The Lake District is one of the most beautiful parts of the British Isles, containing not only the lakes but also England's highest mountain, idyllic villages, waterfalls, castles and historic houses to visit. This article serves as a guide to self catering in the Lake District.
Self catering on the lakes
The lakes
You can hire cottage accommodation all over the Lake District, from the large town of Carlisle to holiday accommodation right by the lake side or how about secret hideaways up in the fells where you can really get away from everything?
The most well known lakes are Windermere, Ullswater and Coniston Water but there are many more lakes to enjoy.
Windermere is very popular, mainly due to its central location and its many attractions. You can go on a cruise on the lake or visit the World of Beatrix Potter. Ambleside is nearby, with its historic connection to the poet Willliam Wordsworth and his "host of golden daffodils".
Ambleside has cottages for rent ranging from luxury four star rentals for two to large properties that can sleep up to eighteen.
The fells
A self catering holiday in Cumbrian England doesn't just mean you are restricted to lake views.
You could rent country cottages set high in the fells under the brooding mountain that is Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England and considered to be one of the most difficult climbs in the Lake District.
The mountain of Helvellyn is also popular and being more accessible than Scafell Pike, is possibly the most visited and most climbed of the mountains in the Lake District.
There are a wide range of cottages for you to rent in the Fells, all ideal set off points for keen walkers and climbers.
Following in famous footseps
Famous people
The Lake District has been a popular holiday area for many, many years. Beatrix Potter, author of the famous children's books, first visited the area on holiday in 1882 and was inspired by its beauty to write her books.
The Wordsworth family moved into Wordsworth House in Cockermouth in 1766 and visitors can see the gardens that inspired William's poetry.
Dove cottage garden in Grasmere was also loved and cherished by William and his brothers and sisters, especially his sister Dorothy.
The author Arthur Ransome was inspired to write the children's story 'Swallows and Amazons' by his own childhood holidays in the Coniston and Windermere areas.
Final Word
A cottage holiday in the Lake District is one of the nicest self-catering holidays you will enjoy in the UK. Remember that summer is a very busy time for tourists, so book your accommodation early.
