Holiday rentals in Cartmel

Lying just beyond the southern fringe of the Lake District National Park, Cartmel is one of those rare rural enclaves that has managed to make a name for itself as a top foodie destination. At one end of the spectrum, award-winning fine dining has put the village on the culinary map, but equally legendary — and more affordable — is its famous Cartmel sticky toffee pudding. Even if you can’t afford a table at the fanciest places in town, this is a heavenly place to visit, with narrow winding streets, beautiful old stone buildings, craft and vintage shops, and a priory dating back to the 12th century. Although the village lies a few miles outside the national park, it’s still a suitable base for exploring the region’s mountains and valleys: the southern end of Windermere, England’s largest lake, is one of the closest big-ticket draws. To the south and east, the coastline around Morecambe Bay and the bucket-and-spade resort of Grange-over-Sands offer a change of atmosphere.

There are appealing aspects to a Cumbrian adventure at any time of year. Come stay in one of Cartmel’s cottages in spring when the surrounding woodlands are carpeted with snowdrops and bluebells, or for the autumn glory of the changing leaves. The coastal beaches and Lake District river pools and lakes are most enticing in summer, but blustery weather also paints the rugged scenery in a flattering light. Avoid the peak school holiday periods of May half term and mid-July to early September if you want to duck the crowds. If you fancy aligning your trip with local events, consider early May for nearby stately home Holker Hall’s annual spring fair, or November for its winter market. A famous horse racing course in Cartmel means it can be busy on race days, so check ahead if that puts you off.

Holker Hall

Just three families have owned grand Holker Hall and its 17,000-acre estate since the 16th century. One wing is open to the public and full of treasures, including a library of 3,500 books and Thomas Chippendale furniture. The exceptional garden features rare flowers and a labyrinth, as well as 12 slate monoliths that represent Cumbria’s ancient stone circles. Two other splendid historic buildings— Townend, a 17th-century farmhouse near Troutbeck, and Sizergh Castle, a 14th-century fortified mansion with wetland, woodlands, and orchards—lie further north along the A590.

Eggerslack Woods

Tempting as it is to climb the famous mountains of the Lake District, there’s some delightful walking country on the doorstep. One route leads west over Hampsfell, a limestone outcrop, through the ferns and native trees of Eggerslack Woods and into Grange-Over-Sands.

Sticky Toffee Pudding

The village shop’s glorious handmade concoction of light pillowy sponge and gooey toffee sauce is renowned nationwide. It can be bought all over Cumbria, as well as online.