Nestled in a peaceful valley between Windermere and Ambleside, the charming village of Troutbeck is one of the Lake District’s most picturesque hidden gems.
Just a short drive from the bustle of Windermere’s lakeside and the vibrant shops and eateries of Ambleside, Troutbeck offers the best of both worlds: easy access to Lakeland life while still feeling worlds away from the crowds.
A Valley Steeped in Beauty and History
The Troutbeck Valley is a place of rolling pastures, dry-stone walls, and timeless Lakeland farmsteads. Traditional whitewashed cottages line the lane that winds its way through the village, many of them dating back centuries.
Perhaps the most famous of these is Townend, a 17th-century farmhouse preserved and managed by the National Trust, which offers visitors a glimpse into the life of a prosperous farming family in the valley.
The setting itself is breathtaking. Surrounded by the central and eastern fells, Troutbeck is a natural base for walkers. To the east the valley backs against the Kentmere Horseshoe and to the north the valley rises up towards Kirkstone Pass, the highest road pass in the Lake District, where sweeping views open across to Ullswater and the Helvellyn range.
Things to Do in and Around Troutbeck
One of the joys of staying in Troutbeck is the sheer variety of activities at your doorstep:
- Walking & Hiking – From gentle valley strolls to high fell adventures, Troutbeck has it all. Popular routes include climbs up Wansfell Pike, which rewards you with panoramic views across Windermere, and circuits leading over to Troutbeck Tongue, a beautiful little fell nestled between higher peaks.
- Exploring Windermere & Ambleside – In just a few minutes by car, you can be enjoying a cruise on Lake Windermere, visiting attractions like Brockhole Visitor Centre, or sampling local Lakeland produce in Ambleside’s welcoming cafés.
- Venturing Further Afield – Ullswater, with its famous steamer cruises and access to classic hikes such as Aira Force and Helvellyn, is only a short drive over Kirkstone Pass. This makes Troutbeck an ideal central location for exploring multiple lakes in one trip.
- Traditional Pubs – No visit to the Lake District is complete without a hearty meal in a country inn. Troutbeck is home to welcoming spots such as the Queen’s Head, perfect for relaxing with a local ale after a day on the fells.
The Perfect Self-Catering Retreat
What truly makes Troutbeck special is its sense of peace. Staying in a self-catering cottage here means you can wake up to the sound of birdsong, enjoy breakfast with views across the valley, and set your own pace for the day ahead.
Whether you’re planning a hiking holiday, a family break, or simply some time to unwind, a self-catering stay in Troutbeck offers the perfect “get away from it all” experience.
With the convenience of Windermere close by and some of the Lake District’s most celebrated landscapes on your doorstep, Troutbeck is the ideal base to combine comfort, freedom, and adventure.
Main image by Andrew Burridge on Unsplash
