Windermere
Cottage Retreats

2026 Self-Catering Breaks in Bowness, Ambleside, Keswick & More!

Home
Cottages Latest Cottages Favourites Contact Us List Your Property
Home North of England Cumbria The Thistles
The Thistles Overview Reviews Photos Attractions

The Thistles, Bowness-On-Windermere

Guest Rating
Rating
4.9
out of 5
Guest Rating
Rating
4.9
out of 5
Cumbria » Bowness-On-Windermere
Sleeps up to 6
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 4

The Thistles is a stone-built mid-terrace home sleeping six guests in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere in Cumbria. You're just a short stroll from Lake Windermere's shores. This property offers four bedrooms and two bathrooms across three floors.

The location puts you within walking distance of Bowness town centre. Restaurants and shops line the streets. Bus services run from the end of the road. Lake Windermere sits half a mile away.

Inside you'll find a king-size bedroom, two double bedrooms and one single bedroom. The second-floor bathroom has a bath and walk-in shower. There's also a ground-floor shower room. The kitchen comes with an electric oven, hob, microwave and washing machine.

Read More
Check Prices & Availability »
At Sykes Cottages
Check Prices & Availability »
 

About The Thistles

The Thistles is a stone-built mid-terrace home sleeping six guests in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere in Cumbria. You're just a short stroll from Lake Windermere's shores. This property offers four bedrooms and two bathrooms across three floors.

The location puts you within walking distance of Bowness town centre. Restaurants and shops line the streets. Bus services run from the end of the road. Lake Windermere sits half a mile away.

Inside you'll find a king-size bedroom, two double bedrooms and one single bedroom. The second-floor bathroom has a bath and walk-in shower. There's also a ground-floor shower room. The kitchen comes with an electric oven, hob, microwave and washing machine. Two reception rooms feature gas fires and the dining room seats six around a large table.

World of Beatrix Potter Attraction (1.5 miles, 6 minutes) makes a great family day out. Windermere Lake Cruises (0.5 miles, 2 minutes) offer boat trips. Stock Ghyll Force waterfall (6 miles, 15 minutes) rewards walkers. Lakeside Aquarium (8 miles, 20 minutes) displays local marine life.

Off-road parking for one car and an enclosed rear patio complete this well-equipped base. The Thistles suits families wanting easy access to Lake District attractions.

Check Prices & Availability »
At Sykes Cottages

Need To Know

More Cottages With Hot Tubs You May Like

Harrison Stickle >
Hot Tub WiFi Romantic Near Pub Open Fire

Harrison Stickle

North of England, Cumbria

Sleeps 4 2 Bedrooms

Harrison Stickle is a wonderful former coach house just a minutes' walk from Bowness. Children over 9 years only. Underfloor heating and woodburning stove. Private parking for 2 cars. Secure bike...

View Cottage
Workshop Cottage >
Hot Tub WiFi Romantic Near Pub

Workshop Cottage

North of England, Cumbria

Sleeps 4 3 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

Beautifully presented, luxury cottage in the heart of Bowness. Gorgeous kitchen with top of the range applicances. Sleeps 4 in 2 stunning bedrooms.

View Cottage
Windermere View >
Hot Tub WiFi Near Pub

Windermere View

North of England, Cumbria

Sleeps 4 2 Bedrooms

Offering stunning views over the treetops and towards Windermere, this stylish, bright and cheerful property makes a fantastic hideaway for up to four guests. Set in the heart of the Lake District...

View Cottage
Smithy Cottage At Lindeth >
Hot Tub WiFi Fishing Open Fire Golf

Smithy Cottage At Lindeth

North of England, Cumbria

Sleeps 4 2 Bedrooms

Beautiful 17th Century quaint lakeleland cottage in idyllic setting but close to bustling Bowness-on-Windermere. Sleeps 4 Lovely walks & pubs nearby. Saturday changeover.

View Cottage
6 Calgarth View >
Hot Tub WiFi Fishing Near Pub

6 Calgarth View

North of England, Cumbria

Sleeps 6 3 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

6 Calgarth View is a charming, three-bedroom holiday home resting in Windermere, Cumbria. In the Lake District. Private parking. Close to amenities. Garden. Barbecue. Bedrooms with TVs. Windermere...

View Cottage
Ecclerigg Garth >
Hot Tub WiFi Open Fire

Ecclerigg Garth

North of England, Cumbria

Sleeps 14 6 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

Large barn conversion located in Troutbeck Bridge centrally between Windermere and Ambleside. Perfect for families and friends. Lawned gardens, patio and balcony. Lake Views. Pub 10 mins walk....

