To experience the majestic beauty of the Lake District, with its twinkling lakes, enchanting woodland, verdant rolling hills and snow-capped peaks, why not stay somewhere equally as impressive? A place where sleek architecture frames the glorious scenery, where perfectly manicured lawns tumble down to the sparkling shoreline of the lakes, and where you might even be treated to a soothing hot tub, private tennis court and your very own jetty.
Our most impressive large houses in the Lake District come with some of these incredible features, and a whole lot more. You could even stay in a holiday home that once inspired the much-loved children’s author, Beatrix Potter – read on to discover which one, or click the button below to browse our full collection of large houses to rent in the Lake District.
Sleeps 14 + 2 dogs | near Cockermouth
Walk the hills and breathe in some fresh air before lighting the fires and reconnecting with friends and family in this beautiful abode. One of our large country houses to rent in the Lake District, this is also one of our most decadent, featuring elegant décor, grand living spaces and extraordinary countryside views.
Exposed stone walls and wooden beams lend a traditional country charm, while surprising contemporary touches such as a Tardis-style blue police box in one of the bedrooms add a dash of fun. Create hearty family feasts on the AGA, raise a glass to the glorious fells from the garden and should the Lakeland mists descend, cosy up for movie nights in the warmth of the snug.
The wow factor:
- Opulent celebration room with its own serving kitchen
- Open fire and wood burners to keep you warm and toasty
- Walks from the door to Loweswater, Buttermere and Ennerdale
Sleeps 12 + 2 dogs | Coniston
Live in lakeside splendour in this magnificent Georgian retreat on the tranquil shores of Coniston Water. It’s not every day that you get to drink in the same incredible views that once inspired Beatrix Potter, Alfred Lord Tennyson, William Turner and Arthur Ransome – yes, they have all stayed here! If you’re looking for large luxury houses to rent in the Lake District, then this is it.
Sitting in the dramatic shadow of the towering Old Man of Coniston mountain range, this gorgeous cottage is a wholesome stew of luxury living; throw some wood on one of the open fires, flick through a paperback in one of the extravagant living spaces or slip into the indulgent double-ended Victoria and Albert bath under a mountain of bubbles. If you fancy re-living a scene from Swallows and Amazons, head down to the private jetty, shared with the other properties on the estate, and enjoy fishing, wild swimming, or a cruise around the lake if you’ve brought a sailing boat with you.
The wow factor:
- Direct access to Coniston Water’s shoreline
- Private jetty to launch your own boat
- Breathtaking views of the Old Man of Coniston
Sleeps 10 + 2 dogs | Penrith
Nestled within 4 acres of private grounds on the peaceful banks of a river, this beautifully converted mill dates to the 1800s and offers a generous slice of Lakeland luxury. An assortment of quirky corners provides idyllic spaces to get lost in a good book or watch the river roll by. Or if you’re gathering your favourite people for a special celebration, you can be the landlord of your very own inhouse bar!
This large party house in the Lake District is simply brimming to its wooden rafters with entertainment for all ages, with a playroom featuring two large TVs, games consoles and a huge selection of board games and DVDs, and a spacious conservatory with a pool table, darts board and a retro gaming table. Not to mention a full-sized tennis court outside, along with a table tennis table, climbing frame with slides, enormous sandpit and hammocks to chill out in by the river. What more could you ask for?
The wow factor:
- Private tennis court for a friendly match
- Games room with pool table, darts board and built-in bar
- 4 acres of stunning grounds to explore
Sleeps 8 + 2 dogs | Cartmel Fell
Boasting both peaceful seclusion and impeccable interiors, this Grade II-listed barn conversion is certainly one of our Lake District large houses with the wow factor. It’s not just us that thinks so either, as this lavish medieval cruck barn has recently been hailed by the Telegraph as one of the ‘top 30 properties to purchase’. If you’re looking to experience the Lake District in the most spectacular way, then it doesn’t get much better than this.
Formal gardens and wild meadows sweep around the barn, offering an idyllic backdrop for a summertime stroll - a sweet little shepherd's hut hidden within the grounds provides a secret hideaway to escape with a page-turner. The highlight of this exclusive Lakeland retreat though is the open-plan living space inside the barn, known as the Great Hall. Host grand dinner parties around the enormous oak table while the wood burner roars, and the sound of laughter and music bounce off the cathedral-like canopy of ancient oak beams and trusses.
The wow factor:
- Dramatic high ceilings, spiral staircases and wood burners
- Shepherd's hut by the lake for daytime picnics and night-time BBQs
- Recognised by Visit England with a 4-star gold rating
Sleeps 8 + 4 dogs | Near Broughton Mills
Enveloped by the wild beauty of the South Lakes, this is one of our premier large houses to rent in the Lake District, with a hot tub and jaw-dropping views to enjoy. Explore by day and relax by night; flaunting unspoilt panoramas of the Duddon Estuary, evening feasts can be savoured in the great outdoors, before finishing the day under a blanket of stars in the bubbling hot tub or snuggled up by the glowing embers of the wood burner inside.
A paradise in summer and a haven in winter, the spacious living areas of this rural idyll are awash with natural light streaming in through the vast windows. Sunny days are perfect for stepping out onto one of the bedroom balconies and relishing the fresh countryside air, or setting off into the national park on one of the many scenic walking trails available from the doorstep.
The wow factor:
- Large private hot tub for luxurious soaks under the stars
- Mesmerising countryside views in all directions
- Private balconies from two of the sumptuous bedrooms
Have any of these large houses to rent in the Lake District caught your eye? We’ve got plenty more big Lake District houses within our collection, so whether you’re looking for large group accommodation for friends or planning an indulgent break with family in one of our large houses to rent in the Lake District with a pool, we’re sure you’ll find something special by clicking the button below.
Once you’ve found your perfect place to stay, why not have a read of our ultimate guide to the Lake District, which is full of inspiration for things to do during your visit?
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.