Nestled in the peaceful hamlet of Ellonby, this beautifully refurbished farmhouse is the perfect pick for families, friends and furry companions hoping to slow down and savour the best of Cumbria. With ample space for seven guests plus a pair of four-pawed pals, it offers a stylish and characterful retreat for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts keen to explore the Lake District and the Pennines. After bracing hikes or lazy afternoons chasing sticks in meadows, relax in the cottage-style garden or unwind with local delicacies in the Michelin-listed pub in Skelton, just 1 mile away.
Hang up coats and wipe down muddy paws in the handy utility/boot room before setting off to explore this rambling property, which blends modern comfort with period character. There’s ample room to relax and unwind with two lounges – a first-floor lounge with plush seating and a Smart TV, and a cosy lounge with a wood burner set beneath beamed ceilings in the medieval part of the farmhouse. Prepare feasts for your pack in the spacious kitchen, which boasts an AGA, a double oven and stunning views over Blencathra, and enjoy a quiet moment in the adjoining snug/library, sipping a cuppa while something bubbles on the hob. The atmospheric dining room sets the scene for memorable mealtimes, while the sunroom invites casual bites and family board games against a backdrop of far-reaching views. When night falls, choose from four beautifully appointed bedrooms: a ground-floor king-size with an en-suite, plus a super-king-size, a king-size and a cosy single upstairs, along with a luxurious family bathroom and a Jack and Jill en-suite shower room. Make the most of warm weather in the enclosed, cottage-style garden, dining alfresco while children and dogs play on the lawn or snuggled up in the summerhouse. Secure bike storage, table tennis in the garage and parking for four cars complete the picture.
Set between the Lake District and the Pennines, the region is a dog-walker’s dream, with spectacular trails such as the Aira Force Waterfall (12.5 miles) and lakeside trails around Ullswater (10 miles). This picturesque lake is rich in prehistoric remains and offers great opportunities to take your top dog on the famous Ullswater Steamer.