Couples or small families and their canine companions will be inoure serenity at this cosy bolthole in the Lake District. Studded on the fringe of the quaint village of Bassenthwaite and within easy reach of Keswick is this gorgeous, characterful property that boasts stunning views over the fells, many tracks and routes to explore and a break away from the hustle and bustle.
Open the door to this wonderful converted barn, where a living room bathed in natural light offers comfy sofas and chairs for you and your loved ones to gather for film evenings. When tummies get peckish, whip up something delicious in the compact yet fully equipped kitchen and settle around the dining table laid for three. Humans and hounds will appreciate the private garden to the side of the barn, where two-legged guests can enjoy admiring the fells of Bassenthwaite while four-legged friends can sniff out their new snoozing spot. Say goodnight to your pooch and head along the hall, where you’ll find two tastefully decorated bedrooms and two en-suite shower rooms for those leisurely morning soaks.
Go barking mad for the magnificent walking routes around this part of the Lake District, including Cat Bells Fell and the ascents of the Skiddaw and Blencathra mountains. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be keen to meander around the banks of Bassenthwaite Lake (4 miles) for the chance to spot osprey or visit the Lake District’s first-ever wetland nature reserve at the northern end of the lake to see grasshopper warblers, curlew and reed bunting. The market town of Keswick, 7 miles away, has plenty of busy pubs and restaurants, a great selection of shops and a weekly market hosting award-winning food and handcrafted gifts.