Get More From Your Cartmel Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Cartmel gives you the perfect base to explore this medieval village whilst enjoying luxury self catering accommodation. The village sits in the stunning Cartmel Valley within the Lake District National Park and offers everything from Michelin-starred dining to ancient priories. You get proper space and privacy that even the best boutique cottages in hotels can't match.
Whether you're after romantic breaks for 2 or large holiday houses for a family gathering, Cartmel delivers. The village combines 800 years of history with modern foodie culture and sits just minutes from Morecambe Bay's dramatic coastline. After a day exploring you can sink into your private hot tub and plan tomorrow's adventures.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in Cartmel
Cartmel started life as a monastic settlement in 1188. The village grew around its priory and today maintains that intimate medieval character with narrow streets and historic buildings. It's become famous for sticky toffee pudding and championship horse racing whilst keeping its authentic charm intact.
The location works brilliantly for hot tub stays because you're central to both Lake District fells and coastal walks. You can book everything from cheap cottages to luxury lodges with jacuzzi facilities. Most holiday lets here are dog friendly so your pets can join the adventure too.
Sightseeing in Cartmel
This compact village packs serious historical punch into its small footprint. The priory dominates the skyline whilst independent shops and cafes line the square. You'll find artisan producers, galleries and the famous Cartmel Village Shop selling local produce. The whole place feels like stepping back in time but with excellent coffee and world-class restaurants.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Cartmel
From ancient religious sites to adrenaline-pumping race days, Cartmel offers attractions that suit everyone. Here are five you absolutely can't miss during your cottage break.
Cartmel Priory
This 12th-century church survived Henry VIII's Dissolution of the Monasteries because locals claimed it as their parish church. The building showcases stunning medieval architecture with its distinctive diagonal tower and Renaissance screens. Entry is free and the acoustics make any choir performance unforgettable.
Cartmel Racecourse
Racing here since 1856, this National Hunt course hosts meetings over spring and summer bank holidays. The track sits inside the village with the priory as backdrop creating a unique atmosphere. You can watch from the grandstand or picnic on the infield for a more relaxed experience.
Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding Shop
This isn't just a shop but the birthplace of a dessert phenomenon. The Cartmel Village Shop created their sticky toffee pudding recipe decades ago and it became legendary. You can buy puddings to take back to your holiday house or try other local specialities and preserves.
L'Enclume Restaurant
Simon Rogan's two-Michelin-starred restaurant put Cartmel on the international food map. The restaurant occupies a former smithy and serves innovative dishes using foraged and farm ingredients. Booking months ahead is essential but even walking past and seeing the building is part of the Cartmel experience.
Hampsfell
This 727-foot limestone hill offers panoramic views across Morecambe Bay to the Lake District peaks. The summit features a distinctive hospice shelter built in 1846 where you can read poetry and take in the vista. The walk up takes about 45 minutes from Cartmel through woodland and open fell.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Cartmel Priory | Medieval architecture and 800 years of history in a working church with free entry | Everyone |
| Cartmel Racecourse | Traditional National Hunt racing in a village setting with priory views | Groups |
| Sticky Toffee Pudding Shop | Original sticky toffee pudding and local Cumbrian produce to take home | Everyone |
| L'Enclume Restaurant | Two-Michelin-star dining with innovative local and foraged ingredients | Couples |
| Hampsfell | Panoramic fell walking with bay and mountain views from the summit hospice | Families |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Cartmel?
Cartmel sits 11 miles from the M6 at Junction 36. The nearest train station is Cark-in-Cartmel just two miles away with connections to Lancaster and Barrow. Most visitors drive as it gives flexibility to explore surrounding areas and coastal cottages.
What family activities are available?
Families love the gentle walks around the village and up Hampsfell. The racecourse hosts family days with entertainment beyond racing. Nearby you'll find Lakeland Motor Museum and the beach at Allithwaite. Many large family cottages to rent include games rooms alongside hot tub facilities.
Where are the best romantic spots?
Book dinner at L'Enclume or Rogan & Co for special occasions. Walk the quiet lanes at sunset towards the priory. The Hampsfell summit at dawn offers incredible solitude. Secluded holiday cottages with private hot tubs provide the perfect romantic retreat after exploring.
Is there good shopping?
Cartmel specialises in quality over quantity with independent shops selling local art, crafts and food. The village shop stocks Cumbrian produce whilst galleries feature regional artists. For bigger shopping you'll need Kendal or Lancaster.
Why choose a hot tub cottage here?
After walking the fells or exploring coastal paths, a hot tub provides perfect muscle relief. The Lake District weather can be unpredictable so having your own outdoor spa means you can relax regardless. Remote self catering properties with hot tubs offer privacy that hotels simply can't match.
Cottages with hot tubs in Cartmel combine the best of Lake District scenery with village charm and exceptional food. Whether you're planning last minute getaways or a new year celebration, you'll find everything from isolated fishing lodges to large cottages near the action. Book your cottage with hot tub and discover why this medieval village attracts visitors year-round.
We recommend checking availability early especially for bank holiday race meetings and peak summer weeks. Pet friendly cottages fill quickly so if you're travelling with dogs start your search well ahead. From 1 bedroom retreats to villas sleeping large groups, Cartmel's holiday homes offer something for every type of break.