The search phrase luxury self-catering Lake District is packed with promise and we want to deliver on every aspect of it: the luxurious touches in our accommodation, the things that make self-catering easy and stress-free, and of course, this fantastic area that we live and work in.
Head over to our Honeypot Cottage, Nannygoat Cottage, The West Wing, and Grange House pages to read more about the first two elements of your perfect stay – and stick with us on this page to find out about our fantastic location and the unrivalled landscape, culture and heritage which led to the Lake District being awarded World Heritage Site status.
The Lake District is internationally recognised as a World Heritage Site for its landscape. Wherever you stay on the South Lakes Escapes, this landscape will draw you into its spell. The fells, lakes, and fields are great for walking and cycling and if you’d rather not drive far during your break, there are lovely walks and rides closer to home.
Cumbria Wildlife Trust’s nature reserves can be found all over the Lake District, many of which are not far from Underbarrow and Windermere. We highly recommend the Whitbarrow Scar reserve and Dorothy Farrer’s Spring Woods to our guests, they are both fabulous examples of our natural environment and ideal for exploring.
Regular conservation days and events are held at reserves across Cumbria throughout the year, why not join one and learn about Cumbria’s wildlife and environment while you’re here?
The Lake District’s characterful and unique towns are easily accessible from South Lakes Escapes Windermere and Underbarrow locations.
The historic town of Kendal hosts regular markets and is a centre for dining and shopping.
The Brewery Arts Centre is a hotspot for culture, with plays, exhibitions, comedy, and music on show throughout the year.
The bustling lakeside towns of Windermere and Bowness, great for shopping and attractions, are a gateway to great walks and cycle rides around the lake and further afield. There’s also high-class dining, including the highly rated Samling Hotel restaurant. (Its lost its star Clare~)
A 15-minute drive from Windermere is Ambleside – a must-visit if you’re looking for outdoor supplies. Ambleside has excellent walking trails and several museums and galleries devoted to local author Beatrix Potter.
Keswick is also packed with great shops, and its famous Theatre by the Lake is well worth a visit.
There are simply too many seasonal events to list, but here are some local favourites that are a fixture in Lake District life. Can we add a link to a site such as go lakes or tourist info for things to do?
January-February: During the winter and early spring, Cumbria wildlife trust hold events all over their reserves, where you can come and assist with preparing the habitats for spring.
April: Kirkby Lonsdale Food Festival. A recent additional to the Lake District’s calendar of events, the festival features more than 40 food and drink stalls, children’s activities, and a beer festival.
May, July and August: The Cartmel Races. Spend a day at the popular races without the worry of finding nearby accommodation – the course is a short drive from Underbarrow and Windermere.
May: Keswick Jazz and Blues Festival. The town of Keswick comes alive, with Jazz and Swing musicians coming from all over the world. Alongside regular music events, there’s food, drink and Jazz-related fun.
June: The Great North Swim. A widely known and popular event, with thousands of swimmers competing in various events in Lake Windermere. If you’d like to join in there are events suitable for everyone, or if you’d prefer to watch, you can just enjoy a bite to eat and the accompanying festivities.
June: Ulverston International Music Festival. A music festival with performances from local and international orchestras and choirs. Workshops are also on offer for those interested in getting involved.
September: The Westmorland County Show. The County Show is a long running agricultural show where Cumbria’s farmers and producers gather, with prize-winning animals, traditional sports, stalls selling unique artisan crafts, and an impressive food tent and demonstrations.
December: Taste Cumbria’s Christmas market held at Cockermouth. The market is packed with stalls selling handmade Christmas treats, drinks, crafts, and gifts. The Christmas spirit is infectious as the whole town joins in on the fun.