Luxury Lake District cottages for couples
The Lake District is made for lovers. The national park is ranked as the second most romantic place in Britain, just beaten to the top spot by the Fairy Pools in the Isle of Skye. But with far more Michelin starred restaurants in Cumbria offering irresistibly intimate candlelit dinners for two, we think date night might be better here.
As the weather grows colder, and cuddling up with your special someone becomes even cosier, we thought it was time to help you plan the perfect romantic break. So, read on to find the ten most luxury Lake District cottages for couples.
Luxury Lake District cottages for couples
Garden Cottage
Best for: Starlit picnics
Sat on the outskirts of the market town of Keswick, this refurbished cottage is part of a former farmhouse. From the garden, you’re treated to spectacular views of the Lake District, the perfect accompaniment to a late-night glass of wine. Best of all, the night’s sky is so clear round here, you may not even need candles to enjoy your drinks. You’ll get all the light you need from the immaculately clear night’s sky.
If you do one thing: Nestled near Keswick, Castlerigg Stone Circle is perhaps the most atmospheric of all the stone circles in Britain. Dripping with magic and mystery, and with incredible panoramic views all around, it’s amazing this attraction is still free to visit.
Where to eat: Sometimes, it can be hard to choose between the decadence of fine-dining or the cosy feel of comfort food. Well at Fellpack, you don’t have to, as you’re treated to gourmet twists on wholesome classics.
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Croft Cottage
Best for: Mixing past and present
Located in the heart of the Lake District, in the quaint hamlet of Clappersgate, Ambleside, this pet friendly property retreat blends old-world charm with modern-day comfort. Built in the 18th century, the cottage combines a gorgeous Georgian aesthetic with luxuries like underfloor heating and a cosy wood burner. Best of all, the furnished patio area offers outstanding views out toward Lake Windermere.
If you do one thing: Even by the Lake District’s high standards, Loughrigg Fell is a particularly picturesque location. The area’s rocky-hills and mist-covered lakes make for some of the best walks in Cumbria. We recommend a three and a half-hour stroll up from Ambleside, which takes in the areas most photogenic views.
Where to eat: Amongst sleek, stylish furnishings, Fellinis serves vegetarian cuisine with a modern Mediterranean twist. Best of all, you can have a complete date night here as a digital cinema upstairs shows the latest arthouse and niche film releases.
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Bank View Cottage
Best for: Indoor intimacy
This cosy cottage doesn’t just seem like it was made to be as romantic as possible, it really was. Specially designed and furnished with couple’s retreats in mind, everything from the warm and welcoming layout to the window-side breakfast table to the wood-floored bed and bathroom, makes for an intimate getaway, just for two.
If you do one thing: Few places in the Lake District are better for fishing than the Langdale Valleys. If you’re after a lazy afternoon by the lakes, grab a couple of rods and head to the water’s edge.
Where to eat: When it comes to eating out in the rural village of Chapel Stile, you have to go to a traditional lakeland pub. Wainwrights Inn offers stripped stone walls, roaring open fires, wood-beamed ceilings and a comforting assortment of utterly English food.
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Cottage in Cumbria
Best for: Gourmet meals
While the Lake District is best known for its unrivalled views, its lush green fields and wild woodland are also the ideal environments for growing gourmet ingredients. Thanks to its fertile land, the Lake District is home to hundreds of award-winning restaurants, many of which sit in the bustling centre of Keswick., which is located just one mile from this cottage. For those who think a night out means fine dining and fantastic wine, there’s no better place to base yourself than here.
If you do one thing: With so many excellent eateries around you, why not try your hand at whipping up your own Michelin star-worthy meal at the Keswick Cookery School. Offering seasonal classes, teaching you to use whatever ingredients are in harvest, it’s the ideal way to get hands-on with the Lake District.
Where to eat: Blending Keswick’s gastronomical flair with the Lake District’s talent for creating cosy country pubs, our must-visit restaurant has to be The Dog and Gun. Nestled in the bustling Market Square, the pub’s speciality is ‘cow pie’, a significant slab of meaty pastry, perfect for refuelling after a long day in the fells.
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Low Brow Barn
Best for: Having a little extra space
Conjure up an image of an idyllic lakeside lodge and you’ll likely see something similar to this. Sat on the shores of Lake Windermere, at the base Wansfell, this roomy 17th century barn conversion caters to two couples planning a romantic retreat together, or one pair who enjoy a little extra space. Home to stone walls, vaulted ceilings and oak floors throughout, it’s the definition of a secluded woodland cabin.
If you do one thing: A gothic giant on the shores of Lake Windermere, it’s hard to look at Wray Castle and not think you’re in the middle of an English fairytale. If you’re visiting the Lake District on Valentine’s Day, keep an eye out for romantic walks through the grounds, organised by the national trust.
Where to eat: Home to three AA rosettes and a five-course tasting menu to rival almost anywhere in the country, Rothay Manor is a masterclass in fine dining. While they offer an excellent selection of vegetarian dishes, the head chef is most skilled when cooking with lamb.
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