Booking a large hot tub cottage means you can have proper group bonding whilst still having everyone under one roof. You can book properties for smaller groups that sleep 12-14 or much larger properties that can sleep up to 22 adults!
Who books these huge properties?
If you’ve ever had the frustration of trying to book multiple smaller cottages you’ll know how difficult it is to coordinate everyone’s arrival times and keep the group together. Booking one big place means flexibility for last-minute changes and everyone can actually spend time together.
The kinds of bookings we see for bigger properties are celebrations:
- Milestone birthdays – 30th, 40th, 50th parties where the whole extended family wants to gather
- Hen and stag weekends – groups of 12-18 friends wanting luxury without the chaos of hotels
- Family reunions – three generations coming together with space for everyone
- Anniversary celebrations – silver, golden wedding anniversaries with children and grandchildren
- Walking and outdoor activity breaks – groups tackling the fells together
- Corporate retreats – team building in stunning surroundings
Hot tubs that actually fit your whole group
The best properties for large groups don’t just add a tiny four-person hot tub as an afterthought. Look for cottages with 8-10 person hot tubs that can genuinely accommodate your party size. Many of the premium properties in places like Windermere and Coniston feature oversized hot tubs specifically designed for group bookings.
Pro tip: Always check the hot tub capacity against your group size. There’s nothing worse than taking turns in pairs when you’ve booked a place for 16!
The best ones we’ve seen include properties with multiple hot tubs (perfect when you’ve got mixed-age groups who might want different relaxation times) and some with both indoor and outdoor options for year-round enjoyment.
Cinema rooms and games spaces that actually work
When you’re dealing with groups of 12-20 people, you need entertainment spaces that scale. The best large hot tub cottages come with proper cinema rooms seating 14-16 people, full-size snooker tables, and multiple lounge areas so different sub-groups can spread out.
Many properties now feature state-of-the-art entertainment systems – we’re talking 108-inch screens with surround sound and iPad-controlled lighting. These aren’t just marketing gimmicks; they’re genuinely transformative for group holidays where weather might keep you indoors.
Look out for: Properties with dedicated games rooms separate from living areas, outdoor space for barbecues, and multiple seating areas. The best setups let half the group soak in the hot tub whilst others are in the cinema or playing pool.
Big cottages. Big outdoor spaces!
Large group cottages in the Lake District typically come with substantial private gardens and outdoor entertainment areas. Many feature outdoor dining spaces for 16+ people, professional barbecue setups, and landscaped grounds that give you privacy even when you’re having a lively celebration.
The hot tub placement matters enormously. The best properties position them to take advantage of fell views whilst maintaining privacy from neighbouring properties. Some properties offer multiple outdoor spaces – maybe a quiet hot tub area for morning coffee and a livelier barbecue space for evening gatherings.
Getting out and about in the Lake District
The Lake District offers something for every type of traveller – from gentle lake cruises perfect for grandparents to adrenaline-pumping ghyll scrambling for thrill-seekers.
Central Lakes – Windermere and Ambleside
There are some outstanding hot tub properties with space for 12-20 guests in this area that offer the perfect base for group activities. Home of England’s largest lake and the bustling town of Ambleside with its excellent shopping and dining scene. Whether you fancy gentle lake cruises, challenging fell walks up to Loughrigg or Red Screes, water sports on Windermere, or simply excellent pub meals after your hot tub session, this area delivers convenience alongside beauty.
Northern Lakes – Keswick and Derwentwater
The northern Lakes region offers dramatic fell scenery and some of the Lake District’s most accessible peaks. Keswick provides excellent facilities including the Theatre by the Lake, Derwent Pencil Museum, and a buzzing market town atmosphere. The area around Derwentwater is perfect for group activities like boat trips and the famous Catbells walk offers stunning views without requiring serious mountain experience.
Western Lakes – Coniston and Langdale
For groups seeking both relaxation and adventure, the western lakes provide the perfect combination. Coniston offers beautiful lake cruises and connections to the Old Man of Coniston for more serious walkers. The Langdale Valley provides some of England’s most spectacular mountain scenery, whilst still being accessible for mixed-ability groups. Many properties here offer particularly good value for large groups.
