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Entire home

Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions.

Lakefront cottage with kitchen and balcony

Photo gallery for Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions.

Exterior
Fridge, microwave, oven, dishwasher
Outdoor dining
1 bedroom, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
Fridge, microwave, oven, dishwasher
In the heart of the Lake District, Duke of Portland Boathouse offers a romantic retreat with views of Lake Ullswater and the fells from its balcony or bedroom patio doors. This iconic boathouse features an open-plan layout, bespoke kitchen, wood burning stove and luxurious slate shower room. Enjoy private fishing rights on its own jetty.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 235 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space
  • Free WiFi
  • Mountain view
The current price is AU$873
includes taxes & fees
25 Nov - 26 Nov

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions.

This unique, iconic, luxury cottage is an 'ideal honeymoon cottage in a location to die for', stunning views of Lake Ullswater and the fells can be viewed whilst relaxing on the balcony of this traditional boathouse or from the bedroom through the patio doors.

Unsurprisingly, the Duke of Portland Boathouse has been voted "the best waterside retreat" by BBC Countryfile Magazine! It's location at the top of Ullswater gives it superb, unparalleled views across this beautiful lake.

It is one of the most iconic and most photographed buildings in the Lake District. The boathouse originally belonged to the 3rd Duke of Portland in the 18th century but he had to sell it along with his Cumberland estates to pay his legal bills. His loss is our gain!

Park beside the boathouse and climb the steps to enter a unique, romantic and cosy interior that provides everything needed for a perfect stay at every time of the year. Shades of Farrow and Ball are mixed with sumptuous furnishings and luxury fabrics.

The boathouse has an open plan layout with magnificent cruick beams and underfloor heating beneath a rustic oak floor and comprises:-
The bespoke painted kitchen with granite work tops provides all you need with a generous breakfast bar and comfortable stools for intimate dining a deux. There is an LPG oven and hob, microwave, dishwasher, fridge, coffee machine (accepts vertuo nespresso coffee pods, not provided.) After dining you can sit back and relax on a sumptuous leather sofa in front of the wood burning stove. Smart TV and Bluetooth sound system are all provided for your entertainment. Unwind in the luxurious slate shower room with overhead shower, WC and hand basin. Fluffy towels and bathrobes are provided together with a range of toiletries. Enjoy the views down the length of the lake from the romantic bedroom. You can gaze out at a starlit sky from the comfortable king size bed with luxurious Egyptian Cotton bedding or relax in the slipper bath sipping a glass of champagne! Double doors open onto the balcony from which you can truly experience the breathtaking views! An amazing place to enjoy breakfast or just sit and contemplate the beautiful surroundings and its wildlife. Cosy rugs are provided for chillier evenings! The boathouse also has its own private jetty and owns a quarter of a mile of lakeshore with fishing rights. If you are tempted out of the boathouse, the renowned Another Place Hotel is a short drive down the lakeside for fine dining. Alternatively there are traditional Cumbrian pubs in nearby Pooley Bridge.PLEASE NOTE: Dogs are not accepted at this property.

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • TV

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Garden

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • Service animals only (pets not allowed)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • On a lake

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Garden
  • Property does not allow children
  • Unit size: 377 square feet

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Exterior

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9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, 125 reviews
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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed (service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees)

Children and extra beds

This property does not allow children

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Property is also known as

527731
Vrbo Property

About the area

Map
Ullswater, Cumbria

What's nearby

  • Ullswater - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Dalemain - 4 min drive - 5.6 km
  • Rheged - 6 min drive - 8.2 km
  • Penrith Castle - 8 min drive - 11.4 km
  • Lowther Castle and Gardens - 9 min drive - 9.6 km

Getting around

  • Penrith Station - 11 min drive
  • Carlisle (CAX) - 43 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪The Rooster - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Arturo Lounge - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Cafe St Oswalds - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions. pet-friendly?

No, only service animals are welcome at the property.

How much does it cost to stay at Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions.?

As of 2 Nov 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions. on 25 Nov 2025 start from AU$873.17, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What time is check-in at Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions.?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions.?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions. located?

Situated on a lake, this cottage is steps from Ullswater and within 3 mi (5 km) of Dalemain and Dalemain Country Park. Rheged and Gowbarrow Fall are also within 6 miles (10 km).

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Reviews

Luxury, romantic boathouse on the shores of Lake Ullswater, perfect for special occasions. Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

9.6

Cleanliness

9.6

Location
Rating 10 - Excellent. 43 out of 56 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 12 out of 56 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 56 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 56 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 56 reviews

Reviews

This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

So much more....

We stayed at the boathouse as a base for cycling, walking and exploring but it really was so much more... We swam from the slipway, fished from the jetty and watched the birds and the fish and the lake and the view. We really were Duke and Duchess for our short but memorable stay.

10/10 Excellent

Sue K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A piece of heaven

A beautiful 4 day stay in a gorgeous location. Very relaxing with stunning scenery. Easy to book and excellent clear arrival details. The boathouse is so unique with care paid to every detail to make our stay so enjoyable. We will recommend to friends and family.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

melody u.

