Cottages in North West England

North West England encompasses Britain’s stunning rural Lake District paradise, the North Pennines and The Yorkshire Dales National Park and is just a little over two hours away by car from the hubbub and commotion of Leeds, Liverpool and Manchester making this a wonderfully accessible destination for a bank holiday weekend away for Northerners. Expect to feel completely rejuvenated amidst the fresh air and peace and quiet of this secluded haven where you can sleep in, ramble for miles, enjoy a wide variety of watersports on the nearby lakes in the summertime and eat delicious meals in gorgeous pubs and restaurants! You may just fall in love with a gorgeous, local heritage village and never want to leave!

History lovers are in for a rich feast of historical sights as North West England is steeped in centuries of folklore and mystery. This is the land where mighty Norse warriors once roamed and where Neolithic kingdoms planted their stone temples at CastleRigg stone Circle and Long Meg near Penrith. Be transported back in time to the fascinating Roman Empire at Hardknott Roman fort and hop on board the 7 mile Ravensglass to Eksdale steam railway! Lovers of Church history will enjoy strolling around the ruins of the likes of Shap Abbey or Furness Abbey. There are at least two dozen splendid, stately homes and gardens to visit such as Muncaster Castle!

Lace up your most comfortable hiking shoes and head to Keswick, just 7 minutes west of Threlkeld where adventure awaits! Park at Castlerigg Stone Circle and take some time to stroll around and admire this mysterious, ancient neolithic stone circle. Gaze out over absolutely stunning views of the Fells including the majestic Blencathra, stop by a mysterious church steeped in history, cross paths with some wild fell ponies and admire a remote, shimmering, desolate tarn!

You will not be disappointed by a visit to exquisite Muncaster Castle, just 1 hour south east of Threlkeld. This gorgeous, heritage stone castle is a superb attraction for a day out to remember for the whole family! The magnificent woodland gardens are replete with exotic plants from around the world and the Hawk and Owl Centre offers an enchanting encounter with majestic birds of prey. When you step through the front door into the Great Hall you will be aware of centuries of history in the sumptuous state rooms replete with priceless furniture and artwork.

You are in for a scenic treat on this 9.6 km hike that begins outside the gorgeous, historic Moot Hall building in Keswick. You will discover a peaceful, rural route that takes you through woodland, over a wooden bridge to cross a stream and along a climb with incredible views over Keswick and the surrounding majestic, rugged landscape. After marvelling at the splendid summit views with a delicious picnic, it is time to return home to your cheerful, welcoming holiday rental to put your feet up and browse the day’s collection of nature photographs!

If you love exploring spooky castles and stepping back in time, a trip to Raby Castle near Staindrop will tick all the boxes. This 1626 fortress is one of the finest medieval castles in England! Admire fine furniture, priceless artworks, the deer park, walled gardens and magnificent carriage collection!

Keswick museum will provide you with a wonderful snapshot of aspects of the history and culture of the locality. This charming museum features an offbeat collection of incredibly interesting, eclectic artefacts including a teacup that belonged to Napoleon! Discover amazing natural and geological artefacts, explore collections on archaeology, social and industrial history and enjoy highlights of exceptional fine art, documents and literary materials from Lake District Poets. There is a lovely museum shop and cafe for a perfect ending to your outing!

Brantwood House is nestled against a backdrop of dense, verdant forest. This stately historic home was the home of Victorian intellectual John Ruskin. Here you will be able to admire many of his priceless treasures and fabled collections. Look out for contemporary exhibitions and concerts at this gorgeous venue. The grounds offer magnificent views of Coniston Water and the Lakeland Mountains. The spring and autumn colours in these exquisite gardens are a visual treat that is not to be missed!

This placid ribbon lake stretches 18km in Cumbria’s Lake National Park and is about 15 km south east of Elterwater. This scenic stretch of water is surrounded by mountains and lush, idyllic pastoral scenes. There are marvellous walking trails that lead to Orrest Head, a hill with views across the lake and the fells and Holehird Gardens where you can admire gorgeous heather. There are plenty of places around Windermere Lake where you can hire a motor boat, a rowing boat, kayak, canoe or paddle board to enjoy the water. Hop on board a delightful lake cruise and hop off in the charming bustling town of Ambleside for a delicious pub lunch!