The best Lake District Airbnbs for a charming English countryside escape

This little pod on Howe Farm, overlooking Coniston Lake, is named ‘Pod Cottage’ by its owner. A missed opportunity for the name Pottage, if you ask me. But not only is Pod Cottage a tiny little self contained gem with its own outdoor seating area, BBQ, and bike storage, it’s also surrounded by chickens and sheep, like some sort of perfect holiday fever-dream-come-true. The pod fits two people, but obviously, you’re gonna wanna like each other a lot - Pod Cottage is just 7m long and 3m wide. But it’s likely to be unlike anywhere else you’ve stayed before. 

Rooms: One. Sleeps two guests. 
Mood? Cozy cove. 
Budget range? Pretty cheap.

You can't beat a good BBQ, but in the UK? Let’s just say, the weather is a little unpredictable. Luckily, the Lake District is so beautiful that you'll find yourself having a hard time complaining about a bit of drizzle. Plus we’ve found this awesome BBQ shack where you can flame-grill sausages in the comfort of your Scandi-style cabin. The central fire pit comes with charcoal and firelighters, so all you need to bring is the food. And then? Work off that feast with a long, lakeside bike ride; there's a warren of cycle paths which start at your doorstep.

Rooms: One. Sleeps two guests. 
Mood? Deluxe teepee. 
Budget range? Standard for this type of property. 

For a pod experience for the whole family, consider this family pod – which comes with a hot tub. Here, four guests can enjoy an open fire, an outdoor seating area, an indoor kitchen with a dining table, and its stunning curved wooden panels. Right on the other side of a farm, separated only by a stone wall, this spot is a secluded treat, perfect for drinking gallons of prosecco and passing the weekend away. 

Rooms: One. Sleeps two guests. 
Mood? Hipster hideaway. 
Budget range? A decent price. 

Want to really escape? We hear you. Well, this place is perfect. It’s an Alpine-style lodge in a tranquil and secluded area of woodland in the Langdale Valley, near to Ambleside. Which means you’re not far from Windermere. You won't feel near anything though, from every window you are immersed in luscious greenery. We'd absolutely forgive you if you said 'ah, we can go there another time' and spent the entire time in the lovely cabin, and just forgot about the outside world.

Rooms: Two. Sleeps four guests. 
Mood? Cute and rustic. 
Budget range? A good price for a family-size cabin. 

If you’re going to visit the Lake District, why not really make it all about the lake (and less about the district)? This small-but-perfectly-formed boat house sits on the edge of Lake Windermere, one of the region’s most stunning spots (yes, ok, we know they’re all nice but still…). Inside, there are plenty of warming home comforts, like those plump velvet sofas and sumptuous beds. Outside there’s a hot tub suitable for use all year round and THE LAKE. It’s really all about THE LAKE (along with the sunsets, the hills and the wildfowl). Just live your best lake life, that’s all we ask.

Rooms: Two. Sleeps four guests. 
Mood? Modern and tastefully nautical.
Budget range? Quite the splurge. 

Think of a nourishing place to call home while exploring the Lake District. Log burner, oak beams, modern fixtures, warm tones, amazing views. This cottage has the lot. It is sleek and simply luxurious. It’s close to Cockermouth (about four miles away) but it’s also in a beautiful little Northern Lake District village with a wonderful local pub that we can highly recommend. Keswick’s just 15 minutes away, too. Public footpaths are practically at the doorstep making it a prime place to discover the West Lakes from. 

Rooms: Two. Sleeps four guests. 
Mood? Cottage core. 
Budget range? A great price. 

This series of cute-as-a-button (or row of buttons) cottages were home to horses, not humans; but they've been lovingly converted into three cosy houses that provide the perfect base for your Lake District adventure. They offer gorgeous views of the countryside, hills upon hills. The accommodation is also particularly well-suited to families, with ample children's books and toys on hand, plus a cot and high chair. That'll keep them occupied while you put your feet up after a long day's walking (and carrying the little ones). 

Rooms: Two. Sleeps four guests. 
Mood? Upgraded farm living. 
Budget range? A well-priced full-sized home. 

This cottage, which sleeps six, is charming as hell. Inside there's oak beams and an open fire. Outside, it's all greens and stone. Irresistible. The location’s gold, too – not only are you right on the beautiful Brathay River, you’re within easy reach of Ambleside, Grassmere and other lovely Lake District villages and towns. After all the walking around (with your dog or otherwise) you can unwind in the hot tub.  

Rooms: Three. Sleeps six guests. 
Mood? Fairytale cottage. 
Budget range? You're paying a little more for hot tub privileges and the renovated interiors. 

Yes it sounds like 1970s TV, but do you know why it’s called ‘The Old Cop Shop’? Well, because it was, once upon a time, the Grisedale Bridge police house. We’re smelling some American influence here. Inside it’s a charming little cottage with a roaring fire as opposed to sirens. You'll likely not be at the property much though, given its proximity to Ullswater and Glenridding.  

Rooms: Two. Sleeps four guests. 
Mood? Compact and homely.
Budget range? A decent price for a property that's within walking distance of England's second-largest lake.

It’s maybe odd to say this on a list of great Lake District Airbnbs but this 400-year-old cottage really is all about the location. Why? Well, it’s at the foot of England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, and near to England’s deepest lake, Wastwater, but we really like the fact that it’s right on the Whillan Beck – a beautiful, tempestuous river. It’s a bit like stepping back in time, here. Immediate surroundings include a well-manicured garden with ample space for alfresco dining. Inside, you have cottage-y vibes like no other. Lovely dark wood, snug ceilings, and not too much else, because who needs it here. 

Rooms: One. Sleeps two guests. 
Mood? Lovingly restored. 
Budget range? Mid-range. 

How's this for picturesque? Set in Loweswater, this cosy 17th-century cottage offers unrivalled views of the lake and the fells. But to tell you the truth, we can't quite decide which one's more charming - the view or the historic beauty of this preserved farmhouse. We're not complaining, it's a good problem to have. Boasting lots of original features from its heyday, the cottage is brimming with quaint, English charm that you can't help but want to curl up in every corner of this home. Not to mention, Its four bedrooms are roomy enough for up to eight guests, making it the ideal family getaway. 

Rooms: Four bedrooms. Sleeps eight. 
Mood? Bucolic bliss 
Budget range? On the luxe end.

Want a quiet, romantic country escape? Head to the Little Lambs' Lodge tucked away for an idyllic long weekend filled with hiking and exploring Ingleton's famous caves and waterfall trail. Inside is a cosy, modern cool-toned lodge for two with a garden overlooking the lush fields. Expect to see a lamb, or two running around in the distance while you enjoy your breaky. 

Rooms: Four bedrooms. Sleeps eight. 
Mood? Bucolic bliss 
Budget range? On the luxe end.