Hawkshead Cottages

Our holiday cottages in Hawkshead are hand-picked, offering the finest properties. Our cottages are uniquely fitted and superbly furnished, in the best locations. So you can enjoy this historical treasure-trove in the stunning Lake District surroundings. Nestled in a South Lakeland valley, the two hamlets of Hawkshead Hill and Outgate, form what is considered to be the prettiest village in the Lake District.

Thanks to many of its buildings dating back to the 17th century. North of Esthwaite Water, nestled between Lake Windermere and Coniston Water, Hawkshead Township was originally owned by the monks of Furness Abbey with nearby Colthouse named for the Furness Abbey stables. In medieval times, Hawkshead was an important wool market. It later received an official market charter from James I in 1608, following the dissolution of the monasteries. In 1585 the Archbishop Edwin Sandys of York established Hawkshead Grammar School. In the 18th and 19th century, Hawkshead finally became a village.

Beatrix Potter, married a Hawkshead local solicitor, William Heelis. Like most of Potter’s estate, much of the village and surrounding area is owned by the National Trust. This enables the continued preservation of this historical gem. The quaint alleys, overhanging gables and medieval squares of Hawkshead are even described in William Wordsworth’s poem The Prelude.

Nowadays, famous for its large pub to population ratio, Hawkshead even boasts its own very popular brewery. Some of Hawkshead’s most popular establishments include Outgate Inn. The pub offers traditional ales, home cooked meals and beer garden in the summer. And The Kings Arms, also offering fantastic food, as well as being child and pet friendly. Hawkshead is also home to a wonderful annual Christmas market, not to be missed!

Self-catering Accommodation in Hawkshead

Our Hawkshead cottages are a mixture of traditional stone cottages, white-washed picture-postcard Lakeland homes and luxury barn conversions. Each unique in their looks and charms, they offer a range of exciting features. From free wi-fi access, to exposed beams and clawfoot baths, AGA cookers to kingsize beds. Even badminton courts, table tennis and a putting green in one.

Do you want to experience quintessential Lake District? Wander cobbled streets and visit historic, important buildings. Get a taste for traditional Lake District life. Enjoy local produce such as Hawshead Relish and locally-brewed beers. Feel part of a by-gone era of a bustling English market town. Romance in daffodil-filled Spring walks. And follow well-trodden bridleways through bluebell woods, gentle countryside and past pretty courtyards, then a holiday in Hawkshead is for you!

Hawkshead Out and About

There is plenty to see and do whilst staying in one of our Hawkshead cottages. Tarn Hows offers a reasonably flat walk, suitable for both prams and wheelchairs with assistance. All around the Langdales and Fairfield Horseshoe. It was also left to the National Trust by Beatrix Potter,

Our cottages in Hawkshead are a little north of Grizedale Forest, which offers a range of activities for all ages and abilities. Children will love the sculptures dotted all through the woods. As well as the Go Ape ‘high wire’ hidden within the forest. Grizedale is also home to the North Face Mountain Bike Trail. You can hire bikes for off-road cycling and has a host of designed routes for prams and wheelchairs. You can find out more information about these activities at the visitors centre on site. Esthwaite Valley is another great spot for walking or mountain biking.

Car lovers and rally enthusiasts will probably already know that Grizedale is also home to the Malcolm Wilson and Grizedale Stages car rallies.

Beatrix Potter

Whilst visiting some of the Beatrix Potter sites in-and-around Esthwaite Water, don’t forget to make a visit to Sawrey House. An award-winning restaurant by night and Mrs Tiggywinkles Tea Room from 10am to 5pm each day. Offering coffee, light lunches, cream teas and afternoon teas – no matter when you visit you are guaranteed an excellent meal.

For further information on things to do in Hawkshead, we have provided information on walking, exploring and places to eat in Hawkshead.

Whether you are looking for a base for walking or hiking, or if you are looking for large cottages in Hawkshead, for the whole family or a social gathering with friends, we can offer you quality expert advice from our friendly customer service team, here to help you find your perfect break Monday to Saturday throughout the year.