Get More From Your Hartsop Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Hartsop gives you a perfect base to explore one of the Lake District's most unspoiled valleys. This tiny hamlet sits at the foot of Kirkstone Pass and offers the kind of authentic mountain experience that's increasingly rare in busier parts of the national park.
We love Hartsop for its traditional stone buildings and working farms that have barely changed in centuries. The village makes an ideal retreat for romantic breaks and family cottages alike, with everything from boutique cottages to large holiday houses available for hire. After a day exploring the fells you can soak in your private hot tub and watch red squirrels dart between ancient oaks.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in Hartsop
Hartsop remains one of the Lake District's best kept secrets despite sitting just off the A592 between Patterdale and Brotherswater. The hamlet consists of around a dozen traditional Lakeland buildings including several 17th century farmhouses with their distinctive cylindrical chimneys used for smoking hams.
This secluded spot works brilliantly for hot tub stays because you get genuine isolation without being completely remote. The surrounding valleys offer world-class walking and the area attracts far fewer visitors than Ambleside or Windermere. You'll find excellent dog friendly accommodation here and most holiday lets welcome pets.
Sightseeing in Hartsop
The village itself is the attraction with its cluster of whitewashed cottages and working sheep farms. Hartsop Hall dates from the 16th century and the hamlet's traditional architecture makes it feel like you've stepped back 300 years. The valley has been farmed since Viking times and many field boundaries haven't moved since medieval days.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Hartsop
We've picked five must-visit spots that showcase why this corner of the Lake District deserves more attention. These range from challenging mountain walks to gentle lakeside strolls.
Brotherswater
This small lake sits just ten minutes walk from Hartsop and offers one of the easiest waterside walks in the national park. The 2.5 mile circuit takes about an hour and gives you stunning views of High Street and Hartsop Dodd. It's shallow enough that brave souls swim here even in spring.
Kirkstone Pass
England's highest pass open to traffic climbs to 1489 feet and delivers breathtaking views across both sides of the Lake District. The Kirkstone Pass Inn at the summit has been serving travellers since the 15th century. Drive it for the scenery or walk the old packhorse route that runs parallel to the modern road.
Hayeswater Reservoir
This hidden gem sits in a dramatic corrie above Hartsop and makes a fantastic half-day walk. The 5 mile round trip climbs steadily through the valley before opening out at the reservoir with its backdrop of High Street's eastern crags. We often spot red deer here in early morning.
Angle Tarn
Perched at 1900 feet between Angletarn Pikes, this remote mountain tarn rewards the steep climb with incredible 360-degree views. The 6 mile circular walk from Hartsop takes about 4 hours and passes through some of the wildest landscape in the eastern fells. Pack a flask because there's nowhere to buy refreshments.
Patterdale
This larger village sits 2 miles north and provides essential services including a shop, pub and outdoor gear suppliers. The village sits at the southern end of Ullswater and makes a good base for lake cruises or kayaking. St Patrick's Church dates from 1853 and sits in a beautiful riverside setting.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Brotherswater | Easy lakeside walking with mountain views and possible wild swimming | Everyone |
| Kirkstone Pass | Dramatic mountain pass with historic inn and panoramic Lake District views | Everyone |
| Hayeswater Reservoir | Moderate mountain walk to secluded reservoir with wildlife spotting | Families |
| Angle Tarn | Challenging fell walk to remote mountain tarn with spectacular summit views | Couples |
| Patterdale | Village amenities, Ullswater access and water sports opportunities | Everyone |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Hartsop?
The nearest train station is Penrith, 16 miles north. From there you'll need a car as public transport is limited. The 508 bus runs between Penrith and Patterdale but only operates seasonally. Most visitors book self catering accommodation and drive.
What family activities are available near Hartsop?
Brotherswater offers gentle walks suitable for young children and the lake is shallow enough for paddling. Patterdale has a playground and you can take Ullswater Steamers from nearby Glenridding. Many large family cottages have games rooms and some properties feature a swimming pool.
Where are the best romantic spots?
Angle Tarn at sunset is hard to beat for couples seeking isolation. The Kirkstone Pass Inn serves excellent food with views. For a special meal visit The Inn on the Lake at Glenridding. Your cottage with hot tub provides the perfect end to any romantic day out.
Is there shopping nearby?
Patterdale has a small shop for essentials. For proper supermarkets you'll need to visit Glenridding or drive to Penrith. We recommend stocking up before arrival. Many holiday homes and villas come with fully equipped kitchens so you can self cater easily.
Why choose a hot tub cottage in Hartsop?
After walking the fells all day nothing beats soaking in your own jacuzzi under the stars. Cottages with hot tubs in Hartsop offer luxury cottages standards with genuine mountain seclusion. You get the best of both worlds with isolated retreats that aren't completely remote.
Whether you're after cheap cottages for a last minute getaway or boutique cottages for new year celebrations, Hartsop delivers authentic Lake District experiences. Book your cottage breaks here and you'll discover why locals rate this valley as one of the national park's hidden treasures. From 1 bedroom lodges perfect for 2 to big cottages sleeping a large group, there are places to stay for every budget. Many properties are pet friendly cottages so you can bring dogs along. Forest holiday vibes meet mountain grandeur in this special corner of Cumbria. Visit for 1 night or a full week and you'll understand why guests return year after year to these unique cottages and holiday houses. The combination of hot tub breaks with world-class walking makes Hartsop an unbeatable destination for country breaks and getaways. Check deals on Sykes Cottages or book direct with owners for the best rental rates on these coastal cottages alternatives. Whether you want a log cabin, chalet or fishing lodges style retreat, cottages to rent here offer something truly special. Group cottages and holiday cottages to let provide space while unique holiday houses deliver character.