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The Best Dog-Friendly Cottages In The Lake District

Ah, the Lake District… a rural wonderland that boasts the very best in UK scenery.

With mountainous fells, picturesque lakes and clear blue skies, is it any wonder that nearly 16 million of us visit it every year?

As well as an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise though, The Lakes are also a heavenly location for dog owners, with hundreds of awe-inspiring strolls deep into lush forest greenery and breath-taking bodies of water to circle.

But as dog owners ourselves, we know how hard finding dog-friendly cottages in the Lake District can be!

So to help you out other mutt-lovers, we’ve searched high and low through several hundred of Tripadvisor’s finest Lake District cottage retreats to find you and your pups a safe, secluded and superb getaway destination!

Here are some of the most irresistible dog friendly cottages the Lake District has to offer!:

Our Top Picks

  • Best For Big GroupsHagg End sleeps 10 and is a 5 minute drive from Lake Windermere
  • Best for CoupleMulberry Lodge is a modern lodge with veranda and stunning Lake Bassenthwaite views
  • Best With Hot TubNorth Bank Bungalow is a Grade II listed building with a spacious garden
  • Best For Fell ViewsThirlwall Cottage boasts the most breath-taking scenery, including the peak of Helvellyn!
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    • Situated: Portinscale (Keswick)
    • Accommodates: 5
    • Minimum Stay: 3 Nights
    • Amenities: Secure Parking, Private Garden, Patio, WiFi, Dishwasher, Central Heating

    With a fashioned hedge arch entrance on arrival, The Beeches cottage is a feast from the eyes from the start of your stay til the very end thanks to its traditional décor and jaw-dropping fell views.

    Located in the small village of Portinscale, near Keswick, it’s surrounding country footpaths are superb trails for dog walking, allowing you to take trips to the Newlands Valley, Winlatter Forest, Keswick and beyond!

    A large, dipping garden with beech hedge and peaceful patio area open up the back of the cottage to the immersive mountainous region of Skiddaw and it’s a perfect enclosed space to spend your time, eating, drinking and relaxing away the days with your family and pup.

    Inside the home, there is a gorgeous wooden oak furnishings theme that fits beautifully with the region, with a spacious living room, 2 bathrooms, a kitchen/dining area and 3 bedrooms (1 king, 1 twin, 1 child’s single) to accommodate a family of 5.

    Don’t worry about getting bored on rainy days either, as there’s plenty of entertainment packed away in the cupboards, including games, toys and a Smart TV for cheering up your evenings!

    A wide drive accommodates up to 3 cars and there is also a garage to store bikes too!

    • Situated: Skiddaw (near Bassenthwaite)
    • Accommodates: 2
    • Minimum Stay: 1 Nights
    • Amenities: Parking, TV, Dishwasher, Terrace, Central Heating, Fridge, Cooker

    A romantic getaway wouldn’t be the same without your hairy little chum by your side (we’re talking about your dog!) and so this pretty pet-friendly lodge is a great way for your loved up trio to spend some much needed down time together.

    Mulberry Lodge is found on the small family run, Skiddaw View Holiday Park, which offers all the facilities you need right on your doorstep, including shops and laundry. Placed handily at the most elevated area of the site, you’ll also have plenty of privacy, as well as an enviable view of Skiddaw, the Northern Fells and the beautiful Lake Bassenthwaite, guaranteed to leave you speechless.

    A modern and bespoke architectural design, it features an enclosed private veranda for you to devour the eye-popping scenery from, with floor to ceiling windows on 3 sides to create a light, bright and natural feel.

    Decorated in appealing sea blue, the lodge has a huge open plan living area for you and your partner to relax in and a fireplace for your pooch to stretch out in front of. In the bedroom, it gets even better, with a super-sized king bed, a walk-in wardrobe and an en suite with shower and standing bath.

    Lakeland luxury at it’s finest, beware of the possibility you might never want to leave!

    • Situated: Threlkeld (near Keswick)
    • Accommodates: 4
    • Minimum Stay: 7 Nights
    • Amenities: Parking, Shared Garden, Patio, WiFi, Washer/Dryer, Towels Provided

    If views are everything when picking out the ultimate cottage getaway, please don’t ignore Thirlwall Cottage, which in our eyes can officially boast the most breathtaking scenery of any holiday home.

