Hawkshead Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Hawkshead Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Hawkshead offers fantastic sightseeing opportunities right on your doorstep. The village itself is a delight to explore with its traffic-free centre, historic buildings and independent shops. You can wander through narrow alleyways and discover hidden courtyards without worrying about traffic.

Beatrix Potter's Hill Top house (LA22 0LF) is just 2 miles away in Near Sawrey. Open 10am-4:30pm most days, this 17th-century farmhouse remains exactly as she left it. It scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor with visitors particularly loving the garden which inspired many of her tales.

Grizedale Forest Park (LA22 0QJ) offers walking trails, mountain biking routes and a brilliant sculpture trail featuring over 40 outdoor artworks. Open daily from dawn till dusk, it's free to enter though parking costs apply. TripAdvisor gives it 4.5/5 from over 1,200 reviews.

The Beatrix Potter Gallery (LA22 0NS) in the village showcases original drawings and watercolours. Housed in a 17th-century solicitor's office where Potter's husband once worked, it scores 4/5 on TripAdvisor. Open 10:30am-4:30pm most days.

Pet Friendly

Hawkshead is brilliant for dog owners. Many cottages with hot tubs welcome dogs, giving you the chance to enjoy luxury accommodation without leaving your four-legged family member in kennels. After a day of exploring, you can relax in your hot tub while your dog snoozes by the fire.

The village has several dog-friendly pubs including The Queen's Head and The Red Lion, both serving good food and welcoming dogs in designated areas. The Kings Arms even provides water bowls and treats.

Grizedale Forest has miles of waymarked trails perfect for dog walking, with plenty of streams for dogs who enjoy a splash. Just remember to keep them on leads when livestock is present.

The Hawkshead Co-op stocks emergency dog supplies and there's a vet in nearby Ambleside for any health concerns. I'd recommend bringing towels specifically for drying your dog after wet walks - the Lake District isn't known for its dry weather!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Hawkshead

Hawkshead Grammar School Museum (LA22 0NT) is a must-visit. This small but fascinating museum occupies the actual school where William Wordsworth studied. You can see the desk where he carved his name as a schoolboy. Open 10am-5pm April-October, it costs just £3.50 for adults. Visitors call it "a little gem" and "surprisingly interesting" in reviews.

Tarn Hows (LA22 0PR) is one of the Lake District's most beautiful spots, just 2.5 miles from Hawkshead. This man-made lake surrounded by woodland offers an easy 1.5-mile circular walk with stunning views. The National Trust maintains it beautifully and there's a large car park. One recent visitor wrote: "The views are spectacular in all directions. The path is well maintained making it accessible for most abilities."

St Michael and All Angels Church stands at the top of the village and dates back to the 12th century. Its whitewashed exterior makes it stand out and inside you'll find fascinating historical features including a rare "Three Decker" pulpit. The churchyard contains the Wordsworth family vault. It's free to enter and open daily. Visitors consistently mention the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful stained glass.

Is Hawkshead suitable for families with young children?

Yes! The traffic-free village centre makes it safe for little ones and there are plenty of family-friendly walks nearby. The Beatrix Potter connection appeals to many children and the ice cream shop in the village square is always a hit. Many cottages with hot tubs provide high chairs and travel cots if requested in advance.

What's the best time of year to visit Hawkshead?

Each season has its appeal. Summer brings longer days and better weather for exploring, but also more visitors. Spring offers beautiful blossoms and lambs in the fields. Autumn provides stunning colours in Grizedale Forest. Winter can be magical with frosty mornings and the chance to return to your hot tub after a brisk walk. Personally, I think May and September offer the best balance of decent weather and fewer crowds.

Are there good places to eat in Hawkshead?

Absolutely. The Sun Inn serves excellent pub food using local ingredients. The Tower Bank Arms (featured in Beatrix Potter's "The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck") offers a small but superb menu. For lunch, try Poppi Red café for homemade soups and sandwiches. The village also has a deli selling local cheeses, meats and picnic supplies.

Do I need a car to stay in Hawkshead?

While having a car provides more flexibility, it's possible to enjoy Hawkshead without one. The 505 bus connects Hawkshead with Ambleside and Coniston. Many walking routes start directly from the village and local taxi services can help with luggage transfers. Some cottage owners offer collection from nearby train stations if arranged in advance.

What should I pack for my hot tub cottage break?

Beyond the usual holiday essentials, bring swimwear for the hot tub, plus extra towels (though many cottages provide these). Walking boots are a must for exploring. Binoculars help spot wildlife. A torch is useful for evening walks back from the pub. And don't forget a camera - the views are spectacular!

Is there good mobile reception and WiFi in Hawkshead?

Mobile reception can be patchy in parts of the Lake District. Most cottages offer WiFi, though speeds may be slower than you're used to. The village has several spots with good reception and most pubs offer free WiFi. I'd recommend downloading maps and information before arrival just in case.

Helpful links:

1. Miles Without Stiles - accessible walks in the Lake District
2. National Trust - Hill Top information
3. Forestry England - Grizedale Forest information