Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions.

Top rated by guests
Duke of Portland Boathouse Ullswater Romantic Cottage
Interior
Private kitchen
Private kitchen
Private kitchen
review stars
9.6Outstanding
(68 Ratings)
"The Duke of Portland’s loss was our gain! Perfect location, perfect views, in fact, perfect in every way - from the roll top bath with the stunning views to the well equipped kitchen, cosy lounge with..."
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Don't miss out! Price and availability may change
9.6 / 10
Outstanding(68 Ratings)

Cottage in England

2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bath

Reasons to book

Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Top-tier experienceA high end property in this area
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About this cottage rental

This unique, iconic, luxury cottage is an 'ideal honeymoon cottage in a location to die for', stunning views of Lake Ullswater and the fells can be viewed whilst relaxing on the balcony of this traditional boathouse or from the bedroom through the patio doors.

Unsurprisingly, the Duke of Portland Boathouse has been voted "the best waterside retreat" by BBC Countryfile Magazine! It's location at the top of Ullswater gives it superb, unparalleled views across this beautiful lake.

It is one of the most iconic and most photographed buildings in the Lake District. The boathouse originally belonged to the 3rd Duke of Portland in the 18th century but he had to sell it along with his Cumberland estates to pay his legal bills. His loss is our gain!

Park beside the boathouse and climb the steps to enter a unique, romantic and cosy interior that provides everything needed for a perfect stay at every time of the year. Shades of Farrow and Ball are mixed with sumptuous furnishings and luxury fabrics.

The boathouse has an open plan layout with magnificent cruick beams and underfloor heating beneath a rustic oak floor and comprises:-
The bespoke painted kitchen with granite work tops provides all you need with a generous breakfast bar and comfortable stools for intimate dining a deux. There is an LPG oven and hob, microwave, dishwasher, fridge, coffee machine (accepts vertuo nespresso coffee pods, not provided.) After dining you can sit back and relax on a sumptuous leather sofa in front of the wood burning stove. Smart TV and Bluetooth sound system are all provided for your entertainment. Unwind in the luxurious slate shower room with overhead shower, WC and hand basin. Fluffy towels and bathrobes are provided together with a range of toiletries. Enjoy the views down the length of the lake from the romantic bedroom. You can gaze out at a starlit sky from the comfortable king size bed with luxurious Egyptian Cotton bedding or relax in the slipper bath sipping a glass of champagne! Double doors open onto the balcony from which you can truly experience the breathtaking views! An amazing place to enjoy breakfast or just sit and contemplate the beautiful surroundings and its wildlife. Cosy rugs are provided for chillier evenings! The boathouse also has its own private jetty and owns a quarter of a mile of lakeshore with fishing rights. If you are tempted out of the boathouse, the renowned Another Place Hotel is a short drive down the lakeside for fine dining. Alternatively there are traditional Cumbrian pubs in nearby Pooley Bridge.PLEASE NOTE: Dogs are not accepted at this property.

Amenities

Non-smoking

Map of England


Ratings and reviews

9.6 / 10
Outstanding(68 Ratings)
8 / 10Excellent·Jun 2026
The boathouse is certainly a unique place to stay and it is decorated and furnished with care and style. The balcony is a wonderful place to sit and admire the view, particularly in the morning and evening. The boathouse is easy to find - we reversed into the drive, which made getting out again easier and perhaps deterred any potential unwanted visitors! It is true that the balcony can be easily seen from the road and that people might like to take photos - this didn't bother us, but it might do if you are at all self-conscious. It's a beautiful location but not a particularly quiet one, due to the proximity to the road. The generator does create a background hum, but is typically only on for a short amount of time. We were prepared for both and loved the waterside location, but on balance, I'd probably choose a different property if I was looking for a peaceful break.
10 / 10Outstanding·Apr 2026
The Duke of Portland’s loss was our gain! Perfect location, perfect views, in fact, perfect in every way - from the roll top bath with the stunning views to the well equipped kitchen, cosy lounge with log burner and lulled to sleep by the gentle waves. A short walk to catch the Ullswater steamer and then into Pooley bridge for great restaurant choices. We’ll be back!
10 / 10Outstanding·Mar 2026
What a stunning spot. I have always wanted to stay here and this week my wish came true. Exceptional accommodation everything is beautiful and well thought out. Location is stunning and we got perfect weather. Watching the moon and stars then the sunrise from the balcony heaven. Hopefully we will be able to stay again some day.
6 / 10Average·Mar 2024
Firstly be aware this cottage has no sign stating Portland boathouse so if and when you eventually find it then well done. Secondly the entrance and exit to the property is precarious at best, due to its location right next to a blind bend on a busy main road, this is NOT advertised!! Thirdly be aware of low beams in property I’m 6ft so not overly tall but still managed to bang and cut my head on one! Needless to say no beware low beams anywhere. Lastly for the price you’d expect Wi-Fi??

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FAQs

Is parking included with this cottage?

Parking is not specified as an available amenity at Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions.. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.

Is there a pool at this cottage?

We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this cottage. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.

Is Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions. pet friendly?

Unfortunately, this cottage is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"

What amenities are available at Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions.?

We found 1 amenities for this rental. This includes , and non-smoking.


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