    A beautifully presented two bedroom bungalow for four guests and a mutt, Thirlwall is located at the foot of the spectacular Blencathra mountain range, in the village of Threlkeld near Keswick. This means you are surrounded by truly unforgettable views of Helvellyn, High Rigg and Great Dodd mountain ranges, right from the living room, patio or garden!

    The garden itself is even a sight to behold, with bizarre and unusually shaped hedges cascading down the hillside to create a stunning backdrop that’s an idyllic hotspot for a bit of breakfast or an evening outside!

    The inside of the cottage is incredibly snug and modern, with exposed brickwork and immersive French windows in the lounge, 2 comfortable double bedrooms with lovely views and an attractive kitchen/diner area.

    For our money, it’s the ultimate home for getting away from it all and indulging in some well-needed time!

    • Situated: Windermere
    • Accommodates: 4
    • Minimum Stay: 3 Nights
    • Amenities: Secure Parking, Decking, WiFi, TV, Dishwasher, Gym Access, Outdoor Dining

    Doing exactly what it says on the tin, the Lazy Days Lodge on the shores of Lake Windermere is your number one staycation destination for putting your feet up and drinking in some truly spectacular scenery.

    Found on the award winning White Cross Bay Lodge Site, the lodge is located between Windermere and Ambleside, a much sought after area of the Lake District, surrounded by streams that lead to the lake and luscious trees.

    Appearing as if you’re living deep in an enchanted forest, the lodge provides a huge decking area surrounding 3 sides of the building and is an ideal vantage point for looking out onto the stream and natural wildlife.

    Inside the lodge is also just as appealing, with a large open plan lounge, dining and kitchen area with great views of your surroundings thanks to the full wall of glass windows!

    Sleeping just 4 people, it’s a great choice for one family or 2 couples, with a king sized bedroom with en-suite bathroom and one twin bed room. There is also a family bathroom with a shower.

    Great for kids and dogs, the site has facilities for all ages, including bar, takeaway, restaurant, shop and even pool, sauna and gym!

    So don’t be surprised if you never build up the energy to go anywhere but your Lazy Lodge!

    • Situated: Windermere
    • Accommodates: 10
    • Minimum Stay: 3 Nights
    • Amenities: Parking, Private Garden, WiFi, Dishwasher, Towels Provided, Outdoor Dining Area, Hot Tub Available

    If you are looking to celebrate a family occasion in a peaceful and pretty setting, this 17th Century Lakeland cottage is sure to wow large groups of up to 10 people.

    Despite its name, Hagg End is actually situated in a very beautiful spot in Windermere, hidden deep within the countryside, and just a five minute drive from the lake, where you and your motley crew of friends, family & dogs will be very much in your own little world!
    The cottage itself is a truly enviable home too, retaining original features of an oak staircase, wooden beams and oak panelling.

    This alone provides the authentic cottage experience, with a cosy log burner living room and large farmhouse style kitchen being the cherry on top of an already incredibly luxurious cake!

    Inside there are 2 king rooms (1 en suite), 2 twin rooms (1 en suite), a double en suite, downstairs shower and utility room, with plenty of space in the full-equipped kitchen for everyone to do their own thing.

    Dogs are welcome for a small fee and for all you hot tub fans you’ll be pleased to hear you can also hire one at an additional cost!

    • Situated: Eamont Bridge (near Penrith & Lake Ullswater)
    • Accommodates: 12
    • Minimum Stay: 3 Nights
    • Amenities: Hot Tub, Parking, Private Garden, Patio, WiFi, Towels Provided, Outdoor Dining Area

    Is there anything more relaxing than a cosy lodge and hot tub holiday?

    Well most of the general public have decided, no, there really isn’t, and so hot tubs, jacuzzis and spa treatments are now a go-to staple for any UK staycation.

    Overlooking the pretty river Eamont, North Bank Bungalow is a grade 2 listed building with a lovely spacious garden, decking area and of course… hot tub. Superbly decorated and large, this cottage is perfect for large gatherings, sleeping 12, but also being ideal for a group of 4 couples.

    Within easy driving distances of prime Lake District locations, North Bank is just a 10 minute walk from the market town of Penrith, with Lake Ullswater being the closest beauty spot.

    Inside there are 4 double bedrooms, one of which hosts a bunk bed for little ones and the lounge and living rooms show off high ceilings with large log burners.

    Two of these bedrooms and both lounge areas allow you to look out onto the wonderful river Eamont, while the other bedrooms give views of the splendid garden area.

