Why you should consider a break in the Lakes this winter

Think holidays are just for the summer? Then think again. There are many reasons why a winter break in the Lakes could be just the thing to warm up your winter, brighten up your December or bring some joy this January.

Winter can often seem like the longest of all the seasons. So to break up your winter and make it something to be celebrated instead of just tolerated – here are some reasons why a winter cottage break in the Lakes is the perfect getaway.

• Getting outside in nature has proven benefits for both mind and body. And it doesn’t need to be warm and sunny to enjoy being outside. Wrap up warm, pull on those waterproofs and get out and about within the spectacular Lake District landscape. We guarantee you’ll feel better for it!Here in the Lakes there are opportunities to engage in nature for all abilities and fitness levels, from strenuous mountain hikes and challenging biking trails to gentle forest strolls or serene places where you can simply park up and enjoy the big skies, fresh mountain air and incredible landscapes.

• Fewer crowds. On a winter’s break in the Lake District, it’s easy to find some true peace and tranquillity – if that’s what you’re looking for. With quieter footpaths and less traffic, it’s easier to get around the Lake District – and find a parking space – during winter. During a winter break in the Lakes you can enjoy a deserted mountain top all to yourself. You can find solitude at the lake side or discover serene waterfalls free of other people during the quieter winter months. But if you don’t wish to cut yourself off from civilisation during your stay then don’t worry. Popular villages such as Ambleside, Windermere and Keswick, as well as Coniston, welcome visitors all year round. So you can still enjoy a sociable evening out within the many, many pubs and bars in the Lakes.

• Lower prices There are some great bargains to be had in visiting the Lakes during the wintertime. As demand falls, so do the prices. And with special offers and last-minute deals, visiting the Lakes during November, December and January can be extremely can be an extremely cost-effective time to visit. And it’s not just budget-friendly cottages with reduced prices. Even the most luxurious and glamorous cottages can be prove to be more affordable during the winter months – so it’s the perfect time to treat yourself and loved ones to something extra special.

• Cosy evenings fire side. While most modern homes enjoy heating at the touch of a button, curling up next to a radiator, underfloor heating or infrared heating panel just doesn’t carry the same romance as a real fire. Many of our country cottages come with real log fires (as well as central heating), so you can enjoy the sights and sounds of a gorgeous real log fire during your stay. What better after a brisk day out in the cold than relaxing by a crackling, glowing log fire come evening?

• Attractions are still open – they’re just quieter. We often get asked if a particular pub or attraction will be open during the winter. And almost always the answer is – yes! While many popular Lake District attractions, such as Windermere Lake Cruises, Coniston Launch and The Ruskin Museum run reduced timetables or opening hours, they are very much open to visitors all year round. Likewise most pubs, restaurants and cafes stay open 12 months a year. And with fewer visitors there is more chance of bagging that cosy table right next to the fire or the seat with the most incredible view – with no need to book in advance.  

• Snow-topped mountains. While deep snow down in the villages and valleys isn’t actually all that common in the Lakes, there’s every chance that the fell and mountain tops will be dusted with snow during your winter visit – making the already jaw-dropping views even more impressive.  And should you, on that rare occasion, awake to find snow outside your Coppermines cottage – worry not as we have our very own snow plough to keep the mountain road to Coppermines Valley clear, as well working down in Coniston village to clear public roads and lanes of any snow. Not forgetting that for some of us who are forever young at heart, waking to find a thick blanket of snow is the ultimate winter Lake District dream. So there’s no reason to let the possibility of snow (or lack of it) put you off visiting the Lake District during the winter months.

• Beating the cold How do you enjoy spending time outside in the fresh air, soaking up breath-taking scenery and engaging in nature without being cold? In your own exclusive hot tub that’s how! Yes, dig out that bikini because no matter how chilly it is outside, a hot tub holiday in winter allows you to enjoy being in the great outdoors in swimwear during even the briskest of Cumbrian days, while you relax in the lovely warm bubbliness of a steaming hot tub – glorious. Some brave guests even take advantage of our Mountain Cottage’s hot tubs to partake in some cold-water therapy in the waterfall pools, before jumping straight into the hot tub to dethaw.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your winter escape to the Lakes today!