Perfect

Fabulous location. Very cosy and the views are awesome. We managed to sit out on the balcony sipping the complimentary bubbles even in February!!!!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kate F.

Spectacular!

Just the perfect night away. Of course what a wonderful view. But also the Boathouse is comfortable, cosy and has everything you need to make your stay enjoyable and very relaxing. We would definitely return.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

The Boat House

The Duke of Portland Boat House is a little gem situated in a prime position overlooking the Lake at Ullswater. It’s an intimate setting for two, with all amenities including a lovely log fire. Whilst the main road is just to the front of the property, you are not affected by the sound from it, however it was a little disappointing to learn on arrival that the Boat House doesn’t command the privacy it portrays on the photos and you could not be on the balcony looking over the lake without feeling somewhat overlooked, by cars and hikers. That aside, it was an amazing place
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Magical

Had an amazing night. Everything perfect. The bath with the views was a wonderful experience. A magical place to stay and so warm and cozy. Had the opportunity to kayak in the morning directly from the house and the views and tranquility of the lake were amazing. A hidden gem To put on your bucket list of places to stay. Thank you for the champagne to add to a perfect stay.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

gail c.

Dream come true

I have driven past this boathoyse every year since childhood and finally got the chance to stay. It was everything I expected and more. I could have spent the whole of my time just sitting on the balcony, the view is amazing and so relaxing listening to the water below and watching the ducks. I would love to return in the winter and sit in front of the wood burner, it would be so cosy. Highly recommend staying here.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

One of my Bucket List- Spectacular Experience

A perfect location from the moment you open the big wooden door you know you have arrived in a spectacular & special place. I did not want to leave! I had a wonderful swim in the lake & then warmed up in the indulging cooper bath. The evening was spent sipping the delicious complimentary wine eating dinner on the balcony whist watching the views. A few fighter jets wild swimmers & ducks. The bed was super comfortable & the little touches of the robes slippers & toiletries were appreciated. A bucket list dream at last I have ticked off & you didn’t disappoint Duke of Portland Boathouse Highly recommended.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Beautiful stay, stunning views

I booked 2 nights at the beautiful Boathouse. This was a real treat for me cause the price was way over my budget. But it was a birthday treat and I’ve been admiring this place for years! I opted for 2 nights because the 1 night option gives you very limited time. 3pm check in and a early 10am check out. I appreciate that cleaning etc needs to take place for the next guest but it’s very costly for 19 hours. The location is just stunning, it is pretty close to the road but once you are inside you just focus on the stunning lake view! The interior is lovely, bed is very comfy. The freestanding bath is bloody lovely Would certainly recommend, beautiful place, stunning views, great location!!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

6/10 Okay

Be advised

Firstly be aware this cottage has no sign stating Portland boathouse so if and when you eventually find it then well done. Secondly the entrance and exit to the property is precarious at best, due to its location right next to a blind bend on a busy main road, this is NOT advertised!! Thirdly be aware of low beams in property I’m 6ft so not overly tall but still managed to bang and cut my head on one! Needless to say no beware low beams anywhere. Lastly for the price you’d expect Wi-Fi??
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

50th Birthday trip away

We have been holidaying in pooley bridge for over 17 years and the boat house was always on our list to stay at and my 50th was a perfect time to book it,I have pictures on my kitchen wall that we have purchased over the years,the location is amazing the view is stunning and it is great to lay in bed and view the lake through the window The balcony is beautiful and great to sit and drink champagne on We booked the boat trip with John that is listed in the website and it was amazing John is very knowledgeable and friendly The only small negative points are it was very dusty I understand it’s a boat house with drafts but there is a lot of dust on shelf’s and underneath of the bed is all damaged and dusty the frying pan is rusty and dirty the fan in the bathroom needs replacing it squeals loudly when you turn the light on and after 5 mins starts to get quieter but is a pain in the middle of the night a few kitchen utensil need replacing due to been broken Small simple things But the view from the boat house side of the lake was worth the 17 year wait
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Idyllic and breathtaking place

This place is what dreams are made of. Its beautiful in its setting, the interior wows you as you enter and the surrounding views and nature takes your breath away. I had been looking at the Boathouse for a while and it exceeded all expectation. There were swallows nesting in the eaves so we got to watch them feeding their young. It was exceptionally clean and a nice touch was a bottle of bubbly in the fridge. We are planning our next trip...no more words needed!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Duke of Portland Boathouse

Beautiful, unique property in the most stunning location. Stayed for two nights in this lovely home. Tastefully and sympathetically restored with the most gorgeous furnishings. Looking out over the lake was just amazing! Will definitely be back!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Absolutely beautiful one night stay!

