Explore the Landscape

Yes, we may be biased, but we think the Lake District landscape is one of the most beautiful in the world, especially in springtime. There's so much to explore, and that doesn't necessarily mean climbing a mountain. There are some amazing walks quite literally from the front door of our cottages. And while other beautiful spots, such as Tarn Hows, Buttermere or The Langdales may require a drive, all are accessible and offer some fantastic walks.

If you fancy seeing the landscape from an entirely different angle, get out on the lake. Windermere Lake Cruises operates throughout the year and will ferry you from the top of England's largest lake right down to Lakeside at its southern tip (and back).

Or, for guests in our Ullswater Cottages, Ullswater Steamers operates one of the largest heritage boat fleets in the world. And in the springtime, you'll be able to see Wordworth's iconic daffodils on the western shore.

Daffodils

Speaking of daffodils, if you were to ask someone to name a flower associated with the Lake District, chances are they'd say daffodils, thanks to William Wordsworth and his famous poem, 'I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud'.

The most likely spot for the original daffodils which inspired his poem is Glencoyne Bay on Ullswater - certainly worth a visit if you're in the area. Other notable places to visit to see these beautiful, trumpet-like blooms are Dora's Field in Rydal, Brigsteer Woods (and Sizergh Castle) and Lowther Castle near Penrith.

Museums and Attractions

They do say that ''there is no such thing as bad weather, just inadequate clothing''. But sometimes, when the rain is coming down so hard it seems it will never end, a trip to one of the many amazing visitor attractions or museums in the region is a must. 

Just down the road from our Windermere Cottages is The World of Beatrix Potter, perfect for those with younger children, a chance to see all of Beatrix Potter's well-known characters brought so enchantingly to life.

Or if you're staying near Ullswater, why not head to the Pencil Museum in Keswick, home to the first pencil and the Cumberland Pencil Company. 

The Lakeland Motor Museum in Backbarrow is another fantastic attraction, a unique collection of over 30,000 exhibits including cars, motorbikes and automobilia. The museum is located in a converted mill and among the exhibits are around 140 classic cars and motorbikes, as well as a host of other automobilia. 

For those who prefer life on the water, Windermere Jetty is a must-visit. It's located right on the shores of Lake Windermere and boasts a stunning collection of boats and sailing vessels, including steam launches, record-breaking speed boats and motorboats. You will also have an opportunity to see ongoing restoration projects.

Our final recommendation is Blackwell, the Arts and Crafts House. Designed by noted architect Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott, Blackwell is one of the UK's finest examples of Arts and Crafts architecture. The house overlooks Lake Windermere and the Lake District Fells and has retained almost all of its original Arts and Crafts features. From stained glass windows to inglenook fireplaces, carved wooden panelling to rare hessian wall hangings, Blackwell is definitely one of the most interesting houses in the Lake District. 

So let's embrace the arrival of Spring, our favourite time of year. After all, nowhere does springtime like the Lake District does springtime.

If you're a planning a last minute trip to the Lake District this Spring, keep an eye on our late availability and special offers page