Discover the Magic of Lake District Winter Holidays

Winter in the Lake District is calm, atmospheric, and quietly spectacular. Frosted fells, peaceful lakes, and crowd-free trails show the region in a completely different light.

Picture starting your day in a warm cottage, stepping out into quiet landscapes, and exploring places that feel almost untouched. Winter lets you experience the Lakes with more space, more stillness, and more time to enjoy what makes it special.

If you’re planning a winter break, you’ll find cottages in beautiful spots across the Lakes – from peaceful valleys to characterful villages. Browse the options and choose a place that suits the kind of getaway you want.

5 lesser-known Lake District winter breaks 

Lake District holidays are renowned for stunning landscapes, charming villages, and outdoor adventures. While destinations like Windermere and Keswick often steal the spotlight, there are plenty of surprise locations that offer a quieter, more intimate experience – especially in winter. 

Here are five low-profile Lake District winter getaway locations, each with its unique appeal.

1. Hawkshead: A charming village steeped in history

Hawkshead feels like stepping back in time, with narrow cobbled streets, historic buildings, and the Beatrix Potter Gallery. In winter, the village is calm and inviting, perfect for leisurely strolls and warming up in a cosy pub. 

The surrounding countryside offers gentle walks where you can enjoy crisp winter air and sweeping views without the business of summer crowds.

What makes Hawkshead great in winter:

• Cobblestone streets and historic buildings feel extra atmospheric in the quieter months.

• Local cafés and pubs provide spots to relax after a walk.

• Nearby countryside paths offer peaceful, low-level winter walks.

• The Beatrix Potter Gallery is quieter, letting you explore at your own pace.

Best winter experiences in Hawkshead:

• Walking from the village to Esthwaite Water along quiet trails.

• Visiting the Beatrix Potter Gallery without summer crowds.

• Stopping for a warming meal or drink at The Kings Arms or The Red Lion.

2. Coniston: A tranquil lake and mountain paradise

Coniston offers calm winter lakeside views and access to the Old Man of Coniston. In winter, the reflective lake and snow-dusted hills create a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere. It’s perfect for walkers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a quiet break.

What makes Coniston great in winter:

• Coniston Water looks serene and mirror-like against snowy fells.

• Trails around the lake and Coppermines Valley are peaceful and quiet.

• The village pubs and cafés remain welcoming and cosy.

• Less crowded paths make winter walks more enjoyable.

Best winter experiences in Coniston:

• A lakeside stroll to soak in reflective water views.

• Climbing the Old Man of Coniston (with proper winter equipment and preparation) for panoramic winter vistas.

• A quiet boat trip on Coniston Water (check winter timetables as schedules vary from season to season) 

3. Langdale: Scenic fells and epic valleys

The Langdale Valley is famous among hikers in summer, but winter gives it a calmer, more contemplative vibe. The surrounding fells are dusted with snow, and the valley floor remains accessible for low-level walks and village stops.

What makes Langdale great in winter:

• Dramatic winter views of the Langdale Pikes without the crowds.

• Accessible walks in the valley that suit all abilities.

• Cosy inns and cafés offer warming meals after outdoor adventures.

• Clear winter skies create excellent photography opportunities.

Best winter experiences in Langdale:

• A gentle walk along Stickle Ghyll or Elterwater.

• Stopping for a hot drink in one of the valley pubs, like the Wainwright’s Inn. 

• Photographing the Pikes with frost-covered peaks.

4. Loweswater: A unique spot for nature enthusiasts

Loweswater is tucked away in western Lakeland and offers unspoiled scenery. The quiet hamlet (which features a lake of the same name) is surrounded by hills and woodland. It’s perfect for contemplative walks and wildlife spotting. Winter brings a frosted, tranquil atmosphere that makes it feel remote and untouched.

What makes Loweswater great in winter:

• Minimal crowds make the lake feel peaceful and private.

• Frosty landscapes and still waters create dramatic winter scenes.

• Woodland paths are perfect for short, reflective walks.

• Wildlife spotting is often easier in the quieter winter months.

Best winter experiences in Loweswater:

• Walking the Loweswater Lake Circular.

• Exploring Holme Wood along the lake’s southern shore.

