairfield Horseshoe, or Wansfell Pike. Ambleside is packed with outdoor gear shops, fantastic pubs, and excellent cafes, making it a practical and lively base. Its central location means you’re just a short drive or bus ride from other key areas like Grasmere and the Langdale Valleys.
Windermere & Bowness-on-Windermere: Lakeside Charm and Vibrant Life
These two interconnected towns form the heart of the South Lakes. Bowness, situated directly on the lake, is the epicentre of activity, with boat trips, the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, and a bustling promenade. Windermere town is set slightly back from the lake and offers a slightly more relaxed atmosphere with charming Victorian architecture. Staying here means you have the widest array of restaurants, bars, and shops at your disposal. It’s an excellent choice for families and those who want entertainment alongside natural beauty. The sheer variety of accommodation, from grand Victorian hotels to modern apartments, is unmatched. The charm of a lakeside inn is a universal draw; a premier example of this is captured in reviews for places like the inn on the lake at ullswater, which epitomizes the Cumbrian lakeside experience.
Keswick: An Adventurer’s Paradise in the North
If your trip is all about the great outdoors, Keswick is your town. Situated between the dramatic peaks of Skiddaw and the serene shores of Derwentwater, it’s a magnet for hikers, climbers, and cyclists. The town has a wonderfully friendly and unpretentious atmosphere, with a thriving market, an independent cinema, and the renowned Theatre by the Lake. It’s the perfect launchpad for exploring the northern fells and valleys. After a long day on the hills, you can retreat to one of its many cosy pubs, which are often filled with fellow adventurers sharing stories of their day. The sense of community here is palpable.
Grasmere: A Poet’s Haven and a Foodie’s Dream
Famously described by William Wordsworth as “the loveliest spot that man hath ever found,” Grasmere retains its poetic and romantic charm. The village is incredibly picturesque, surrounded by a gentle ring of fells and centred around the tranquil lake of the same name. It is home to Dove Cottage, Wordsworth’s former home, and is a must-visit for literary enthusiasts. In recent years, Grasmere has also developed a reputation as a culinary hotspot, boasting several high-end restaurants and charming cafes. It’s a quieter and more refined alternative to Ambleside, perfect for couples and those seeking a peaceful, culturally rich escape.
What Types of Accommodation Can You Find in the Lake District?
The diversity of the landscape is matched only by the variety of places to stay. From historic manors to modern holiday parks, there is something to suit every preference and budget, ensuring you find the perfect retreat after a day of Cumbrian adventure.
For the Romantics: Secluded Hotels and Boutique B&Bs
The Lake District is an inherently romantic destination, and its accommodation offerings reflect this. You can find secluded country house hotels tucked away in private valleys, offering spa treatments, fine dining, and breathtaking views. Many of these establishments are set in historic buildings, complete with roaring log fires and four-poster beds. For a more intimate experience, the region is dotted with boutique B&Bs and guesthouses, where personal touches and local knowledge from your hosts can elevate your stay. These are often the best places for discovering hidden gems and local secrets.
For the Families: Spacious Cottages and Holiday Parks
Travelling with family requires space, flexibility, and entertainment. Self-catering cottages are an incredibly popular choice, providing a home-away-from-home experience. They range from traditional stone-built farmhouses to modern lakeside lodges. Having your own kitchen and living space is invaluable when travelling with children. Alternatively, holiday parks located near towns like Bowness and Keswick offer a fantastic combination of self-catering accommodation and on-site facilities such as swimming pools, play areas, and kids’ clubs, ensuring there’s always something to keep younger visitors entertained, whatever the weather.
As Eleanor Vance also notes, “The rise of high-quality self-catering options has been a game-changer. Families are no longer limited to hotels. They can have the freedom of a private cottage combined with the beauty of the fells right on their doorstep. It’s about creating a personal basecamp for your family’s adventure.”
For the Luxury Seekers: Spa Hotels and Opulent Manors
For those looking to indulge, the Lake District delivers in style. The region is home to some of the UK’s finest luxury and spa hotels. These establishments offer an escape from the everyday, with award-winning restaurants, serene infinity pools overlooking the lakes, and a wide range of wellness treatments. Many are situated in grand historic manors with acres of beautifully landscaped gardens to explore. Staying in one of these properties is an experience in itself, providing a sophisticated and pampering retreat to complement the rugged beauty of the surrounding landscape. Of course, not every lakeside story is one of luxury and relaxation; some narratives take a much darker turn, as seen in thrillers set in similar locales. A point of comparison can be found in the public reception of fictional works like this, as reflected in metrics such as the disappearance at lake elrod rotten tomatoes score, which shows a different side of lakeside settings in popular culture.
