Luxury Self Catering Lake District Cottage

Tongue Cottage Ullswater, and Outdoor dining area

Tongue Cottage – A one bedroomed, luxury cottage for two

With uninterrupted views looking towards both the Pennines and the Fells over Ullswater in the Lake District, this luxury self catering cottage provides an ideal base to enjoy an unforgettable break at any time of year.

News from Tongue Cottage and Special Offers

Summer is here at Tongue Cottage. We are fortunate to be experiencing the warm spell that the UK currently has, although we don’t get the extreme heat of the South. The sunlight sunlight transforms the landscape, lighting up the fells and valleys in vivid greens and soft golds.

Walking in the summer months – Long, sunlit days and fresh mountain air make summer the perfect time to explore the beauty of the Lake District. From gentle lakeside strolls to more adventurous fell walks, the landscape comes alive with colour, wildlife, and breathtaking views at every turn.

Summer in the Lake District isn’t just about walking—it’s about slowing down. Picnic by the water’s edge, watch the sunset over the fells, or simply enjoy the quiet beauty of nature all around you.

Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, your perfect summer escape starts here.

Summer offer: Book a week or more at Tongue Cottage in July and August and get a night free. There are NO hidden fees… what you see is what you pay!

If you want to discuss the offer, do get in touch.

Sarah & Pete Gardner xx

Call now on 07876490694 or email

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Dating back to 1746, Tongue Cottage is a delightful one bedroomed property in Watermillock. An area of outstanding natural beauty within the Lake District National Park we are only a mile from Ullswater. It provides a unique location for walking, honeymoons, or romantic getaways. Tongue Cottage is perfect for that special anniversary, birthday or simply for those just wanting to relax.

Located next to the owners’ home, but still maintaining solitude and privacy, Tongue Cottage is surrounded by open fields and is a haven for wildlife. Red squirrels regularly visit the gardens, as well as a huge variety of birds – including greater spotted woodpeckers, tawny and barn owls, tree creepers and nuthatches. The natural pond within the grounds regularly attracts herons and greylag geese.

There are walks directly from the doorstep, including Aira Force and Gowbarrow (Airy Crag). Little Mell Fell, one of ‘the Wainwrights’, is directly behind the cottage. Ideal for an evening walk to watch the sun set.

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Tongue Cottage, Ullswater, The Lake District

Living area with exposed beams and stonework

Ullswater

Tongue Cottage is ideally located for exploring the Lake District. Ullswater, one of the most stunning lakes within the National Park is only a mile away. It is perfect for swimming, kayaking/ canoeing, or walking the many paths that run along its shoreline. Alternatively you can book onto one of the Ullswater Steamers that run from various points along the lake in order to experience a different perspective on this incredible landscape.

For those who love walking, many of the popular fells are close, including Place Fell, Hallin Fell, Sheffield Pike, St Sundays Crag and Helvellyn. For those wanting a longer challenge, the 20-mile Ullswater Way passes close to the cottage.

Guest Reviews

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 145 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Amanda 
 5 September 2026
 
 
 Verified Tongue Cottage is just delightful. It has a magical, fairy tale aura despite being perfectly equipped with all the modern trimmings. Set in its own secluded haven, it is the perfect location for exploring the lakes. Sarah and Pete were so welcoming, friendly and warm and even provided a lovely welcome pack of milk, bread, eggs, butter and wine. We couldn’t have asked for more. And Ziggy was the biggest star - a gorgeous ginger tom who stole our hearts!
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Terry 
 13 August 2026
 
 
 Verified Tongue Cottage is the quintessential place to stay for a visit to the Lake District. It's peaceful, in beautiful surroundings, cozy, and central to everything we wanted to do. Sarah and Pete are the perfect hosts...super friendly and full of excellent recommendations. I can't imagine a better base for this trip.
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Emma 
 1 August 2026
 
 
 Verified We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Tongue cottage. The owners Pete and Sarah were very friendly and helpful, and have renovated this gorgeous cottage to an extremely high standard. Everything was spotlessly clean. The surroundings are so peaceful and quiet and just what we needed to re-charge the batteries. We would love to return!
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Brittan 
 29 July 2026
 
 
 Verified Favorite Airbnb I’ve stayed at and can’t wait to return. The place is beautiful, clean, quiet, well equipped and in a great location. Truly wonderful.
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   James 
 26 July 2026
 
