Busy planning your 2025 escape, but you're not sure where to go. If so, why not ditch the passport and rediscover the magic that lies right on your doorstep and head to the amazing Lake District? Breathtaking scenery, amazing food and the promise of adventure are just a few of the reasons why you'll fall head over heels in love with this beautiful part of England.
But in case you need a little more convincing, why not take advantage of our Early Bird Offer? If you book your 2025 Matson Ground Cottage stay before 31 January 2025, you'll get 20% off*. Just add code EB20 at checkout.
Here's what you can expect if you decide to visit the Lake District in 2025.
The Stunning Landscape
The Lake District boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the UK, from the dramatic mountains to the serene lakes that reflect the beauty of the surrounding fells. You'll also be treated to some stunning sunsets.
With minimal light pollution, the Lake District also offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities. Marvel at the Milky Way on a clear night. Take a guided stargazing tour, download a stargazing app, or simply lie back and wonder at the vastness of the universe.
And if you're a keen photographer, the Lake District really is the ideal place to visit. There are so many locations to capture that perfect shot, where the natural surroundings, the light and the colours lend you a helping hand.
Outdoor Adventure
Arguably the adventure capital of the UK, the Lake District is the perfect playground for the outdoor enthusiast. And it's not just hiking, canoeing and cycling. For the adrenaline-junkies amongst you, the Lake District offers ghyll scrambling, rock-climbing and white water rafting - to name just a few.
If you really fancy a challenge, lace up your boots and start Wainwright Bagging. A Wainwright is one of the 214 fells identified by Alfred Wainwright, fell walker and the author. Some aim to complete this challenge in a year, others in ten years. Some simply enjoy taking part whenever they're visiting. And yes, some walks are harder on the knees than others; most will leave you gaping in awe at the scenery; all will leave you with a sense of achievement and memories to last a lifetime.
You can't come to the Lake District and not take advantage of the lakes that give this corner of England its name. Enjoy a variety of watersports including kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing - an action-packed adventure the whole family.
Or if you'd prefer to be in the water, perhaps it's time to give wild swimming a go. Among the health benefits of wild swimming (and cold water immersion) are improved circulation; a boost to your brain power; a boost to your immune system; reduced anxiety and stress; increased ness; feelings of euphoria and achievement; and if you're swimming with others, a sense of community.
Lake Cruises
If your idea of fun on the water is slightly warmer and a little less wet, why not relax on a leisurely lake cruise and soak up the panoramic views - you'll see the Lake District from an entirely different perspective.
Family Adventures
From animal parks to adventure playgrounds, the Lake District is the perfect destination for families. Go Ape at Grizedale Forest, Treetop Trek at Brockhole (on the shores of Lake Windermere) and the World of Beatrix Potter in Bowness are just a few family-friendly attractions close to our Windermere holiday cottages. For guests staying in one of our Ullswater holiday cottages, Whinlatter Forest provides a number of activities, including treetop adventure and forest segway.
Foodie Heaven
Did you know that there are thirteen Michelin Star restaurants in Cumbria boasting a total of fifteen coveted stars? In fact, the county has the highest number of Michelin Star restaurants outside London, making it a world-class destination for a gourmet escape.
But if Michelin-star dining isn't your thing, why not duck into the comfortable surroundings of a traditional Lakeland pub. Get yourself a drink, sink into a comfy armchair in front of a crackling log fire and while away the time with family and friends.
There is also an array of amazing local produce readily available to try in the comfort of your Matson Ground holiday cottage. From Herdwick lamb to sticky toffee pudding, Cumberland sausage to Grasmere gingerbread, there's something to suit every palate.
The Wildlife
The Lake District is home to a wealth of interesting and rare species, thanks to its diverse habitats such as mountains, wetlands, lakes, woodlands and beaches. Which means that it doesn't matter where you're staying, there's wildlife at every turn. Red squirrels, ospreys, otters, kingfishers and seals can all be spotted, and if you're out on the fells you may see small groups of fell ponies, a hardy breed well-suited to the sometimes harsh conditions of the Lake District fells.
Lake District Heritage and Culture
Take time to visit some of the region's historic houses such as Levens Hall and Sizergh Castle. If live performance is your thing, there's nowhere quite like Theatre by the Lake on the shores of Derwentwater in Keswick or the Old Laundry Theatre in Bowness. Immerse yourself in the Arts & Crafts movement by soaking up the atmosphere at Blackwell, just outside Bowness, one of the UK's finest examples of Arts & Crafts architecture. Or you could follow in the footsteps of literary giants such as Wordsworth, Beatrix Potter and Ruskin, whose poetry and prose drew inspiration from the region's natural beauty. Visit their homes, museums, and favourite viewpoints - maybe you'll be inspired to write something yourself.
If the weather's playing ball, take a leisurely stroll through well-maintained gardens, where colourful blooms and manicured landscapes create a serene atmosphere. From cottage gardens to historic houses boasting world famous plants and topiary, there's a wealth of choice.
If you're staying in one of our Windermere Holiday Cottages, Holehird Gardens, Levens Hall, Holker Hall and Sizergh Castle are all easily accessible. Or for those of you enjoying a stay in one of our Ullswater Holiday Cottages, Dalemain, Hutton-in-the-Forest and Acorn Bank are within easy reach.
Matson Ground Cottages
We've saved the best until last. If you are planning a trip to the Lake District this year, our holiday cottages on Matson Ground provide the perfect location from which to explore all that the Lake District has to offer and the ideal spot to unwind and spend time with family and friends.
Matson Ground Lodge, Low Cleabarrow, Elm How and Cruck Barn are all dog friendly, so your four-legged furry friends can enjoy a fabulous holiday in the Lake District as well.
Hopefully we've convinced you to visit the Lake District in 2025. This is the perfect place to be whatever your age and whatever the season. There's always something to do - from family hikes to leisurely meals, museums to kids' attractions, everyone and everything is catered for.
And remember, with our Early Bird Offer, if you book your 2025 Matson Ground Cottage stay before 31 January 2025, you'll get 20% off*. Just add code EB20 at checkout.
So what will your 2025 travel plans include? We hope that a trip to this stunning part of the country is on the list.
For more information about our cottages, please click here.
*Booking made within two weeks of your stay don't apply and will default to 15% off.