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Wildlife watching is one of our favourite outdoor activities at any time of the year and from our collection of Cumbrian cottages, you are never far from a variety of flora and fauna, including red squirrel, roe deer, highland cattle and, if you’re lucky, the Lakeland otter.

Ornithologists are also well catered for. With thousands of species of birdlife flocking to the Lake District’s moors, fells, wetlands, woodlands and coastline each year. Providing the perfect spot to while away an afternoon wildlife watching.

If you’re joining us for a stay or simply visiting the area, here are some of our favourite wildlife watching locations in the Lake District.

Red Deer at Martindale Reserve

From our collection of Keswick cottages, it’s around a 45-minute drive along the A66 to Martindale Reserve and one of the UK’s oldest herds of red deer. Autumn brings with it the start of the rutting season, where you can capture some spectacular footage of the males bellowing and fighting for dominance and if you prefer to cut your travel time, head for Ullswater, which is a 20-minute drive along the A66 and A5091. Then hop on a lake cruise to Howtown Pier. From which the reserve is just a gentle 5 minute jaunt.

Otters at Ambleside Pier

From our properties in Windermere, Ambleside Pier is a 10 minute drive down the A591 and considered an ideal location if you want to catch a glimpse of the infamous Lakeland otter. Additionally, if you’re staying in one of our Keswick cottages, a 45 minute drive to the River Eden at Carlisle is also considered an otter hot spot.

Red Squirrel at Aira Force

If you’re feeling inspired to do a little wildlife watching during your next visit to the Lake District, why not plan a visit to Aira Force, Ullswater. Which is around a 20 minute drive from our Keswick cottages and home to a thriving population of red squirrel (thanks to feeding stations hidden high up in the trees; funded by the National Trust and Penrith red squirrel group). While these furry fiends may be the main attraction, scenic woodland trails for all ages provide plenty to see and do for the whole family.

Ennerdale Re-Wilding

Make sure to add a trip to the Ennerdale Re-Wilding project to your list of must-visit wildlife watching locations in the Lake District! Just an hour’s drive from our Windermere cottages, it provides the perfect opportunity to view firsthand the work involved in protecting our natural environment and meet the red squirrel, deer and highland cattle that call it home.

England’s sole surviving Golden Eagle

The rarity of this bird means that wherever you’re staying in the Lake District, Haweswater should be first on the visit list for a spot of unique wildlife watching. The hike will be arduous, but if you are patient and in the right place at the right time, you stand a small chance of spotting England’s sole surviving Golden Eagle.

We’ve barely scratched the surface of wildlife watching in the Lake District and there a plenty of other opportunities to spot a whole host of local residents, from seals, whales and seabirds of all shapes and sizes, to wader, ducks and geese. So be sure to pack your camera and get ready to make some lasting memories. 

Do what you want to do, when you want to do it

All of our properties are self-catering and with so many walks and outdoor activities on the doorstep, planning an itinerary to suit you and all the family means you have the flexibility to truly take in and and appreciate your surroundings.

No kennel necessary

Most of our properties are pet-friendly, as well as many of the local pubs and restaurants – ensuring no one gets left behind.

The sound of silence

Many of our cottages are settled in the heart of the Cumbrian and North Yorkshire countryside, providing the space many seek to unwind and recharge; surrounded by nothing but nature. Or, for those not looking for total isolation, perhaps a cottage on the coast would fit the bill, or nestled in a bustling market town.

Wide open spaces

When you book a stay with Cottage Escapes, family members of all ages and species can run free across the wide open spaces surrounding our properties – from woodland walks to babbling streams and strenuous slopes. Not only that, but there’s plenty of outdoor activities designed for people of all experiences and after a hard days exploring, enjoy a glass of something sparkling while watching the sunset from your own private hot tub.

Catch up with friends and family

Celebrating an upcoming birthday or special occasion? Maybe you’re a group of anglers who wish to fish the local lakes. Or perhaps you’re a group of friends in need of some time out. Some of our bigger cottages are large enough to cater for groups of 6 – 10 guests and bookings often work out more cost effective per person if you book a stay in bulk.

Cater for all interests

There are so many indoor and outdoor activities on the doorstep, that no matter how big or small your party, all experience and interests are catered for. From walking, cycling, mountain biking and rock climbing to abseiling, water skiing sailing and kayaking. Or maybe a leisurely boat trip is more your taste. Or perhaps a visit to a stately home with magnificent gardens. No matter where you choose to visit, you’ll be surrounded by plenty of things to see and do.

