The Best Budget-Friendly Hotels to Book in the Lake District

Great for families or groups looking for a rural escape complete with fluffy Angora goats and sheep, Crookabeck B&B has two beds, two baths and an open-plan lounge area where a full English breakfast is served every morning. A true home from home, Crookabeck is a cheap Lake District hotel that delivers on quality, with the location ideal for exploring Ullswater and hitting up the nearby pub, or relaxing and soaking up the Lake District’s famous views.

Close to some of the most beautiful hotspots in the Lakes, Abbey House B&B is a cute and cosy spot in an old Victorian townhouse in the heart of Penrith. Ticking all the usual boxes, the five ensuite guest rooms are comfortable, affordable and come with a decent breakfast to get your day off to the best start. There is also free off-street parking and good access to public transport.

On the edge of the market town of Penrith, Bank House exudes Victorian charm, with a garden that looks as if it came straight from one of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s novels. Run by Dean, Sarah and their family, Bank House B&B has four rooms that have been lovingly restored to how they looked in their heyday. The living room has fresh tea, coffee and homemade treats for guests, and their award-winning breakfast is served every morning.

One of our favourite affordable Lake District hotels, the Llama’s Pyjamas is the definition of quirky. There are 10 themed rooms, including the Aztec room, the Safari family suite and the gorgeous Barn Owl cottage. With features including the Llama Karma Kafe, and 12 real-life llamas who are permanent guests of the B&B, Llama’s Pyjamas is unique, fun and affordable. Located just outside Penrith, you can also swing by to visit the café or treat yourself to a llama-trekking adventure.

Another peaceful spot for an idyllic rural getaway, the 16th-century refurbished farmhouse at Greenbank Farm has seven bedrooms, a communal living area and a hot tub that can be rented out together as an epic 16-sleeper B&B, or separately as room-only options. It is also possible to have sleepovers with a horse in a converted stable, but that’s a little more expensive.

One of the Lake District’s best and cheapest inns, the Mortal Man has cosy seating, good food, a beer garden and super-comfy rooms, all wrapped up in what is arguably one of the Lake District’s most picturesque buildings. After a long day of exploring, there’s nothing better than walking in, grabbing a pint from the friendly bar staff and sinking into a chair by the fire.

Specialising in some of the best food around, Cuckoo Brow Inn is an excellent gastropub with stellar accommodation options to boot. Oh, and your boots are also welcome – the muddier the better. The 14 rooms are well-equipped and comfortable, with plenty of modern conveniences like tea and coffee facilities, TVs and power showers for hosing off all that mud. The building is gorgeous too – countryside-chic with a cosy old pub vibe.

About 20 minutes from the heart of the Lake District in Barrow-in-Furness, Jeffersons Hotel and Apartments have a variety of accommodation options, including ensuite rooms with takeaway breakfasts, and serviced apartments at the hotel and other locations throughout the town. The 1- and 2-bedroom apartments are all self-catered, with fully equipped kitchens, separate living spaces and washing machines. There is free onsite parking for all residents.

Built in 1770 in the pretty coastal town of Whitehaven, the Mansion was once home to the poet William Wordsworth. A popular guesthouse for over 50 years, the Mansion offers great views over the town and the fells – and on a clear day, you can even see Scotland. It has rooms to suit every budget, including family rooms, ensuites and some with shared bathroom facilities. The Mansion also has an indoor pool, sauna and hot tub for guests to use.

Located in the quiet hamlet of Troutbeck, the Queens Head Hotel’s historic timber-frame Tudor-style building sits between picturesque old houses, grassy green fields and rolling hills. Once you step inside, you’ll find yourselves right at home, with good food, drinks and a nice open fire. Upstairs, there are 13 clean and comfortable rooms to choose from, including some that are dog friendly.