The Lake District dispels the myth you have to cross the globe to see spectacular mountain scenery. For hundreds of years, the area’s staggering natural beauty has inspired countless artists and writers, but England’s largest National Park is much more than stunning views. 

Explore majestic fells and massive skies reflected in endless water, theatre shows in the streets of Keswick, steam gondolas on Coniston water, and dramatic descents into old slate mines. Lively village pubs serve craft pies and their own dark ales, a wealth of local produce draws top chefs, and Kendal’s famous mint cake powers hikers through high passes and to surging waterfalls.

Choosing where to stay in the Lake District couldn’t be easier with us. Discover ancient farmhouses, homely holiday cottages, friendly pubs, and stylish hotels in all the best areas of the region – we look for places and people that will introduce you areas beyond and between the hills and dales.

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Recommended places to stay in the Lake District

Lancrigg - Gallery

Lancrigg

Grasmere, Cumbria
High Houses - Gallery

High Houses

Wigton, Cumbria

Where to stay in the Lake District

Keswick

Keswick

Penrith

Penrith

Ambleside

Ambleside

Windermere

Windermere

Why we love the Lake District

  • The landscape offers everything from the white cap of England’s highest peak to sparkling blue water at sea level, changing with every season and every step
  • The range of hikes, from pub-to-pub strolls (try the two hour walk from The Punch Bowl Inn to The Derby Arms) to wild camping in the remote corners of the park
  • The history among the hills – the earliest railway in Britain was built on Caldbeck Fells to carry workers and materials to mines
  • Timeless stone villages on the shores of the lakes, such as Grasmere, Ambleside and Cartmel
  • The tradition of unfussy, superb food and fantastic local beer served up from over 40 local breweries.

Things to do in the Lake District

  • Travel by steam (boat or train) and enjoy views across to Lakeside and Lake Windermere
  • Climb Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain sitting at 978m, or take on the 12 mile trek of the Kentmere Horseshoe
  • Join festivals of beer, music and street theatre in Keswick throughout the summer months
  • Visit Honister Slate Mine, to see a traditional craft almost unchanged in 300 years
  • Try watersports on the huge Derwentwater or ghyll scrambling through the riverbeds.