Julie Smith
14 April 2020
Whether it's holding hands on a crisp country walk, watching the sun setting over a magical lake or enjoying a lazy summer picnic with some of the finest views around, the natural landscape of the Lake District adds an extra bit of romance to any couple’s retreat.
In fact, the only thing that could make a visit to the Lake District any more special is finding the perfect place to hunker down and relax during your short break or holiday. So, from cosy cottages that are far from the madding crowd to stylish boltholes in the prettiest of villages, we have compiled some of the most romantic cottages for a Lake District getaway for two.
This luxurious apartment is part of a Grade II-listed country house with landscaped gardens and sweeping lawns that could have come straight from a Jane Austen novel. The peaceful location near Spark Bridge has an abundance of scenic walks to try and it’s just a 10-minute drive from Coniston Water and Lake Windermere.
- Look out over magnificent views from a romantic window seat
- Take a short walk to the nearby country pub
- Enjoy relaxing in the grandeur of this Georgian manor house
We recommend: Head into gorgeous gardens for a romantic picnic by the feature ornamental fountains.
What our guests say: “The accommodation was everything I expected from a 5* rating. Peaceful location, excellent views, very comfortable and well-appointed apartment.” Helen
This lovely dog-friendly period property looks out over Ullswater from a woodland spot that’s high above the Glencoyne Valley. The garden is a haven for local Lakeland wildlife so you may well spot a native red squirrel as you enjoy your morning cuppa or evening sundowner. Inside the cottage, there are lots of characterful features including beamed ceilings, a stone fireplace, limed-oak floors and an AGA stove with butcher’s block work surfaces.
- Beautifully renovated Lakeland cottage from the 1800s
- A wonderful setting in a peaceful woodland enclave
- Romantic features include a wood burner, roll-top bath and views of the lake
We recommend: Go for a romantic lakeside stroll around Ullswater and then take to the water in a traditional Ullswater Steamer.
Be among the first guests to stay: Red Squirrel Den is new to the Lakeland Cottage Company collection.
This super-stylish retreat has a prime spot in Cartmel - a pretty village that’s surrounded by streamside walks and framed by a handsome 12th-century priory. Cobbled streets are filled with independent shops, country pubs, charming tea rooms and some rather good restaurants so you’ll be spoilt for choice if you choose to dine out. Inside the loft apartment, you can take a long luxurious soak in a sumptuous free-standing bath before resting your head in the super-king-size bed.
- The stylish open-plan living space includes a sleek contemporary kitchen
- The outdoor courtyard has seating with blankets and cushions so you can make the most of the fabulous location
- There’s an array of pubs and restaurants on your doorstep and a myriad of walks in the nearby Cartmel Fells
We recommend: Treat yourselves to an extra-special romantic meal at L’Enclume, a fine-dining Cartmel restaurant that holds two Michelin stars.
What our guests say: “Perfect place for a relaxing break. Cartmel is a lovely village, and we never ventured far due to the comfort of the flat, the beautiful walks locally and all the places to eat!” Fraser
The Bothy is a hideaway for two that’s tucked away in a peaceful hamlet between the Troutbeck and Kentmere Valleys. You can strike out on a selection of country walks – there’s everything from a challenging climb up the surrounding fells to a gentle nature walk around the nearby Borrans Reservoir.
This little cottage is pretty as a picture and comes with a walled courtyard garden where you can watch the local wildlife as you enjoy a romantic alfresco supper. Popular Lake Windermere towns such as Bowness and Ambleside are also within easy reach.
- This classic Lake District bothy is nestled between two stunning valleys
- Enjoy contemporary and cosy interiors surrounded by an abundance of country walks
- Four-legged friends will be welcomed with a treat at this very dog-friendly cottage
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We recommend: Take a 2-mile walk to the Watermill Inn at Ings which is a traditional Lakeland pub with local Windermere Brewing Company beers on the menu.
