The Lake District is unquestionably one of the most beautiful locations in the UK, making it one of the most popular holiday destinations.
The Lake District National Park has a wide range of activities on offer for those who are looking for some action, including walking, cycling and endless water sports such as sailing, canoeing, paddleboarding and wild swimming. However, if you are looking to enjoy a more relaxing break, the natural beauty of the entire area makes it easy to sit back, relax and simply enjoy the quiet location and stunning scenery.
If a holiday in the Lake District is on your wish list, you’ll be sure to find the perfect holiday cottage from our wonderful selection of holiday homes at Breakfree Holidays. With so many to choose from, we have put together this list of our favourite stunning holiday houses close to Lake Windermere to help you narrow it down.
Breakfree Holidays’ Top 8 Luxury Cottages in Cumbria, near Lake Windermere:
- Crabtree (Graythwaite)
- Silverholme Manor (Graythwaite)
- Keepers Cottage (Graythwaite)
- Hammerhole (Graythwaite)
- High Borrans, Shepherd’s Hut (Near Windermere)
- Lodge on the Lake (Bowness-on-Windermere)
- Skyfall (Bowness-on-Windermere)
- Burrow Cottage (Bowness-on-Windermere)
Crabtree
Location: Graythwaite, Lake District National Park
Great for: A beautiful stone cottage in the Lake District that’s the ideal base for exploring England’s largest lake
This enchanting and decadent two-bedroom apartment occupies the ground floor of a lovely stone barn conversion nestled in the beautiful 5,000-acre Graythwaite Estate on the edge of Lake Windermere, Cumbria. The active members of your party can enjoy a walk along the edge of the lake all the way to the bustling town of Bowness-on-Windermere where there is no end of activities and amenities.
With so many places to visit, there is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy nearby. You can brush up on the local history by visiting the World of Beatrix Potter, the Stott Park Bobbin Mill or the National Trust property of Hill Top. You’ll also find the pretty gardens of Graythwaite Hall nearby, offering the ideal place for a relaxed picnic with friends or family or a stroll around the stunning grounds. Additionally, there is no end to the outdoor pursuits on nearby Lake Windermere, ranging from canoeing, paddle boarding and sailing.
Facilities: This ground floor living apartment offers attractive and comfortable interiors along with superb, shared facilities. With two bedrooms, accommodating up to 4 guests, this is the perfect property for a small group of friends or family. With a large fully equipped kitchen, dining area and large cosy lounge, you will have everything you expect to find in self-catering accommodation – including Wi-Fi, a washing machine, a woodburning stove and plenty of off-road parking.
Outside the property, there is a shared patio area with garden furniture and a BBQ, so you can dine al fresco in the warmer months. There is also shared use of the estate grounds and facilities which includes an indoor heated swimming pool, table tennis room, children’s play area and a 2.5-acre trout fishing lake.
Do you enjoy fishing? If you’re looking for a holiday cottage close to a fishing lake and this property isn’t quite right for you, then check out the 4 Best Holiday Parks with Fishing Lakes, as there is sure to be something that suits your needs.
Silverholme Manor
Location: Graythwaite, Lake District National Park
Great for: Large gatherings in a nine bedroom Georgian manor house
If you’re looking to celebrate a birthday or anniversary in style, or if you’re simply wanting to holiday in pure luxury, this stunning nine bedroom manor house will not disappoint. Perched on the lake shore, Silverholme Manor is set in the ideal location from which to explore the area and is certainly one of the most opulent holiday cottages on offer.
With so much to see and so many activities in the local area, there is sure to be something for everyone in your party – even a party as large as this! For those looking for some action, there are plenty of water sports on offer, including canoeing, paddle boarding and sailing. You can even try a bit of wild swimming if you’re brave enough. For those looking for a more relaxing stay, why not check out the local spas or take a wander around the stunning quaint farmhouse that is Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top? There really is something for everyone on a Lake District holiday, and it is not hard to see why this is one of the most impressive holiday cottages in Windermere.
Facilities: Silverholme Manor is an eco-friendly Georgian Manor House that can accommodate up to 18 people in eight beautiful en-suite bedrooms and one stunning self-contained cottage for two. The huge kitchen is light and airy thanks to the wonderful full windows looking out onto the lake. Handmade cupboards, marble worktops and dining seating that can comfortably fit 18 make this the perfect place to enjoy breakfast with stunning views. It also has all the modern facilities you might need, including two dishwashers, a separate glass washer, two fridge-freezers, a walk-in larder and even a remote-controlled extraction fan!
As well as dining in the kitchen, there is also the option to use the formal dining room with its large antique table and beautiful high-backed chairs. A library, a drawing room and a separate TV room complete the living area, all with Wi Fi connection so you will find plenty of places to sit, relax and enjoy some quiet time in front of the large open fire or woodburning stove. The outside will not disappoint either. The enclosed garden offers table tennis, lawn games and a great fire pit, so you can continue the entertainment outside during the warm summer evenings.