 
 Verified We had a fantastic stay at this beautiful cottage. It was the perfect base for exploring the Lake District—we climbed Scafell Pike, enjoyed a swim in Lake Windermere, and completed an incredible ridge walk along Gowbarrow, all within easy reach.The cottage was cosy, comfortable, spotlessly clean, and exceptionally well equipped. After long days out walking, it was the perfect place to come back to and relax. The welcome hamper was a lovely touch and much appreciated.Communication was excellent throughout, and we received a very warm welcome on arrival, making us feel at home from the start.We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this cottage to anyone looking for a peaceful, comfortable base to explore the Lakes. We’d happily stay again!
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Josh 
 22 July 2026
 
 
 Verified ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Truly the most beautiful, well equipped and luxury cottage for our 4 night stay. The bathroom and kitchen are of the highest standard, having everything you need and more. Easily able to cook full meals and a joy to cook in. Pete has done an incredible job converting the cottage, and it really shows. The location is idyllic with a private patio area for evening drinks or BBQ dining. Sarah and Pete are the friendliest and most welcoming host I’ve had the pleasure of meeting, and are passionate about providing the best experience for their guests. I cannot recommend Tongue cottage enough to anyone, and was the perfect backdrop to a romantic getaway. Thank you again both!
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Freya 
 11 July 2026
 
 
 Verified What a beautiful stay at Tongue Cottage. Sarah and Pete made us feel right at home and we loved exploring the beautiful local area. The cottage itself is beautifully done, super comfy bed and lovely shower and bath, it’s in such a peaceful location yet close enough to visit all the best spots in the area. We look forward to coming back!
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Michelle 
 16 June 2026
 
 
 Verified Tongue cottage has been so beautifully and lovingly prepared for guests to enjoy. We loved our stay and the cottage was a wonderful retreat after activities in the Lakes. We highly recommend the cottage for a luxurious relaxing stay.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Charlotte Horrigan 
 1 June 2026
 
 
  We had such a peaceful and tranquil stay here after our wedding in May. Sarah and Pete were so accommodating and were really happy to recommend lots of brilliant places. There is a nice pub within walking distance and a great pizza van/ bar at a nearby campsite. The cottage is gorgeous; they have really thought of every detail and the bed was so comfortable. Such a beautiful part of the country and a wonderful place to stay.
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Toby 
 24 May 2026
 
 
 Verified We just adored Tongue Cottage and had the best time ever. Wonderful place and fabulous hosts. We shall return!!!
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Phoebe 
 11 May 2026
 
 
 Verified Really lovely place, thanks!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Sarah Fellows 
 9 May 2026
 
 
  Had a wonderful bank holiday stay here last weekend. The cottage is stunning , and even though the photos show a gorgeous cotrage it was so much better even with high expectations. Cosy and comfortable for a couple . The standard of furnishings and attention to detail are gorgeous. We cooked during our stay and had everything we required. Welcome pack and enough coffee pods for our stay. Amazing double wood burner and an ample basket of logs as a starter. The bed was super comfy , lovely linen and plenty of towels. Enjoyed numerous soaks in the copper bath. Area is peaceful but not far by car to locations. Loved opening up the curtains to to the pet sheep in the surrounding fields. Sarah & Pete were out of the country but left comprehensive instructions and contact numbers if any issues and even touched base to check we arrived ok.  I honestly cant fault this cottage and cant wait to plan another visit
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Carly 
 7 May 2026
 
 
 Verified WOW!!! It's difficult to find the words to say just how perfect this place is. The cottage, the decor, the view, the location, the host...everything was just wonderful. We've stayed in lots of cottages across the country and this one is my favourite. Sarah was very responsive and sent lots of useful information prior to our arrival. Jeanette, Sarah's friend was looking after the place as Sarah was on holiday, Jeanette was so lovely and friendly - a very interesting lady, we'll be sure to look up your book and keep an eye (or ear)out for your next venture! The location couldn't be better, Ullswater was breathtakingingly beautiful and we will be sure to visit again in the future.
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Suzi 
 18 April 2026
 
 
 Verified Peaceful location, lots of wildlife. Stunning cottage which has been beautifully renovated. Walks straight from the door, view from the bath! Very friendly hosts, made to feel very welcome & at home. There is a quiet bar & pizza 10 minute walk from cottage for evenings you don't want to cook.
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Sherin 
 7 April 2026
 
 
 Verified Wow what a gorgeous spot! We had a such a lovely time at this cottage. It’s very luxurious and has everything you’d need for a comfortable stay plus more (the enormous bath! The incredibly soft sheets!). Sarah and Pete were so hospitable and kind and very warm responsive hosts who went out of their way to make us feel welcome/ gave us a lifts. The cottage is really well situated to feel peaceful and quiet but walking distance from a couple of nice food spots and we easily got the bus for walks including across to Glenridding for Helvellyn. It’s a great cottage for staying toasty and warm when the weather is bad but easy to get out in the mountains when it’s fine.
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Lorraine 
 17 March 2026
 
