Our boutique cottages in Windermere offer the perfect way to explore the Lake District’s most popular destinations.
Windermere is not only home to England’s largest lake but is surrounded by attractions like the historic Wray Castle and the World of Beatrix Potter.
The popular village of Bowness-on-Windermere has fantastic lakeside cafés, boat tours and access to the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway.
You’ve also got Ambleside a short drive away with stunning hikes like Orrest Head and Loughrigg Fell.
A cottage with a hot tub in Windermere gives you a lovely way to experience this area within easy reach of outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic walking trails. Here are some that are guaranteed to make you go ‘wow!’
1. Fell Foot
North of England » Cumbria
Pet friendly: Yes
Best suited to: Perfect for families or groups of friends who fancy a stylish escape to the Lake District, complete with a hot tub and room for the pooches.
The cottage: This traditional detached cottage sits in an idyllic corner of the Lake District, with a woodburning stove for cosy evenings and stunning views from the windows. Outside, the enclosed garden has a hot tub for soaking after a day on the fells.
The setting: Fell Foot is in Santon Bridge near Eskdale Green, a quiet spot on the western side of the Lakes. Wasdale is around 5.6 miles away and the coast at Seascale is around 6.1 miles. Coniston is around 19.2 miles away. There’s a pub close by too, so a post-walk pint is easy to arrange.
Boutique factor: A 4-poster bed adds a real touch of romance, while the woodburning stove and private hot tub give the cottage a luxurious, relaxed feel. With four bedrooms and two bathrooms, everyone gets room to spread out.
Practical stuff: The kitchen has a dishwasher, and there’s Wi-Fi throughout. The enclosed garden is handy for children and four-legged friends, as pets are welcome. The area is popular for cycling and fishing, and the cottage is well suited to families.
2. Deer Close
Coniston, North of England » Cumbria
Pet friendly: No
Best suited to: Perfect for larger families or groups of friends who want a luxury Lake District base with private lakeside access, a sauna and a gym.
The cottage: Deer Close is an outstanding house near the village of Coniston, with a luxury feel throughout. The hot tub, sauna and gym make it easy to treat the whole group to a proper spa-style stay without leaving the property.
The setting: Set near Coniston in the Lake District, the house has its own private lakeside access and a jetty. Hawkshead is around 4.7 miles away and Ambleside is around 8.3 miles away, so the wider Windermere area is within easy reach.
Boutique factor: Few places can match a private jetty on the lake. Add a fire pit, a hot tub, a sauna and a gym, and you have a stay that feels special from arrival to departure.
Practical stuff: The house has four bedrooms and three bathrooms, sleeping up to 10 guests. It also offers WiFi, a dishwasher and an enclosed garden. Ground floor accommodation is available, and the area is well suited to fishing, cycling and golfing. Please note that pets are not allowed.
Cottage Info
3. Woodland Cottages at Rowan
Woodland Cottages at Rowan, Cumbria » North of England » Cumbria
Pet friendly: No
Best suited to: Ideal for large family gatherings or groups of friends who want space, woodland surroundings and a hot tub within walking distance of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The cottage: Woodland Cottages at Rowan is an outstanding cottage with spacious rooms and a woodburning stove, giving plenty of room for a group of up to ten to spread out and relax. It has five bedrooms and four bathrooms, so everyone has their own space.
The setting: The cottage sits in 6 acres of woodland, yet it is within walking distance of Bowness-on-Windermere for dining and lakeside strolls. Ambleside is around 5 miles away.
Boutique factor: Large gardens with a hot tub, a woodland setting and a woodburning stove make this a special place to stay. With a guest rating of 4.9, it is one of the highest rated cottages in the area.
Practical stuff: The cottage has Wi-Fi and a dishwasher, and the enclosed garden makes it a good choice for families with children. Cycling is available nearby. Pets are not allowed.
Cottage Info
4. Lakeside at Louper Weir
Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria
Pet friendly: No
Best suited to: Ideal for family reunions or groups of friends who enjoy luxury with a view. Perfect for those who appreciate high-end living and a fab lakeside setting.
The cottage: This modern marvel on Lake Windermere offers a luxurious getaway with four super-king bedrooms, each with an en-suite. Enjoy the cinema-style TV, Sonos sound system and a kitchen fit for a gourmet chef.
The setting: You’re right on the shores of Lake Windermere here. This boutique cottage is a stone’s throw from Bowness. For outdoor enthusiasts, Orrest Head offers panoramic views and is just a short walk away (3 miles).
Boutique factor: How about your own private jetty? There’s also a unique Teppanyaki hotplate. The automated blinds and eco-friendly underfloor heating add a touch of sophistication, while the kayaks provide a fun twist for lake adventures.
Practical stuff: The cottage comes with off-road parking and a garden with a patio. A well-equipped kitchen includes a dishwasher, washing machine and Tassimo coffee machine. The property is strictly no pets and no smoking.
