Cartmel Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Cartmel Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Cartmel packs a lot into a small space. The village centre revolves around its ancient square with the imposing Priory Church dominating the skyline. This 12th-century building survived Henry VIII's monastery dissolutions because locals convinced officials it served as their parish church.

Don't miss Cartmel Racecourse (LA11 6QF), Britain's smallest National Hunt venue. They host just 9 race meetings annually between May and August, so check dates before booking if you want to experience "the UK's most picturesque racecourse" according to The Times.

For food lovers, Cartmel Village Shop (LA11 6QB) is the birthplace of the original sticky toffee pudding. They still make it by hand using the secret recipe that's now shipped worldwide. Open daily 9am-5pm.

The village square hosts a monthly food market (first Friday, 10am-4pm) where local producers sell everything from artisan cheese to wild game. TripAdvisor rates it 4.5/5 with visitors praising the "amazing quality" and "fantastic atmosphere".

Pet Friendly

Dogs love Cartmel! Most pubs welcome four-legged visitors, with The Cavendish Arms (LA11 6QA) providing water bowls and treats. Their beer garden has plenty of shade for hot days.

Unsworth's Yard (LA11 6PG) houses several shops including a microbrewery and cheese shop where dogs can join you for tastings. The yard's central seating area makes a great pit-stop during village explorations.

For walks, I recommend the 3-mile Cartmel Racecourse route. It loops around the course perimeter with minimal road walking and several streams for dogs to splash in. The terrain is mostly flat with just one stile that larger dogs might struggle with.

If your dog enjoys swimming, drive 10 minutes to Grange-over-Sands promenade where a section of beach allows dogs year-round. Just watch the tide times as the bay has dangerous quicksand when the tide's out.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Cartmel

Cartmel Priory (LA11 6PL) stands as one of the finest ecclesiastical buildings in northern England. The massive east window contains medieval stained glass that survived Cromwell's troops, who reportedly used the church to stable their horses. The misericords (hidden carvings under choir seats) show fascinating medieval scenes including a pig playing bagpipes! Open daily 10am-4pm, free entry but donations welcome. TripAdvisor score: 4.5/5.

L'Enclume restaurant (LA11 6QD) put Cartmel on the culinary map. Simon Rogan's flagship holds two Michelin stars and was named UK's best restaurant multiple times. They grow much of their produce on their own farm just outside the village. Even if the £195 tasting menu exceeds your budget, peek through the windows to see chefs at work. One TripAdvisor reviewer called it "the most extraordinary meal of my life." Booking essential, often months ahead.

Holker Hall (LA11 7PL), just 1.5 miles from Cartmel, is the region's grandest stately home. The current Victorian mansion replaced an earlier building destroyed by fire in 1871. The 25-acre gardens feature rare plants collected by the Cavendish family over centuries, including a 400-year-old oak with a 32-foot circumference. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 10:30am-5pm (March-October). Adults £13.50, children £7. TripAdvisor score: 4/5.

Is Cartmel suitable for a winter break?

Absolutely! Winter might be Cartmel's best season. The crowds thin out, log fires burn in every pub and nothing beats returning to your hot tub under starry skies. Most attractions remain open year-round, though Holker Hall closes November-February. The village looks magical when it snows, though roads can be tricky.

How far is Cartmel from Lake Windermere?

Lake Windermere's southern shore at Newby Bridge is just 15 minutes' drive (6 miles) from Cartmel. Bowness, the main tourist hub, takes about 30 minutes (12 miles). The route crosses country roads with stunning views but can be slow in summer traffic.

Where's the nearest supermarket to Cartmel?

Cartmel has no major supermarket. The village shop stocks essentials but at premium prices. The nearest supermarkets are in Grange-over-Sands (10 minutes' drive) - a small Tesco Metro and Co-op. For a big shop, head to Kendal (25 minutes) for Sainsbury's, Morrisons and Asda.

Can I get around Cartmel without a car?

It's challenging but possible. Trains run to Cark station (1.5 miles from Cartmel) on the Barrow to Lancaster line. Local buses are limited. Taxis must be booked in advance. Most cottages are within walking distance of village amenities, but you'll need transport for wider exploration.

Where can I park in Cartmel?

Parking can be tricky, especially during race meetings. Most cottages provide designated spaces. The main village car park (LA11 6QB) charges £5 for all-day parking. Never park in the village square - it's for loading only and wardens are vigilant!

What's the best time to visit Cartmel?

May and September offer the perfect balance - good weather without peak crowds. Race days bring a fantastic atmosphere but accommodation prices spike and restaurants book up. Winter weekends feel wonderfully cosy with your hot tub steaming in the cold air.

1. Cartmel Racecourse Official Site
2. Holker Hall & Gardens
3. Cartmel Priory
4. L'Enclume Restaurant