Tucked away in a peaceful corner of the Lake District, the village of Troutbeck is a true picture-postcard destination. This charming collection of hamlets stretches gracefully along a quiet valley lane, offering a tranquil escape surrounded by some of the region’s most breathtaking scenery.
At Lakelovers, we’re proud to offer a handpicked selection of characterful holiday cottages in Troutbeck, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat with easy access to the heart of the Lakes.
Haystacks, Troutbeck Ref 1159340
Step off the main tourist routes and into a world of rolling green fields, traditional slate cottages, and winding country lanes bordered by dry stone walls and hedgerows. Towering fells and ridges frame the valley, creating a dramatic backdrop for walkers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.
Troutbeck is a walker’s paradise, with scenic trails right from your doorstep. Whether you’re heading up to Wansfell Pike, exploring the Troutbeck Tongue, or enjoying a gentle riverside stroll, the area offers something for every level of adventurer.
Despite its peaceful setting, Troutbeck is ideally located for exploring the wider Lake District. You’re just a short drive from Ambleside, Bowness-on-Windermere, and the shores of Lake Windermere, with Ullswater and the central Lakes also within easy reach.
This makes Troutbeck the perfect base — secluded and serene, yet never far from the vibrant Lakeland towns, attractions, and eateries.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family holiday, or a walking break with friends, Troutbeck offers a warm welcome and a timeless charm. It’s a place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the simple pleasures of Lake District life.
Sitting in the valley floor is the beautiful Jesus Church. Dating back to the 16th century, this ancient structure has been a main part of the community for centuries. It is notable for its stained glass window, which was mostly designed and made by Sir Edward Burne-Jones and the father of the arts-and-crafts movement, William Morris. We recommend a stroll on country paths up from the church to the Mortal Man Inn, and perhaps a drink in its wonderful beer garden.
Jesus Church, Troutbeck. Image credit: Kevin Eaves
The stunning Holehird Gardens run by volunteers is a 10 acre fellside garden, managed by the Lakeland Horticultural Society and is an award winning RHS Partner Garden. These peaceful gardens are set perfectly to reward visitors with far reaching views of Troutbeck Valley, Lake Windermere and the Lakeland fells beyond. There is also a lovely walled garden and a miasma of paths through a tremendous collection of shrubs and trees, many are accessible too. www.holehirdgardens.org.uk
Set in the heart of Troutbeck is a fantastic rustic Lakeland farmhouse – Townend, which has been superbly preserved by the National Trust. The Browne family who inhabited Townend were a typical farming family, and you can explore the farmhouse kitchen with its roaring fire and antique tools, and see their internationally significant selection of books. This is a real historical gem, a window into old Lakeland, and not to be missed out when you are making your plans for what to do in Troutbeck. – www.nationaltrust.org.uk/townend
Troutbeck may be a peaceful rural retreat, but it’s also home to some delightful spots to eat and drink. The Queen’s Head is a standout — a beautifully restored 17th-century coaching inn serving hearty British classics and local ales in a cosy, welcoming setting. Just up the road, The Mortal Man offers traditional pub fare with panoramic views over the valley from the beer garden— perfect after a long walk on the fells. For a lighter bite or a sweet treat, The Old Post Office Tea Room is a charming stop for homemade cakes, soups, and Lakes ice cream, all served with a smile in the heart of the village. Whether you’re after a relaxed pint, a romantic dinner, or a family lunch, Troutbeck’s food and drink scene is full of character and local flavour.
Nestled peacefully in the heart of the Southern Lake District, Troutbeck sits just east of the A591 — the region’s scenic spine — making it an ideal base for exploring the wider Lakes. While there’s plenty to enjoy right in the valley, from tranquil walks to cosy pubs, Troutbeck’s location opens the door to some of the most iconic destinations in Cumbria.
Head north along the A591 and you’ll pass through Ambleside, a lively hub for walkers and climbers, and Grasmere, beloved for its literary heritage and connection to William Wordsworth. Continue past the serene waters of Thirlmere and you’ll arrive in Keswick, gateway to the Northern Lakes.
To the south, the road leads through Bowness-on-Windermere, where you can follow the lake’s eastern shore to Newby Bridge, home to Lakeside Pier and the Lakes Aquarium. For a more dramatic route, take the winding climb over Kirkstone Pass — one of the Lake District’s most breathtaking drives — and descend into the Ullswater Valley, where scenes from Star Wars: The Force Awakens were filmed.
Looking for a quieter escape? Head south to the Lyth Valley, a hidden gem known for its rolling green hills, damson orchards, and peaceful charm. Or explore the historic market town of Kendal, just a short drive away.
Wherever you choose to roam, Troutbeck offers the perfect balance of seclusion and connectivity — a peaceful retreat with the whole of the Lake District at your feet.
We strongly recommend a guided tour to help you appreciate our beautiful region fully, and one option in this respect is The Mountain Goat, which offers minibus tours covering all areas of the Lake District, including a ‘Ten Lakes Spectacular’. – http://www.mountain-goat.co.uk
Leave the M6 motorway at junction 36 and pass by Kendal, continuing towards Windermere and Ambleside. Troutbeck can be found by continuing past Windermere village on the A591 and on approaching the little roundabout take the right hand turn signposted – Kirkstone Pass, Ullswater, Penrith A592. You can alternatively choose to arrive at Troutbeck from the north via the A592, in which case you will need to leave the M6 at junction 40 and pass by the beautiful shores of Ullswater and over the steep Kirkstone Pass.
For train travellers, Windermere rail station is at the end of the branch line from Oxenholme, which sits on the western mainline near Kendal. Buses run regularly throughout the Lakes. Windermere Tourist Information Centre is a great hub for full transport information.
Discover your perfect countryside escape in Troutbeck with Lakelovers, click here to view our Troutbeck Holidays