For the Budget-Conscious: Cosy Pubs with Rooms and Hostels
Experiencing the Lake District doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. One of the most authentic ways to stay is in a traditional Cumbrian pub with rooms. This offers excellent value, a hearty breakfast to set you up for a day of hiking, and a built-in social hub for the evening. You get to experience local life and enjoy some of the region’s best ales. Additionally, the network of hostels, including those run by the YHA, provides clean, safe, and incredibly well-located accommodation for solo travellers, groups, and families on a tighter budget. Many are located in stunning, remote locations that would otherwise be inaccessible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake District Stays
When is the best time of year to visit the Lake District?
The best time to visit really depends on what you’re looking for. Summer offers the warmest weather and longest days, perfect for long hikes and water activities, but it’s also the most crowded. Spring and autumn are arguably the most beautiful seasons, with spring bringing daffodils and newborn lambs, and autumn offering a spectacular display of golden colours. These shoulder seasons are generally quieter. Winter can be magical, with snow-capped peaks and cosy pub fires, but requires careful planning due to shorter days and potentially challenging weather conditions.
Do I need a car to get around the Lake District?
While having a car offers the most flexibility for exploring remote valleys and trailheads, it’s not strictly necessary. The national park has a surprisingly good public transport network, with bus services like the 555 and 599 connecting major towns and popular walking areas. In the summer, open-top buses provide a scenic way to travel. You can also make use of the lake steamers on Windermere, Ullswater, and Coniston to travel between different points, which is an experience in itself. Many of the best walks can be started directly from towns like Ambleside and Keswick.
Is the Lake District a good destination for dog owners?
The Lake District is a paradise for dogs and their owners. The vast majority of pubs, cafes, and even some shops are incredibly dog-friendly. There are endless miles of footpaths to explore, and many self-catering cottages and B&Bs welcome four-legged guests with open arms. It’s a destination where your canine companion is not just tolerated but actively welcomed, making it one of the top choices in the UK for a dog-friendly holiday.
Ultimately, the sheer breadth of choice is what makes planning a trip here so exciting. From a remote shepherd’s hut in Eskdale to a grand hotel on the shores of Windermere, the ideal base for your Cumbrian adventure is waiting to be discovered. By considering the unique character of each region and town, you can find your own perfect corner of this magnificent national park. The search for the best places to stay at lake district is not just about finding a bed for the night; it’s about finding the key that unlocks your personal version of this incredible landscape.
Visitor Comments
Eleanor Pritchard
★★★★★
We stayed in a lovely B&B in Grasmere for a week in September 2024. The autumn colours were just starting to come through, and the light was incredible. Our hosts gave us a hand-drawn map for a walk around Rydal Water that avoided the main crowds. Truly magical.
Ben Carter
★★★★☆
Keswick was the perfect base for our hiking holiday in July 2024. The proximity to Skiddaw was a huge plus. The town was very busy, which is the only reason for 4 stars instead of 5, but the atmosphere was brilliant. Every pub was dog-friendly, which was great for our cocker spaniel, Alfie.
Samantha Jones
★★★★★
My husband and I celebrated our 10th anniversary at a spa hotel on Lake Windermere this past October. The service was impeccable, and waking up to the view of the mist rising off the lake was something I’ll never forget. Worth every penny for a special occasion.
David Chen
★★★★☆
We rented a cottage in Ambleside for a family trip in August 2024. The location was fantastic for getting around without a car. We used the bus and the lake steamer to explore. The cottage itself was a bit dated, but it was clean and had everything we needed.
Chloe Wilson
★★★★★
As a solo traveller, I stayed at the YHA in Borrowdale in June 2024. The location is absolutely unbeatable, right in the heart of the valley. Met some fantastic people and hiked Catbells at sunrise. It’s basic, but for access to the fells, you can’t do better.
Mark O’Sullivan
★★★★☆
Stayed at a pub with rooms near Coniston in May 2024. The room was simple but comfortable, and the full English breakfast was exactly what was needed before a long walk up the Old Man of Coniston. The pub landlord was a real character with some great stories.
Priya Sharma
★★★★★
We chose a holiday park near Bowness for our trip with two young kids (4 and 6) during the Easter holidays of 2025. The on-site pool was a lifesaver on a rainy day! It was the perfect mix of nature and convenience for a young family.
Thomas Davies
★★★☆☆
Visited the Western Lakes and stayed in Eskdale. The scenery was 10/10, truly wild and beautiful. Our accommodation was a bit too rustic for our liking, though. Very limited phone signal and Wi-Fi, which was a bigger issue than we anticipated. Be prepared to disconnect completely!
Isabelle Dubois
★★★★★
Our stay in a boutique hotel in Cartmel for a long weekend in February 2025 was a foodie’s dream. The village is gorgeous, and being able to walk to L’Enclume was the main reason we came. A very different, more refined side of the Lake District.
George Miller
★★★★☆
Rented a large farmhouse with a group of friends near Ullswater for New Year’s 2024-2025. The house was amazing for a big group. The area is much quieter than Windermere, which we loved. The drive over the Kirkstone Pass in icy conditions was a bit hairy, so be careful in winter.
