The best Christmas breaks in the Lake District for 2023

For those looking for a home-away-from-home Christmas break, the allure of staying in the UK is obvious.

Think frosty, wintry landscapes, wrapping up warm to explore the Great British Outdoors, and cosy evenings in front of the fire in a traditional holiday cottage or countryside hotel.

One of the most picturesque domestic destinations in which to celebrate the festive season is the Lake District. Winter brings a special atmosphere to the beloved national park; icy mornings make for invigorating walks, smatterings of snow create a winter wonderland-esque ambience and the most bitterly cold days can be spent cheerfully indoors, whether it be fireside at a country pub, poolside at a hotel spa, or playing board games round the kitchen table in a rustic holiday rental.

And, despite the temperature drop, there are still opportunities to experience the lakes from which the region derives its name, from an icy Boxing Day lake swim to a decidedly more comfortable cruise on Windermere.

Feeling inspired? To help you plan a festive getaway, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best Christmas breaks in the Lake District.

Lakeside Hotel, Windermere

The District’s most famous Lake is surrounded by dozens of accommodation options and some of the most picturesque locations in the entire national park area. Although the water sports and lake cruises are largely finished by the time December arrives, visitors can enjoy relaxed walks in the crisp winter air. More high-octane activities – including climbing, mountain biking and clay pigeon shooting – are available nearby courtesy of Graythwaite Adventures.

The Lakeside Hotel has taken advantage of its enviable position on the southern shores of Windermere, with rooms, a terrace and a restaurant that overlook the calm waters. Decked in lights and decorations over Christmas, the hotel has a four-night package stay (beginning on 23 December) that is packed full of activities and dining options. Enjoy a welcome buffet on arrival, before a two-hour lake cruise and live music on Christmas Eve, an eccentric feast and quiz on Christmas Day and some time in a spa and casino on Boxing Day.

From £575 per night in a classic double room, including all meals, excursions and activities.