Keepers Cottage
Location: Graythwaite, Lake District National Park
Great for: A fantastic detached cottage resting on the edge of a tarn and bursting with history
Keepers Cottage has played a key role on the Graythwaite Estate for over 500 years. Away from it all and sitting alone on the edge of a beautifully peaceful tarn, this cottage enjoys the tranquillity of the area and offers the ideal base for family or friends to explore the stunning landscape, scenery and activities that the Lake District has to offer. For the fishing fanatics in your party, Graythwaite’s 2.5 acre fishing tarn is just a stone’s throw away, and for the runners, walkers or cyclists in the group, there are miles of on and off-road routes to discover. As the property is dog friendly, you can even enjoy them with your four-legged friend.
Facilities: This detached period cottage set in a tranquil location offers accommodation for up to 10 guests, sleeping in 5 delightful bedrooms, all with views across the fisheries and woodland. The bright and modern kitchen will provide you with all the facilities you might need during your stay, including a washing machine and tumble dryer. The living room provides a comfortable and cosy place to relax after a busy day, with its woodburning stove, large sofas, smart TV and Wi Fi.
The outside of this property is just as delightful. There is a large private patio area with plenty of outdoor seating for you to enjoy dining al fresco in the warmer months. It is also dog friendly and offers plenty of private parking, making this cosy cottage one of Breakfree Holidays’ favourite cottages in Windermere, Cumbria.
If you’re looking for a dog friendly holiday cottage in the Lake District and Keepers Cottage doesn’t quite tick all your boxes, then check out these favourite dog-friendly log cabins in the Lake District and book your next dream holiday today.
Hammerhole
Location: Graythwaite, Lake District National Park
Great for: An exclusive stone cottage on the shore of Lake Windermere, providing the idyllic lakeside retreat
This beautiful holiday cottage in a great location right on the shores of the lake is the ideal base from which to explore the stunning scenery of the Lake District National Park. The central location allows easy access to the picturesque towns and villages in the area, including Windermere Town, Bowness-on-Windermere and the charming village of Hawkshead.
This family friendly cottage offers something for everyone. If you are looking for an active holiday, then head straight to the lake for a spot of sailing, canoeing or paddle boarding. There are plenty of walking and cycling trails to explore also. If you are looking for a more peaceful time, then there are a number of superb spas just a mile or two from the property.
Facilities: This stunning property sleeps up to 10 guests in five superb bedrooms – three double en suite rooms and two twin rooms. The living rooms have dual aspect windows, giving them a light and airy feel. There is plenty of comfortable seating surrounding a woodburning stove and patio doors that lead directly out on to the lake. There is also a large wooden dining table with seating for 10 people, allowing you to entertain in the grand manner that you would expect in a property like this.
Outside, you will find ample private off road parking for all your guests, as well as a superb private patio enclosed garden with outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy dining al fresco while taking in the absolutely stunning views out across the lake. You will also have access to the shared Graythwaite Estate facilities which are a short drive away and include a heated indoor swimming pool, table tennis room, children’s play area and a 2.5-acre trout fishing lake.
High Borrans, Shepherd’s Hut
Location: High Borrans Farm, Near Windermere, Cumbria
Great for: A unique and quirky holiday house for a romantic retreat in the Lake District
This property is a modern and beautifully furnished Shepherd’s Hut located on High Borrans Farm close to the town of Windermere. High Borrans Farm is a 1000-acre hill farm, with a flock of some 1200 Swaledale ewes and around 25 beef suckler cows. It is a fully working farm, so it’s perfect for those nature lovers. In addition to the farm animals, you are likely to catch a glimpse of red and roe deer on the nearby fells, and closer to the farm, there are tawny and barn owls, as well as many varieties of bats living in the old barns. Adventure lovers will be pleased to know there are several popular mountain bike routes running through the farmyard itself. Offering a quiet and peaceful location, this holiday home makes the ideal base for a romantic getaway to Windermere, Cumbria.
Facilities: Built by local craftsman, this stunning Shepherd’s Hut has been beautifully designed to maximise space. Despite being small, it has everything you could possible need during your stay, including a full size king bed and a full size shower. The lovely living area has a small sofa and folding dining table with a beautiful kitchenette area. The kitchen has a hob, kettle, microwave, work top and sink. There is also a compact electric log effect fire to keep you warm on cooler evenings.
Double patio doors open out onto to a lovely gravelled seating area, where you’ll find outdoor furniture, a BBQ and even a little storage shed. With an onsite laundry room which includes two washing machines, a tumble dryer, a communal freezer, iron and ironing board, and mop and bucket along with plenty of off road parking, Wi Fi and full underfloor heating, this really is the ideal place from which to explore the National Park.
Lodge on the Lake
Location: Bowness-on-Windermere, Lake District National Park
Great for: A stunning lakeside lodge resting right on the edge of Lake Windermere with breathtaking views
This gorgeous log cabin, nestled right on the shores of Lake Windermere, Cumbria, is situated on the popular Fallbarrow Holiday Park on the fringe of Bowness-on-Windermere, close to the town centre with superb on-site facilities. With stunning views across the lake that will impress no matter the time of year, this is the perfect base for a romantic getaway or luxury family-friendly holiday.