    The garden is a perfect place for letting pups run free, offering a relaxing lawn space and a decking area with BBQ and outdoor dining. It’s here where you’ll also find the hot tub, which let’s be honest, is the only reason you’re interested!

    • Situated: Ambleside
    • Accommodates: 4
    • Minimum Stay: 3 Nights
    • Amenities: Parking, WiFi, Towels Provided, Mountain Views, Washer/Dryer, Dishwasher

    Ambleside is a much beloved area of the Lake District thanks to it’s eclectic mix of shops, bars and restaurants, which allows you the perfect mix of natural outdoor activity during the day and fun social activity in the evening – the best of both worlds!

    This quirky and dog-friendly cottage is situated in a prime central Ambleside location, yet also uniquely offers privacy, peace and quiet thanks to it’s rare hillside setting on the edge of the town.

    Stone-built and lovingly renovated with a fresh, luxury vibe, this self-catered accommodation provides a modern bathroom with shower and bath, an open plan lounge and kitchen area with dining table and an amazing mezzanine master bedroom with fell views and original beams. There is also a smaller twin bed room that’s ideal for two children!

    With local walks including Wansfell, Loughrigg, Sweden Bridges and Stockgyll Waterfalls routes, it’s an unbeatable spot for dog walks and sweet little central hub for exploring the entire Lake District!

    • Situated: Between Ambleside & Windermere
    • Accommodates: 6
    • Minimum Stay: 3 Nights
    • Amenities: Parking, Shared Garden, Terrace, WiFi, Dishwasher, Towels Provided, Suitable For Young Children, Mountain Views

    An award winning abode, the sweetly named Pudding Cottage has been the recipient of the Visit England Rose Award, winner of Cumbria Cottage Of The Year and has previously been listed in The Times’ Top 50 Cottages in the UK… so you know it’s going to be good.

    A dream-like Lakeland cottage nestled perfectly between Lake District hotspots Ambleside and Windermere, it was built in the late 18th century by the First Earl of Lonsdale and is a tranquil setting for 6 people and one lucky pup!

    Just a few hundred yards from the shores of Lake Windermere, the landscaped gardens give off stunning views of the surrounding fells and countryside, making it visually a cottage that’s tough to beat! We seriously recommend it if you are a wildlife fan or photographer, as the flora and fauna attracts plenty of animals to the grounds, including deer, rabbits, woodpecker and some resident ducks that come right up to the door!

    Inside the cottage is a home from home feel, with traditional cottage-feel kitchen and lounge, with 3 modern bathrooms and 3 bedrooms, including two double bedrooms and one twin bed.

    The ideal getaway spot for a family, it’s within a few feet of Brockhole Visitors Centre which features treetop obstacle course, trampolines and zipline activities, meaning it’s superb for kids! Your stay also comes with 5 full leisure passes for a local Leisure Club, so you can enjoy saunas, jacuzzies and more during your stay!

    • Situated: Cartmel
    • Accommodates: 8
      Minimum Stay: 3 Nights
    • Amenities: Secure Parking, Private Garden, Patio, WiFi, Dishwasher, Mountain Views, Towels Provided

    A large, luxury, detached 4 bedroom home, the Weavers Cottage is located in the gorgeous village of Cartmel on the southern tip of the Lake District.

    Providing 4 double bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, it’s a great get-together location for large families or groups of friends and in May 2020, the cottage was totally refurbished and repainted, meaning it’s a newly gleaming and glamorous staycation spot with plenty of flair and style!

    Sleeping eight and up to 2 dogs, the cottage boasts plenty of space for everyone to get along, with a sitting room with an 8 seater sofa and large kitchen area with island/breakfast bar area.

    The cottager’s showstopper though is a large conservatory that springs from out of the kitchen, hosting a large farmhouse style dining table with eight seats, so you and your gathering can look out into the garden and open fields beyond. The garden itself is also a great enclosed area for your dogs to play in, with a large patio and outdoor dining area if you fancy soaking up some good weather!

    On the outskirts of Carmel, it’s a great location for some peace and quiet, but isn’t far from Cartmel’s pubs and Michelin starred restaurants if you so fancy them!

    • Situated: Cartmel
    • Accommodates: 5
    • Minimum Stay: 3 Nights
    • Amenities: Parking, Private Garden, Patio, WiFi, Dishwasher, Towels Provided, Suitable For Young Children, Washer/Dryer

    Hidden away on a quiet cobbled lane near the unspoilt Lakeland village of Cark-in-Cartmel, this cottage may be the best kept secret in the entire Lake District!