Budget friendly

Not all holiday cottages are equal and just because we’re talking budget friendly, doesn’t mean we’re talking basic. Certainly, your cottage can be stripped back if that’s what you require. But it can also include a private hot tub, welcome packs and all the added comforts you would expect from a boutique hotel.

From our Keswick cottages, the start of this walk is just an hour’s drive down the A66 and A595 to Ravenglass. From there, a six-mile flat walk follows the Eskdale Railway, taking in Muncaster Fell and finishes at Eskdale Green. Just a few hundred yards along the road sits the 15th century and dog-friendly King George IV Inn. Where they serve up seasonally sourced produce and a selection of local ales that makes this spot a favourite stop off for walkers, before riding back on the steam railway.

The Queen’s Head and Hawkshead walk

If you’re staying at one of our Windermere cottages, the start of the Latterbarrow walk is just 25 minutes drive by car on the A591 and B5286. A circular stroll of around 4.5 miles offers exceptional viewing points at 800ft above sea level. Starting and finishing at Hawkshead and the highly popular Queen’s Head Inn – who have been welcoming weary travellers since the early 17th Century.

The Crown & Mitre and Bampton Grange walk, Penrith

Just an hour’s drive from our Windermere cottages is an easy 5 mile circular stroll starting and ending in the small village of Bampton Grange. If your afternoon’s agenda includes wildlife photography, an early morning or evening start will give you the chance to shoot badger, deer, otter and even red squirrel as you while away the time wandering riverside paths and farmers trails. Situated in the main street, the Crown & Mitre has for years been a gathering point for travellers far and wide.

The Bridge Hotel and Buttermere walk

A 30 minute drive from Keswick is the beautiful Buttermere village, where a circular 4.5 mile walk will take you through Hassness Tunnel and around the lake. Returning to Buttermere, the Bridge Inn, a part of the Bridge Hotel, welcomes walkers and their four legged friends for breakfast, snacks, a full evening meal. Or just to enjoy a little banter and some liquid refreshments.

The Mortal Man and Troutbeck walk, Windermere

With steep fells on either side, tackle the east of the Troutbeck Valley as you begin this 5.5 mile walk. Once you’ve reached the top, start your return following the tracks on the western side, to take you back to the picturesque village of Troutbeck. The popular 17th century Mortal Man Inn sits partway up the hill and if you’re visiting during spring or summer months, the panoramic views from the garden are exceptional.

The Kirkstile Inn and Loweswater walk

A 30 minute drive along the B5292 from our Keswick cottages is Loweswater where a 4 mile stroll starts at Maggie’s Bridge and spends much of its time following the line of the lake. A gentler and lesser known walk, it will bring you back to Loweswater in around three hours and offers a spectacular backdrop of the fells. The Kirkstile Inn has been providing walkers with local refreshments since the 15th century and is a must visit for a some proper pub grub.

If you’re thinking of joining us for a stay in one of our Cumbrian cottages, be sure to keep these pub walks in the Lake District in mind.

You may have chosen one of our North Yorkshire cottages to enjoy days out to the breathtaking Moors. But when the sun shines, it’s the perfect time to discover the golden beaches along Whitby’s shoreline. With rock-pools to explore and sand castles to build aplenty, little ones will be occupied for hours. While the old town is home to winding cobbled streets, red-roofed fisherman’s cottages and a steep but rewarding climb to the looming the cliff top abbey. Where you can take in stunning scenes across the harbour and out to the North Sea and finish the day with fish and chips atop the 99 steps.

Castle Howard

Set within 1,000 acres of surrounding countryside and woodland, Castle Howard is a must-visit attraction for all the family whatever the weather. Should you choose a sunny day; pack up a bag, head out from one of our neighbouring cottages on the North Yorkshire Coast and Moors and set up a spot in the beautifully kept grounds. Where you can enjoy a post picnic stroll, take a train ride down the yellow road or make your way over to the adventure playground so the little ones can burn off that excess energy – and you can relax with a coffee and sticky bun.

Falling Foss Tea Garden

If seeking out hidden gems is on your agenda, consider a visit to Falling Foss Tea Garden. Nestled in the of grounds of Midge Hall, above a fresh flowing waterfall in stunning Sneaton Forest and just a short drive from our collection of surrounding cottages. On a warmer days, little and canine companions can paddle to their hearts content in the shallow waters below the fall. While less furry family members can enjoy homemade rolls, sandwiches and salads, washed down with tea, coffee or glass of something stronger.

North Yorks Moors

If muscles are beginning to ache from all that walking and cycling; pick a sunny day and let four legs take you on an adventure to remember across the North Yorkshire Moors and Coast. Even if you’ve never been on the back of a horse, there are plenty of equestrian centres based all over the local area that’ll have you in the saddle in no time. But be sure to get in touch before you visit to make sure they accept beginners and get ready to view the surrounding scenery from a whole new perspective.

