Get More From Your Backbarrow Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Backbarrow puts you right in the heart of the Lake District's southern gateway. This historic village sits between Windermere and the Leven Estuary and gives you quick access to England's most beautiful national park. The village grew around the Backbarrow Ironworks in the 18th century and later became famous for its gunpowder mills and dolly blue production.
Backbarrow makes an ideal base for hot tub breaks because you get that perfect mix of countryside peace and easy access to major attractions. We love how you can explore bustling Windermere one day and retreat to your private hot tub the next. The village offers everything from luxury cottages and boutique cottages to dog friendly lodges and remote self catering options.
Sightseeing in Backbarrow
The area transformed from an industrial powerhouse into a tourism hotspot whilst keeping its authentic character. You'll find the River Leven running through the village with woodland walks on both banks. The old mill buildings still stand as reminders of the area's heritage. Nearby you can visit Lakeside where steamers depart for Bowness and the Aquarium of the Lakes sits right on your doorstep.
Top 5 Attractions You Have to See in Backbarrow
The surrounding area packs in attractions that suit everyone from families with young children to couples seeking romantic breaks. Here are the must-see spots within easy reach of your holiday cottages.
Lakes Aquarium
This award-winning attraction sits less than a mile from Backbarrow village centre. You'll walk through underwater tunnels and see everything from otters and rays to piranhas and diving ducks. The aquarium focuses on freshwater habitats from local lakes to African rivers and makes a brilliant rainy day option.
Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway
Steam trains run along this heritage railway connecting Lakeside with Haverthwaite through stunning Leven Valley scenery. The journey takes 20 minutes each way and you can combine it with a lake cruise for a full day out. Vintage carriages and working steam engines make this a proper step back in time.
Fell Foot Park
This National Trust park sits at Windermere's southern tip just three miles from Backbarrow. You get 18 acres of parkland with lake access and a boathouse where you can hire rowing boats and kayaks. The Victorian gardens look spectacular in spring and the café serves proper homemade cakes.
Stott Park Bobbin Mill
This working museum shows how wooden bobbins were made for the Lancashire cotton industry. The original Victorian machinery still operates and guides demonstrate the whole manufacturing process. It's a unique glimpse into Lake District industrial heritage that most visitors miss.
Grizedale Forest
Eight miles of forest tracks and mountain bike trails spread across this vast woodland. You'll find over 40 outdoor sculptures hidden among the trees and walking routes for all abilities. The Go Ape high ropes course offers adventure for families whilst quieter paths suit peaceful forest walks.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Lakes Aquarium | Underwater tunnels and interactive displays with native and exotic species | Families |
| Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway | Vintage steam train journey through beautiful valley scenery | Everyone |
| Fell Foot Park | Lakeside gardens with water sports and Victorian parkland | Families |
| Stott Park Bobbin Mill | Working Victorian machinery and industrial heritage demonstrations | Everyone |
| Grizedale Forest | Forest trails with outdoor sculptures and adventure activities | Families |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Backbarrow?
The M6 motorway runs 15 miles east and you take the A590 towards Barrow. Trains serve Ulverston station six miles away with connecting buses. Windermere station is eight miles north if you're coming from the main west coast line.
What family activities are available near cottages with hot tubs in Backbarrow?
The Lakes Aquarium tops the list for young children whilst older kids love Go Ape at Grizedale. Lake cruises from Lakeside work brilliantly for all ages and you can hire bikes to explore the quiet lanes around the village.
Where are the best romantic spots?
Fell Foot Park offers peaceful lakeside walks and the steam railway provides a nostalgic journey. We recommend booking a lake cruise at sunset then returning to your cottage with hot tub for a proper romantic evening.
What shopping options exist nearby?
Ulverston has independent shops and a twice-weekly market whilst Bowness offers gift shops and outdoor gear stores. For big supermarkets you'll need to visit Kendal which sits 20 minutes away.
Are hot tub cottages suitable year-round?
Absolutely. Winter brings cosy nights in your jacuzzi after forest walks whilst summer means long evenings outdoors. New year and last minute deals often provide the best value for large family groups or couples seeking secluded getaways.
Staying in one of the holiday homes or lodges around Backbarrow gives you that rare combination of accessibility and isolation. You're close enough to visit major Lake District attractions yet far enough from crowds to enjoy proper peace. Whether you book a 1 bedroom retreat for 2 or large cottages for groups, the area delivers.
The variety of places to stay means everyone finds something suitable. Pet friendly cottages welcome dogs, fishing lodges suit anglers and boutique options provide luxury touches. Some properties even feature swimming pools alongside hot tub stays. Check Sykes Cottages and other rental sites for deals on holiday lets.
Your cottage breaks here work brilliantly for country breaks and coastal cottages aren't far either. The Leven Estuary reaches the sea at Morecambe Bay just 12 miles south. Book your holiday house or log cabin now and discover why Backbarrow makes such a brilliant base for exploring the southern Lakes.