The best luxury villas for rent in Cumbria

A retreat to the English countryside is so much more than just a holiday. It’s a chance to slow down and reconnect with the beauty of nature, to leave behind the fast pace of life in the city and immerse yourself in a world of rural beauty.

Whether you’re taking a slow ramble over rolling hills and through green fields or reading a classic novel beside a crackling fireplace, life in the country gives us a chance to enjoy a moment of peace and rejuvenation. And few places embody this sense of serenity than Cumbria, a county that has inspired painters, poets, and novelists for centuries.

With its rocky fells, glistening lakes, pretty market towns and wonderful wildlife, Cumbria is a veritable natural paradise. It’s also home to some of the most charming luxury villa rentals in the country, giving you the perfect base to explore the great outdoors.

At Rural Escapes, we’ve handpicked two exceptional properties that offer the perfect blend of quintessential English countryside charm and exclusive luxury.

Abbott Moss, Cumbria, UK

An authentic slice of English countryside style, this stunning three-bedroom Victorian cottage is nestled within a 5,000 acre estate in Cumbria’s lush Eden Valley, an unspoilt, secluded region that offers the ideal base for relaxation and adventure. 

Interiors blend traditional features with a touch of the eclectic, with vibrant textiles, vintage wallpaper and eye-catching art bringing beautiful harmony of contemporary and classic design. Abbot Moss even comes with your very own private lake. It’s the perfect place for tranquil moments, such as fly-fishing at dawn or savouring the stillness beside the calm water's edge. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, bring your kayak and stand-up paddle boards and glide across the glassy water. See inside

Sampson’s Cave, Cumbria, UK

Set on the private Lazenby Estate on the banks of the River Eden, this sublime seven-bedroom house is the perfect base for large families or groups looking to explore the very best of Cumbria. Stylish, spacious interiors are bathed in light, with classic fabrics, textures, furnishings, and family memorabilia that bring a sense of cosiness to this grand country villa. Bedrooms offer ample space, plenty of natural lights and sweeping views across the fells.

You’ll delight in the lush, expansive grounds, perfect for family gatherings and long nature walks. Keep an ear out for  the occasional steam train on the nearby Settle-Carlisle line. You can even take a ramble beside the railway line or enjoy a family picnic beside the rushing Eden River for a quintessential English countryside experience. Find out more

Step back into a world of timeless beauty with a Rural Retreats stay. We have a collection of some of the finest villas to rent in Europe, from the UK to Spain, France and beyond.