Duddon Villa has been awarded the prestigious 5-Stars Award (10 years running) and the Gold Award by Visit England
Duddon Villa is a large, Victorian, stone-built, villa on the shore of the beautiful Duddon Estuary in the Western Lake District. Recently fully renovated, it provides accommodation to the English Tourist Board’s highest standards of quality and attention to detail for up to twelve guests, blending original features and furnishings with modern comfort and amenities.
The spacious accommodation includes large reception rooms, games room, contemporary country kitchen, five bedrooms (4 are en-suite - 3 doubles and 2 triples) and a large family bathroom. Outside are large garden areas, ample parking and magnificent coastal and mountain views.
The large Games Room comes with a billiard table, Space Invaders, darts, Nintendo Wii, Sky TV and Wi-Fi
12 guests · 5 bedrooms · 9 beds · 5 bathrooms
A new addition for 2024 is the hot tub, perfect for unwinding and taking in the stunning scenery.
The stunning scenery of the Western Lake District, carrying the marks of occupation from ancient times, inspires everyone who comes here. Landscape, heritage and community give the area a charm that few other places can match.
The fells provide excellent walking, the rivers and coast are great for fishing and there’s plenty of scope for beach and watersports at both Millom and neighbouring Haverigg, where speedboats are not subject to restrictions present on the National Park Lakes.
Monuments range from the wonderful and mysterious Swinside stone circle (the sunken kirk), through solid sandstone abbeys to contemporary steel and glass edifices in the redeveloped harbours and marinas of the west coast. Industrial heritage is well represented, particularly mining and shipbuilding; especially important in the history of Duddon Villa.
Millom town was the Klondike of its age. The legacy of this time is seen in the grand banks of the market square. Today the banks remain, alongside a good range of small shops.
During your stay the family can offer 1000m of private pier. From here you can launch your boat, ski or windsurfer free of charge, or for a quieter life, cast your rod for a spot of fishing. There’s plenty of space for everyone.
We are able to advise on local activities, walking routes and riding stables. We are also pleased to offer painting activity holidays with a well known local artist and tutor.
Our Home, Our Family and Its History
Borwick Rails · Millom · Cumbria · LA18 4JU
Thomas Barlow-Massicks (1832–1908), who lived at Duddon Villa and helped build Millom’s iron industry.
Welcome to Duddon Villa. We are the McMeekin family, and we are delighted to share a little of the history of this house and the place that has meant so much to us for more than fifty years.
Duddon Villa is not simply a holiday property to us. It has been our family home, a restoration project, and a place filled with memories. We hope that, while you are here, you will enjoy its character and surroundings as much as we do.
Duddon Villa is believed to have been built in 1867 for Thomas Barlow-Massicks and his family. He was closely connected with the growth of the Millom iron industry, and the house stood in a remarkable position overlooking the Duddon Estuary, within reach of the ironworks, railway and piers that helped shape the area.
The story of Millom is inseparable from iron ore mining and the sea. For many years the mines, furnaces, railway and coastal trade provided work for local families. When the mines closed in 1968, the area changed profoundly. Duddon Villa, too, had fallen into disrepair by the time our family came here.
In 1973 our family bought Duddon Villa when it was derelict. We could see beyond the condition of the building to the home it could become. Restoring it took a great deal of work, but it gave the house a future and became a place where our family lived for more than thirty years.
Today the McMeekin family remains the owner of Duddon Villa, together with approximately 38 acres of surrounding land. We feel privileged to care for this part of the Cumbrian coastline and to pass its stories on to the people who stay here.
Our family’s connection with Millom goes beyond the house. We also bought Hodbarrow Pier and Millom Pier and were involved in ship-breaking there. These sites, once associated with the movement of iron ore and other industrial cargoes, took on another working life as vessels were brought in to be dismantled and their materials recovered.
One of the most memorable arrivals was the frigate HMS Ajax, shown in our family photograph coming in towards Millom Pier to be scrapped. For us, this image captures an extraordinary moment in the area’s maritime history: a former naval ship arriving on a coast already shaped by generations of industry.
