Sometimes the best breaks are the ones where you can truly switch off. Hidden River Cabins, tucked into the peaceful Cumbrian countryside, is one of those places. Just a short drive from Carlisle, it feels like another world.
Whether you want time away with loved ones, a memorable wedding setting or simply a good meal, this spot has it all. We spent a weekend discovering the cabins, the stunning wedding barn and the on-site restaurant, and we left already thinking about when we could return.
Cabins by the River
The cabins are the heart of Hidden River. Each log cabin is perched above the River Lyne, with only the sound of the water and the birds for company. They are well spread out so you have complete privacy and each one comes with its own hot tub. Sitting in the bubbling water while watching the river below is a simple pleasure that feels very special.
Inside, the cabins are designed for comfort. There are big sofas to sink into, a wood burner ready to be lit and plenty of space for family or friends. The kitchens are fully equipped so you can cook if you want to, but you might find yourself just enjoying coffee on the deck in the morning and wine by the fire at night. This is a place that encourages slow days and quiet evenings.
What makes these cabins stand out is how flexible they are. They are perfect for a couple looking for a romantic retreat, but just as good for families or groups of friends. Children can play safely in the surrounding woodland and adults can relax without the distractions of everyday life. Dogs are welcome too, which means the whole family can come along. Walks through the woods are even better with a four-legged companion.
If you want to take relaxation a step further, there is also a private sauna on site which overlooks the river. The heat combined with the cool fresh air outside makes for a unique experience and is a great way to unwind. Paired with the hot tub it creates something close to a private spa, only with more peace and a lot less fuss.
Weddings at the Hidden River Barn
Just a short walk from the cabins you find the Hidden River Barn. Once a cattle shed, it has been transformed into one of Cumbria’s most versatile wedding venues. The barn balances rustic charm with modern style, making it a blank canvas for couples to create their perfect day.
The large windows frame views of the river and the surrounding trees, filling the space with natural light. The exposed beams add warmth and character. The beauty of the barn is how flexible it is. It works just as well for large celebrations as it does for smaller, more intimate ceremonies. Step outside and you are right by the river, a setting that makes wedding photos unforgettable without the need for props or filters.
Food and drink are a big part of the wedding experience here. Guests are treated to tasty canapés that are both satisfying and easy to share. The cocktails are another highlight, made with care and always a hit with guests who are ready to celebrate. Together, they set the tone for a relaxed yet stylish reception.
What really shines through at the barn is the atmosphere. It feels welcoming and personal while still being special. Couples can shape the day around their own style, knowing the setting itself will do much of the work. For anyone planning a wedding in Cumbria, this is a venue that deserves to be on the shortlist.
Dining at the Hidden River Café
No trip to Hidden River is complete without eating at the on-site restaurant. The café has a focus on locally sourced produce and the menu changes with the seasons. The setting is relaxed but smart, with large windows that keep the river in view and an atmosphere that makes you want to linger.
We started with the Sweet Potato, Lentil and Spinach Dahl which was full of flavour and comfort. For mains we chose the Rump of Lamb with Potato Rostie, Chorizo and Butternut Squash in a Red Wine Jus. The lamb was perfectly cooked, the rostie crisp and the sauce rich and warming. It was a dish that felt right at home in its surroundings.
Dessert was a Dark Chocolate Tart with Candied Hazelnut and Cappuccino Ice Cream. It was indulgent without being heavy, the tart smooth, the nuts crunchy and the ice cream the perfect finishing touch. It felt like a proper treat at the end of a day spent exploring the woodland.
The café is not just for those staying in the cabins. It is worth visiting in its own right, whether for a special dinner or a relaxed lunch. The staff are friendly, the service is attentive without being over the top and the whole experience leaves you wanting to come back.
Why Hidden River is Special
What makes Hidden River stand out is how it combines different experiences without losing its sense of place. The cabins give you privacy and comfort, the barn offers a stunning wedding setting and the café serves food that celebrates the best of local produce. Add in the riverside sauna and the fact that dogs are welcome, and it becomes a destination that really has something for everyone.
Hidden River Cabins is not just somewhere to stay, it is somewhere to escape to. Whether you are planning a romantic weekend, a family break, a wedding or just a good meal in a beautiful setting, it is a place that stays with you long after you have left.
