All about Lake District accommodation
Walking through unspoiled landscapes, kayaking across glassy waters and indulging in a little retail therapy in a bustling open-air market: there are endless ways to enjoy Lake District holidays. And whether you fancy an action-packed weekend full of end-to-end adventure or an altogether more relaxing getaway, self-catered Lake District accommodation serves up the chance to experience Lakeland at your own pace. From log cabins to lodges, you’ll find info about some of the most popular places to stay right here – as well as a few hints about some of the best Lake District holiday destinations.
Lake District apartments
For an upmarket holiday in the Lake District, apartments can prove a satisfying choice. Often, these properties are found in the town and village centres, though some holiday flats in the Lake District can be found in more rural areas too. Apartments are on the menu no matter the size of your party, with choices including everything from cosy studios to roomy 4-bed pads with space enough for 8 guests and a side order of furry friends. Holiday apartments in Ulverston sit within easy reach of both the national park and the sandy beaches of Barrow-in-Furness.
Lake District barns
Stylish barn conversions serve up an interesting choice of self-catering accommodation in the Lake District. Bursting with character and original features, these barns often boast spacious living areas with books and games and full kitchens with large farmhouse tables and a medley of mod cons. Start your search in Skelton, a traditional farming village set amid the sprawling Cumbrian countryside and within a 15-minute drive of both Penrith and Ullswater, or take a look at barns in the meandering landscape behind Windermere.
Lake District cottages

Cottages in the Lake District are perhaps the most popular choice of accommodation, possibly because they’re so versatile but most likely because they’re ultra-convenient – not to mention pretty cute. Lakeland cottages are a tried and tested pick for family holidays to the Lake District, though you can also find pet-friendly cottages in the Lakes, as well as cosy Lake District cottages for 2 with hot tubs. Holidays in the South Lakes might see you enjoying a stay in a cottage in Ambleside or Windermere, while options in the north include the tiny village of Bassenthwaite.
Lake District houses
For larger broods, Lake District houses to rent can prove the perfect choice of accommodation. These properties offer all the comforts and conveniences of home and, often, a whole host of extras to boot. A common practice in Lake District houses for rent is to put the bedrooms on the ground floor and use the upper floor for lounges – this spacious living area offering sweeping views of the Lake District National Park. Holiday rentals in Keswick can be a good bet for family holidays in the Lakes, this charming market town ideally situated near Derwentwater.
Lake District log cabins

Log cabins are a much-loved pick for Lake District accommodation. Though privately owned, Lake District log cabins are typically set within a larger holiday park-style environment. Of course, this means you’ll enjoy access to communal amenities like pools, playgrounds and family-friendly entertainment. Top places to stay in a log cabin include the White Cross Bay Holiday Park, a well-kept site on the eastern shores of Lake Windermere. A little way south, Fallbarrow Park is a relaxed resort with sports courts, a beer garden and a convenient setting near Bowness Bay.
Lake District lodges
A similar option to both lodges and cottages, Lake District lodges often end up being a repeat choice for Lakeland visitors. Lodges can be found all over the national park, though one of the more popular options is to choose Lake District lodges with hot tubs on one of the area’s holiday parks. These parks often have a wide range of accommodation options, as well as additional facilities like laundry rooms, kids’ clubs and live shows. Winner of the David Bellamy Gold Conservation Award, Limefitt Park in Troutbeck Valley offers an upscale stay and direct access to the fells.