Ship-breaking was demanding industrial work, and it forms an important part of our family’s story and of the changing uses of the Millom waterfront.
Around twenty years ago, we turned Duddon Villa from our family home into self-catering holiday accommodation. It gave the house another chapter, allowing other families and friends to make their own memories here. We have continued to care for the property while welcoming visitors to this special corner of Cumbria.
There is one thing that has never changed: the view. From Duddon Villa, the estuary opens out towards the mountains and fells, with light and weather constantly changing the landscape. Some of our visitors have called it the best view in the world. We certainly understand why.
The surrounding 38 acres give the house a wonderful sense of space. On clear nights, the open skies can be full of stars; on rare occasions, the Northern Lights may be visible too. Whether it is a bright summer evening, a winter sunrise or the quiet of the estuary at dusk, there is always something worth stopping to admire.
Michael McMeekin is now retired, having spent more than fifty years caring for Duddon Villa and its surrounding land. His hard work and dedication have helped preserve this historic house and its unique setting for future generations.
Today, his daughter Jenny Brumby runs Duddon Villa, continuing the family tradition of welcoming guests and ensuring the house remains a special place for families and friends to enjoy.
Although Duddon Villa has changed over the years, it remains very much a McMeekin family home at heart. We are proud of its history, our family’s connection to Millom’s industrial and maritime heritage, and the opportunity to share this beautiful part of Cumbria with others.
We hope your time at Duddon Villa is restful, happy and memorable. Thank you for being part of the continuing story of our family home, and for helping us keep this historic house alive for future generations.
With warm wishes,
Michael, Jenny and the McMeekin Family
A collection of photos taken from within and around Duddon Villa to help you become familiar.
Book directly with us – just call or email using the details in Contact & Booking below.
We provide all guests with a complimentary welcome hamper on arrival. We try to tailor the contents to each group’s requirements and will discuss this when you book.
A maximum of 2 extra guests may be accommodated by prior arrangement only.
Terms and Conditions of Bookings
Prices include bedding, towels and heating
Festive availability
Festive availability
From breathtaking coastlines and historic castles to stunning walks and fascinating museums – all within about 30 miles of Duddon Villa, perfect for day trips during your stay.
1.8 miles · 4 min
Watersports village with a lagoon and beach – sailing, wind-surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding and more. Plus the Lakes Aqua Park, an inflatable assault course on the water for all ages.
Photo: Alexander P Kapp, CC BY-SA 2.0
2 miles · 5 min
An RSPB reserve with reedbeds, dunes, a lagoon and the old Hodbarrow lighthouse. A haven for wildlife and a peaceful place to explore.
Photo: Perry Dark, CC BY-SA 2.0
In Millom
A modern, versatile theatre in the heart of Millom and home of Moore Arts: Millom, a company dedicated to developing young talent in the community through the arts.
5 miles · 12 min
A beautiful sandy beach, perfect for a family day out – paddling, rock pooling or simply relaxing by the sea.
Photo: Perry Dark, CC BY-SA 2.0
5 miles · 12 min
A rewarding fell walk with magnificent panoramic views. On a clear day you can see five kingdoms – England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland and the Isle of Man.
7 miles · 14 min
A mysterious and atmospheric prehistoric stone circle with stunning views across the Duddon Estuary and the Lake District fells.
16 miles · 26 min
Explore 800 years of history in this stunning castle set in beautiful woodland and gardens. Home to the Hawk & Owl Centre with daily bird of prey displays.
16 miles · 26 min
A charming Lakeland village on Coniston Water. Enjoy boating, scenic walks, the Ruskin Museum and relaxing cafés and pubs.
Photo: Neil Theasby, CC BY-SA 2.0
17 miles · 28 min
England’s oldest narrow gauge railway. Enjoy a scenic steam train ride through the Eskdale Valley.
Photo: David Dixon, CC BY-SA 2.0
19 miles · 29 min
A beautiful beach at the start (or end!) of Alfred Wainwright’s famous Coast to Coast Walk. Great for beach days and coastal walks.