View Cottage
Neland View >
Hot Tub WiFi Fishing

Neland View

North of England, Cumbria

Sleeps 4 3 Bedrooms

This well presented duplex apartment in the town of Windermere, near all shops and restaurants. WiFi. Touring base. Ambleside 5.2 miles; Kendal 9.4 miles.

View Cottage
Newlands >
Hot Tub WiFi Fishing Near Pub

Newlands

North of England, Cumbria

Sleeps 4 2 Bedrooms

Newlands is a charming holiday apartment resting within close reach of Windermere, Lake District which is close to the lakes and local amenities. Ambleside 4.8 miles; Kendal 8.7 miles.

View Cottage
Stybarrow Fold >
Hot Tub WiFi Fishing Near Pub Open Fire

Stybarrow Fold

North of England, Cumbria

Sleeps 10 5 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

Located in the popular town of Windermere within the beautiful Lake District, this property provides all the amenities necessary for a retreat with family, friends, and even your four-legged...

View Cottage
Bobbin Mill Cottage >
Hot Tub WiFi Fishing Near Pub

Bobbin Mill Cottage

North of England, Cumbria

Sleeps 4 2 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

Converted mill property amongst a number of cottages. Vast landscaped gardens. Off road parking. Riverside location. WiFi. Complimentary leisure club membership. Crosthwaite 1 mile.

View Cottage

The Thistles Attractions & Days Out

Explore the wonderful attractions and activities surrounding The Thistles during your stay. Find the best places to visit and things to do in the local area, all conveniently organised by distance and type. Charming villages to lively and exciting attractions - there's something for everyone to enjoy. Browse through our categories including attractions, walks & outdoor activities, shopping destinations and handy tips on getting around. Plan your perfect day out. Whether you're looking for family fun, romantic experiences, or pet-friendly adventures, this cottage provides an ideal base to explore Cumbria's fantastic days out. Click on any attraction for more detailed information including address, opening times and visitor tips.

World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
Distance: 1.5 miles
LA23 1DX
Windermere Lake Cruises
Distance: 0.5 miles
LA23 3HQ
Lakeside Aquarium
Distance: 8 miles
LA12 8AS
Orrest Head Viewpoint
Distance: 2 miles
LA23 1LA
Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall
Distance: 6 miles
LA22 0LP
Claife Heights Woodland
Distance: 3 miles
LA22 0LW
Bowness Village Shops
Distance: 0.3 miles
LA23 3BX
Windermere Town Centre
Distance: 1.5 miles
LA23 1AF
Booths Supermarket
Distance: 1.8 miles
LA23 2EQ
Windermere Railway Station
Distance: 1.5 miles
LA23 1BA
Bus Stop (end of road)
Distance: 0.1 miles
LA23 2JS
Bowness Pier
Distance: 0.5 miles
LA23 3HQ
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
Distance: 1.5 miles
LA23 1DX
Windermere Lake Cruises
Distance: 0.5 miles
LA23 3HQ
Lakeside Aquarium
Distance: 8 miles
LA12 8AS
Orrest Head Viewpoint
Distance: 2 miles
LA23 1LA
Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall
Distance: 6 miles
LA22 0LP
Claife Heights Woodland
Distance: 3 miles
LA22 0LW
Bowness Village Shops
Distance: 0.3 miles
LA23 3BX
Windermere Town Centre
Distance: 1.5 miles
LA23 1AF
Booths Supermarket
Distance: 1.8 miles
LA23 2EQ
Windermere Railway Station
Distance: 1.5 miles
LA23 1BA
Bus Stop (end of road)
Distance: 0.1 miles
LA23 2JS
Bowness Pier
Distance: 0.5 miles
LA23 3HQ

Is The Thistles Right For You?

Discover why this cottage is ideal for different types of visitors

For Families
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction sits 1.5 miles away with interactive exhibits. Lake Windermere offers boat trips and watersports half a mile from the door. The single bedroom works for one child while doubles accommodate siblings. Bowness has ice cream shops and parks within walking distance. Lakeside Aquarium displays local fish species 8 miles away. The enclosed rear patio provides safe outdoor space.
For Couples
This property may not suit couples wanting an intimate retreat. With four bedrooms sleeping six, it's designed for larger groups or families. The two reception rooms with gas fires offer cosy spaces. The king-size bedroom provides comfort. Bowness restaurants are a five-minute walk away. Lake Windermere sits nearby for romantic lakeside strolls. The enclosed patio offers private outdoor space for two.
Pet Friendly
The Thistles does not accept pets. The property maintains a strict no-pets policy for all bookings. If you're travelling with a dog, you'll need to find alternative accommodation in the Bowness area. Many other Lake District properties do welcome pets, but this particular home is not suitable for guests bringing animals of any kind.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at The Thistles