With endless water sports on offer, as well as Windermere’s 18-hole golf course close by, there are plenty of activities to keep even the most energetic guests busy. There are also plenty of walking paths, including the Dales Way, and cycling routes available to explore locally. A short drive will take you to Windermere village and the quaint town of Ambleside where you will find a great selection of shops, bars and restaurants. This really is a wonderful lodge, and it’s easy to see why it is one of our favourite Windermere Cottages at Breakfree Holidays.
Facilities: Tucked away in a quiet area of the park, this lakeside cottage has three bedrooms – a king-size double bedroom with an en-suite, a double and a twin – and can accommodate up to 6 guests. The bright, open plan living area has a wonderful kitchen, separate dining area and comfortable lounge with plenty of seating, all with sublime views over the lake out of the wall-to-wall windows.
Outside the log cabin is a large deck that wraps around the side of the lodge and has direct access to a private beach which is perfect for swimming, canoeing and fishing. It’s also a splendid sun trap for much of the day, allowing you plenty of time to relax and catch some rays. Shared on-site facilities on the park itself include a pub (with a fabulous beer garden), a shop, a children’s play area and a delicatessen. Plenty of private parking, Wi Fi, incredible facilities and a fantastic location make this Windermere cottage one not to miss.
Skyfall
Location: Bowness-on-Windermere, Lake District National Park
Great for: A stylish apartment with a tennis court and putting green nestled close to the shores of Lake Windermere, Cumbria
Skyfall is a lavish boutique apartment that is located in a peaceful rural location within walking distance to the vibrant village of Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria. In the village, you will find all the local amenities you will need, along with the award-winning World of Beatrix Potter attraction, a traditional cinema and a great selection of shops, bars and restaurants.
This superb holiday home, close to Bowness-on-Windermere, has so much to offer. From here, you’ll find much to keep you busy. Take a trip aboard a Windermere Lake Cruise, and set off to explore the picturesque villages nearby, or head for a fun day out at the aquarium and motor museum close by.
Facilities: Skyfall is a luxurious and modern first floor apartment with its own private entrance. With two wonderful bedrooms – one king and one twin – the apartment can accommodate four guests, and pets are welcome too! The open plan living area has a large, well-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, washing machine and tumble dryer. The kitchen opens out onto the dining area and comfortable lounge area, with stunning views pouring in from the windows.
All this is set within exquisite private gardens where you will find a tennis court and even a putting green for your enjoyment! There is a private outside area with a table and chairs, so you can enjoy a sundowner with friends and family on warmer evenings while taking in the stunning views. It is very easy to see why this is one of Breakfree Holidays’ favourite holiday homes near Windermere, Cumbria.
Burrow Cottage
Location: Bowness-on-Windermere, Lake District National Park
Great for: A delightful picture-postcard holiday cottage with an open fire
This cosy Lake District cottage was originally a Lakeland forester’s home, and it dates back to 1640. Bowness-on-Windermere is only a few miles away with its selection of pubs, restaurants and shops. For the keen walkers in the group, you will find the National Trust’s Fell Foot Park close by. Sitting right on the lakeshore, Fell Foot is a great, family-friendly location from which to play, explore and relax. With stunning mountain views, lake swimming, gentle walks and plenty of space for games and picnics, it makes the perfect stay for all the family.
If you are looking for an adrenaline-filled holiday, then you won’t be disappointed. Being so close to the lake, there are endless water sports on offer – from sailing to kayaking, and canoeing to paddleboarding. If you want to stay out of the lake but still have some action, you can have a go at gorge walking, ghyll scrambling and rock climbing. You can also head to Cartmel Fell for an easy walk up Gummers How and spectacular views across Lake Windermere.
Facilities: This gorgeous, whitewashed cottage has one bedroom, making it the perfect romantic getaway for a couple looking to explore the Lake District. The fully fitted solid oak kitchen has everything you might need during your stay, including a halogen hob, washing machine and dishwasher. The open plan living room is cosy and warm, with comfortable armchairs all seated around a roaring open fire, ready to warm you on those cold winter evenings.
Outside, you will find a private garden to the rear of the property and a further patio area to the front of the cottage, meaning you have plenty of choice for your al fresco dining. Freeview TV, Wi Fi and plenty of off road parking make this a very desirable holiday cottage for anyone looking to explore all that the beautiful Lake District has to offer. You can see why it made the list for Breakfree Holidays’ favourite cottages close to Lake Windermere.
Book Your Next Amazing Cumbrian Getaway Now!
Did the properties on this list of Windermere cottages not tick all your boxes? Don’t worry. Here at Breakfree Holidays, we have so many stunning holiday cottages on offer that we are sure you’ll find what you’re looking for. Whether you’re looking for a picturesque cottage within walking distance of Bowness and Windermere or a stylish apartment nestled in the countryside just a short stroll from the lake, we have it all. Head over to our main website for details of all our holiday cottages in Windermere and other nearby properties, and book your next dream holiday now.