Guest reviews: Guests appreciate the stunning views and luxurious amenities, though some note minor maintenance issues. The housekeeper receives praise for her helpfulness. “The views from the house are spectacular – the setting and comfort set the scene for the best morning coffee and evening drinks you can imagine.” – David
5. Briars Lea
Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria
Pet friendly: Yes
Best suited to: Perfect for families and groups of friends who enjoy a little luxury and a lot of laughter. Bring the kids, bring the dogs and bring your sense of adventure!
The cottage: This reverse-level abode is a modern marvel, complete with a balcony for those al fresco breakfasts. With a media room, plush sofas and a hot tub, it’s the epitome of comfort. The electric fire will warm your toes as you sip cocoa, while the sleek kitchen awaits your culinary creations.
The setting: Nestled in Bowness-on-Windermere, this cottage is a mere 0.5 miles from Lake Windermere. The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction is just 1.5 miles away and the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway is within 7 miles. Dining at Boardwalk Bar and Grill (015394 43272) is a must and Orrest Head is a 30-minute walk for stunning views.
Boutique factor: Briars Lea boasts a cinema room, a private hot tub and a balcony with garden views. The reverse-level design offers unique living spaces and the contemporary décor adds an extra touch of sophistication.
Practical stuff: The property features four bedrooms, including zip-link beds for flexibility and four bathrooms. Enjoy modern conveniences like Smart TVs, WiFi, a coffee maker and a dishwasher. The enclosed garden is perfect for pets and there’s parking for three cars.
Guest reviews: Visitors praise the house’s cleanliness, spaciousness and its superb location. Many appreciate the thoughtful amenities and the luxury of the hot tub.
“Beautiful house, ideal location, exceptionally clean and has everything you could possibly need.” – Vanessa
6. Boathouse on the Lake
Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria
Pet friendly: No
Best suited to: Couples looking for a romantic escape with breathtaking lake views and luxurious touches. Perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply unwinding in style.
The cottage: This is no ordinary retreat; it’s a boathouse with a twist. Picture a studio-style sanctuary with a super king-size bed, a kitchen fit for a chef and a hot tub that makes every soak feel like a scene from a romantic film.
The setting: Located on the stunning shores of Lake Windermere, this spot is a dream for nature lovers. Just 0.5 miles away, you can enjoy a meal at The Boathouse Bar & Restaurant (015394 43284). Explore Windermere Jetty Museum (1.5 miles) or venture to Kendal (7 miles) for a taste of local history.
Boutique factor: Apart from your own luxury hot tub, there’s a kayak you can hop in for some lake adventures. The interior boasts high-end furnishings, eco-friendly heating and a stunning balcony with panoramic views.
Practical stuff: The property includes WiFi, off-road parking and a dishwasher. There’s a smart TV for entertainment and a utility room for laundry. Electric vehicle charging is available. Note the steep drive and steps.
Guest reviews: Guests adore the stunning views and luxurious feel. Some mention the steep access, but the location and amenities win them over.
“We had an amazing time at this really unique, stunning property.” – Lorraine
What Makes a Cottage “Boutique”?
Boutique cottages are all about personalisation, style and comfort. They stand out from typical holiday homes by offering unique interiors, high-end amenities and a focus on detail.
These cottages often showcase bespoke furniture, original artwork and luxury touches like freestanding bathtubs, hot tubs or panoramic views.
Many boutique cottages in the UK in locations like Windermere offer features such as:
- Wood-burning stoves: A cosy feature for warming up after a day exploring. Very romantic! And essential if you’re planning a Winter escape!
- Private terraces: Ideal for relaxing outdoors with views of the fells or lakes, perfect for al fresco dining or sitting out with a drink on the nights. Just watch out for greedy ducks trying to nick your snacks.
- Direct lake access: Some cottages provide private paths to Lake Windermere, making water activities like swimming and paddleboarding easily accessible.
- Hot tubs: Ah, there’s nothing quite like slipping into a hot tub that first time when you get to your cottage! All our cottages feature private hot tubs. Enjoy a luxurious way to unwind while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
- Pet-friendly options: A lot of boutique cottages welcome pets, allowing you to bring your furry friend along for the trip. Cottages are a great fit for pet owners, especially if you can find one with an enclosed garden.
- Outdoor BBQ areas: Great for summer evenings, some cottages come equipped with outdoor spaces perfect for grilling and dining under the stars.
More ideas for a boutique cottage break…
- Lakeside Retreats: Stay in a cottage on the shores of Lake Windermere, offering direct lake access and stunning views of the Lakeland fells.
- Cosy Coastal Cottages: Think of a boutique beachside escape in Cornwall, with stylish interiors and private patios perfect for a seaside retreat.
- Countryside Hideaways: Escape to the Cotswolds or Peak District, where boutique cottages often feature cosy nooks, wood-burners, and garden spaces ideal for unwinding
These unique accommodations are designed for those seeking a more personalised and luxurious holiday experience. Whether you’re after romance, relaxation, or adventure, boutique cottages offer a bespoke stay that’s hard to forget.