Photo: Steve Fareham, CC BY-SA 2.0
21 miles · 32 min
One of the UK’s best collections of classic cars, motorbikes and motoring memorabilia, near the southern tip of Windermere.
Photo: Christine Matthews, CC BY-SA 2.0
21 miles · 32 min
A heritage railway with steam and diesel trains running between Lakeside and Haverthwaite. Perfect for families and train enthusiasts.
Photo: Alexander P Kapp, CC BY-SA 2.0
21 miles · 32 min
Discover amazing freshwater and marine life and underwater displays at Lakeside. A great indoor attraction for all the family, whatever the weather.
Photo: Richard Cooke, CC BY-SA 2.0
22 miles · 33 min
Explore the impressive ruins of one of England’s largest Cistercian abbeys, set in beautiful countryside near Barrow-in-Furness.
Photo: Rob Noble, CC BY-SA 2.0
27 miles · 56 min
A stunning valley with dramatic mountain scenery, Wast Water and fantastic walking routes – one of the quietest and most scenic valleys in the Lake District.
Photo: Brian Deegan, CC BY-SA 2.0
28 miles · 42 min
Spectacular red sandstone cliffs and clifftop walks at the start (or end!) of Alfred Wainwright’s famous Coast to Coast Walk.
Photo: David Medcalf, CC BY-SA 2.0
33 miles · 45 min
Two museums a short walk apart in Whitehaven: discover the town and its people at The Beacon on the harbour, then the dramatic tale of its rum-smuggling past at The Rum Story.
thebeacon-whitehaven.co.uk rumstory.co.uk
Photo: habiloid, CC BY-SA 2.0
Distances are approximate driving distances from Duddon Villa (LA18 4JU) via the fastest route. For more ideas, maps and local tips, just ask – we’re happy to help!
Cafés, takeaways, bakeries and country pubs in Millom, Haverigg and the villages nearby – whether you fancy a full English, fish and chips by the sea or a Sunday roast.
Full English breakfasts, homemade pies, burgers, paninis, sandwiches, milkshakes, kids’ meals and Sunday roast dinners.
9 St George’s Terrace, Millom
Photo for illustration: Acabashi, CC BY-SA 4.0
Locally sourced meats, homemade pies and sausages, cooked meats, ready meals and BBQ packs.
28 Wellington Street, Millom
Photo for illustration: Mutney, CC BY 4.0
Barista coffee, teas, homemade cakes and sweet treats, bubble tea, milkshakes and ice cream. A disability-inclusive employment café.
51 Wellington Street, Millom
Photo for illustration: Guillaume Speurt, CC BY-SA 2.0
Traditional Indian curries, tandoori dishes, biryanis, vegetarian options, naan breads and rice dishes. Eat in or take away.
Market Square, Millom LA18 4HZ
Photo for illustration: Orderinchaos, CC BY-SA 3.0
Kebabs, pizzas, burgers, chicken, chips, garlic bread and meal deals.
2 Wellington Street, Millom
Photo for illustration: Aethonatic, CC0
Italian-style pizzas, pasta dishes, risotto, garlic bread and desserts. Eat in or take away.
Market Square, Millom LA18 4HZ
Photo for illustration: Punch Pizza, CC BY 2.0
A traditional pub with real ales and a wide selection of drinks.
Devonshire Road, Millom
Photo for illustration: Jon Sullivan, Public domain
Traditional fish and chips, sausages, burgers, peas, curry sauce and kids’ meals.
Bayview, Millom LA18 5BJ
Photo for illustration: Matthias Meckel, CC BY-SA 4.0
Pizzas, garlic bread, burgers, kebabs, wraps, sides and desserts.
5 Market Square, Millom
Photo for illustration: Swathi Sri Srinivasa Raghavan, CC0
Fish and chips, homemade pies, sausages, mushy peas, curry sauce and soft drinks.
Wellington Street, Millom LA18 4DE
Photo for illustration: Grendelkhan, CC BY-SA 4.0
Classic Chinese dishes including sweet & sour, chow mein, Szechuan dishes, spring rolls, egg-fried rice and vegetarian meals.
