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22 best Airbnbs in the Lake District to book in 2025
From historic cottages to hot tub hideaways, these outstanding stays make the perfect base for exploring the Lakes

Tucked between dramatic fells and mirror-still lakes, the Lake District is the ultimate staycation for hikers, romantics and foodies. While the area has no shortage of hotels, the best Lake District Airbnbs offer a private base where you can really unwind and switch off.
Whether you’re lacing up for Helvellyn, boating across Windermere or hunting for sticky toffee pudding in Cartmel, having a great base to come back to makes all the difference. In this list, you’ll find our favourite picks from across the region, from a secluded shepherd’s hut with valley views to a modern lodge with private hot tub.
Your very own slice of the Lakes awaits...
All prices quoted are the per-night price for a one-week stay for two people, booked approximately one month from the time of writing.
Tommy Bit: a scenic shepherd’s hut near Grange

Walkers will love kicking off their boots in this cosy shepherd’s hut, located less than a mile from Derwentwater’s southern shore and the pretty village of Grange. Nestled at the foot of the fells, the hut is surrounded by beautiful valley and woodland views, which guests can take in whilst sitting by the firepit. The hosts have also written 12 ‘walks from the door’ of varying lengths, so you can head straight out without having to drive.
Sleeps: 2
Price per night: From £127
Sunny Bank Chapel: a renovated chapel on Coniston Water

If you want to canoe on the Lakes, you can’t beat the glorious location of this Airbnb, which has its own private access to Coniston Water’s shoreline. Formerly a near-derelict 17th century chapel, the building’s refurbishment has transformed it into a perfectly cosy retreat for two. It retains the high ceiling and oak trusses of the original chapel, but with modern features including underfloor heating, a smart TV and a kitted-out kitchen. You can hire a canoe from the owners, or simply sit on the terrace to enjoy the unspoilt views: Torver Common and Coniston Old Man behind you, fields, woods and lake in front.
Sleeps: 2
Price per night: From £304
The Undercroft: a luxurious cottage in Windermere

This recently renovated cottage was originally Windermere's first school, within a church annex. Inside, the interior combines old and new – we love the vaulted ceilings and Gothic arched window frames. It's designed 'upside down,' with the bedrooms and bathroom downstairs and open plan living upstairs. A real treat for families, couples and friends looking for a stylish place to stay, just minutes from the village centre and Lake Windermere.
Sleeps: 4
Price per night: From £234
Windsor Cottage: a breathtaking hillside getaway near Wast Water

Set in the wildest of the Lake District's valleys, Wasdale, this little studio cottage offers incredible views from the mountains all the way down to the sea. The peaceful setting is located on a horse farm (horseriding can be booked in advance), and guests can hike directly from the cottage to some of the major peaks. Inside, you’ll find a king size bed, two singles, a lounge and kitchen all in one space. So although there’s not much privacy, it’s a great value family stay, with views to boot.
Sleeps: 4
Price per night: From £122
Biskey Howe: a stylish Georgian flat in Bowness

Like something out of an interiors magazine, this stylish flat is perfectly situated in the centre of Bowness-on-Windermere – a lovely biscuit-tin town on the east shore of Lake Windermere. This 17th Century Georgian property has bags of character, with high ceilings, large windows and an airy open plan living space. The lake is just five minutes away on foot, with plenty of trendy bars and restaurants all on your doorstep, as well as a Co-op to grab supplies from.
Sleeps: 2
Price per night: From £148
Bessyboot: a romantic little nook in Troutbeck

Named after one of the owners’ favourite walks, Bessyboot is a snug little cottage that’s full of character with its exposed beams and flagstone floors. This Airbnb is located in the historic village of Troutbeck, which has two great country pubs and a local shop that doubles as a tea room. It’s compact, but with all the ameneties you need. Outside, a private patio has stunning views towards the local fell range – just the spot for two to enjoy a morning cuppa or pre-dinner drink.
Sleeps: 2
Price per night: From £97
Silver Howe: a traditional family cottage in Chapel Stile

Located in the village of Chapel Stile in the spectacular Langdale Valley, we love how this open-plan cottage feels both spacious and cosy, with its country-style interior and wood burning stove. It has two double bedrooms and another pair of bunk beds – and for groups larger than six, you can rent out ‘The Piggery’: an extra one-bedroom property just behind this cottage. It's just two minutes away from the village shop and pub, with plenty more to see and do in the local area.
Sleeps: 6
Price per night: From £273
Scandi Hut: a unique micro-home in Windermere

Inspired by Scandinavian space saving, this wood-panelled ‘tiny home’ in Windermere contains a luxurious king-size bed to stretch out on, with an ambient fire and twinkly ceiling for extra-cosy atmosphere. There’s a TV, mini fridge and coffee station too, as well as an en-suite bathroom with a double shower. Windermere’s award-winning restaurants, bars and pubs are all within easy reach, as well as the picturesque lake itself. A super-cool snug for couples to nest in.
Sleeps: 2
Price per night: From £123
The Farmhouse: a secluded group getaway near Hawkshead

Sitting close to the pretty village of Hawkshead, this renovated period property retains all its original Lakeland character, while providing plenty of modern style and comfort. Exposed beams, solid wood beds and window seats are part of the charming interior space, while the gardens are a mix of sloping lawn and patio, with furniture for you to relax outside. If you fill it out, this Airbnb offers great value – just note that your party will need 4x4 vehicles that can handle the bumpy access road.
Sleeps: 8
Price per night: From £263
River Barn: a contemporary retreat on the River Winster

