Get More From Your Backbarrow Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Backbarrow gives you a perfect base to explore the southern Lake District with the kind of luxury and space you won't find in a standard hotel. This charming village sits between Lake Windermere and the Leven Estuary in Cumbria and offers stunning natural beauty alongside fascinating industrial heritage.
The area is ideal for romantic breaks and family getaways alike. You can visit historic attractions during the day and return to your private hot tub for a relaxing evening under the stars. Whether you're after boutique cottages for 2 or large holiday houses for a group, Backbarrow delivers.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in Backbarrow
Backbarrow transformed from a quiet hamlet into an industrial hub during the 18th century when the Backbarrow Ironworks opened. The village sits on the River Leven which powered the furnaces and mills. Today it's a peaceful retreat surrounded by ancient woodland and just minutes from England's largest lake.
The location makes it brilliant for hot tub stays because you get easy access to Windermere, Coniston Water and the Cartmel Peninsula without the crowds of busier tourist spots. You can book self catering accommodation here and enjoy both adventure and relaxation.
Sightseeing in Backbarrow
The village itself is small but perfectly positioned for exploring South Lakeland. You'll find traditional stone cottages and the impressive Lakeland Motor Museum right in the village. The surrounding area includes the Rusland Valley, Grizedale Forest and numerous walking trails that showcase why this region became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Backbarrow
From family-friendly museums to stunning natural landscapes, the attractions near your cottage with hot tub offer something for everyone visiting this corner of Cumbria.
Lakeland Motor Museum
This award-winning museum houses over 30,000 exhibits celebrating motoring and transport history. You'll see classic cars, motorcycles, bicycles and even a recreation of a 1950s garage. The Campbell Legend Bluebird Exhibition tells the story of Donald Campbell's world speed record attempts on Coniston Water.
Fell Foot Park
Located on the southern shore of Windermere, this National Trust park offers 18 acres of Victorian parkland with lake access. You can hire rowing boats, enjoy the adventure playground or simply relax by the water. The park has excellent facilities including a café and is dog friendly, making it perfect for pet friendly cottages guests.
Stott Park Bobbin Mill
This working Victorian mill shows how wooden bobbins were made to supply Lancashire's cotton industry. The original machinery still operates and guided tours explain the dangerous working conditions. It's a fascinating glimpse into the industrial heritage that shaped the Lakes and makes an excellent educational visit for families.
Grizedale Forest
Covering 24 square kilometres, Grizedale offers mountain biking trails, walking routes and over 40 outdoor sculptures. The Go Ape high ropes course provides adventure for groups whilst quieter forest paths suit those seeking secluded walks. Red deer and roe deer roam freely throughout this ancient woodland.
Cartmel Village and Priory
Just 15 minutes away, Cartmel is a medieval village famous for its 12th-century priory and sticky toffee pudding. The village hosts a racecourse, artisan shops and several excellent restaurants. L'Enclume holds three Michelin stars whilst Rogan & Co offers more casual fine dining for those celebrating special occasions.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Lakeland Motor Museum | Classic vehicles and Campbell's Bluebird exhibition with interactive displays | Families |
| Fell Foot Park | Lakeside walks, boat hire and Victorian gardens on Windermere's shore | Everyone |
| Stott Park Bobbin Mill | Working Victorian machinery and guided tours through industrial history | Families |
| Grizedale Forest | Mountain biking, sculpture trails and wildlife spotting in ancient woodland | Everyone |
| Cartmel Village | Medieval architecture, Michelin-starred dining and famous sticky toffee pudding | Couples |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Backbarrow?
The village is 3 miles from the A590 which connects to the M6 at junction 36. The nearest train station is Ulverston (6 miles) with connections to Manchester and Lancaster. If you're booking last minute, allow 90 minutes from Manchester Airport.
What family activities are available nearby?
Fell Foot Park offers playgrounds and watersports whilst the Lakes Aquarium in Newby Bridge (1 mile) houses native and exotic species. Grizedale Forest has cycling trails and Go Ape for older children. Many large family cottages to rent include games rooms too.
Where are the best romantic spots?
Cartmel village offers intimate dining at Michelin-starred restaurants. Sunset walks along Windermere's shore at Fell Foot create magical moments. For ultimate romance, book boutique cottages with a jacuzzi and enjoy stargazing from your private hot tub.
Is there good shopping nearby?
Cartmel has artisan food shops and galleries. Bowness-on-Windermere (6 miles) offers high street brands and independent boutiques. Kendal (12 miles) provides larger retail options including outdoor gear specialists for hiking equipment.
Why choose a hot tub cottage here?
After exploring the fells or visiting attractions, returning to your own hot tub beats any hotel spa. You get privacy, flexibility and the chance to enjoy the stunning Lake District scenery from your accommodation. Many holiday lets also welcome dogs so the whole family can relax together.
Cottages with hot tubs in Backbarrow combine the best of both worlds. You're close enough to visit Windermere, Coniston and Cartmel yet far enough from crowds to enjoy peaceful evenings. Whether you want cheap cottages for a 1 night retreat or luxury cottages for new year celebrations, this village offers the perfect base.
The variety of holiday cottages to let means you can find everything from a remote log cabin for isolated getaways to large cottages near amenities for group holidays. Book your cottage breaks here and discover why Backbarrow is one of the Lake District's best kept secrets for hot tub breaks.