28 Lapstone Road, Millom
Photo for illustration: Gannu03, CC BY-SA 4.0
Freshly baked bread, cakes, pies, pasties, scones, sandwiches and traybakes.
Holborn Hill, Millom
Photo for illustration: Willis Lam, CC BY-SA 2.0
Artisan breads, savoury pastries, cakes, sandwiches, breakfast items and locally roasted coffee.
St George’s Terrace, Millom LA18 4DB
Photo for illustration: Alpha from Melbourne, CC BY-SA 2.0
Burgers, loaded fries, mac & cheese, ribs, wings and American-style meals. Eat in or take away.
St George’s Terrace, Millom LA18 4DB
Photo for illustration: Pattaya Patrol, CC BY-SA 4.0
Brunch, bistro meals, sandwiches, cakes and locally roasted coffee, with occasional evening events, bar drinks and themed meals.
Millom Station, Station Road, Millom
Photo for illustration: Bahnfrend, CC BY-SA 4.0
Speciality coffee, milkshakes, frappes, cakes, muffins, brownies and toasties.
St George’s Road, Millom
Photo for illustration: Ashley Van Haeften, CC BY 2.0
Soft-serve ice cream, slushies, sweets, snacks and cold drinks. Seasonal and holiday opening.
Beachfront near Port Haverigg
Photo for illustration: Willis Lam, CC BY-SA 2.0
Locally grown potatoes and seasonal vegetables, with occasional veg boxes and farm-gate sales.
North Lane, Haverigg
Photo for illustration: Bob Harvey, CC BY-SA 2.0
All-day breakfasts, burgers, fish and chips, milkshakes, cakes, teas & coffees and seaside treats.
Sea View, Haverigg
Photo for illustration: Acabashi, CC BY-SA 4.0
Fresh fish and chips, battered sausages, pies, mushy peas, curry sauce and kids’ meals.
Main Street, Haverigg
Photo for illustration: Gvjekoslav, CC0
Artisan gelato and sorbets in lots of flavours, including vegan and dairy-free, plus coffee and sweet treats.
Harbour Lights, Haverigg
Photo for illustration: Daderot, CC0
Pub food with a focus on seafood and British favourites – steak pie, fish dishes, burgers, Sunday lunches and puddings.
Main Street, Haverigg
Photo for illustration: Ewan Munro, CC BY-SA 2.0
Pizza, burgers, kids’ meals, specials, cocktails and bar snacks. Family-friendly with outdoor seating.
Port Haverigg Holiday Village
Photo for illustration: Rjcastillo, CC BY-SA 4.0
Traditional pub meals including Cumberland sausage, steak, fish & chips, pies, desserts and Sunday roasts.
The Green, Millom
Photo for illustration: Acabashi, CC BY-SA 4.0
Pub dining with local meats, seafood, vegetarian and vegan options, desserts and wines.
Kirksanton
Photo for illustration: Acabashi, CC BY-SA 4.0
Steaks, grill platters, gourmet burgers, sharing boards, wines and desserts in a woodland resort setting.
Brockwood Hall, Whicham
Photo for illustration: Geoffreyrabbit, CC BY-SA 4.0
Homemade lunches, burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, cakes and scones, made with locally sourced produce.
Millstones Barn, Bootle
Photo for illustration: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
Traditional country pub food, daily specials, local lamb and beef, fish, vegetarian dishes, puddings and ales.
Waberthwaite
Photo for illustration: Acabashi, CC BY-SA 4.0
Breakfasts, lunches, hot and cold drinks, cakes, traybakes and soft-scoop ice cream – with spectacular sea views.
Silecroft Beach car park, Whicham
Photo for illustration: Andy Li, CC0
Before you go: check the latest reviews on Google Maps and the official food hygiene ratings on the Food Standards Agency website.
Opening hours vary, and some places open seasonally – it’s worth calling ahead. Photos show the kind of food on offer, not the businesses themselves.
Duddon Villa
Borwick Rails
Millom
Cumbria
LA18 4JU
01229 775005
07793 613 557
bookings@duddon-villa.co.uk
