Home Cumbria Keswick The Birches
Back Overview Features Reviews Days out

The Birches, Keswick

Cumbria » Keswick
8
1
4
2

The Birches is a spacious holiday lodge in Cumbria that sleeps up to eight guests. Located in the Lake District, this property works well for families or small groups wanting easy access to outdoor activities. The open-plan living area provides plenty of space for everyone to gather, whilst the private deck offers outdoor dining options.

The surrounding countryside delivers stunning fell views and direct access to walking routes. You're positioned perfectly for exploring Ullswater and the northern lakes.

The lodge features an open-plan layout. The kitchen comes fully equipped with modern appliances including a dishwasher and washing machine.

Read More
Check Prices & Availability »
At Cottages.com
Check Prices & Availability »

About The Birches

The Birches is a spacious holiday lodge in Cumbria that sleeps up to eight guests. Located in the Lake District, this property works well for families or small groups wanting easy access to outdoor activities. The open-plan living area provides plenty of space for everyone to gather, whilst the private deck offers outdoor dining options.

The surrounding countryside delivers stunning fell views and direct access to walking routes. You're positioned perfectly for exploring Ullswater and the northern lakes.

The lodge features an open-plan layout. The kitchen comes fully equipped with modern appliances including a dishwasher and washing machine. The lounge area includes comfortable seating and a TV for evening entertainment.

Aira Force waterfall sits just 3 miles away (8 minutes). Ullswater lake is 2 miles distant (6 minutes). Penrith town centre offers shops and restaurants 8 miles away (15 minutes). Lowther Castle and Gardens provides excellent group activities 10 miles away (18 minutes).

The Birches suits active groups who want comfortable accommodation between adventures. The practical layout and location make this an excellent Lake District base.

Check Prices & Availability »

Need To Know

More Group Cottages You May Like

Hutchinghayes Farmhouse >
Pet Friendly Romantic Near Beach WiFi

Hutchinghayes Farmhouse

South West of England, Devon

Sleeps 10 4 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

Hutchinghayes Farmhouse in Honiton, Devon, is a luxurious retreat accommodating up to 10 guests. This beautifully restored country manor features four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and exquisite...

View Cottage
Penny Liggan >
Pet Friendly WiFi Garden Near Pub

Penny Liggan

South West of England, Cornwall

Sleeps 10 5 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

Penny Liggan is a spacious self-catering property in Rock, Cornwall. Near the beach and estuary. Close to amenities and attractions. Contemporary. Padstow 1.7 miles on foot; Polzeath 2.9 miles;...

View Cottage
The Old Farmhouse >
Hot Tub Pet Friendly WiFi Open Fire

The Old Farmhouse

Heart of England, Shropshire

Sleeps 14 7 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

A luxurious stone-built cottage in Westhope, Shropshire. Hot tub. Spacious rooms. Wooden beams and vaulted ceilings.

View Cottage
Cambrian House >
Pet Friendly Near Beach WiFi Near Pub

Cambrian House

Wales, Gwynedd

Sleeps 12 6 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

Contemporary beautifully furnished townhouse in the centre of Criccieth. In easy reach of beach, castle, shops and cafes. Wifi, smart TV,

View Cottage
The River House. Avon Valley. Stonehenge (with fishing) >
Romantic WiFi Open Fire Garden

The River House. Avon Valley. Stonehenge (with fishing)

Heart of England, Wiltshire

Sleeps 8 4 Bedrooms

This fabulous property sits in the Avon valley near Stonehenge. This tranquil setting has woodland and a large garden and the River Avon flowing through it with double bank fly fishing. Amesbury...

View Cottage
Red Kite at Barcud Coch >
Hot Tub Pet Friendly WiFi Garden

Red Kite at Barcud Coch

Heart of England, Shropshire

Sleeps 8 4 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

Barcud Coch - Red Kite is a contemporary, single-storey, detached home resting in Berriew near Montgomery, Powys. Hot tub. Pet-friendly. Family-friendly. Churchstoke 8.7 miles; Welshpool 8 miles;...

View Cottage
Keepsmylin >
Pet Friendly Near Beach WiFi Open Fire

Keepsmylin

East of England, Norfolk

Sleeps 10 4 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

Nestled in the charming village of Ringstead, this single-storey, pet-friendly home makes a perfect getaway for a multi-generational family or group. Located just 2.5 miles from Old Hunstanton,...

