The Best Places to Stay in the Lake District

The Lake District never fails to impress with its breathtaking beauty, lush greenery, and endless adventures. Whether you’re exploring solo, with loved ones, or with friends, the Lakes has something for everyone. And if you’re looking to extend your stay in this stunning part of the UK, you’re in luck as the options are truly limitless.

From the cosy charm of Ambleside to the majestic vistas of Keswick, the peaceful vibe of Grasmere, or the elegant atmosphere of Coniston, each town and village in the Lake District has its own unique appeal. Whether you’re dreaming of a family escape, a romantic getaway, or a thrilling adventure, you’ll find no shortage of lovely places to call home in the Lake District.

So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as we uncover some of the most enchanting places to stay in this exquisite region. Whatever you’re seeking for your getaway, know that this beautiful part of England is somewhere certainly worth visiting.

Choosing the best time to visit the Lake District largely depends on personal preferences. As the climate can affect several aspects of your getaway, it is important to plan your time here accordingly. From outdoor adventures to the opening and closing times of accommodations and attractions, we recommend learning more about the varying seasons below. 

Many travellers find that the months of late spring, summer, and early autumn are the best times to enjoy holidays in the Lake District. The conditions during these seasons are pleasant, providing a ton of opportunities to get out and active during your stay. From May to September, visitors can expect the weather in the Lake District to be milder and more predictable, with longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures. This makes it ideal for exploring the region’s picturesque landscapes, embarking on outdoor adventures, and partaking in various activities such as hiking, boating, and cycling.

Summer, in particular, is a popular time to visit the Lake District, as the vibrant foliage decorates the hillsides and the lakes shimmer under the sunlight. The bustling towns and villages also come alive during this time with festivals, events, and outdoor markets, offering visitors a glimpse into local life around the Lakes. It is worth noting though that the summer also brings more crowds and a busier atmosphere throughout the towns and villages here. With this in mind, it might not be the best option for those looking to avoid tourists or enjoy a quieter setting during their break. 

No matter when you decide to stay in the Lake District, you’re sure to find something here to impress even the most avid of explorers. With its neverending natural beauty and fantastic array of activities and attractions, a trip to the lakes won’t disappoint.

Now you know a little more about the Lake District, alongside the best time to visit this beautiful part of England, we will now move on to some of the best places to stay here. Whether you’re looking for the finest destinations throughout the area or some of the favoured Lake District accommodations, we have something for everyone below. 

Ambleside

Best For: Romantic Places to Stay in the Lake District

Surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, Ambleside provides the perfect backdrop for romantic getaways, promising a ton of activities and sights to explore together. Whether you’re wandering hand in hand through its scenic streets or indulging in a mouthwatering meal for two, the town provides the perfect spot for unforgettable experiences with your loved one.

It is also a favoured destination among walkers in the Lakes as Ambleside presents an array of excellent hiking trails around the town. Take some time to explore some of the beautiful areas encompassing the area, a great way to get out and experience all that the Lake District has to offer. 

Ambleside boasts a fantastic location, making it relatively easy to access some of the other favoured spots in the Lake District. With connections to Lake Windermere, alongside an array of towns and villages throughout the Lakes, you’ll find yourself needing more time to see all that this beautiful part of the Lakes has in store. 

Keswick

Best For: Places to Stay with a Dog in the Lake District

Lake District getaways simply aren’t complete without a trip to the frequented town of Keswick. It is one of the bigger places to stay, providing guests with lots to see and do. Plus, the area is also well-connected to an array of excellent hiking trails, mighty peaks and of course beautiful lakes. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking for some of the best places to stay with a dog in the Lake District. 

Spend some time scouring the many shops, cafes and restaurants around Keswick, a great way to see more of this beautiful town. We also recommend checking out the market here that offers a ton of local crafts, produce and souvenirs to remember your trip by. 

The quintessential vibe surrounding Keswick makes it a fantastic place for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the allure of the Lakes. So, whether you’re visiting with family, friends or your partner, a trip to this beautiful town won’t let you down. 