• Stopping at the Kirkstile Inn for a warming meal.

5. Caldbeck: A rustic village with a warm heart

Caldbeck sits in the northern Lake District and combines rugged scenery with a welcoming village feel. Stone cottages, friendly pubs, and surrounding fells make it a great base for winter adventures.

What makes Caldbeck great in winter:

• Nearby fells provide accessible winter hikes.

• Welcoming pubs and cafés offer places to warm up and unwind.

• Quiet roads and paths make it feel remote and peaceful.

Best winter experiences in Caldbeck:

• A hike up High Pike for sweeping views of the northern fells.

• Walking along the Cald Beck river.

• Finishing the day with a fireside drink in a village pub, like the Oddfellows Arms. 

5 well-known and popular Lake District winter break locations 

The Lake District’s most iconic destinations are still appealing even when the colder months roll in. These towns are popular for good reason: reliable amenities, easy access to winter-friendly walking routes, and plenty of cafés and pubs to warm up in after a day outdoors. 

While they’re busier than the quiet locations above, they still take on a calmer, more atmospheric feel in winter – making them great base options if you want convenience without sacrificing scenery.

1. Windermere: A classic Lake District holiday favourite

Windermere is one of the region’s most recognisable destinations, and winter gives it a calm, peaceful feel. The lake looks particularly striking on crisp, clear days, and the quieter paths around Bowness make exploring far easier than in the summer months. 

Grab a hot drink, stroll along the waterfront, or hop on a winter boat cruise to see the snowy fells from the water.

What makes Windermere great in winter:

• The lake looks dramatic on crisp, cold days, especially from the viewpoints on the eastern shore.

• Winter cruises run regularly, offering sweeping views without peak-season crowds.

• The area has excellent public transport links, making it easy to explore even if conditions are icy.

• Plenty of accessible, low-level paths remain safe and enjoyable in winter.

Best winter experiences in Windermere:

• Taking a boat from Bowness to enjoy the lake in its stiller, quieter state.

• Walking up Orrest Head for panoramic winter views of the fells.

• Warming up in one of the lakeside pubs or independent cafés, like Cafe No.4. 

2. Ambleside: A lively base with winter charm

Ambleside stays lively even in the colder months, making it a great base for walkers and food lovers. With easy access to Loughrigg Fell, Stock Ghyll Force, and Rydal Cave, you’ll find plenty of winter-friendly walks right on your doorstep. 

After exploring, enjoy one of Ambleside’s cafés or pubs, many with open fires and hearty menus perfect for cold days.

What makes Ambleside great in winter:

• Trails like Stock Ghyll Force and Loughrigg Fell are ideal winter-friendly routes.

• The town’s many outdoor shops are useful for last-minute gear when the weather turns colder.

• Its central location makes it easy to reach places like Grasmere, Rydal, and Langdale.

• Ambleside’s eateries (like Misto) offer plenty of warm spots to refuel.

Best winter experiences in Ambleside:

• Climbing Loughrigg for a winter sunrise or sunset (provided you have the right gear, like warm layers and a headtorch). 

• Visiting Stock Ghyll Force when rainfall makes the waterfall especially dramatic.

• Browsing Ambleside’s independent shops before settling into a fireside pub.

3. Keswick: A hub for winter adventure

Keswick sits beside Derwentwater and is surrounded by some of the most dramatic fells in the Lakes, including Skiddaw and Catbells. Winter turns the whole area into a playground for hikers, photographers, and those who simply enjoy moody, atmospheric landscapes. 

The town stays welcoming and well-equipped through winter, with independent shops, cafés, and Christmas events.

What makes Keswick great in winter:

• Classic routes like Catbells and Latrigg are accessible for many walkers year-round.

• Derwentwater’s lakeshore paths stay open and often feel quieter and more peaceful.

• The town has a strong range of indoor activities, from cafés to the Theatre by the Lake.

• Outdoor shops and winter gear stores make it easy to prepare for hikes.

Best winter experiences in Keswick:

• A sunrise or sunset walk up Latrigg for views across a frost-tipped Keswick (make sure to bring the necessary hiking gear for walking in the dark, like a headtorch).

• A peaceful lakeside loop along Derwentwater’s western shore.