View Cottage
Stone House >
WiFi Open Fire Near Pub Fishing

Stone House

North of England, Northumberland

Sleeps 8 4 Bedrooms

Stone House is a charming stone-built modern property nestled within an exclusive development in the picturesque village of Ellingham. Beautifully furnished and in the most tranquil of settings,...

View Cottage
Court >
WiFi Near Pub

Court

South West of England, Devon

Sleeps 8 4 Bedrooms

Discover the beauty of Devon and old England when you stay at this chocolate-box, thatched cottage near Chittlehampton. Sleeping eight guests, the exquisite, four-bedroom retreat nestles in...

View Cottage
Gorwel >
Pet Friendly Near Beach WiFi Garden

Gorwel

Wales, Anglesey

Sleeps 10 5 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

This detached house is situated in Moelfre, on the east coast of Anglesey, North Wales. Off-road parking. Sleeps 10. Large garden. Benllech 2.3 miles; Red Wharf Bay 4.1 miles; Llanfairpwllgwyngyll...

View Cottage

Local Insights: The Birches

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Keswick, Cumbria

Weather & Local Conditions

17°C

Overcast

Updated: 29 Jul 2026, 2:54am

🌡️
16.90°C
Temperature
💨
11 km/h
Wind Speed
💧
94%
Humidity
🧳
Packing Tip: UK weather can turn quickly, so pack layers whatever the forecast. A waterproof and sturdy shoes mean the whole group can head out whatever July throws at you.

What to Expect Through the Year

  • ✓ May - September: Warmest, longest days - ideal for big group days out, gardens and BBQs
  • ✓ October - November: Crisp autumn colour, cosy evenings by the fire, quieter attractions
  • ✓ December - February: Perfect for a snug winter escape - great for Christmas and New Year gatherings
  • ✓ March - April: Spring blooms, longer evenings returning, wildlife becoming active
🌧️
Rainy Day Tip: A large cottage comes into its own on wet days - board games, a long lunch and a film with the whole group beat a cramped hotel any day. Check the tabs here for nearby pubs and attractions with indoor options.

Dark Skies & Stargazing

The Birches sits in a location with genuinely dark skies - a real treat for a group, and something you rarely get at home in town.

Bortle Scale Rating

The Bortle scale measures night sky darkness from 1 (darkest) to 9 (brightest urban):

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
🌌
Class 4 - Rural/suburban transition
This location's dark sky rating

What You Can See From the Cottage

The Milky Way is visible overhead, though light domes may be visible on the horizon towards larger towns.

The Milky Way is visible on clear, moonless nights.

Best Stargazing Conditions

  • ✓ New Moon periods: Darkest skies, best Milky Way visibility
  • ✓ Winter months: Earlier darkness, crisper skies, Orion constellation prominent
  • ✓ After 11pm: Neighbouring lights typically switched off
  • ✓ Allow 20 minutes: Let your eyes adjust to darkness before looking up
📱
Pro Tip: Download a stargazing app like "Sky Map" or "Star Walk" before arrival. Mobile signal can be limited, and these apps work offline - a fun activity to share with the whole group.

Location & Elevation

81m

(266 feet above sea level)

The Birches sits in a peaceful Cumbria setting - space to spread out and the perfect base for a group getaway.

🏔️
81m
Elevation
📍
Keswick
Nearest Village
🌲
Rural
Setting

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

  • ✓ Fresher air: Expect it a touch cooler than coastal areas - bracing walks and restful sleep
  • ✓ Clearer air: Less pollution and haze, better views and stargazing
  • ✓ Morning mists: Valley fog sometimes forms below, creating magical sunrise views
  • ✓ Walking access: Higher starting point means shorter climbs to hilltops and summits
🚗
Driving Note: The roads to Keswick are typical Cumbria lanes - narrow in places with passing spots. If the group is arriving in several cars, share the postcode and a meeting point in advance.

