Where to stay to explore the Lake District in winter
There’s a huge range of accommodation options in the Lake District. The type of accommodation that suits you best will depend on what you want to get out of your trip.
You could stay in a cosy, remote cottage. You can get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life in a secluded cottage. Many cottages have amazing views from the window – so if the weather is bad, you can enjoy the mountain views without needing to go outside. You can also find some with a log burning fire and hot tub for the ultimate luxury. A remote cottage can be a beautiful place to stay, but remember to think about the practicalities in winter. Some roads can get icy or blocked with snow in the Lake District in the winter. So if your cottage involves driving up a steep road that is unlikely to be gritted, it might not be the best option in an icy, snowy week.
Staying in a village can be a great option when visiting the Lake District in winter. There are many pubs with rooms in the villages, and some of the more historic ones have great character. Although you might not have as good mountain views or your own fire and hot tub like you would in a cottage, a pub in a village is a lot more accessible. You’re unlikely to have issues driving there in ice and snow, especially if it’s a main village on a main road. And you’ll have all the local village amenities nearby. Plus, you can just walk downstairs when you want dinner and not have to go outside on a cold winter’s night.
I stayed in the village of Ambleside when I visited the Lake District in winter. I’d definitely recommend Ambleside as a great place to stay. It’s a fairly big village so there are plenty of pubs and other food options. But it’s right in the middle of some of the best scenery, so it’s not far to drive anywhere for a day out. Another great village location is Grasmere. Or if you fancy a slightly more lively small town, Windermere and Keswick are also great options.
Keep reading on the next page for you day-by-day itinerary for the Lake District in winter.