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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. Bam Lodge @ Applethwaite Hall
North of England » Cumbria
Pet friendly: Yes
Best suited to: Perfect for families or friends who fancy a posh escape to the Lake District, complete with a hot tub and room for the pooches.
The cottage: This luxurious lodge is a single-storey annexe with its own entrance, featuring a chic open-plan space filled with natural light, plush seating and cool artwork! The boutique bi-folding doors lead to a private patio with a hot tub.
The setting: Located in the private grounds of Applethwaite Hall this lodge is just under a mile from Windermere. Explore the Lake District Visitor Centre at Brockhole (3 miles) or take in the views from Orrest Head Viewpoint (1.5 miles). For a literary touch, visit Hill Top, Beatrix Potter’s former home (13 miles). Fancy a pint? Head to Beresfords Restaurant & Pub (015394 88488).
Boutique factor: The lodge boasts a super-king-size bedroom with an en-suite, a twin room with flexible bedding options and Smart TVs in each room. The private hot tub and enclosed garden add a touch of extravagance!
Practical stuff: Fully equipped kitchen with a Nespresso machine, oven and dishwasher. Enjoy Sky TV, Wi-Fi and a DVD player. There’s a designated parking space, with additional visitor parking. A highchair and travel cot are available and the lodge welcomes two dogs.
Guest reviews: Guests appreciate the immaculate cleanliness and thoughtful details like dog bowls and a welcome gift. The location is praised for its peace and access to beautiful walks.
“Everything was fabulous at Bam Lodge. All the little things thought about, dog waste bags in the courtyard, dog bowls, welcome note and gift (lovely touch), everything you may need in the kitchen. The best equipped cottage we have stayed in.” – Laura
2. Maison On Windermere
Bowness-on-Windermere, North of England » Cumbria
Pet friendly: No
Best suited to: Perfect for tech-savvy families or groups who enjoy luxury and high-end features, with its own cinema room.
The cottage: Welcome to a cutting-edge villa where every room is a testament to luxury. From a cinema room with a 108-inch screen to a kitchen that could make a chef weep with joy, this is where modern meets opulent. The hot tub and spa baths are just the cherry on top.
The setting: Situated in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere, this villa is just a stone’s throw from Lake Windermere. Enjoy a short stroll to Michelin-starred dining or a yacht experience at the marina (0.25 miles).
Boutique factor: This property features next-gen tech, including iPad-controlled mood lighting, a cinema room with leather seating and a 6-seater hot tub.
Practical stuff: The villa includes three bedrooms with en-suite spa baths, a fully equipped kitchen with Neff appliances and a wine cooler. Enjoy smart TVs, a PS5 and Bluetooth sound systems. Outside, there’s a BBQ pit and ample lawn space for relaxation.
Guest reviews: Guests often highlight the immaculate decor and luxurious amenities. The cinema room and hot tub are major hits. Many find the location ideal for exploring Bowness-on-Windermere.
“Maison on Windermere was the most wonderful place anyone could stay in that location. The house was immaculate on our arrival and it was everything we had hoped for from the photos.” – Claire
3. Watermead
Watermead, Cumbria » North of England » Cumbria
Pet friendly: Yes
Best suited to: Perfect for large family gatherings or groups of friends who fancy a slice of luxury with stunning views and plenty of space.
The cottage: Watermead is a grand house that exudes luxury with its spacious lounges, each with a wood burner and Sky TV. The kitchen is a chef’s paradise with a gas AGA and island seating. The dining room is perfect for feasts, leading to a patio and decking area.
The setting: Situated near the edge of Lake Windermere, Watermead offers stunning views and easy access to water sports. Bowness (3 miles) and Ambleside (5 miles) are nearby for dining. The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction is a short drive away (3 miles). Local pub, The Wateredge Inn, is just a stroll away, phone: 015394 32332.
Boutique factor: Watermead boasts a private hot tub with lake views, a multi-level garden deck and a grand dining room. The artistic decor and spacious bedrooms, including super-king zip-and-link beds ooze luxury.
Practical stuff: The cottage includes a utility room with a washer and dryer, Wi-Fi and parking for five cars. Towels and bed linen are provided. The enclosed garden is safe for children and pets, though supervision is advised due to the pond.
Guest reviews: Guests appreciate the spotless condition, thoughtful extras and stunning lake views. The spaciousness and well-equipped kitchen receive high praise.
“Fabulous house and location. Owners are very thoughtful and provide lots of home comforts and useful sundries. The property is absolutely spotless. We had a wonderful family holiday.” – Alison
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.