    A luxury 18th century building, the luxury Bridgelands Cottage has been furnished and equipped to an incredible standard, combining the modern and classic.

    Sleeping 5 people and up to 2 dogs, the property hosts a cosy log fire living room with leather sofas, a large kitchen and dining area with 2 long breakfast bars and 2 window seats overlooking the sumptuous garden area.

    Bedroom-wise, there is a newly refurbished single, a stylish redecorated twin and an airy, light king-sized room with galleried entrance, oak beams and plenty of space! A modern bathroom also provides everyone with a bath and powerful shower.

    One of the real hits of the house though is it’s south facing, private garden, which is ideal for evening meals and summer nights!

    A secluded and tranquil setting, this is a great place to get away and just a stone’s throw from the Lakes.

    Where To Go In The Lake District

    If you like stunning hilly views and sparkling waterfronts, it doesn’t get any more eye-catching or peaceful than the Lake District and you really are spoilt for choice when it comes to picking out things to do during your stay.

    Windermere is arguably the region’s most famous spot as it features the district’s largest lake, This makes it ideal for those looking to indulge in water-based sports and activities, while scenic routes around the lake are great for walkers and cyclists! Perfect for kids, it’s a must-go for Beatrix Potter fans thanks to plenty of museums dedicated to the children’s author and Brockhole adventure playground promises a fun day out for all the family.

    The nearby town of Ambleside is usually a favourite stay for people looking to take advantage of the Windermere area, as it is a quaint enough place which still offers a bustling centre filled with shops, cafes and restaurants to keep you stimulated.

    Coniston Water and village are another popular destination, particularly for those looking for a slower amble around a lake via a motor or rowing boat, while the nearby mountain ‘The Old Man of Coniston’ provides breath-taking views. If you’re a sailor, you’d be a fool not to check out Coniston boating centre, with a fantastic range of boats for hire!

    For people after more of an adventure, Derwentwater Lake and the nearby area of Keswick feature a whole host of opportunities, with Keswick Climbing Wall, a Go Ape, Rookin House Equestrian Centre and Newlands Adventure Centre, superb for designing an active and outgoing holiday packed with sporting pleasures.

    For hikers and climbers, Wastwater Lake provides some of Britain’s greatest views as it is surrounded by Red Pike, Kirk Fell, Great Gable and Scafell Pike, making it the number one destination for those looking to beat England’s highest peak!

    If you plan on staying nearer to Ullswater, not only will you be treated to a phenomenal lake with mountainous scenery, but also some of the most enjoyable routes for walkers, with plenty of interesting sites such as Dalemain Mansion and Lowther Castle to stop at. The area also boasts the mighty Helvellyn, England’s third-highest peak, which you may want to tick off your list once you’ve tackled Scafell Pike.

    Other favourite areas of ours include Grasmere, Bowness, Troutbeck and Bassenthwaite Lake, and landmarks such as the Roman ruins of Hardknott Fort and Aira Force waterfall are not to be missed!

    However, choosing which area or lake is more beautiful, more awe-inspiring or more desirable is really an impossible task, and wherever you decide to go, it’s unlikely you’re going to be disappointed.

    How To Get To The Lake District

    PUBLIC TRANSPORT

    The West Coast mainline runs to the east of the Lake District, connecting Oxenholme, Penrith and Carlisle with London and Glasgow.

    There is also a direct train which runs from Manchester to Windermere.

    More local trains call at Kendal, Staveley and Windermere and there is a secondary route following the Cumbrian coastline.

    National Express also runs various buses and coaches to Lake District towns from all over the UK.

    BY CAR

    The M6 motorway runs just to the east of the Lake District.

    Take Junction 36 and then A590 for the southern end of the Lake District, or take Junction 40 and the A66 or A592 for the northern end of the Lake District.

    Turn off at either Kendal (Junction 37) or Penrith (Junction 40) for the quickest access to the national park.

    FLYING

    Carlisle Lake District Airport offers flights from Dublin, Belfast and London Southend, otherwise, the closest airports are Manchester from the south or Glasgow from the north.

    You’ll obviously then have to make further travel arrangements from those airports though, with Manchester providing train station services that run to Oxenholme next to Kendal, Kendal, Staveley and Windermere.