A holiday cottage in Elterwater puts the stunning Lake District National Park on your doorstep, but means you can still avoid the crowds. The village is just north-west of the lake of Elter Water – small by Lake District standards at just 930m long. The river Brathay runs from Elter Water to Lake Windermere further south.

The South Lakes around Elterwater are a mecca for outdoor pursuits. There are watersports galore, including sailing, waterskiing, wakeboarding and more. Cycling is wonderful (as long as you don’t mind the hills!). Cyclists can bring their own equipment or find plenty of hire available. And of course there is a fascinating selection of local hikes.

Strap on your boots at the door of your Elterwater holiday cottage, and you can walk for miles. Most popular routes from here take in the Cumbria Way, including waterfalls at Skelwith and Colwith and views of the Langdales.