We’ve all been there – that bittersweet moment when you’re heading home from the Lake District, already dreaming of your return. Perhaps you’ve found yourself wondering: why leave at all? If those majestic fells and glittering waters have captured your heart, here are seven spectacular spots where you might just want to put down roots.
Keswick: The Cultural Hub With Mountain Views
Nestled between the mighty Skiddaw and the serene Derwentwater, Keswick offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and market town charm. Its thriving arts scene, with the Theatre by the Lake and countless galleries, means you’ll never be short of cultural stimulation. The twice-weekly market has been running since 1276, and you’ll find everything from artisanal cheeses to locally crafted jewellery. The robust tourism industry means plenty of employment opportunities, whilst excellent schools make it ideal for families.
A Local’s Insight: “The secret to living in Keswick is knowing the quiet spots. While tourists flock to Derwentwater’s main beaches, locals head to the secluded eastern shore for peaceful picnics. And don’t miss Thursday nights at the Dog & Gun – that’s when all the mountain guides gather to swap stories over Cumberland sausage and tatties.”
Read: Top things to do on your visit to the North Lakes
Cockermouth: Georgian Elegance Meets Modern Living
Don’t let its amusing name fool you – Cockermouth is one of Cumbria’s hidden gems. Wordsworth’s birthplace boasts immaculately preserved Georgian architecture, independent shops, and a flourishing food scene. The town sits just outside the National Park boundary, meaning property prices are more reasonable than in the heart of the Lakes. Yet you’re still only a stone’s throw from Buttermere and Crummock Water, some of the region’s most spectacular lakes.
A Local’s Insight: “The best thing about Cockermouth is how the seasons change our routines. Summer evenings are spent in beer gardens along the River Cocker, while winters mean cosy afternoons in The New Bookshop with their legendary hot chocolate. And always get your veg from the Friday market – Sandra’s organic stall has been feeding local families for generations.”
Kendal: The Gateway To The Lakes
Known as the ‘Auld Grey Town’ thanks to its limestone buildings, Kendal offers the perfect compromise between urban amenities and rural charm. With excellent transport links to Manchester and London, it’s ideal for those who need to maintain connections with bigger cities. The town’s rich history is evident in its medieval ruins and Victorian architecture, whilst its contemporary arts centre and thriving festival scene keep things decidedly current.
A Local’s Insight: “Everyone thinks Kendal Mint Cake is our claim to fame, but there’s so much more to food here. The Farmers’ Market at the end of each month is where you’ll find the real treats – especially the Kendal Creamy cheese from Winter Tarn farm. And if you’re commuting, the trick is to catch the 7:42 train – it’s always less crowded than the 8:15.”
Read: The best UK holidays to relive your childhood
Ambleside: Heart Of The Lakes
If you want to be in the thick of it, Ambleside delivers. This bustling town sits at the head of Windermere, surrounded by fells and waterfalls. Yes, it gets busy with tourists, but there’s a reason they come – the location is unbeatable. The community is tight-knit, with many independent businesses and a strong outdoor sports scene. The University of Cumbria campus adds a youthful energy, whilst the countless hiking and climbing opportunities on your doorstep mean adventure is always calling.
A Local’s Insight: “Living in Ambleside, you learn to embrace the rain – we call it ‘liquid sunshine’. The real local hangout is the Golden Rule pub, unchanged since the 1930s. Skip the tourist cafes and head to Rattle Ghyll for your morning coffee – that’s where you’ll find all the mountain guides planning their day.”
Ulverston: Coastal Charm With A Festival Spirit
This market town near the Furness Peninsula offers a different take on Cumbrian life. With views across Morecambe Bay and easy access to the Lake District, you get the best of both worlds. Ulverston’s Festival Town status means there’s always something happening, from the lantern procession to the dickensian festival. The town’s most famous son, Stan Laurel, would surely appreciate its continuing creative spirit.
A Local’s Insight: “The best thing about Ulverston is how the community comes together. During the lantern festival, everyone leaves their doors open for brews and biscuits. For the best local produce, bypass the supermarket and head to Gillam’s tearoom – their Cumberland rum nicky is made to a 200-year-old recipe.”
Kirkby Lonsdale: Picture-Perfect Living
If you’re seeking quintessential English charm, look no further. The medieval town of Kirkby Lonsdale, perched above the River Lune, offers views so stunning that Turner painted them and Ruskin praised them. The town centre is a conservation area, packed with characterful buildings and independent shops. Despite its timeless appearance, it’s remarkably well-connected, sitting at the intersection of Cumbria, Lancashire, and Yorkshire.
A Local’s Insight: “The Sunday morning walk from Devils Bridge to Ruskin’s View is a local tradition – but go early before the visitors arrive. We all do our shopping at Boots the Butcher, where they still hang the game in the window, and Plato’s bakery for their legendary sticky toffee bread and butter pudding.”
Brampton: Northern Tranquility
For those who prefer to be slightly off the beaten track, Brampton offers peaceful living with easy access to both the Lake District and Hadrian’s Wall. This market town maintains a genuine working community feel, with property prices that won’t make your eyes water. The surrounding countryside is less visited than the central Lakes but no less beautiful, with the romantic ruins of Lanercost Priory and the wild beauty of Geltsdale nearby.
A Local’s Insight: “Everyone thinks the action is all down in the Lakes, but we’ve got our own treasures up here. The walk along Hadrian’s Wall at sunset is magical – and you’ll often have it to yourself. The Saturday market is the heart of the community – that’s where all the gossip gets exchanged over Cumberland sausage butties.”
Modern Developments In Traditional Settings
While Cumbria’s charm often lies in its historic buildings and traditional architecture, the region isn’t frozen in time. New developments are thoughtfully appearing across these communities, designed to complement their surroundings while offering modern comfort and energy efficiency. Searching for new builds in Cumbria can offer a glimpse into the area’s growth and suitability for your needs. From eco-friendly housing estates in Kendal to carefully planned riverside apartments in Cockermouth, these newer options often come with advantages like lower maintenance costs and better energy ratings – particularly welcome during those long Cumbrian winters.
The Bottom Line
Before you pack your bags, remember that Cumbrian life comes with its own challenges. Winters can be long and dark, public transport in rural areas is limited, and some communities can feel isolated. However, if you’re seeking a lifestyle where natural beauty, community spirit, and outdoor adventure combine, these towns offer some of the finest living opportunities in Britain.
The key is to spend time in your chosen location during different seasons. Rent before you buy, chat with locals in the pub, and imagine yourself not just visiting, but truly living there. The Lakes have inspired countless artists, poets, and dreamers over the centuries – perhaps it’s time to write your own Cumbrian story.