Coordinates

Latitude: 54.6057210° N | Longitude: 3.142645° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Keswick (Wednesday, 29 July 2026):

4:16am

Sunrise

7:21pm

Golden Hour

8:21pm

Sunset

🌅
4:16am
Sunrise
🌇
8:21pm
Sunset
📸
7:21pm
Golden Hour

Planning Your Days by Season

  • ✓ Summer (Jun-Aug): Sunset around 9:30-10pm - long days for group walks, days out and late alfresco dinners
  • ✓ Autumn (Sep-Nov): Sunset 5-7pm - perfect timing for an after-dinner drink as the stars come out
  • ✓ Winter (Dec-Feb): Sunset around 4pm - cosy early evenings by the fire, ideal for stargazing
  • ✓ Spring (Mar-May): Sunset 6-9pm - watch the evenings grow longer each day
🌙
Golden Hour: For the best light, plan your group photo or evening walk around golden hour (7:21pm). The warm colours make for lovely holiday photos before you head back in for dinner.

July Daylight

This month in Keswick, you have approximately 16.09 hours of daylight. The long summer days mean plenty of time for group adventures before a relaxed evening back at the cottage.

Practical Essentials

Everything the group needs to know before you arrive at The Birches.

Mobile Phone Signal

📱

Signal Strength

Good

Mobile signal is generally good in this area across most networks.

💡
Signal Tip: All major networks should work well here.

Nearest Essentials

🚗
Arrival Tip: Fill up with fuel before you arrive - petrol stations can be sparse in rural Cumbria. With a larger group it's worth doing one big supermarket shop on the way, especially if arriving late.

Family & Fun

Data updated: 29 Jul 2026 | Location: 54.6057210, -3.1426450

Information unique to this location - not available on booking sites

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their group stay at The Birches

Spacious Open-Plan Living

The generous living space lets groups spread out comfortably whilst still staying connected. Perfect for meals and evening gatherings after busy days exploring.

Lake District Location

Direct access to some of England's best walking routes and stunning scenery. Ullswater and Aira Force are both within easy driving distance.

Three Bedroom Layout

The mix of double, twin and bunk rooms works brilliantly for families or friend groups with different sleeping preferences and requirements.

Fully Equipped Kitchen

Modern appliances including dishwasher and washing machine make self-catering straightforward. Groups can prepare meals together without hassle or extra costs.

Private Outdoor Deck

The deck provides excellent outdoor space for breakfast, barbecues or simply relaxing with fell views. Great for extending your living space outdoors.

Easy Parking Access

Off-road parking for multiple vehicles means no fighting for spaces. Everyone can bring their own car for exploring different areas independently.

Getting To The Birches

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach The Birches by car, take the M6 to Junction 40 and follow the A66 towards Keswick. Turn onto the A592 towards Ullswater and follow signs to the property. Off-road parking is available for multiple vehicles.

By Train

Penrith railway station is the nearest mainline station, approximately 8 miles from The Birches. Regular services connect to major cities including London, Manchester and Glasgow. Taxis are readily available from the station.

Off-road parking for multiple cars
Penrith station (8 miles)
Accessible from M6 Junction 40

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

Aira Force Waterfall
Distance: 3 miles
CA11 0JS
Ullswater Lake
Distance: 2 miles
CA11 0US
Lowther Castle & Gardens
Distance: 10 miles
CA10 2HG
Helvellyn Mountain
Distance: 6 miles
CA11 0NZ
Gowbarrow Fell
Distance: 3 miles
CA11 0JR
Ullswater Way Trail
Distance: 2 miles
CA11 0US
Penrith Town Centre
Distance: 8 miles
CA11 7TR
Rheged Centre
Distance: 7 miles
CA11 0DQ
Pooley Bridge Village
Distance: 4 miles
CA10 2NN
Penrith Bus Station
Distance: 8 miles
CA11 7XP
Penrith Taxi Rank
Distance: 8 miles
CA11 7TR
Local Bus Routes
Distance: 1 mile
CA12 5PG
Aira Force Waterfall
Distance: 3 miles
CA11 0JS
Ullswater Lake
Distance: 2 miles
CA11 0US
Lowther Castle & Gardens
Distance: 10 miles
CA10 2HG
Helvellyn Mountain
Distance: 6 miles
CA11 0NZ
Gowbarrow Fell
Distance: 3 miles
CA11 0JR
Ullswater Way Trail
Distance: 2 miles
CA11 0US
Penrith Town Centre
Distance: 8 miles
CA11 7TR
Rheged Centre
Distance: 7 miles
CA11 0DQ
Pooley Bridge Village
Distance: 4 miles
CA10 2NN
Penrith Bus Station
Distance: 8 miles
CA11 7XP
Penrith Taxi Rank
Distance: 8 miles
CA11 7TR
Local Bus Routes
Distance: 1 mile
CA12 5PG

Is The Birches Right For Your Group

Discover why this cottage is the one for your party or family reunion...