Kendal

Best For: Cool Places to Stay in the Lake District

The Lake District has no shortage of cool places to visit, however, Kendal is one destination in particular that stands out for those looking for a quirky spot to stay in when scouring this beautiful region. Here visitors will find a picturesque town nestled away on the southern border of the national park. This charming market town has everything you could need for a quintessential break with its excellent shopping, sightseeing and dining options all in a beautiful setting. 

There are also some great hiking excursions from Kendal, making it ideal for those looking to blend a trip to this town with excellent outdoor adventures. Plus, its selection of independent shops and fantastic outdoor equipment makes it a favoured spot for locals and tourists alike.

If you’re a keen adventurer, we also recommend visiting Kendal in November as this is when the Mountain Festival takes place. During this time, you can enjoy a jam-packed weekend of films, books, activities, art, speakers and more,  all of which share inspirational stories about some of the best outdoor adventures and expeditions. 

Coniston

Best For: Luxury Places to Stay in the Lake District 

Coniston is an excellent place to stay in the Lakes for those looking to add a touch of luxury to their break. This quaint village may appear small, but that doesn’t mean you won’t discover a ton of things to do and see here. There is also a relaxing aura around the village, making it an ideal spot for those in need of some relaxation. 

Visitors will also discover an array of accommodation options around Coniston. Whether you’d like to stay in a cosy cottage or an authentic log cabin, there are plenty of places to choose from to suit an array of holiday preferences. 

With authentic, local pubs, pretty village stores and a great selection of accommodation options, you’re sure to feel rejuvenated after spending some time in beautiful Coniston. 

Grasmere

Best For: Staying in the Lake District on a Budget

Grasmere is a fantastic option for tourists looking for cheap places to stay in the Lake District. Whether you’re hoping to make the most of the beautiful outdoor adventures or would prefer to spend some time relaxing, a trip to this attractive destination is sure to impress. 

This lovely location continues to attract travellers with its serene beauty and quaint charm, making Grasmere a must-visit spot in the Lakes. The village is also surrounded by towering mountains, allowing for fantastic vistas at every twist and turn. 

With an excellent selection of accommodation options and independent restaurants, Grasmere offers visitors a comfortable stay surrounded by breathtaking nature. Plus, you’ll also find an array of places to eat and rest allowing for plenty of options for those looking to spend less during their break. 

Bowness-on-Windermere

Best For: Places to Stay for Families in the Lake District 

Those in pursuit of Lake District family holidays will love Bowness-on-Windermere. Here visitors can enjoy gentle strolls around the town, alongside plenty of excellent shops, bars, cafes and restaurants. Those visiting Windermere with the whole clan can also take advantage of some of the best activities in the Lakes including boat cruises and scenic steam train rides along the lakeshore. 

If you’d like to embark on some excellent hiking trails around Windermere, there are more than enough to choose from. Options like Orest Head and Gummer’s How are easily accessible, making it a great spot for those looking for a unique blend of a town atmosphere and outdoor adventure. Beatrix Potter’s cottage is also just a short ferry ride away, providing a fantastic excursion for families staying in the area. 

Visitors can also stay in excellent accommodations in Bowness-on-Windermere, with many of these spots providing exquisite lakeside views. However, the area can get quite crowded, especially during the peak season, so we recommend planning your trip here in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on seeing this beautiful part of the Lake District. 

Ullswater

Best For: Weekend Breaks in the Lake District

Great for short breaks in the Lake District, Ullswater is a must-visit destination. The area boasts some of the most spectacular ridge walks, where towering mountains meet rolling hills to create breathtaking landscapes. 

For the adventure seekers among us, there are exhilarating routes from Ullswater to enjoy including the renowned Place Fell, The Ullswater Way, High Street, Dunmallard Hill and many more. These paths provide hiking enthusiasts with a thrilling challenge and fantastic panoramic vistas during their stay. However, if you’d prefer to opt for a more gentle stroll, there are also a ton of other great trails to take advantage of in the area, making it a great option for families, friends and couples alike. 

In addition to fantastic hiking opportunities, Ullswater offers a plethora of accommodation options and family-friendly activities. Rent a canoe or motorboat to explore the tranquil waters or embark on a scenic journey aboard a steamer. Amidst this natural playground lies Aira Force, the region’s finest waterfall, another fantastic place to uncover when staying in this beautiful part of the Lakes.