• Catching a show at the Theatre by the Lake on a cold evening.

4. Grasmere: Picture-perfect winter scenery

Grasmere remains one of the most photographed villages in the National Park. In winter, the village is quieter, the lake feels serene, and the surrounding fells often catch dustings of snow. 

Visitors come for the walks, the Wordsworth history, and the famous Grasmere gingerbread – which tastes even better on a cold day.

What makes Grasmere great in winter:

• Dove Cottage and the Wordsworth attractions are calmer, giving you time to explore properly.

• Rydal Water and Loughrigg offer scenic but manageable winter walking.

• The village has a traditional feel that’s perfect for cold-weather trips.

• Shops and cafés stay open, but without the queues and crowds of summer.

Best winter experiences in Grasmere:

• A lakeside loop around Grasmere or Rydal Water as mist drifts across the surface.

• Visiting Dove Cottage when winter light adds to the historic atmosphere.

• Picking up warm gingerbread from Grasmere Gingerbread (without the long lines!).

5. Ullswater: Dramatic landscapes and peaceful shores

Ullswater is known for its sweeping views and the iconic route up Helvellyn. In winter, the lake becomes a calm stretch of reflective water bordered by frost-tipped hills. 

The Ullswater Way offers manageable winter walks, and the steamers run through much of the colder season, giving you stunning views from the warmth of the boat.

What makes Ullswater great in winter:

• The Ullswater Way remains accessible on many sections even in colder weather.

• Winter sailings on the Ullswater Steamers offer incredible views of the surrounding peaks.

• Glenridding provides a good base, whether you’re after gentle lakeside walks or more demanding winter routes.

• The area is less busy than Windermere, but still has reliable amenities.

Best winter experiences in Ullswater:

Walking the Howtown-to-Glenridding section of the Ullswater Way.

Taking a winter steamer trip to see the fells dusted with snow.

Enjoying a peaceful stroll along the shoreline near Pooley Bridge.

FAQs about winter breaks in the Lake District​

Is the Lake District worth visiting in winter?

In a word, yes! Winter holidays in the Lake District are quieter and more peaceful than in the height of summer. 

Many popular walking routes and scenic spots are far less crowded, making it ideal for reflective walks, photography, or just enjoying nature. Plus, local pubs, cafés, and shops remain open, so you can balance outdoor adventures with relaxing indoor stops. 

Where to stay in the Lake District in winter?

Holiday cottages are one of the best options for a Lake District winter break. They offer space, comfort, and flexibility, allowing you to enjoy cosy evenings by the fire after a day outdoors. 

Take a look at some of our mountain cottages as an example. These cottages provide stunning views, easy access to winter walks, and all the home comforts you need for a relaxing festive escape.

Is December a good time to visit the Lake District?

December is the perfect time to visit the Lakes if you enjoy crisp winter walks, dramatic lake views, and a quieter atmosphere. 

While the days are shorter and the weather can be cold, winter scenery is often at its most striking. Think frosted trees, misty mornings, and clear skies (when it’s not raining!) providing excellent photography opportunities. 

Is the Lake District a good place to spend Christmas? 

Absolutely. Christmas in the Lake District is scenic and tranquil. Many visitors choose cottages for a festive getaway, enjoying quiet walks, roaring pub fires, and charming village streets decorated for the season. It’s a perfect mix of outdoor adventure and indoor comfort, with fewer crowds than during the summer months. 

Lake District Christmas breaks are ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking for a relaxed festive escape. 

If you’re hoping to experience the Lake District at Christmas, take a look at the Lake District holiday cottages we have available throughout the festive period. 

Make the most of a Lake District winter break

 

Whether you’re exploring iconic towns like Windermere and Keswick or discovering less-visited towns such as Hawkshead and Loweswater, winter in the Lake District is a special time to visit. The quieter landscapes, frosted fells, and peaceful lakes let you enjoy the region at a slower pace. 

With serene holiday cottages as your base, you can make the most of winter walks, scenic drives, and relaxing evenings by the fire. From gentle lakeside strolls to more adventurous hikes, there’s something for every pace and preference.

If you’re planning a Christmas break in the Lake District or a winter holiday over the colder months, explore our selection of cottages and find the perfect spot for a memorable seasonal getaway.