What our guests say: “Had a great week staying in The Bothy - it is comfortable, cosy but well-furnished and in a quiet location, convenient for visiting different parts of the Lake District.” Benjamin
This characterful stone barn, once the Maulds Meaburn village brewing house, has been beautifully converted into a luxury holiday cottage for two that retains lots of original features combined with quirky individual touches. The dog-friendly romantic retreat looks out over sheep grazing on an idyllic village green and a gently flowing stream of the Lyvennet River.
Inside you’ll find chunky stone walls, a cosy wood burner and a spacious bedroom in the eaves of the cottage. Head outside and the courtyard features a handmade oak table and chairs and a private wood-fired hot tub.
- Beautiful barn conversion for two that’s brimming with original features
- Explore both the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Park
- Enjoy the best of quintessential English village life
We recommend: Amble down to the village pub then head back to the warmth of the wood-fired hot tub for an evening under the stars.
Be among the first guests to stay: The Brew House is new to the Lakeland Cottage Company collection.
This classic chocolate-box country cottage dates back to the 17th century and is nestled at the edge of the picturesque village of Bouth. A large front garden looks out over gorgeous green fields (complete with shire horses) and the excellent village pub is just a short stroll away. This very romantic cottage is as cosy as can be with a plump leather sofa to snuggle up on in front of the handsome stone fireplace.
- Perfect blend of classic country charm and contemporary pieces
- Sit out in the lovely lawned garden and enjoy the surrounding countryside
- Located between Coniston and Windermere so there’s lots to see and do nearby
We recommend: Although you may not want to leave the Rose Cottage, it’s worth exploring the surrounding low fell between the southern tips of Coniston and Windermere.
What our guests say: “I couldn't believe this beautiful cottage was real! It is breathtaking! Everything was perfect, gorgeous log fire, plenty of blankets and little pieces in every corner.” Nisha
With a backdrop of high fell and farmland all crisscrossed with traditional dry stone walls, the setting of Shepherd’s Nook is truly magical. Whip up a romantic meal for two in the cottage’s AGA stove and you can enjoy far-reaching views out over the Kentmere Valley, whether you choose to dine alfresco or at the cosy dining table. The views from the romantic king-size bedroom are also incredible with a fire that keeps it toasty and warm on even the coldest winter’s night.
- A dog-friendly romantic retreat that’s framed by Lakeland hills and mountains
- The bluebell-filled Dorothy Farrer’s Spring Wood nature reserve is close to the cottage
- Head to nearby Staveley for artisan food producers and beer from the local Hawkshead Brewery
We recommend: Grabbing a good book and relaxing in Shepherd’s Nook beautiful cottage garden which has one of the finest vistas around.
What our guests say: “What can I say? This cottage was simply amazing! Every corner of the place oozed character and the views were simply stunning. This is a place that we will definitely be returning too in the not too distant future.” Darren
Throw open the bi-fold doors at this luxurious five-star retreat and step out onto your own private patio that leads to 3 acres of glorious landscaped gardens that are home to an array of local wildlife. The romantic Bramblewick is located in a tranquil location around 5 miles from Windermere and also features an opulent master bedroom with an indulgent roll-top bath and vintage dressing table.
- Luxury retreat with on-site spa facilities
- Beautifully decorated cottage that’s light and airy with a feature cream wood burner
- Arrange spa treatments and a private chef you make your romantic getaway even more special
We recommend: Make the most of a selection of shared spa facilities that include an indoor swimming pool, sauna and gym.
What our guests say: “Perfect on every aspect. The spa is to die for and the setting is about the best place in the country. Secluded enough to be in total peace and quiet but close enough to local amenities and attractions.” Tim
Plan your romantic getaway to the Lake District
Have you been inspired to whisk your loved one away for a romantic break to remember? Browse our full selection of romantic Lake District cottages to find your perfect couple's retreat. Plus, whether you fancy following in the footsteps of a romantic poet or taking a dreamy steam train journey through the hills, our romantic guide to the Lake District will help you plan the loveliest things to see and do during your holiday.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.