This luxury riverside Airbnb is a truly special couple’s waterside retreat. With far-reaching views of the countryside through the (huge!) living room window, this Scandinavian-style space is full of thoughtful design. The en-suite bathroom features a large tub, rainfall shower and underfloor heating, whilst the kitchen’s stable door leads straight out onto an alfresco dining patio. With an abundance of pubs and walks on your doorstep, this is an unforgettable place for a couple to experience the Lakes.
Sleeps: 2
Price per night: From £269
Coachman’s House: a historic cottage near Coniston

This secluded Airbnb is nestled just a couple minutes’ walk from the village of Coniston, on the picturesque lake of Coniston Water. A former 19th century coach house, the cottage is full of character – we love the secret bookcase door! – and has a private landscaped woodland garden, with sitting areas for alfresco dining with fell views. Guests can walk straight from the cottage up the fell, or stroll down to the village for drinks and dinner at the local pub, which has its own brewery.
Sleeps: 4
Price per night: From £201
Tethera Nook: a restful garden retreat in Kendal

This Airbnb stands out for its beautiful gardens, which are full of wildlife, sculptures and secluded places to sit and take in the stunning views. It has two double bedrooms and an extra double sofa bed, so there’s plenty of space – just note that there’s only one bathroom. We love the sunny breakfast bar nook, which looks out onto views of Benson Knott to the east. The house is just a 12 minute walk into Kendal, a vibrant town full of pubs, shops and restaurants, as well as an arts centre and farmers’ market.
Sleeps: 4
Price per night: From £193
The Lodge: a modern cabin with hot tub and views

Described as a modern lodge with a country twist, this Airbnb is on the edge of the host's working farm – so expect to see animals (including friendly farm dogs) wandering around! Surrounded by incredible mountain views, the remote location is about 20 minutes’ drive east of Kendal, right beside the Dales Way walk and just five minutes from Lambrigg Fell. Inside, there's space for six guests in three separate double bedrooms, with a bright and airy open plan living and kitchen area. But the real highlight? A terrace with a private hot tub overlooking the breathtaking views.
Sleeps: 6
Price per night: From £281
Mayfair House: a luxurious home in the heart of Bowness

Less than 200 metres from the shores of Lake Windermere, this stylish three-bedroom, three double bed Airbnb is the picture of modern luxury. The bright and airy interiors are flooded with light by floor-to-ceiling windows, and the glass patio doors lead out to a dining terrace and spacious garden. Plus, there are plenty of local attractions to enjoy in the village of Bowness-on-Windermere, including the World of Beatrix Potter and Blackwell House – not to mention the plethora of local pubs and restaurants.
Sleeps: 6
Price per night: From £266
Wasdale Head Hall Farm: a lakeside cottage on Wast Water

Set on the shores of Wast Water, this traditional cottage has gorgeous views of the lake and surrounding hills. The location is the perfect starting point for numerous walks – Scafell Pike, Yewbarrow and Illgill Head can all be started from the doorstep. Or why not head straight to the lake for paddleboarding, kayaking or wild swimming? The outdoor seating area is the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the water – and in the cooler months, the wood burner will keep you cosy.
Sleeps: 4
Price per night: From £140
Squirrel Bank: a romantic cottage with hot tub in Bowness

With its private hot tub and pretty interior, this little cottage makes a perfect tranquil escape for holidaying couples. It's a short stroll from the centre of Bowness-on-Windermere, as well as the ferry, marina and a plethora of walks – Orrest Head and School Knott are excellent for a leisurely walk or a challenging hike. Guests have private access to the entire property, including the tranquil garden, where the hot tub is tucked into a sheltered nook. The ideal hideaway for a romantic trip to the Lakes.
Sleeps: 2
Price per night: From £218
Abbots Reading Suite: a pet-friendly cottage near Haverthwaite

Located in the peaceful hamlet of Lakeside, just north of Haverthwaite, this delightful stone cottage is surrounded by two acres of private, pet‑friendly gardens and patios. It’s compact, but contains everything you need for a couple’s retreat at a great price. Dog parents will appreciate the pet-positive listing – there’s even an outdoor shower to hose down muddy paws after a day of adventure. The immediate area is full of well-signed walks, including the five-mile route to Finsthwaite’s High Dam, which trails from Lakeside through picturesque woodlands and meadows.
Sleeps: 2
Price per night: From £68
One Orchard Mount: a spacious hillside home in Troutbeck

With a fabulous glass-fronted balcony overlooking the valley of Troutbeck, this special Airbnb is the result of a two-year family renovation project. With two bedrooms, two king beds and an extra sofa bed, there’s plenty of space for a family or group or friends to enjoy. We especially love the sheltered barbeque area in the garden, which is a great spot to unwind during a warm evening. The house is just five minutes’ walk from the Mortal Man pub, and eight minutes from the top-notch bacon sandwiches at the Old Post Office tea room.
Sleeps: 6
Price per night: From £164
The End Cottage: a modern barn conversion near Windermere

This property is the first in a row of five barn conversions that have been renovated to an extremely high standard – expect modern furniture, luxurious touches and exposed beams galore. Although you might have neighbours in the adjoining properties, you get to enjoy your own private, enclosed garden, which for the End Cottage is particularly spacious. This Airbnb is located just east of Windermere (the town and the lake), in an exceptionally scenic location. A luxurious getaway for two, full of creature comforts.
Sleeps: 2
Price per night: From £123
Tongue Cottage: a scenic stone cottage near Watermillock

Like something from a fairytale, this charming little cottage sits a couple of miles from Lake Ullswater and the tiny village of Watermillock. The property is surrounded by open fields, which are occupied by the owners’ flock of pet sheep. Inside, it’s beautifully renovated, having retained all the original stone and timber features and a sandstone fireplace. After a day of adventure, you'll want nothing more than a long soak in the huge copper bathtub – followed by a cosy evening in front of the wood burner.
Sleeps: 2
Price per night: From £263


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