Get a real feel for the Lakes at a traditional pub
Authenticity is something we pride ourselves on at The Inn Collection Group. We use local Cumbrian produce across our Lake District pubs creating British classics such as beer-battered fish and chips. which can be found at all our inns. We create the traditional pub atmosphere, giving you the full cosy atmosphere that you expect from a stay in the Lake District.
A warm welcome to the Lakes for all
Here at The Inn Collection Group, we make sure every guest feels at home. Our Lake District places to stay include a choice of pet-friendly rooms, so your dog can join the adventure, accessible rooms designed for ease and comfort, and spacious family accommodation perfect for parents with little ones in tow. However you plan to explore, you’ll find our inns among the best hotels in the Lake District for welcoming every kind of guest. For more details on specific facilities, simply visit each of our inn pages.
Where is the best place to stay in the Lake District?
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Ambleside
A popular first stop for many visitors, Ambleside offers a mix of walking trails, shops, and eateries, with Lake Windermere just a short stroll away. Spring and summer are particularly lively, while autumn brings quieter trails and stunning foliage. Ambleside is around 10 minutes from Bowness-on-Windermere by car. Stay at The Ambleside Inn, The Temperance Inn, The Wateredge Inn, or The Waterhead Inn for convenient and welcoming Lake District places to stay. -
Bassenthwaite
More off-the-beaten-track, Bassenthwaite is a haven for wildlife and peaceful escapes, ideal for walkers and nature lovers. Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful here. The Pheasant Inn offers a cosy base in this tranquil corner of the Lakes. Bassenthwaite is also just around 20 minutes from Keswick. -
Bowness-on-Windermere
A lively lakeside town perfect for first-time visitors, Bowness is bustling with boat trips, family attractions, and cafés. Summer is peak season, while winter offers a quieter, cosy atmosphere. It’s just 10 minutes from Ambleside. Stay at The Angel Inn, steps from the lakeside and local attractions. -
Coniston
Nestled beside the lake and surrounded by fells, Coniston is ideal for walkers, couples, and families exploring the southern Lakes. Summer brings boat trips and lakeside activity, while spring and autumn are quieter for walking and cycling. The Coniston Inn offers a welcoming retreat. -
Glenridding
Known for stunning lake views and quieter surroundings, Glenridding is perfect for a serene getaway. It’s a great base for walkers, with Helvellyn - one of the Lake District’s most iconic peaks - on its doorstep. Late spring is ideal for daffodils, and summer for lakeside walks. The Ullswater Inn puts you right on the water’s edge and close to scenic trails. -
Grasmere
Smaller and more peaceful, Grasmere is perfect for couples or a slower-paced break. Famous for its gingerbread and Wordsworth heritage, it shines in spring and early autumn. Stay at The Swan or The Wordsworth* (currently closed for refurbishment) for a true Lakeland experience. Grasmere is also just 15 minutes from bustling Ambleside for the best of both worlds.
You are truly spoiled for choice for restaurants to eat at while visiting the Lake District.
If it is quality pub food you are after, we highly recommend places such as The Ambleside Inn which feature classics on their menu. It also boasts a wonderful children’s menu with British favourites such as sausage and mash, so the whole family is happy!
If a Sunday roast is just what you’re craving, you truly cannot get much better than the variety of Sunday roasts we offer at The Pheasant Inn. We take all dietary requirements into consideration ensuring there is something for meat eaters and non-meat eaters alike.
Looking for something more central in Ambleside? The Waterhead Inn is the place for a delicious feast. The menu includes hearty helpings of delicious food made by our wonderful chef. It is also dog-friendly, making it a wonderful place to treat the whole family.
The Coniston Inn
Another popular Lake District hotel, The Coniston Inn is loved for its convenient location. A pleasant walk from the inn takes you to The Ruskin Museum, where you can explore local history and learn about John Ruskin. Plan your stay at The Coniston Inn.
The Swan at Grasmere
Located in the heart of Grasmere valley, The Swan is a charming spot near Allan Bank, the former home of poet William Wordsworth. Enjoy a stroll through its gardens and woodland before returning to the inn for a meal in the restaurant. Plan your stay at The Swan.
The Ullswater Inn
The popular Ullswater Inn (formerly the Glenridding Hotel) is a fantastic base for exploring Ullswater. With the lake on our doorstep and Helvellyn and the surrounding fells within reach, it’s ideal for walkers and explorers. After a day on the water or climbing the peaks, enjoy delicious pub food and a refreshing drink. Plan your stay at The Ullswater Inn.
Staying at a pub with rooms in the Lake District combines comfort, charm, and convenience. Our inns are in some of the nicest towns in the Lake District, from bustling villages like Ambleside and Bowness-on-Windermere to peaceful spots like Bassenthwaite and Glenridding, helping you decide which part of the Lake District is best to stay.
Perfect for first-time visitors, couples, and families, our inns offer hearty locally inspired food, welcoming atmospheres, and stunning scenery. Many guests find a few days is enough to explore the Lake District, while spring and summer are popular months, and autumn and winter provide quieter, cosy escapes.
With The Inn Collection Group, you’ll find the best Lake District inns and places to stay – whether you are deciding if you should stay in Windermere or Coniston, planning a first visit, or wondering what is the best month to visit the Lake District, we’ve got you covered.
Lake District Travel Tips & FAQs
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How long should I stay in the Lake District?
How long you should stay in the Lake District depends on what you’d like to see and do, but most visitors find that a two to three night stay gives enough time to explore the lakes, enjoy scenic walks, and relax in a traditional inn or hotel. If you want to climb mountains, take boat trips, and explore at a gentler pace, a longer break of four to seven nights is ideal. This gives you the chance to discover more of the area’s characterful towns and villages, including Ambleside, Coniston, Bowness-on-Windermere and many more. -
When is the best time to visit the Lake District?
The Lake District has something special to offer in every season:
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Spring: A lovely time for peaceful walks, colourful flowers, and newborn lambs in the fields.
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Summer: Warm weather and long days make it ideal for lake cruises, outdoor adventures, and family holidays, though it’s also the busiest season.
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Autumn: Crisp air and golden scenery create the perfect backdrop for hiking and photography.
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Winter: A quieter time to visit, with festive markets, roaring fires, and snowy mountain views making for a cosy escape.
Whether you’re visiting for a summer adventure or a winter retreat, there are welcoming inns and hotels across the Lake District ready to make your stay memorable.
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How many inns are there in the Lake District?
The Lake District is home to some of the most welcoming places to stay, and The Inn Collection Group has a growing collection of inns across this beautiful region. At present, there are eight inns in the Lake District within the group, including locations in Ambleside, Coniston, Grasmere, Bowness-on-Windermere and Ullswater. Each inn offers comfortable rooms, hearty food and a warm welcome, making them a popular choice for anyone looking for hotels and inns in the Lake District.
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