Holiday rentals in Eskdale

Located in Cumbria in the western Lake District, the remote valley of Eskdale is home to several small hamlets and villages — including Eskdale Green — but devoid of many roads or businesses. Green rolling hills and steep mountains surround the valley, creating a sense of seclusion. Winding rivers, thick woodlands, and small waterfalls provide a lush natural habitat for the red squirrels, buzzards, ospreys, golden eagles, and red deer you can frequently spot throughout the valley. Several footpaths bend alongside the River Esk, whose clear water allows you to see the stone riverbed, while the sound of the cascading waterfalls fills the air that would otherwise be nearly silent. The valley is home to several natural wonders, including Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain; Hardknott Pass, England’s steepest road; and Great Moss, the flat marshland surrounding parts of the River Esk.

While winters in Eskdale boast beautiful snow-capped mountains and hillsides, the weather during this time is cold and wet. Spring tends to see the least rainfall, but temperatures are still chilly, so you’ll want to bring a coat and jacket. Summer visitors experience pleasant temperatures with minimal rain, making it an excellent time to look for cottages in Eskdale.

The majority of local events happen in the summer months. The Boot Beer Festival, held in June, is one of the largest beer festivals in Cumbria, with a vast assortment of ales, ciders, wine, soft drinks, and food. Also in June, EskFest is a small but mighty music and arts festival, with street food, drinks, crafts, kids’ activities, a silent disco, and live performances on four stages. As autumn arrives, you can expect a drop in temperatures and an increase in rainfall.

Stanley Ghyll Force

Stanley Ghyll Force is an 18-metre waterfall in lower Eskdale near the Dalegarth station. Surrounded by moss-covered rocks and green vegetation, it is considered one of the most majestic waterfalls in the area. A network of trails from the station or a small car park north of the falls will lead you along the River Esk, through the shade of mature trees, and over a series of narrow footbridges. The falls are even more spectacular on rainy days, but be sure to wear your waterproof shoes and gear.

Eskdale Mill

Located along Whillan Beck in the small village of Boot, Eskdale Mill is the last water-powered corn mill in the Lake District. The historic 18th-century building, restored waterwheels, milling machinery, and interactive exhibits focus on the area’s rich history. A shaded picnic area and garden provide a peaceful outdoor space to enjoy the surrounding greenery and the sound of the rushing water from Whillan Beck.

Ravenglass

The small coastal village of Ravenglass is just a 10-kilometre train ride away on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway. What was a key Roman naval base for 300 years now features historic sites like a medieval castle and the ruins of the Roman Bath House, once part of the fort here. The village is also home to the Ravenglass Railway Museum, which focuses on the history of the local railways from 1875.