Patterdale Cottages

Patterdale is a tiny village nestled at the southern tip of Ullswater. Surrounded by some of the most iconic landscape in the Lake District. Patterdale feels secluded and unspoiled. This leaves visitors uninterrupted to soak up the magnificence of the surrounding scenery. Despite its tranquility, this is a haven for adrenaline-junkies too. You can try watersports in Ullswater or head to the slippery slopes of Striding Edge.

Self-Catering Accommodation in Patterdale

Lakelovers have a wide range of luxury properties in and around Patterdale. Quaint cottages nestled against the fells make for the perfect romantic hideaway. While bright and airy renovated farmhouses offer beautiful open-plan living for groups. We cater to ultra modern conversions and traditional charm.

We have hand-picked properties of only the highest quality. Immerse yourself in the beautiful landscape or relaxing in your cosy home away from home. Our Patterdale holiday cottages often feature log burners and luxurious soft furnishings.

There are an excellent range of eateries in Patterdale. Or you can prepare delicious home cooked meals in your state of the art kitchen.

A Little of Patterdale’s History

The village of Patterdale has remained unchanged over the past few centuries. The breathtaking panoramas are the same that were admired by romantic poets in the 19th Century. William and Dorothy Wordsworth walked from Patterdale to Glencolyne Wood. This walk inspired his celebrated Daffodils poem. Have a stroll through this lovely wooded area and experience it for yourself.

The Cockpit Stone Circle rests on the windswept fells of Moor Divock. It has borne witness to the Valley as far back as the Bronze Age. Hike from Pooley Bridge and visit this intriguing Neolithic monument.

Patterdale is also known as the origin of the dog of the same name. The breeed was carefully linebred by an Ullswater huntsman. They needed a terrier that could excel in the harsh farming environment of the Lakeland fells. Whatever the breed, your pooch can enjoy a Lakeland adventure around Patterdale too. Furry-friends are welcome at our dog friendly cottages.

Getting There

Despite its remote location, it is easy to escape to your luxury Patterdale cottage, however you choose to travel. If you are travelling by car, take the A590 exit at Junction 36 of the M6 and follow the A590 and the A591 past Kendal and Windermere until you meet the A592, which will lead you straight into Patterdale. If you plan to arrive by train, you can catch the West Coast Mainline to Penrith Station. The 508 bus takes you straight into Patterdale, or you can hire an eco friendly car from the station.

To explore the area during your stay, you can drive or hop on a local bus over to the tourist hot spots of Windermere and Keswick. The drive over the fells to Windermere is a rather exhilarating experience. The journey includes going over the Kirkstone Pass, which is the Lake District’s highest road. You could even stop off for a drink at the remote Kirkstone Pass Inn. It has long been a resting stop for weary travellers and today has the status of the third-highest pub in England.

The Ullswater Steamers are also a unique and charming way to see the beautiful valley. They can be caught from the jetties at the nearby villages of Glenridding, Howtown and Pooley Bridge.

Walking in Patterdale

Patterdale is a popular spot with walkers of all abilities. The village is a starting point for many routes up the mighty Helvellyn, England’s third-highest peak. Thrill-seekers will love the challenging yet spectacular ascent up Helvellyn via Striding Edge. Best climbed in dry weather, this narrow ridge is tricky for walkers. The sight of the valley falling away around you can be terrifying. But, your efforts will be rewarded by magnificent views at Helvellyn’s summit. They extend as far as Scotland and Wales on a clear day.

The 20-mile Ullswater Way is a delightful trail around the circumference of the lake. It can be divided into sections over a few days or dipped in and out of with the help of the Lake’s Steamers. Beginning in Glenridding, there is a 6.5-mile section of the Way that passes through Patterdale. Before ending in the picturesque hamlet of Howtown. Wainwright hailed this part of the Ullswater Way as “the most beautiful and rewarding walk in Lakeland”.

On the Lake

Ullswater has extensive water sport opportunities dotted around the lakeshore. You can hire romantic rowing boats, Canadian canoes, paddleboards and speed boats.

No trip to Patterdale would be complete without a visit to the majestic Aira Force. The National Trust protects this 70-foot waterfall. It can be particularly thunderous after a spell of Cumbrian rain. The endangered red squirrel has a thriving population in the woodland around Aira Force. You might spot one as you stroll through the trees.

In Town

In under 30 minutes you can be in the hustle-and-bustle of Keswick and Windermere. Home to a 700-year old market, Keswick has a pedestrianised shopping area brimming with unique, independent stores. Shops offering artisan craftwork, delicious local produce and outdoor wear and equipment. Windermere has a similar selection of retail outlets, including the flagship kitchen supply store, Lakeland.

If you’re caught short in the Lake’s infamous changeable weather, less than a 30 minute drive from Patterdale is Rheged just outside Penrith. This is a superb artisan retail centre, with excellent independents, eateries, beautician, cinema, galleries.

Eating and Drinking, Wining and Dining

A traditional Lakeland village wouldn’t be complete without its country pub. And The White Lion in Patterdale is the perfect place to warm up and refuel after a day out walking. With roaring fires, local ale and a menu of hearty grub, this friendly pub is definitely the heart of Patterdale itself. The restaurant in the Old Water View Hotel is a cheap and cheerful local eatery with a menu that changes daily. Its delightful beer garden is wonderfully placed for those wanting to enjoy a drink while admiring Patterdale’s stunning scenery.

In the nearby village of Glenridding, there are many excellent-quality dining options, less than a mile’s walk from Patterdale. The quaint Helvellyn Country Kitchen serves locally-sourced food at the foot of the mighty Helvellyn. Hungry walkers can fill their boots with the café’s range of homemade cakes and bakes.

The many pubs, inns and tearooms in the area offer plenty of choice if you’re looking for a cosy and informal Lakeland eatery. For something a little fancier, it is worth heading to the top of the Ullswater valley for a sophisticated and inventive meal at the 1863 Bistro. Situated in Pooley Bridge, you can enjoy such seasonal delights as the beef canon or the Norweigen skrei cod. Guests will not be disappointed by their fantastic selection of local brews and fine wines.