 
 Verified What a fabulous cottage done to a very high spec. It was like home from home and very well equipped. There were many walks from the cottage and the scenery was fabulous. Sarah & Pete were very warm and welcoming, and nothing was too much trouble. We would definitely return and recommend to family and friends.
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Sally 
 5 March 2026
 
 
 Verified We had a wonderful 3 night stay at Tongue cottage. The interior has been beautifully renovated and redesigned and we felt at home immediately. Thank you to both Sarah and Pete who were both very friendly and welcoming. We will definitely be back and have recommended it to friends and family already!
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Ian 
 15 February 2026
 
 
 Verified What a fantastic cottage and location! Perfect for a long weekend with great walks on your doorstep and a super relaxing cosy cottage. Pete and Sarah have done a wonderful job on restoring this old cottage with lovely details and furnishings to make for a very relaxing stay. Thank you so much!
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Dave 
 5 February 2026
 
 
 Verified We came back to Tongue Cottage once again. The fact we keep coming back should tell you how good this place is. Sarah & Pete are not just good hosts - they’ve become good friends. The cottage is clean, has everything you could ever want, and the views and area are just stunning. Highly recommended to anyone.If you stay, make sure you say hi to Ziggy!
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Sylvain 
 18 January 2026
 
 
 Verified Le cottage est un havre de paix au milieu des champs et de quelques moutons dont quelques Herdwick. Il est superbe et confortable avec une immense baignoire idéale après les balades ainsi qu'un poêle à bois pour les soirées hivernales. La literie est très confortable et les éclairages mettent en valeur le lieu.Un petit cocoon dont il est difficile de partir... Sarah et Pete sont vraiment charmants.
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Audra 
 3 January 2026
 
 
 Verified I absolutely loved my stay here. I came alone for a week to get away and enjoy the countryside, and it was even better than expected. The cottage was cozy, comfortable, and well-equipped, and the surroundings were beautiful. Highly recommend!
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Beth 
 27 December 2025
 
 
 Verified We had a wonderful stay at this cosy cottage in the Lakes. The home is beautifully presented, peaceful, and truly feels like a luxury retreat while still being warm and homely. Everything was spotlessly clean and thoughtfully provided, making it easy to relax from the moment we arrived. The location is perfect for enjoying the surrounding nature and quiet, and the hosts were absolutely lovely, very welcoming, helpful, and responsive without being intrusive. We couldn’t have asked for a better stay and would highly recommend this cottage to anyone looking for a tranquil escape in the Lake District.
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Natalia 
 21 December 2025
 
 
 Verified Fantastic stay in the loveliest cottage! The accommodations were wonderful, very spacious, luxurious fireplace and bathtub were the highlights. Perfect for a romantic getaway exploring the lakes.
  
 
     Posted on Airbnb  
   
   Andrew 
 30 November 2025
 
 
 Verified Just what we needed. The cottage is in an amazing location for some peace and quiet, easy access to walks, and not too far from pubs and shops if you want them (10/15 mins drive)The cottage itself is fantastic, with everything you need for a hideaway.Would highly recommend. Thanks.

So why not book your luxury self catering holiday in the Lake District now?

Guest Book Reviews

We have had a lovely stay in your fabulous cottage! The walk to Aira Force was probably the best walk you could dream of

Dave & SallyAugust 2023

Thank you so much for a wonderful stay in your stunning cottage. It has been the perfect base for our honeymoon!

Rich & DenizJuly 2023

Without doubt this is the best Airbnb we have ever stayed in. You have made us so welcome and made our stay something we will never forget.

Gary & JaneJune 2023

The moment we walked into your cottage it took our breath away. We couldn’t ask for a better place to stay.

Inez & ChrisMay 2023

Stayed in lots of Airbnb’s all over. This one is by far the best one we have ever found. Your attention to detail is fabulous and has made our weekend very special.

Kerry & IanFebruary 2023

We have had such an incredible stay at Tongue Cottage thanks to the incredible job you have done setting up the place.

Gavin & SamMay 2023

One of the best Airbnb’s we have stayed in. This will be our ‘go to’ rental when coming back to the Lake District.

AnonJanuary 2023

Luxury Self Catering Lake District Cottage – Tongue Cottage, Ullswater

Tongue Cottage – A one bedroomed, luxury cottage for two

News from Tongue Cottage and Special Offers

View our Cottage

Ullswater

Guest Reviews

So why not book your luxury self catering holiday in the Lake District now?

Guest Book Reviews

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