Greystoke Cottages with Hot Tubs

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Greystoke Guide

Greystoke, the Lake District village with royal connections, offers a collection of cottages with hot tubs for those seeking countryside relaxation. Located just 5 miles from Penrith, this historic settlement was the inspiration for Edgar Rice Burroughs' Tarzan character, Lord Greystoke.

The area boasts excellent walking routes with Ullswater (TripAdvisor's #1 Lake District attraction) just 8 miles away. Greystoke Castle, though privately owned, opens its grounds for special events throughout the year.

Cottage options range from converted barns sleeping 10+ to intimate stone cottages perfect for couples. Many properties feature exposed beams, log burners and those essential private hot tubs for evening stargazing.

The village's 16th-century Greystoke Outdoor Pool (England's oldest heated outdoor pool) offers summer swimming from May-September. The Boot & Shoe pub serves excellent local food and Cumbrian ales - perfect after a day exploring.

Get More From Your Greystoke Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Greystoke sits in a prime spot for Lake District exploration. The village itself centres around St Andrew's Church with its distinctive 14th-century tower and the Boot & Shoe pub. I recommend walking the village trail to spot medieval buildings and the old market cross.

Nearby Ullswater offers steamboat cruises (TripAdvisor 4.5/5) from Pooley Bridge (CA10 2NP, daily 9am-5pm March-October). We find the western shore particularly good for walking with fewer crowds than central Lakes spots.

Aira Force waterfall (CA11 0JS, National Trust, open dawn till dusk) scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. The 65ft falls are spectacular after rainfall. There's decent parking (£5 for non-NT members) and good paths.

Hutton-in-the-Forest (CA11 9TH, Wed/Thurs/Sun 11am-4pm April-October) is a historic house with gardens just 3 miles away. Less busy than many Lake District attractions but fascinating with its medieval pele tower and Victorian additions.

Pet Friendly

Dogs love Greystoke's location! The surrounding fields and lanes offer easy walking straight from your cottage door. No need to drive anywhere for that essential morning walk before enjoying your hot tub.

The Boot & Shoe pub welcomes dogs in the bar area and garden. They even keep treats behind the counter - just ask! Their Sunday roasts are fantastic after a morning hike.

Greystoke Forest has miles of tracks perfect for longer dog walks. The main car park (CA11 0TG) has space for about 20 cars. I recommend the red trail (3 miles) which has good views back to the village.

For rainy days, J&J's Kitchen in Penrith (CA11 7PU) allows dogs inside and does great coffee and cake. Rheged Discovery Centre (CA11 0DQ) allows dogs in their outdoor areas and entrance hall but not exhibition spaces.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Greystoke

1. Greystoke Swimming Pool (CA11 0TN) - This historic outdoor pool dates from 1920 and is the oldest heated outdoor pool in England. Open weekends May-July and daily during school holidays (12pm-6pm), it's a proper local gem. Adults £5, kids £3. The water stays at a comfortable 27°C and there's a small café selling ice creams. Local tip: Thursday evening adult-only sessions are perfect for a peaceful swim.

2. Greystoke Cycle Café (CA11 0TN) - Not just a café but a quirky pit-stop for cyclists with tools available and route maps. Open Wednesday-Sunday 10am-4pm. Their homemade cakes are amazing (the lemon drizzle won a Great Taste award). They run "Quirky Workshops" throughout the year - pottery, willow weaving and more. Book ahead as they sell out fast.

3. St Andrew's Church - The 14th-century church has incredible medieval ceiling bosses and a rare 'Adoration of the Magi' wall painting. Look for the Howard family memorials (related to the Dukes of Norfolk). The church is usually open daily 9am-4pm. The churchyard contains the grave of William Jameson, said to be the inspiration for Long John Silver!

Is Greystoke good for walking?

Yes! The village sits on the edge of the Lake District with excellent walking routes. The Greystoke Forest trails offer easy walking, while more challenging hikes start from nearby Matterdale. The Ullswater Way (20 miles total) can be accessed from Pooley Bridge. OS Explorer map OL5 covers the area.

When is the best time to visit Greystoke?

May-September offers the best weather and all attractions open. The outdoor pool operates during this period too. October brings stunning autumn colours. Winter visits mean quieter paths and cosy pub evenings - perfect for hot tub cottages! The Boot & Shoe's winter quiz nights (Thursdays) are legendary.

Can I get around without a car?

It's challenging. The 104 bus connects Greystoke to Penrith (4 services daily, none on Sundays). Taxis from Penrith station cost around £15. Having a car is best for exploring the wider Lake District, though keen cyclists can manage with bikes.

Where's the nearest supermarket?

Penrith (5 miles) has Sainsbury's, Morrisons, Aldi and Booths. The village shop in Greystoke stocks essentials including local eggs, milk and newspapers. It opens 8am-5pm weekdays, 8am-12pm Saturdays, closed Sundays.

Are there good places to eat nearby?

The Boot & Shoe pub serves excellent food (try their Cumberland sausage and mash!). The Clickham Inn (3 miles, CA11 0JS) offers upmarket pub food with great reviews. For special occasions, Four & Twenty in Penrith serves exceptional modern British cuisine - book weeks ahead for dinner.

What if it rains during my stay?

Rheged Discovery Centre near Penrith has indoor attractions including a cinema and exhibitions. Penrith Swimming Pool offers indoor swimming. Or simply enjoy your cottage's hot tub - they're brilliant in the rain with the right drink in hand!