The Crafty Baa

Located 0.3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA23 3BX

The Royal Oak Inn

Located 0.4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA23 3EG

Homeground Coffee + Kitchen

Located 1.4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA23 1DG

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about The Thistles

Does this cottage have a hot tub?
No, The Thistles does not have a hot tub. The property does feature an enclosed rear patio with outdoor furniture where you can relax after days exploring the Lake District.
Is it pet friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at The Thistles. The property maintains a strict no-pets policy for all guests.
How many people does The Thistles sleep?
The property sleeps six guests across four bedrooms: one king-size, two doubles and one single. Two full bathrooms serve all guests comfortably.
What parking is available?
There is off-road parking for one car behind the property. Additional vehicles need to park on nearby streets where spaces are usually available.
How far is it to Lake Windermere?
Lake Windermere is half a mile from the property, roughly a 10-minute walk. Windermere Lake Cruises departure point is even closer at just 0.5 miles away.
What shops and restaurants are nearby?
Bowness town centre is a five-minute walk away with numerous restaurants, pubs, shops and a cinema. Bus services run from the end of the road to other Lake District destinations.
Is the property suitable for families?
Yes, with four bedrooms sleeping six and two bathrooms, it works well for families. The location near Bowness attractions and Lake Windermere makes it an excellent family base.
What kitchen facilities are provided?
The kitchen includes an electric oven and hob, microwave, kettle, toaster, fridge/freezer and washing machine. The separate dining room has a large table seating six people comfortably.

Popular Stays Near This Cottage

Ambleside
8 cottages
Bowness
30 cottages
Bowness-on-Windermere
84 cottages
Cartmel Fell
5 cottages
Lake District
3 cottages
Staveley
7 cottages
Troutbeck
26 cottages
Troutbeck Bridge
3 cottages
Windermere
144 cottages