North Yorkshire Coast

There’s nothing quite like a boat ride along the breathtaking North Yorkshire shoreline when the sun shines and Whitby and Scarborough offer plenty of trips perfect for a spot of whale, seal and dolphin watching. Or why not set sail on a restored lifeboat and try your hand at sea fishing.

Sunny days on the North Yorkshire Coast and Moors are a combination guaranteed to please the whole family. All you have to do is decide where to visit first?

Hiking and Rambling

Walking the many trails has to be up there as one of the most popular outdoor activities in Lake District and it’s easy to see why. The natural beauty of the area – now a World Heritage Site – is fiercely guarded by the National Trust and attracts visitors from far and wide with hills and fells to suit everybody, from the hard-core rambler to novice strollers, young and old. Plan your route right from the doorstep of our Lake District cottages or enjoy a guided tour that will take you to some of Cumbria’s most stunning view points.

Landscape Photography

The breathtaking landscape of the Lake District attracts professional and amateur photographers of all ages. Up before dawn or out after dusk, for those seeking that once in a lifetime shot, try the Duke of Portland Boathouse on Ullswater Lake, Wasdale Head from the Great Gable, or Loughrigg Fell near Ambleside. Or, if your interest is wild and birdlife, Derwent Water, Borrowdale, Ennerdale Lake and Forest and Threlkeld near Keswick provide some picture perfect opportunities.

Game and Coarse Fishing

Remember when you could wander off and spend a pleasant few hours casting float or fly, with just the local wildlife and the odd walker for company? In the Lake District, you can. Day or weekly permits are available from the local angling associations and Lake rivers are swarming with salmon, brown trout and sea trout. While the lakes have a great reputation for pike and other coarse species. What better way to round off a day’s fishing than with a locally grown salad, buttered potatoes and freshly caught grilled trout.

Stately Homes and Gardens

If you’re looking for things to do in Lake District that don’t require too much physical exertion, visiting some of the many Stately homes and gardens open to the public fits the bill. Most offer guided tours where you can learn  a little about the history of the surroundings as you move from room to room. While the stunning grounds, picnic spots, gift shops and tea rooms provide the perfect spot to while away an afternoon. A few to consider are Holehird Gardens, Holker Hall, Brantwood House, Brockhole on Windermere and Dalemain Mansion and Historic Gardens.

Events and Activities

Whether you prefer indoor or outdoor activities, in Lakes, there’s plenty available for all. From county shows to moonlight processions, chilli festivals to heritage days and farmers markets, something to arouse your interest will be happening close by. So be sure to make the most of your stay in one of our Cumbrian cottages by combining as many of these reasons to visit the Lake District in late summer as you care to enjoy.

Organised walks with experienced guides are available for all abilities. For beginners, you can enjoy a scenic picnic stroll. For the more experienced, tougher fell and peak walks can take up an entire day. While for families or less able family members, there are buggy and wheelchair friendly routes known as “miles without stiles”. No one is forgotten when it comes to walking in Lake District.

Watersports on Windermere

Low Wood Bay Watersports Centre on Lake Windermere offers everything from sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding and canoeing to windsurfing, wake-boarding and boat hire. Open from April until the end of October, they also teach a range of training courses. While Coniston Water also has a water sports, biking and boating centre open most months of the year.

Cycling and Mountain Biking

The Lake District was designed for cycling; with its winding lanes and fabulous photo opportunities, you can spend as much or as little time in the saddle as you like. There are designated family friendly routes, or if you are a keen cyclist you can enter one of the many mountain biking events held regularly across the area. If you’re not bringing your own two wheels, there are hire shops to be found on every corner.

Segway Field and Forest Trails

Something for all but the very youngest family members, Segway hire is available from Cartmel Village and Grizedale Forest Visitor Centre and offers the opportunity to get out on two wheels and take to tracks and trails with a difference. They’re sure to provide some laughs and a whole new exploration experience.

Family Activities

For more of a laid back day for all, a visit to Brockhole on Windermere will keep even the smallest family members happy – and the stunning gardens and meet the expert days are sure to keep mum and dad busy. Animal interaction areas offer the opportunity for little ones to meet and feed a farmyard of furry friends. While archery, treetop treks and a gift shop provide something for everyone to enjoy.

Feeling inspired to take on some of the best outdoor activities in the Lake District? Why not browse our collection of Cumbrian cottages and escape to somewhere special.