With its breathtaking landscapes and rolling hills, serene lakes and quaint villages, the Lake District is one of the most enchanting destinations in the UK. While its natural beauty has always been a major draw for visitors, what can truly transform a trip to the Lakes from a simple staycation into an unforgettable adventure is staying in one of the region’s unique accommodation options.
From magnificently crafted tree houses nestled in forests to luxurious glamping pods under starlit skies, converted lakeside boathouses to boutique hotel suites with hot tubs, there’s countless quirky and unconventional options to choose from. For visitors seeking something beyond the ordinary, these unique places to stay in the Lake District not only offer total comfort but a truly unique getaway.
If you’re looking to step away from the ordinary and experience the Lakes like never before, read on to discover some of the best places to stay in the Lake District.
An enchanting retreat right on the shore of Ullswater, The Boathouse at Knotts End is one of the most unique places to stay in the Lake District. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty and located right on the shore of one of the region’s most beautiful lakes, this converted boathouse offers an intimate and unforgettable experience for all visitors who stay here.
Inside, The Boathouse combines rustic charm with modern luxury, featuring a cosy living space with large windows that frame the picturesque lake views. Perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway, this secluded retreat provides complete privacy and an opportunity to truly escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s one of those special places that will stay with you forever.
Set within the picturesque grounds of the Edenhall Estate just outside of Penrith, The Lodge at Eden Hall Estate in Penrith is one of the most amazing places to stay in the UK. The Lodge is a traditional 3-bedroom log cabin that sits right on the River Eamont and even featured on the popular television series George Clarkes Amazing Spaces.
Inside, it’s simple and cosy. The interiors feature traditional décor, spacious living areas and a log burner, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for a relaxing countryside retreat. Just for good measure, The Lodge is also equipped with modern amenities such as high-speed WiFi and a hot tub, so you can expect a perfect balance of luxury and seclusion from this quirky accommodation.
Just down the River Esk and on the Netherby Estate is the Nertherby Treehouse that is great for an adventure getaway. With amazing views across the river to the Scottish Border from its secluded outpost, Netherby Treehouse without doubt is deserving of a spot on our list of quirky places to stay.
The interior is a cosy haven, but with a few home comforts. A wood burner and snug corner seating make downstairs the perfect place to rest, while the modern kitchen means you can cook a comforting meal or a cup of tea and be back out on the balcony in minutes. There is a double bed in the open-plan downstairs, but kids and grownups will love climbing the ladder to the two single beds on the mezzanine. Soak in the hot tub and watch the world go by in this unusual getaway in the UK.
Located on Birkett Mire Farm, these shepherd’s huts and cabins give you space to relax and enjoy a little bit of calm. A green paradise where you can watch the sunrise and the sunset, these quirky accommodations enjoy panoramic views down over St John’s in the Vale and are watched over by Blencathra and Helvellyn. You really are in the heart of the countryside here in these beautiful huts.
The cabins at In The Vale are all bespoke and beautifully handcrafted, each offering a unique stay in the Lake District. Imagine a place you can pull up the duvet, throw open the doors and look straight at some of the region’s most iconic mountains or relax in a wood fired hot tub from which you can admire the stunning views all around you.
Located in the heart of the beautiful English Lake District, Brimstone Hotel & Spa is a unique Lake District Hotel experience, where every day is a spa break. Wake up every morning and be surrounded by peaceful Lakeland countryside, spend your day exploring some of the UK’s most inspiring landscapes and enjoy a spa experience before returning to your luxurious suite.
When it comes to where you’ll be staying, Brimstone Hotel & Spa have thought of everything. Think double slipper baths, log burning stoves, private balconies and spacious emperor beds to sink into. As a guest at Brimstone, you’ll also enjoy complimentary access to Brimstone spa throughout your stay. It’s one of the best spa hotels in the Lake District.
Another Place, The Lake is a relaxed, contemporary hotel on the shores of Ullswater in the Lake District. With views across the lake and the surrounding fells, this unique stay is the perfect base to relax with your favourite people, explore the wilderness, swim and paddleboard in the lake, eat and drink well and have a good time.
Choose from rooms in the original Georgian house or contemporary wing, six shepherd huts, a large tree house and family cottages for a cosy stay in the northern Lakes. With a pool, and restaurants with a seasonal menus influenced by the local landscape on-site, opportunities to SUP, kayak, swim and canoe on Ullswater, Another Place is a unique hotel, made for both adventure and relaxation.
The Dome House in one of the most unique places to stay in the Lake District and was even featured on Channel 4’s Grand Designs. This architecturally bold property features curved, glass-fronted walls that allow for panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells. Staying at the Dome House offers an opportunity to experience the Lake District in a truly unique way.
Designed with a sleek, open-plan layout, the Dome House offers a contemporary living experience for up to 10 guests. The Dome House offers spacious living areas, private terraces and luxurious bedrooms which provide a sense of comfort and luxury. The combination of cutting-edge design and its close proximity to Lake Windermere, makes the Dome House an unforgettable stay.
Aphrodites Boutique Suites is a fabulous Lake District hotel with private hot tubs. Located just minutes from Bowness-on-Windermere, Aphrodites Boutique Suites have a wide choice of luxurious rooms that come with their own hot tub, steam showers, spa baths, cinema TV’s and private patios with stunning garden views, which create the perfect ambience for any special occasion.
What sets Aphrodites Boutique Suites apart is that each room is designed to provide a unique experience. Many suites feature private outdoor terraces with hot tubs, allowing guests to relax and unwind under the stars in private hot tubs. Whether you’re celebrating a girlfriend’s birthday, boyfriend’s birthday, minimoon, babymoon or simply seeking a luxurious getaway, Aphrodites Boutique Suites is a Lake District hotel that enhances any stay.
Staying in these unique hotels and unusual accommodations will elevate any trip to the Lake District, turning it from a simple getaway into a truly special experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a tranquil retreat, choosing one of these quirky accommodations will undoubtably make your visit a memorable one. So why settle for the ordinary when you can enjoy the Lake District in an entirely new way?