Crosthwaite Cottages

Secluded in the blooming pastures of the Lyth Valley, Crosthwaite is a beautiful and often overlooked area of the Lake District that many pass through on the way to more well-known destinations. The small hamlet of Crosthwaite lies in the South Lake District, between Kendal and Lake Windermere. Whilst Crosthwaite is off the beaten track it is also surprisingly convenient for accessing popular parts of the Lake District and is also handy for the M6, making short breaks an easy option. A country escape in the heart of the Lyth Valley will feel off the beaten track, allowing you to get back to nature and relax. The area is well known for its damson fruit trees, and their beautiful spring blossom displays, which are some of the best in the UK. A holiday here is about relaxing walks in the lush countryside, cycle rides on peaceful country lanes and wandering through pretty woodlands.

But in Crosthwaite, you are also in the ideal location to explore all the excitement and beauty that the Southern Lakes has to offer too. The vibrant hubs of Bowness and Kendal are only 5 miles away, and you can enjoy the grandeur of the majestic Lake Windermere is only a 15-minute drive.

A ten-minute drive, passing Windermere Golf Club, and you are in Bowness village where you can enjoy sophisticated shopping; Bowness Pier offering a range of boating activities; the famous Lake District family attraction the World of Beatrix Potter and a range of eateries and options for day and evening entertainment. There’s an evening at the theatre or the cinema followed by a sophisticated meal or a nightclub and some trendy bars in store – something for all tastes in Bowness.

From Bowness Bay, you can board Windermere Lake Cruise, which is the best way to soak up the unique scenery around Lake Windermere. Leave the car behind and cruise to Ambleside or Lakeside to explore more of the Lakes, including top attractions like Lakes Aquarium and Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway.

For exploring under your own steam, with the car, the A591 from Windermere town centre also takes you into popular Lake District hotspots; Ambleside, Grasmere, Rydal Water and Grasmere. Here you are in Wordsworth territory, with Dove Cottage and the Wordsworth Museum a must-see.

Some of the Lake District’s top cultural highlights are also in easy striking distance from your Crosthwaite holiday cottage, including Sizergh Castle, Wray Castle, Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top, The Ruskin Museum and The Lakeland Motor Museum. There are several of the region’s top local events in the area too, notably Cartmel Races, The Westmorland Country Show and, of course, Damson Day.

The Lyth Valley is also quite a foodie destination, with several award-winning country pubs nearby. In Crosthwaite village itself, The Punch Bowl draws lots of people with its stylish and laid-back gastropub atmosphere. The Masons Arms at the foot of Cartmel Fell offers excellent dining and a superb view of the little-known Winster Valley.

Take time to discover this hidden gem, and you will be rewarded with damson tree orchards, wild bluebell woodlands and picturesque villages offering plenty of Lakeland charm.