Bardsea, self-catering holiday cottages, barns, rural retreats and lodges to rent in Cumbria, England

The Cumbrian coastal village of Bardsea is a very pleasant place to stay for a cottage holiday with a superb location and charming features dating back to its farming and fishing past. Situated on the Furness Peninsular, its position on the west side of Morecambe Bay affords terrific views. Such marvellous views can be obtained by going to Holy Trinity Church, a beautiful structure that was finished in 1853 and which contains several stained glass windows.

Advice on Cottage Holidays in Bardsea

The area has an interesting history and even prehistoric history is on display. A prehistoric stone circle known as Birkrigg Stone Circle or sometimes, The Druid’s Circle, is a magnet for visitors at Birkrigg Common, which is close by.

Families with children are always looking for ideas for day trips. Many family excursions bring their rewards here including a trip to Bardsea Country Park. Ancient woodland, shingle and sand provide walks and an opportunity for the kids to run around. Picnic areas are perfect for warmer days.  It’s also a favourite haunt for birdwatchers observing seabirds and for sea anglers. If you venture into the woods, you may see oak and wild cherry trees. Once again, the vista of Morecambe Bay provides fabulous views. The Cumbria Coastal Way, a well established, long walking route, goes through the park.

If you want a local walk that takes you across the sands of Morecambe Bay, Chapel Island Walk fits the bill and you can join a guided walk. Setting off from Ulverston, the route goes to the island, which lies about a mile off the coast. Walkers have a picnic before making the return journey.

Bardsea is just a few miles from the market town of Ulverston, a very popular base for visitors to the Lake District. If you want more facilities and a busy calendar of events, you’ll like what it has to offer. As the birthplace of Stan Laurel, The Laurel and Hardy Museum at the Roxy Cinema is the town’s pride and joy. The comic double act from the silent era put smiles on the faces of the grown-ups and children too.

For an unusual attraction, the Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre, a Buddhist retreat, offers tours for the public of the temple plus visitors enjoy walking in 70 acres of grounds that include a beach. It is always good to widen one's horizons.

Other Ulverston amenities include indoor and outdoor markets, a swimming pool, tennis courts, a soft play area, golf course and theatre.

Bardsea is in one of the most scenic areas of the Lake District and a truly diverse holiday is promised for all. Explore the self-catering cottages in and around Bardea below or take a look at a selection of holiday cottages for self-catering holidays in the Lake District. A good proportion of the cottages are pet-friendly.

Whether you choose to book a holiday cottage in Bardsea, an apartment, a lodge or another type of self-catering holiday accommodation, we hope you have your best holiday yet in Cumbria.