The Thistles Reviews

Allison
We had a great week at The Thistles. The house was spotless, tastefully decorated and extremely comfortable beds, everything that was needed was catered for. The owner responded immediately, the most comprehensive and informative guide book we've ever encountered in a holiday let. We've been regular visitors to Lakes for years and would certainly return. We didn't want to leave!
Simone
We had a fabulous stay at The Thistles it had everything we needed for a family of 6 and the hosts even left us some chocolates, bubbles and Christmas decorations which was so thoughtful and very much appreciated. It was spotlessly clean, in a fabulous location and we would all return in a heartbeat.
The Thistles is the perfect base for exploring the southern lakes. Very quiet location but a 5 minute walk takes you into Bowness where there are numerous restaurants, pubs, shops, etc. The house has everything needed for a comfortable stay, a real home from home. The bottle of wine and biscuits were much appreciated! Would not hesitate to rebook this lovely house.
Maurice
Fantastic house, well furnished, tastefully decorated, comfortable and felt very homely. Great location, only a short walk into Bowness. Would recommend and definitely return to The Thistles.
Stuart
This was a lovely, well presented house situated within easy walking distance of Bowness on Windermere centre. The house was spotless, the beds were extremely comfortable and the central heating is very simple to use. There is parking for one car behind the property so we had to park in the street with the additional car but never had a problem getting a parking space nearby. I would highly recommend this house for your lakes getaway
Had the most amazing stay in this gorgeous property. Felt very homely. The location was perfect, the information about the property and surrounding area was thoughtful and useful. I will be recommending to everyone.
Louise
Excellent stay! Property owner was east to contact & prompt into responding to a minor issue that occurred. We very much enjoyed The Thistles, a proper home from home! Clean, tastefully decorated & location was great! Would definitely stay again!
Pauline
Our second visit to this lovely, clean, comfortable, cosy property. Loved the additional sofa in the lounge, microwave in the kitchen and large dining room table. Made such good use of space to add additional shower as well as bath to top floor bathroom without taking anything away from the double bedroom. Hope to visit again next year.
Amanda
Lovely, cosy property in an excellent location. The rear courtyard is a lovely suntrap and the offroad parking a definite bonus. Thank you for the bottle of bubbly and shortbread very much appreciated. The visitor folder was one of the best and easiest to read! of all the properties we have stayed at. We would love to stay at the Thistles next time were visiting Bowness.
Stephen
The facilities available were excellent, all of our party thoroughly enjoyed our few days in the lakes. Location of the property was fabulous, a short walk into Bowness or Windermere. The car park at the rear of the property was a welcome boost, meaning we did not have to worry about finding a car park space on the street. the best compliments i can ever give is a would i return to this property YES b would i recommend the property to others YES
Philip
Excellent thtoughout really lovely excellent location many thanks for the welcome pack
We had a wonderful stay in your lovely cottage. It had everything we needed and was beautifully furnished. It was in a great location for walking in to Bowness and exploring the area. Thank you for the milk, Prosecco and Easter egg, they were lovely treats thank you.
Allison
Back from our third visit to the Thistles. Had a great week which was helped by the fantastic weather we were so lucky to be graced with for the week. As per our two previous visits we love it here and location is spot on,with it's own parking space. The addition of the shower on the top floor was welcomed, although the pressure and temperature did lack when both showers were being used but we fully understand that so we just made that work. It wasn't as clean as our previous visits, didn't look like it had been hoovered recently as the carpet was a bit mucky in places and a few cobwebs. It wasn't a major issue but previously it has been spotless when we have stayed. Also,the house was very cold upon arrival so it maybe could have done with the heating on just to take the edge off for our arrival as it took a while for the house to warm up and it was in the minuses the first few nights of our stay. The fresh flowers,Prosecco,fresh milk and Easter eggs were a great touch and very much appreciated and a nice touch. All in all though another fantastic week,we will definitely be back and would 100 recommend. Thank you for a great week
Fantastic property tastefully decorated and spacious. Great to have parking at the back door and then to be a few minutes walk to restaurants.
Catherine
Great stay in this immaculate and spacious house. Beds are comfy and there is easily space for 67 people as 2 bathrooms..almost unheard of in Bowness! Kitchen is small but well provisioned with extra fridgefreezer in the basement if needed. A few wee extras supplied which were lovely. Easy walk into the town centre or bus stop at the end of the road. Will be back again if it's available.
Clean, nicely decorated and in an excellent location.
Beautiful property, in the very centre of bowness. Tastefully decorated . All amenities great for staying in or going out. We were a family of six adults and had plenty of space. Children want to book for next year x thankyou
Very clean comfy home from home property, had everything you needed plus more, will definitely return again. Couple of negatives were, the shower tray kept overflowing which meant we had to switch the shower off multiple times during a shower, may be due to blockage? Fire in dining room did not work, other half thinks the batteries may need replacing on the actual fire lastly we experienced some high winds during our visit and the front bedroom window banged all night, not sure if anything could be done about this but thought it was constructive feedback, apart from this was a great stay, great location and just what we were looking for
Allison
Just back from another lovely stay at the Thistles. Some small changes had been made since our last stay but were greatly appreciated. Fresh flowers and welcome treats also very much appreciated. It's a beautiful home away from home in the lakes so we will definitely return again.Very well equipped and furnished to a very high standard. Just one thing to note and it is really minor so in no way impacted our stay,there was no battery in the living room clock. Thank you again for another lovely week,we will be back.
Claire
This is a great property in a perfect location close to amenities and bus stops with the bonus of an allocated parking space. The standard of cleanliness was very good. We did struggle with the tiny kitchen, however the comfort of the rest of the property made up for this. One thing I do think ought to be mentioned in the details is that the microwave is in the basement. Not ideal taking food down and up the stairs. Also the freezer in the basement was unusable. On opening the door it was solid ice. All in all a nice stay and would recommend.
Angela
WOW! What a wonderful place to stay! With its elegant decor and tasteful interior, this lovely home was warm and welcoming from the moment we stepped through the door. The owners seemed to have anticipated and provided everything we could possibly need, from a well equipped kitchen, spacious storage and comfortable beds, to the thoughtful extra touches such as the flowers and treat tray. It was sparklingly clean throughout and the welcome pack covered everything we needed to make our stay so enjoyable. Highly recommended.
Gissel
Great decor and it felt really homely. Nice touch to have the tea and biscuits. We loved thr games and the lovely yellow bunch of roses made us feel welcomed. Nice break.
Allison
Great property. Excellent location and having it's own parking space is worth it's weight in gold.Standard of cleanliness was very good and well equipped. We will definitely return. One thing to note,there was only one hairdryer and we were a party of 3 women,maybe one more would have been handy but that's all. Thank you for a lovely stay.
Leave a Review
Been to The Thistles? Please leave a review and share your holiday experiences.
Name
Month of stay
Year of stay
Review
Popular Cottages
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 - Windermere Cottage Retreats
Lake District Business Park, Mint Bridge Road, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 7RG