Cumbria, nestled in the northwest of England, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rugged fells, and serene lakes, making it a haven for those seeking a tranquil and picturesque place to call home. The region’s villages, each with its own unique charm and character, offer residents not only stunning natural beauty but also a rich tapestry of history, culture, and community spirit. The estate agents in Cumbria dive deeper into the top 10 most desirable villages to live in Cumbria, highlighting what makes each one a coveted destination.
1. Grasmere
Grasmere is the epitome of an English village—it is right at the centre of the Lake District National Park. Fringed with mountains of great beauty and looking out over its namesake lake, the kind of place that appeals to nature and literature lovers in equal measure, it became famous from the residence of Romantic poet William Wordsworth, whose Dove Cottage is now a museum dedicated to the life and works of the poet. The village itself has stone cottages where the charm is almost palpable, complemented with traditional pubs that offer warm and comforting foods and old-fashioned tea rooms with tasty homemade delicacies. One can either sail upon the serene waters of Grasmere Lake or take a rambling walk like that famous one called the Coffin Route or climb one of the smaller mountains, Helm Crag, which has the evocative name locally of the “Lion and the Lamb.”
2. Cartmel
Cartmel, a picturesque village steeped in medieval history, is nestled in the tranquil countryside of the Cartmel Peninsula. Dominated by the imposing Cartmel Priory, an ancient monastery dating back to the 12th century, Cartmel exudes a sense of timeless elegance and charm. The village is perhaps most famous for its culinary delights, including the legendary sticky toffee pudding and the Michelin-starred restaurant L’Enclume, renowned for its innovative farm-to-table cuisine. Visitors can wander along cobbled streets lined with artisan shops, galleries showcasing local artwork, and traditional pubs serving locally brewed ales. Cartmel also hosts regular events such as the Cartmel Races and the annual Cartmel Agricultural Show, celebrating the region’s rural heritage.
3. Keswick
Nestled on the shores of Derwentwater, Keswick is a bustling market town and a gateway to the northern Lake District. Surrounded by majestic peaks such as Skiddaw and Catbells, Keswick offers unparalleled opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, climbing, and water sports are popular activities, with scenic trails like the Derwentwater Circuit and the ascent of Latrigg attracting visitors year-round. The town itself is a vibrant hub, with a lively market square hosting regular markets and events. Cultural attractions include the renowned Theatre by the Lake, which offers a diverse program of plays and performances against the backdrop of stunning lake views.
4. Ambleside
Ambleside, nestled at the northern tip of Lake Windermere, is a historic town renowned for its stunning scenery and outdoor pursuits. The town’s picturesque streets are lined with stone-built cottages, charming cafes, and independent shops selling everything from outdoor gear to local crafts. Ambleside serves as a gateway to some of the Lake District’s most iconic walking routes, including the challenging Fairfield Horseshoe and the scenic hike up Loughrigg Fell. Visitors can explore cultural attractions such as the Armitt Museum, which celebrates Ambleside’s literary and artistic heritage, or simply relax by the tranquil shores of Lake Windermere, enjoying boat trips or leisurely walks along the water’s edge.
5. Bowness-on-Windermere
Located on the eastern shore of Lake Windermere, Bowness-on-Windermere is one of the Lake District’s most popular tourist destinations. The village offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere, with stunning lake views and a bustling town center. Visitors can embark on boat trips across Lake Windermere, explore the nearby beauty spots such as Orrest Head and Claife Heights, or visit attractions like the World of Beatrix Potter, which brings the beloved tales of Peter Rabbit to life. Bowness-on-Windermere is also home to a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and pubs, making it a delightful place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.
6. Staveley
Staveley, nestled between Kendal and Windermere, is a hidden gem in the Lake District, offering a quieter pace of life amidst stunning surroundings. The village is known for its thriving artisan community, with independent shops, galleries, and workshops showcasing local craftsmanship. Visitors can sample locally brewed ales at the Hawkshead Brewery, explore Staveley Mill Yard with its unique mix of businesses, or embark on walks through scenic landscapes such as the Kentmere Valley. Staveley’s community spirit is evident in its regular events and festivals, including the annual Staveley Beer Festival and the Staveley Carnival, which celebrate local culture and heritage.
7. Grange-over-Sands
Grange-over-Sands–this genteel, mild-climate village perches on the edge of Morecambe Bay, offering panoramic estuary views. The village’s main claim to fame is its attractive Victorian architecture, which is set off nicely by ornamental gardens and promenades around the historic buildings. Savour it all from a panoramic promenade, or take in the same views from the easily reached Hampsfell Hospice. For the energetic, head to Roudsea Wood and Mosses National Nature Reserve. Grange-over-Sands is blessed with a bustling community spirit, with local shops, cafes, and cultural amenities that add to its charm as a place to live and visit.
8. Coniston
Surrounded by rugged fells and overlooking the tranquil waters of Coniston Water, Coniston is a village steeped in history and natural beauty. The village gained fame as the home of the Victorian art critic and social reformer John Ruskin, whose former residence, Brantwood, is now a museum and cultural centre celebrating his life and work. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Coniston to climb the Old Man of Coniston, explore the scenic Tarn Hows, or enjoy water activities on Coniston Water, including sailing and kayaking. The village also hosts cultural attractions such as the Ruskin Museum, which showcases Coniston’s industrial heritage and mountaineering history.
9. Hawkshead
Hawkshead is a medieval village in the heart of the tranquil scenery of the Lake District, which gives a flavour of bygone England with its cobbles, streets, and old buildings. This village boasts famous links to two major literary figures: William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter, both of whom have left their mark on its village heritage. Visit the former school of Wordsworth, now a museum about his life and his work, or the Beatrix Potter Gallery, where her original illustrations and her famous stories are kept. The timeless allure of Hawkshead can only really be felt with the homely inns, independent shops, and beautiful countryside and woodland walks surrounding the area.
10. Ulverston
Situated on the Lakeland fringe to the south, Ulverston is an active market town filled with a strong cultural legacy; it has a bustling community life. Its cobbled main streets are surrounded by Georgian fronted buildings, Victorian fronted shops, cafés, and galleries. Ulverston is famous for its festivals—one of which is the legendary Dickensian Festival, which, literally, in December, turns this town into a winter wonderland. Some of the visits include the laugh at the Laurel and Hardy Museum, famous for its comedy duo, and then climb to the top of Hoad Monument to give a panoramic view over Morecambe Bay and its harvesting lands.
Conclusion
Cumbria offers a tapestry of natural beauty, cultural richness, and community spirit, making it high in desirability for residents and visitors. Whether one is taken by the peaceful shores of Grasmere or the old streets of Hawkshead, every village in Cumbria will have its own reasons to cherish, offering residents a quality of life in truly wonderful surroundings with a great sense of community. This discovery of the top 10 desirable villages to live in Cumbria unearths a region where modern living has a harmonious coexistence with breathtaking natural beauty, offering an ideal environment to the residents for a fulfilled and enriched lifestyle.