Southern Lakes – Hawkshead and Grasmere
This region combines literary heritage with outdoor adventure. Hawkshead offers Beatrix Potter connections and excellent traditional pubs, whilst Grasmere provides Wordsworth heritage and some of the most photographed scenery in England. The area works particularly well for multi-generational groups where some prefer gentle cultural visits whilst others tackle the surrounding fells.
Historic houses and gardens
The Lake District and historic houses go together like Cumberland sausage and mash! Your group will find plenty of grand properties to visit that offer insights into centuries of Lake District life. Muncaster Castle provides family-friendly attractions alongside historic interiors, whilst Holker Hall offers beautiful gardens and fascinating collections. Wray Castle (though the indoor playrooms are currently closed) still provides beautiful grounds and lake access. Sizergh Castle offers formal gardens and a working estate, perfect for groups with varying interests. These properties work brilliantly for mixed-age groups – grandparents can enjoy the historic interiors whilst children explore the grounds, and everyone can appreciate the stunning settings that inspired generations of artists and writers.
Outdoor activities
Moving from sightseeing to getting your boots muddy, the Lake District excels at outdoor pursuits for groups.
Fell walking – From gentle lakeside strolls suitable for all ages to challenging peaks like Scafell Pike, there are routes for every ability level. Many walking companies offer guided group walks that can accommodate mixed abilities by offering different route options.
Water activities – Lake Windermere, Coniston Water, and Derwentwater all offer boat hire, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Group bookings often get preferential rates, and it’s a brilliant way to see the lakes from a different perspective.
Ghyll scrambling and canyoning – For groups seeking adrenaline, companies like Path to Adventure offer supervised scrambling experiences that work for ages 6 to 60+. Perfect for building group memories and everyone supports each other through the challenges.
Forest activities – Grizedale Forest offers mountain bike trails, sculpture walks, and adventure courses. Whinlatter Forest provides treetop adventures and stunning viewpoints. Both offer facilities that work well for large groups with parking and cafés.
Adventure centres – Dedicated centres like Newlands Adventure Centre can arrange bespoke packages for large groups, combining multiple activities and catering options. Ideal for corporate groups or celebrations wanting structured activities.
Top tip: Many outdoor activity companies offer group discounts for 12+ people and can arrange transport to and from your cottage. Always mention your group size when enquiring!
Booking accommodation for 16 guests – isn’t that expensive?
Large group hot tub cottages in the Lake District typically cost between £300-800 per night, depending on the property standard and season. Yes, that sounds like a lot until you do the maths: even at £800 for 16 people, that’s £50 per person per night for luxury accommodation with a hot tub and often including cinema rooms, games areas, and stunning locations.
The premium end can reach £1,200+ per night for the most luxurious properties with multiple hot tubs, swimming pools, and exceptional locations, but you’re getting genuinely special experiences that would cost far more if booked as individual hotel rooms.
Most groups split the cost equally, making it remarkably affordable per person. You can also book for long weekends rather than full weeks, giving you flexibility on duration. Many properties offer discounts for longer stays or off-peak periods.
From the owners’ perspective, these properties represent significant investments in terms of maintenance, utilities, and cleaning for large groups. The pricing reflects the genuine costs of providing luxury facilities that can accommodate substantial numbers whilst maintaining high standards.
Bottom line: When you’re creating memories with extended family or close friends in one of England’s most beautiful locations, with everyone together under one roof and a hot tub to relax in after days of adventure, it represents exceptional value for shared experiences that last a lifetime.
Booking tips for large groups
Book well in advance, especially for peak periods like school holidays and summer months. The best large group properties with hot tubs get snapped up quickly. Many booking sites offer price guarantees and member discounts for large properties.
Check the specific amenities – not all “large group” properties are created equal. Look for multiple bathrooms (minimum 1 bathroom per 4 guests), adequate parking for your group size, and properly equipped kitchens for catering to larger numbers.
Consider location carefully. Properties closer to main towns like Windermere and Keswick offer convenience but can be busier. More remote locations provide privacy and stunning views but require more planning for activities and supplies.
Read recent reviews specifically from other large groups. They’ll give you realistic insights into how the property actually works for substantial numbers of people, from hot tub capacity to sleeping arrangements and communal spaces.
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