The right base for your self catering holiday should be determined by what you want to see and how you like to spend your days.
But choosing from hundreds of self catering properties in Cumbria can be tricky if the location you pick can influence your holiday so much.
Stay too far from the places you want to explore, and you could spend more time driving than walking, sightseeing or relaxing. But is staying in a village or town right for your break?
Here’s how to narrow it down.
What should you consider when choosing where to stay in Cumbria?
Choose your base in Cumbria around the activities you want to do, the places you want to visit and how much travelling you’re happy to do once you arrive.
Before browsing self catering properties in Cumbria, think about your holiday priorities:
- Walking. Would you like to set off straight from your front door?
- Food and drink. Do you want pubs, cafés and restaurants within walking distance?
- Family days out. Which attractions are on your must-do list?
- Peace and quiet. Would you prefer a rural location away from the busiest towns?
- Exploring. Are you happy to drive each day, or would you rather use public transport?
The Lake District National Park covers more than 900 square miles, so choosing the right location can make a big difference to your holiday.
Where is the best place to stay in Cumbria?
Ambleside is a popular base for walking and exploring the central Lakes; Bowness puts Lake Windermere and family attractions on your doorstep, while quieter locations such as Troutbeck offer more of a countryside escape.
The table below compares these and more of the best places to stay in and around the Lake District to help you find the right fit for your holiday.
| Lake District location | Best for |
| Ambleside | Central Lakes access, fell walking, shops, pubs and restaurants |
| Bowness | Lake Windermere, family attractions, boat trips and plenty going on |
| Troutbeck | Countryside and doorstep walks without being far from Windermere and Ambleside |
| Kendal | Shops, restaurants, transport links and easy access to the South Lakes |
| Kirkby Lonsdale | A market-town break with easy access to both the Lakes and Yorkshire Dales |
| Sedbergh | The Howgills, quieter walking trails and the Yorkshire Dales |
| Grizedale | Woodland, cycling, walking and a more rural escape |
For walking holidays
Ambleside, Troutbeck, Grizedale and Sedbergh all put fantastic walking trails on your doorstep. If you’re travelling with children, our guide to family-friendly walks around Ambleside is a good place to start.
For families
Bowness combines Lake Windermere with attractions, restaurants and good public transport. Kendal makes a practical base for exploring the South Lakes. Find more inspiration in our guide to family activities near Kendal.
For a quieter escape
Look beyond the busiest Lake District towns if you want a break away from everything. Troutbeck has rural countryside within easy proximity to Windermere and Ambleside. Sedbergh sets you in the middle of the Howgill Fells. Grizedale is another strong choice if forests and trails appeal more than shops and nightlife.
Do you need a car for a Lake District holiday?
You don’t necessarily need a car in the Lake District, particularly if you choose well-connected holiday accommodation in places such as Ambleside or Kendal.
Regular buses (the 555 runs all the way from Lancaster to Keswick!) connect many central Lake District destinations. Boats, cycling and walking are other ways to explore the Lake District. The National Park Authority has a useful guide to getting around the Lake District without relying on your car.
If you plan to explore quieter valleys or several widely spaced locations, however, having a car can give you more flexibility.
Related reading: If you love the sound of bus travel round The Lakes, check out these 10 walking routes directly from the 555 bus.
How do you choose the right self catering accommodation in Cumbria?
The right self catering accommodation in Cumbria should have enough space for your group, the facilities you need, and practical essentials such as suitable parking and access to nearby amenities.
Consider these factors for your holiday
- Size. How many bedrooms and bathrooms will you need?
- Parking. Is there space at the property or nearby for your vehicle(s)?
- Outdoor space. Do you want private space for children, dogs or summer evenings?
- Kitchen facilities. Are these adequate if you plan to eat in regularly?
- Walkability. Is it important for you to reach pubs, shops or trails without driving?
A cosy apartment in Windermere could be perfect for a couple who want restaurants and Lake Windermere nearby, while a traditional farmhouse in Grizedale might better suit a family planning days of walking and cycling.
Find the right Lake District holiday cottage with Fernwood
The right base isn’t the same for everyone. Start with how you want your holiday to feel, choose the part of Cumbria that makes that easiest, then find the property to match.
Fernwood Cottages offers Lake District holiday cottages across the Lakes and Dales, from lively towns to peaceful countryside retreats. If you’re still unsure about the right base for your Cumbria break, ask our friendly team for advice – we’re here to help!