For Families
The bunk bedroom provides dedicated space for younger guests. Aira Force waterfall offers easy walking routes suitable for children with dramatic scenery. Ullswater lake has gentle shoreline areas for paddling and stone skipping. Lowther Castle features adventure playgrounds and family trails. The outdoor deck gives kids safe space to play. Penrith has swimming pools and soft play centres for rainy days.
Groups Will Love...
The open-plan living area creates an excellent social hub where groups can cook, eat and relax together. Large windows frame fell views whilst the spacious layout prevents anyone feeling cramped. The dining table seats six comfortably for proper group meals. The lounge area provides ample seating for evening entertainment. This design keeps everyone connected whilst allowing individual space when needed.
Pet Friendly
The Birches welcomes dogs, making it suitable for groups who consider their pets family members. The surrounding area offers endless walking opportunities straight from the door. Ullswater's shores provide safe spaces for dogs to swim and play. Local footpaths connect to longer routes across open fellside. The outdoor deck gives pets their own space to relax after adventures. Always check current pet policies when booking.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at The Birches

The Brackenrigg Inn

Located 2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: CA11 0LP

The Quiet Site Café

Located 4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: CA11 0LS

Granny Dowbekin's Pooley Bridge

Located 4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: CA10 2NN

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about The Birches

Is The Birches pet friendly?
The property welcomes well-behaved dogs, making it suitable for groups who want to bring their pets along. Check specific pet policies and any additional charges when booking.
How many people does The Birches sleep?
The lodge accommodates up to six guests across three bedrooms. The layout includes one double room, one twin room and one bunk bedroom with two bathrooms.
What facilities are available for groups?
The open-plan living area provides ample social space with comfortable seating and dining areas. The fully equipped kitchen includes a dishwasher, washing machine and all necessary cooking equipment.
Where is the nearest supermarket?
Penrith town centre is approximately 8 miles away with multiple supermarket options including larger chains. The journey takes around 15 minutes by car for stocking up on supplies.
What outdoor activities are nearby?
Ullswater lake offers watersports and boat trips just 2 miles away. Aira Force waterfall provides excellent walking routes 3 miles from the property with various difficulty levels available.
Is there parking at the property?
Off-road parking is available for multiple vehicles directly at the lodge. This makes it convenient for groups arriving in separate cars or planning different daily activities.
What are the best attractions for groups?
Lowther Castle and Gardens sits 10 miles away with extensive grounds to explore. Ullswater Steamers operate regular services for group bookings and scenic lake cruises throughout the year.
Are there local pubs and restaurants?
Several traditional Lake District pubs serve food within a short drive of the property. Penrith offers a wider selection of restaurants and takeaway options for varied group dining preferences.

Popular Stays Near This Cottage

Ambleside
20 cottages
Appleby-in-Westmorland
8 cottages
Bassenthwaite
4 cottages
Bowness-on-Windermere
10 cottages
Caldbeck Fells
3 cottages
Carlisle
6 cottages
Cartmel
3 cottages
Cockermouth
11 cottages
Glenridding
4 cottages
Grange-Over-Sands
4 cottages
Grasmere and the Langdale Valley
4 cottages
Kendal
17 cottages
Keswick
23 cottages
Penrith
14 cottages
Silloth
4 cottages
St. Bees
3 cottages
Staveley
3 cottages
Threlkeld
5 cottages
Ullswater
4 cottages
Watermillock
3 cottages

The Birches Reviews

Leave a Review
Been to The Birches? Please leave a review and share your holiday experiences.
Name
Month of stay
Year of stay
Review
Popular Group Cottages
Latest Blog Posts
Useful pages
Follow Us
Subscribe
Join our newsletter and get fantastic deals on UK hot tub cottages you won't find anywhere else. We respect your privacy and adhere to strict no-spam policies.
Copyright © 2026 - Large Holiday Cottages