The Best Places to Stay in the Lake District
If The Lake District had a tagline, it’d be something like: come for the hills, stay for the naps with a view. Whether you’re planning a budget-friendly weekend of hiking and pub lunches or a luxury getaway with spa robes and champagne, there’s a spot here that feels just right.
Here are some of the best places to stay- Airbnbs with charm, hotels with style, and a few options in between.
Budget-Friendly Stays: Cosy Airbnbs and Hidden Gems
Cottage Airbnbs in The Lake District
Bowness, Keswick and Ambleside are buzzing little hubs, full of walks, gear shops, and bakeries that smell like heaven. Renting a small Airbnb cottage or spare room here gives you independence, plus easy access to the fells. Perfect if you like your mornings to start with a fresh scone.
We recommend The Tilly’s airbnb room ‘Rosie’s Retreat’ above their restaurant, and Hilltop Lodge (room only) in the centre of Bowness.
Budget-Friendly Local Guesthouses
Plenty of local cafes double as places to stay, offering simple rooms and hearty breakfasts. They’re no-frills, but you’ll trade that for local charm and a lower price. We recommend Fellview, Monties and Bowness Guesthouses.
Mid-Range Comfort: Boutique Hotels & Chic Guesthouses
Boutique airbnb flats in Bowness and Windermere
For those who want boujee but not breaking the bank, central locations and the odd view over Lake Windermere.
We recommend checking out the beautifully furnished West End Apartments, located right in the centre of Bowness: High Rise, 1 West End, 3 West End.
Lake View self-catering accommodation.
Nothing beats waking up to mist over the water. Mid-range guesthouses near Derwentwater or Ullswater deliver exactly that- dreamy views without the luxury price tag.
We recommended the Ullswater View Apartment.
Converted Barns & Farm stays
A sweet spot between rustic and chic, these stays let you soak in the countryside atmosphere with modern touches (yes, that means WiFi too).
We recommend Lakelovers and Lakeland retreats as the best sites to find your cottages.
Luxury Escapes: Hotels Worth the Splurge
The Langdale Hotel & Spa
Set in a picture-perfect estate, this spot gives you woodland walks, a spa to melt away sore hiking legs, and fine dining to keep things indulgent.
Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa (Keswick)
This one’s for the “glass of fizz in the hot tub” crowd. Overlooking Derwentwater with a waterfall backdrop, it’s just as magical as it sounds.
The Lakes Hotel and Spa (Bowness)
If you’re after modern luxury with panoramic lake views, this hotel is pure romance. Chic interiors, incredible food in their Asian fusion restaurant (Mizumi), and a setting that makes you feel like you’ve wandered into a postcard.
If you really want to make the most of being in Bowness, walk two minutes round the corner to The Easy Breeze, to experience a proper locals night out.
Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa (Ambleside)
If you want the best massage of your life, followed up by a drink in a swimming pool overlooking the Lake, this is the one for you. They have plenty of more affordable options all the way to the most luxurious of rooms.
Which One’s Right for You?
On a budget? Airbnb cottages and pub inns will keep things cosy and authentic.
Want a mix of comfort and charm? Go for boutique B&Bs or lakeside guesthouses.
Ready to treat yourself? The Lake District’s luxury hotels are all about indulgence and views you’ll never forget.
Wherever you land, the magic of the Lake District is the same: misty mornings, rolling fells, and a sense of calm you’ll carry home with you. We will be waiting for you with open arms, here at the Easy Breeze.