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

Lakefront cottage with kitchen and balcony

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Outdoor dining - Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions. (Ullswater)
1 bedroom, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets - Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions. (Ullswater)
TV, fireplace - Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions. (Ullswater)
Exterior - Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions. (Ullswater)
TV, fireplace - Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions. (Ullswater)
In the heart of the Lake District, Duke of Portland Boathouse offers a romantic retreat with views of Lake Ullswater and the fells from its balcony or bedroom patio doors. This iconic boathouse features an open-plan layout, bespoke kitchen, wood burning stove and luxurious slate shower room. Enjoy private fishing rights on its own jetty.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 235 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Fireplace
  • Mountain view
The current price is NZ$782
includes taxes & fees
20 Jan - 21 Jan

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

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

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.

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • TV

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Garden

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • Service animals only (pets not allowed)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • On a lake

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Garden
  • Property does not allow children
  • Unit size: 377 square feet

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

Pets not allowed (service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees)

Children and extra beds

This property does not allow children

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Property is also known as

527731
Vrbo Property

About the area

Located in Penrith, this cottage is on a lake. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Ullswater and Yorkshire Dales National Park, while Penrith & Eden Museum and Keswick Museum and Art Gallery are cultural highlights. Lakeland Bird of Prey Centre and Rookin House Activity Centre are also worth visiting.
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Map
Ullswater, Cumbria

What's nearby

  • Ullswater - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Lowther Castle and Gardens - 9 min drive - 9.2 km
  • Whinfell Forest - 18 min drive - 19.9 km
  • Lodore Falls - 30 min drive - 37.3 km
  • Lake Windermere - 35 min drive - 38.7 km

Getting around

  • Penrith Station - 11 min drive
  • Carlisle (CAX) - 43 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Arturo Lounge - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Boot & Shoe - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Queens Head - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

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

No, only service animals are welcome at the property.

How much does it cost to stay at Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions.?

As of 19 Jan 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions. on 20 Jan 2026 start from NZ$782.25, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions.?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions.?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions.?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions. located?

Situated on a lake, this cottage is steps from Ullswater and within 3 mi (5 km) of Dalemain and Dalemain Country Park. Rheged and Gowbarrow Fall are also within 6 miles (10 km).

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

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 46 out of 60 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 13 out of 60 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 60 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 60 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 60 reviews

9.6

Cleanliness

9.6

Location

Reviews

This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

James S.

Wonderful break

This is such a special place. We had an unforgettable stay at the Duke of Portland Boathouse. Just incredible views, paddle boarding and swimming from the doorstep and wonderful walks and food in pooley bridge. Would 100% recommend for a really unique stay
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kym P.

Fantastic

Celebrating our Ruby Wedding Anniversary in the most amazing setting. Great views, ducks for company too, beautiful boathouse inside- what more could you want for a romantic getaway. Would thoroughly recommend and definitely stay again .
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

So much more....

We stayed at the boathouse as a base for cycling, walking and exploring but it really was so much more... We swam from the slipway, fished from the jetty and watched the birds and the fish and the lake and the view. We really were Duke and Duchess for our short but memorable stay.

10/10 Excellent

Sue K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A piece of heaven

A beautiful 4 day stay in a gorgeous location. Very relaxing with stunning scenery. Easy to book and excellent clear arrival details. The boathouse is so unique with care paid to every detail to make our stay so enjoyable. We will recommend to friends and family.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Beautiful property in perfect location

Beautiful location,charming property ,near a small village with lovely pubs and coffee shops ,highly recommended
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Duke of Portland Boathouse

Beautiful, unique property in the most stunning location. Stayed for two nights in this lovely home. Tastefully and sympathetically restored with the most gorgeous furnishings. Looking out over the lake was just amazing! Will definitely be back!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Carol and greg J.

2 nights at the Duke of portland boathouse

Lovely comfortable relaxing stay, fab location and views. A very special place to stay as a birthday treat.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

A unique and beautiful place to stay with stunning views and a peaceful ambience.

We had an amazing time at the boathouse. A unique and beautiful place to stay with stunning views and a peaceful ambience. We were impressed with the cleanliness and the duck food was a lovely touch! Highly recommended, we would love to stay again.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

A beautiful accommodation in an idealic location.

A really wonderful place to stay. Beautifully presented, comfortable and cosy. A very much needed break from our crazy every day life. We will definitely return.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

melody u.

Perfect

Fabulous location. Very cosy and the views are awesome. We managed to sit out on the balcony sipping the complimentary bubbles even in February!!!!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Would definitely recommend the Duke of portland boathouse .fantastic views .beautiful decorated. X

Had a amazing time at the Duke of portland boathouse. Comfort, every thing you need is there for you. Would definitely recommend it the views are amazing. Even a fantastic pair of binoculars.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kate F.

