Home » Retreats » Large Holiday Homes » Eskdale Retreat
Eskdale Retreat
A Lakeland Escape for Family Gatherings
A lovingly restored Victorian vicarage turned luxury retreat, set in 10 acres of riverside grounds, with hot tubs, games room, cinema and room for up to 16 guests – dogs welcome too.
Steeped in history and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Eskdale Valley in the Lake District, Eskdale Retreat began life as a Vicarage, built in the late 1800s and now lovingly restored into a stylish country escape. Set within ten acres of grounds bordered by two rivers and framed by fells, it’s a place where Lakeland heritage meets modern Scandi-inspired design – full of warmth, light and understated luxury.
Perfect for multigenerational gatherings or family celebrations, the retreat sleeps up to sixteen guests across eight beautiful ensuite bedrooms, including two in the separate coach house – ideal for grandparents, friends or anyone seeking a little more privacy. Dogs are warmly welcomed too, with endless space to roam and riverside walks right from the door. With its peaceful meadows, sweeping views, and the call of the hills beyond, Eskdale retreat invites you to slow down, breathe deeply and enjoy time together in comfort and style.
Inside Eskdale Retreat
Every corner of Eskdale Retreat feels carefully considered – a blend of Lakeland character and modern comfort designed for sharing good food, laughter and slow mornings with loved ones.
8 ensuite bedrooms sleeping up to 16 guests
- 1 Super King room
- 6 Super King / Twin rooms (flexible configuration)
- 1 built-in bunk room, perfect for younger guests or solo sleepers
- Two bedrooms feature freestanding statement baths — one an elegant copper roll-top, the other a sleek black tub with views of the fells.
- Each room is individually styled, combining soft, neutral tones and natural textures that reflect the landscape outside.
The Coach House
Just a few steps from the main house, the Coach House includes two of the ensuite bedrooms mentioned above. It also has its own kitchen and lounge area – ideal for guests who’d like a little extra privacy during their stay and the perfect hideway for grandparents needing to recharge their batteries.
Gather & Unwind
At the heart of Eskdale Retreat is a light-filled open-plan kitchen, dining and living area — the kind of space where everyone naturally comes together.
- A double-sided log burner glows between the lounge and dining areas, perfect for fireside suppers or quiet evenings with a book.
- The bespoke kitchen is beautifully equipped with modern appliances, designed for everything from hearty breakfasts to celebratory feasts prepared by your private chef.
- The dining table seats up to 16, so there’s room for everyone to gather, share stories, and linger over another glass of wine.
- Bifold glass doors open out onto views of the meadow, the River Esk and the dramatic fells beyond — a constantly changing landscape that draws the eye whatever the season.
For quieter moments, there’s a snug library, a TV and cinema room for cosy film nights, and a games room in the summerhouse for a little friendly competition.
Practical touches like a boot room with boot warmer, bike storage, and a utility area make outdoor adventures easy from the moment you arrive.
Life Outdoors
Step outside and you’ll find ten acres of private grounds to explore – a tranquil blend of meadows, riverside walks, and woodland, framed by the fells of Eskdale. The air feels fresher here, the light a little softer, and the only sounds are birdsong and the rush of water from the nearby River Esk.
- Two hot tubs offer the ultimate indulgence – sink in with a glass of something chilled and watch the sunset glow on the hills.
- Outdoor picnic tables and BBQ areas make relaxed al fresco dining effortless on warm afternoons.
- Sun loungers invite you to pause and soak up the peace, while dogs can roam and explore safely within the expansive grounds.
With rivers bordering the property and wild swimming spots moments away, it’s the perfect base for outdoor lovers – from gentle strolls through the valley to more adventurous hikes in the surrounding Lake District peaks.
The Location
Tucked away in one of the Lake District’s most peaceful and picturesque valleys, Eskdale Retreat sits in ten acres of private grounds bordered by two rivers and surrounded by wild meadows, ancient woodland and the dramatic fells of Cumbria. This hidden gem offers the best of both worlds – a tranquil setting away from the main tourist hotspots, yet close enough to explore everything the Lake District has to offer.
Wake each morning to the sound of birdsong and the gentle rush of water, with walking routes starting right from your door. From relaxed riverside strolls to more challenging hikes across the fells, this is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, dog walkers and nature lovers alike.
Local Attractions
There’s plenty to discover nearby, with activities and sights to suit every pace:
- Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway – Journey on this charming heritage steam train through seven miles of spectacular Lakeland scenery.
- Scafell Pike & Wastwater – England’s highest mountain and one of its most breathtaking lakes are both within easy reach for a day of adventure.
- Muncaster Castle – Explore the historic house, gardens and hawk & owl centre, just a short drive away.
- Beckfoot, Boot and Eskdale Green – Wander through these lovely local villages, enjoy lunch in a country pub or tea by the fire in a traditional inn.
- Coastal Escapes – Head west to find the quiet beaches of the Cumbrian coast, perfect for a windswept walk or a sea-view picnic.
With so much natural beauty and local character on your doorstep, Eskdale Retreat makes a wonderful base for exploring the wider Lake District National Park.
Getting Here
Despite its blissfully secluded feel, Eskdale Retreat is easy to reach by car or train.
- By Road: The property is located near the village of Beckfoot in the Eskdale Valley. The A595 provides easy access from the M6, with scenic drives through the western Lake District.
- By Rail: The nearest mainline station is Ravenglass for Eskdale, with connections to Carlisle, Lancaster and beyond.
- By Air: For guests travelling from further afield, Manchester Airport and Liverpool John Lennon Airport are both around 2.5 hours away by car.
Your journey ends with winding lanes, mountain views and that unmistakable feeling of having arrived somewhere truly special.
A Place to Gather, Unwind and Breathe
Eskdale Retreat is more than a holiday home – it’s a sanctuary in one of the Lake District’s most spectacular valleys. Here, every window frames a view worth pausing for, every room invites conversation and laughter, and every evening ends with the glow of the fire or a soak under the stars in the hot tub.
Whether you’re marking a milestone, escaping with family and friends, or simply craving space to breathe, this beautifully restored country home offers the perfect mix of comfort, style and soul. With its riverside setting, dog-friendly welcome and unforgettable scenery, Eskdale Retreat promises a stay that feels as restorative as the landscape that surrounds it.