I was extremely lucky to have won a one night stay in a facebook competition! We arrived on a cold and sunny day with the snow still on the ground and the views were breathtaking! It is a gorgeous boathouse outside, and the inside doesn't disappoint either! It was very clean, beautifully decorated and had everything we needed for our break! I loved the copper bath and we enjoyed getting cosy by the wood burning fire! We slept with the shutters open so we were able to wake up with views across the lake....stunning!! I cant remember the last time we both felt so relaxed. I can imagine the boathouse being an amazing place to stay any time of year. Thank you for your hospitality :)
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Fiona M.

Wow! Just perfect

Thank you so much David, Julia, and Gail. We have always wanted to stay at the Boathouse so treated ourselves for our 25th wedding anniversary and were not disappointed. The boathouse lived up to our expectations, and more. Well equipped, warm and a real treat. We enjoyed walks from the boathouse each day, took in the views from the balcony over the Lake late afternoon/early evening (wrapped in the blankets thoughtfully supplied), enjoyed soaking in the copper bath, and relaxed in the warm interior in the evening! Bed was super comfy too and made for a lovely deep sleep. We will be booking again I'm sure!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Beautiful property in perfect location

Beautiful location,charming property ,near a small village with lovely pubs and coffee shops ,highly recommended
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Lisa Brooks

Duke of Portland

This is a beautifully appointed boathouse set in a stunning location. We were welcomed with a complimentary bottle of champagne to make our arrival very special. The boathouse is set on the main road and the balcony is exposed to the east side road traffic. A note of caution to future visitors is to take care driving on to the property as it is on a bend and should only be entered by driving beyond the property and then turning around. A very dangerous corner.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

An amazing place to stay

An amazing place in a location to die for. Small but perfectly formed as the saying goes and lots of little extra touches to add to the general feeling of indulgence. Loved it. Gave 4 not 5 stars on customer service only because I kept getting contradictory information on check in and out times. I'd suggest that anyone staying parks in the layby opposite rather than on the drive as reversing out of the drive just after a bend in the road is best avoided if possible
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Tabby K.

A perfect little getaway…

I’ve had my eye on staying at the boathouse for years and finally found the opportunity. It was as good as I anticipated. Beautifully renovated with lovely, comfortable facilities. The location is superb and allows for free swimming in the lake which I enjoyed - even if it was cold! It was the perfect distraction from life and a getaway I will definitely be repeating. Thank you.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

A lovely hideaway on Ullswater

I stayed at the boathouse for 3 days, and found it to be delightful. All amenities were modern & covered my expectations. The weather was inclement, but the underfloor heating was soothing, as was watching the waterside life from the terrace ( well wrapped up ) I guess my only complaint was the entrance. Right on a blind bend a little bit scary at times
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Maria W.

An iconic boathouse stay

We were very excited to stay in the boathouse given its prominence on nearly every photograph taken of Ullswater. We know the lake and the surrounding areas very well and have always wanted to stay here. It is very well furnished and very comfortable, although I would have traded the sparkling wine for a few more binbags! The bedding, towels etc are all top range, it is very clean and there is everything you need for a comfortable stay. Two issues I would mention - it is noisier than I expected. The road is very close and the generator is often running so sitting out on the deck is not quite as idyllic as I had imagined. Also, driving or walking out of the boathouse can be treacherous as you are on a blind bend. I wouldn't recommend it for anyone who is not able to sprint across the road!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Beverly S.

A dream place to stay...

Beautiful location Outstanding balcony views Beautifully, thoughtfully furnished Interior very clean Very comfortable quality bed Everything you could need inside for a relaxing, romantic stay. Good self catering facilities However....The outside, especially around the balcony was covered in masses of thick cobwebs. I understand why and how this happens...but ithe balcony needs more frequent cleaning. In order to make it a more comfortable place to be, I dusted the cobwebs off whilst I was there. For the price we paid, I did not expect to have to do that. The property is on a bend in the road...be careful...and park in the layby opposite...It's safer. Traffic noise from the main road behind the boatshed could be an issue for some people...but the positives of this property far outweigh the few negatives....therefore, I have reflected this in my scores for value for money....
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Joanne T.

Boathouse Bolthole

We very much enjoyed our stay at The Duke of Portland. Swimming in Ullswater at dawn and viewing the Northern Lights and a shooting star from the deck gave us incredible memories. The Boathouse itself is very highly presented. Luxurious touches such as the magnificent copper bath, robes, slippers and complimentary champagne made it even more special. The wonderful property does suffer for being on a bend on a busy road, but the Lake District is a popular holiday and watersport destination. When the traffic subsides however, you are cocooned in a beautiful building in a special location
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Joanne B.

Amazing Location

3 night stay in April and we were very lucky to see blue skies. The boathouse is furnished in a traditional style with some lovely modern touches. Walking to the sound of the water and the view of the lake and mountains was unforgettable. Pooley Bridge is a short walk away but be careful of traffic as you leave the boathouse it is a busy road.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

A unique and beautiful place to stay with stunning views and a peaceful ambience.

We had an amazing time at the boathouse. A unique and beautiful place to stay with stunning views and a peaceful ambience. We were impressed with the cleanliness and the duck food was a lovely touch! Highly recommended, we would love to stay again.