Large cottages in the Lake District
Follow in the footsteps of Wordsworth and Coleridge and head to the glorious Lake District National Park. One of Britain's most loved holiday destinations, the Lake District is staggeringly beautiful and very accessible, with 3,105 kilometres of tracks and trails just waiting to be explored.
The landscape here is brimming with glacial lakes, rugged mountains, enchanting woodlands and lakeside villages. Wherever you turn, you're sure to get a view even better than the last. It's really little wonder that some of England's most celebrated Romantic poets came to the Lake District seeking tranquillity and inspiration.
What's more, you'll also find a vast collection of large group accommodation in the Lake District. Featuring open fires, hot tubs, stunning views and even games rooms, these Lake District cottages are perfect bases for large groups of friends and family. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just planning a big reunion. What's more, some of these large holiday cottages are even pet-friendly, meaning everyone's favourite four-legged friend can come along too.
Best walks in the Lake District
Full of trails, tracks and footpaths, the Lake District is just waiting to be explored by foot. Wrap up warm, pack a picnic and set out for an adventure unlike any other.
Windermere west shore walk
Best for: Stunning lake and castle views
Distance: 12.8 km
Time to complete: 3 hours
The wonderful Windermere west shore walk takes you along the banks of Lake Windermere, through woodland and parkland, all the way to the gothic Wray Castle. The route is dog-friendly too so the pooch doesn't have to miss out.
Buttermere and Rannerdale Knotts
Best for: Enchanting woodlands and breathtaking views
Distance: 5.5 km
Time to complete: 2 hours
Traverse through some of the Lake District's most glorious forests on the Buttermere and Rannerdale Knotts hike. Beginning near the town of Buttermere, this short loop still packs some steep climbs which are rewarded by an array of incredible views.
Friar's Crag
Best for: An easy-going stroll
Distance: 2.5 km (return)
Time to complete: 45 minutes
One for groups of all ages and abilities, Friar's Crag is accessible directly from the pretty lakeside town of Keswick (where you'll find a vast array of lovely holiday homes). With a level, well-formed path throughout, this short walk boasts excellent views over Derwentwater.
Cat Bells
Best for: An adventurous ascent
Distance: 5.7 km
Time to complete: 3 hours
One for the more hardy hikers, the short but steep Cat Bells walking route will take you up to the summit of one of the most iconic peaks in Cumbria. Once you arrive at the top, take a well-deserved break, soaking in spectacular views over the Lake District from your lofty perch.
Derwentwater walk
Best for: Relaxing lakeside rambles
Distance: 16 km
Time to complete: 5 hours
Another shoreside stroll, the Derwentwater walk is a wonderful way to while away a sunny day in the Lake District. Enjoy stunning scenery and plenty of pit stops along the way, and make sure you keep an eye out for glimpses of the elusive red squirrel which lives along the banks.
Best attractions in the Lake District
Brimming with breathtaking natural scenery, as well as plenty of things to do if the weather takes a turn for the worst, there'll never be a dull moment during your Lake District adventure.
A cruise on Lake Windermere
Location: Windermere
Best for: A tranquil afternoon
No trip to the Lake District would be complete without Windermere Lake cruise. Set sail on a historic steamer and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains, forests and islands.
Pit stop nearby: Enjoy a warm welcome and a cracking pint at Hole in t' Wall - one of the oldest pubs in Bowness.
Rydal Mount
Location: Ambleside
Best for: Literature lovers
Pay a visit to Rydal Mount, the bucolic bolthole where Wordsworth used to live near the charming town of Ambleside. Dating back to the 16th century, the world-famous writer lived in this house for nearly 40 years.
Pit stop nearby: Savour a pint of award-winning ale at the Golden Rule.
Honister Slate Mine
Location: Honister Pass
Best for: A taste of local history
Discover the region's fascinating history at the Honister Slate Mine - the perfect option should you have a rainy day during your stay. The last working slate mine in the whole of England, you can descend deep into the belly of the earth for a tour of the mines or, for the brave, a climbing expedition.
Pit stop nearby: Stop on the way back for a pick-me-up at the Swinside Inn, over near Keswick.
The Lakes Distillery
Location: Cockermouth
Best for: Anyone who loves a tipple
Whisky-lovers in the group will jump on the chance to visit The Lakes Distillery, over in the ancient market town of Cockermouth. Get behind the scenes and discover how the good stuff is made before having a cheeky tasting session afterwards. You'll also get to sample The Lakes Vodka and Gin too.
Pit stop nearby: Line your stomach beforehand with a hearty breakfast and steaming mug of coffee at Veeva.
Grasmere Gingerbread
Location: Grasmere
Best for: An afternoon treat
Tuck into the ‘world's best gingerbread' at Grasmere Gingerbread. Located in the heart of [Grasmere](https://www.grasmeregingerbread.co.uk/our-shop/0, their gingerbread is made using a family recipe which has been passed down for nearly two centuries. You won't find gingerbread quite like this anywhere else.
Pit stop nearby: Call into The Good Sport afterwards for a pint of local lager, ale or cider, brewed just down the road.