Jemima Kirkwood
27 January 2020
A brief history of the log cabin
Historians believe that log cabin construction has its roots in Scandinavia and Europe. Most pioneer log cabins were built as a temporary shelter, a simple one-storey structure that often consisted of only one room: a lot less luxurious than what we see today. The oldest style of cabin was built by stacking round logs (tree trunks) on top of one another and overlapping them at the corners, and to make them warmer they would fill in the cracks with mud or moss, which acted as insulation.
When the Scandinavians began to travel and settle in America, they took their skills with them, and over time these skills were developed. In time with the progression of tools and knowledge, families were able to build a new log cabin from the ground up, in just a few days. As time went on, many original log cabins became outbuildings to more traditional houses that were put up by the English, which is ironic as today we see them as an alternative and quirky accommodation option!
Log cabins are most commonly found in Europe, the UK and America, and it is common to hear people talk about Scandinavian influence, and ‘Scandi design’. Throughout the UK, you will find Scandinavian villages where there are clusters of cabins to be enjoyed, but we are lucky enough to have some which stand alone too, offering the privacy many of you seek. Here are some of our coolest and quirkiest log cabins in the Lake District.
A luxury log cabin with heaps of charm
This luxurious log cabin is ideal for a small group of friends or a good prospect for a romantic couple’s retreat. Inside, you will notice the walls reflect traditional building methods as the rounded logs stack on top of each other, adding to the authenticity of the cabin.
The warming hues of the wood interior give an all-round cosy feeling, which is only enhanced by the wood burner in the open-plan living space. The raised kitchen adds a cool dimension to the room and the balcony offers a lovely place to sit and take in the countryside while dining alfresco.
Location: Near Ulverston
Facilities
- Two double bedrooms
- Open fire / wood burner
- Internet access
- Towels included
- Travel cot and high chair included
A family log cabin to rent in the lakes
In the same location as Lower Orchard Cabin, this one adopts a different layout but shares the same high standard of furnishing and comfort throughout. All on one level, this cabin has three gorgeous bedrooms and two bathrooms, one with a roll-top bath and one with a standing shower.
The views out over the countryside are charming and can be enjoyed from most of the rooms as well as the decked balcony set at the front of the cabin. The BBQ makes for long evenings outside enjoying good food!
Location: Near Ulverston
“An amazing log cabin with plenty of space and a lovely open-plan living area so you can all spend time together. Very quiet location yet only 45 minutes’ walk from Ulverston. Gorgeous wood burner. Main bathroom has large roll-top bath for a long soak after a day of walking. Relaxing and lovely.” Stinus, 2019
Facilities
- Three super-king-size bedrooms
- Parking available at front of cabin
- Open fire / wood burner
- Internet access
- Towels included
A log cabin for romantic retreats
And the third lodging in this subtle complex is Upper Orchard Cabin. This detached luxury cabin is perfect for romantic breaks and countryside holidays with your friends. Sharing the same layout with Lower Orchard Cabin, it is stylishly decorated and thoughtfully laid out to provide a lovely sociable space to those that come and stay.
All three cabins have been hand scribed from locally sourced wood from the estate that was once owned by Beatrix Potter! They are set on beautiful grounds with an abundance of wildlife around them and they are even close to local pubs and restaurants for those nights off cooking!
Location: Near Ulverston
Facilities
- Two double bedrooms
- Open fire / wood burner
- Internet access
- Towels included
- These three cabins could be booked together to accommodate a party of up to 14 guests
A dog-friendly log cabin in the woods
This is an ideal base for you to discover and explore the Lake District; the lodge is near the shore of Lake Windermere, situated on a private holiday park located between the beautiful villages of Windermere and Ambleside. Inside there is a living area complete with kitchen, dining and lounging spaces. With windows all around, you are able to relax in this comfortable space whilst taking in the views of woodland and trees around you. You can also enjoy the peaceful setting from the bubbling hot tub!
The villages of Bowness and Ambleside are close by and the fact that there are plenty of shops and eateries within walking distance means you have plenty of options for nights where you don’t want to cook!
Location: Windermere
Facilities
- Two double bedrooms, one bunk bedroom
- Shared indoor heated swimming pool, spa bath, sauna, steam room and gym
- Shared children’s play facility with swings and slide
- Internet access
- Two dogs welcome
A wooden lodge with a view
Apple Lodge is situated on the edge of the idyllic village of Hawkshead. Sleeping six people, it boasts an amazing location with great walks and cycle routes, making this the perfect destination for family holidays. Nestled beside two other log cabins, it enjoys a peaceful setting with views over Hawkshead and the hill beyond, and the terrace offers a nice place to sit and enjoy the sunshine.
The three spacious bedrooms offer a comfy night’s sleep whilst the open-plan living space is perfect for sociable times. Beatrix Potter fans won’t want to miss the village’s gallery, where some of her early illustrations are on display!
Location: Hawkshead Village
“A great chalet for families - the bedrooms were a good size and the lounge area was comfortable. We really liked the feel of the chalet and especially its location in Hawkshead.” – Claire 2019
Facilities
- Complex of cabins
- One double bedroom, two twin bedrooms
- TV/DVD/CD player
- Parking for two cars
- Pear Lodge (sleeps 6) sits next door and can be booked alongside Apple Lodge or separately
Book a stay in a Lake District log cabin today...
These wooden lodges offer you the perfect log cabin break in the Lake District. There is something really special about staying somewhere wild, and a log cabin in the wilderness just makes you feel closer to nature than you would if you were staying in a hotel or B&B. The wooden surroundings offer a quirky alternative to your traditional English cottage, and quite often in the winter can feel cosier. Book a break today in one of our log cabins in Cumbria, and make it a holiday to remember!
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.