Spectacular!

Just the perfect night away. Of course what a wonderful view. But also the Boathouse is comfortable, cosy and has everything you need to make your stay enjoyable and very relaxing. We would definitely return.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Clare A.

Duke of Portland Boathouse

Fantastic property in an unbelievable location. Loved the balcony looking over the lake. Not easy getting out of the gates onto main road. More expensive than we would usually spend on a short break but will definitely be back.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Joanne B.

Amazing Location

3 night stay in April and we were very lucky to see blue skies. The boathouse is furnished in a traditional style with some lovely modern touches. Walking to the sound of the water and the view of the lake and mountains was unforgettable. Pooley Bridge is a short walk away but be careful of traffic as you leave the boathouse it is a busy road.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

John C.

Soo Lucky

Amazing stay, we sat on the balcony and watched the stars and the ripples of the lake splashing below the deck all on a chilly winters evening. We then back into the boathouse to enjoy supper by the wood burner stove. What a memorable treat.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

The Boat House

The Duke of Portland Boat House is a little gem situated in a prime position overlooking the Lake at Ullswater. It’s an intimate setting for two, with all amenities including a lovely log fire. Whilst the main road is just to the front of the property, you are not affected by the sound from it, however it was a little disappointing to learn on arrival that the Boat House doesn’t command the privacy it portrays on the photos and you could not be on the balcony looking over the lake without feeling somewhat overlooked, by cars and hikers. That aside, it was an amazing place
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Absolutely wonderful!

My husband and I had the most incredible stay at this beautiful boathouse! It exceeded expectations in every way - beautifully decorated inside with lovely little touches, so cosy (with a log burner and loads of wood provided) and the most stunning views from every single window. We could have happily stayed for weeks!! Thank you for a fantastic break. Highly highly recommend!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Gordon A.

Absolutely perfect.

If you want to enjoy a unique, romantic, and luxurious Lakeland experience then look no further. The Boathouse is a wonderful property both inside and out. The location is stunning. The views are amazing. And you are made to feel very special as soon as you set foot over the threshold. Highly recommended.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Absolutely Amazing

Absolutely amazing and unique place to stay. Spotlessly clean, every little detail has been carefully and aesthetically designed to ensure a cosy, comfortable and enjoyable stay. The most amazing views of Ullswater to wake up to in the morning. Thank you! We will be back!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Tabby K.

A perfect little getaway…

I’ve had my eye on staying at the boathouse for years and finally found the opportunity. It was as good as I anticipated. Beautifully renovated with lovely, comfortable facilities. The location is superb and allows for free swimming in the lake which I enjoyed - even if it was cold! It was the perfect distraction from life and a getaway I will definitely be repeating. Thank you.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Absolutely beautiful one night stay!

I was extremely lucky to have won a one night stay in a facebook competition! We arrived on a cold and sunny day with the snow still on the ground and the views were breathtaking! It is a gorgeous boathouse outside, and the inside doesn't disappoint either! It was very clean, beautifully decorated and had everything we needed for our break! I loved the copper bath and we enjoyed getting cosy by the wood burning fire! We slept with the shutters open so we were able to wake up with views across the lake....stunning!! I cant remember the last time we both felt so relaxed. I can imagine the boathouse being an amazing place to stay any time of year. Thank you for your hospitality :)
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Magical

Had an amazing night. Everything perfect. The bath with the views was a wonderful experience. A magical place to stay and so warm and cozy. Had the opportunity to kayak in the morning directly from the house and the views and tranquility of the lake were amazing. A hidden gem To put on your bucket list of places to stay. Thank you for the champagne to add to a perfect stay.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

gail c.

Dream come true

I have driven past this boathoyse every year since childhood and finally got the chance to stay. It was everything I expected and more. I could have spent the whole of my time just sitting on the balcony, the view is amazing and so relaxing listening to the water below and watching the ducks. I would love to return in the winter and sit in front of the wood burner, it would be so cosy. Highly recommend staying here.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

David Y., Stockton On Tees

luxurious accommodation in a stunning location

We stayed for two nights wishing we had booked for 3+ nights. The accommodation is picture postcard perfect in every way from the unique location to the superb views and exquisitely equipped accommodation. We were that enamored by the Boathouse we had all our evening meals there not wanting to miss our time there, We are very familiar with Ullswater and had some lovely walks but the highlight was our morning paddlebording form the jetty. I have no doubt we will be back Dave & Moira
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

A lovely hideaway on Ullswater

I stayed at the boathouse for 3 days, and found it to be delightful. All amenities were modern & covered my expectations. The weather was inclement, but the underfloor heating was soothing, as was watching the waterside life from the terrace ( well wrapped up ) I guess my only complaint was the entrance. Right on a blind bend a little bit scary at times