Set upon the hillside on the drive out of Baycliff, it's easy to see how this cottage got its name. As the delightful whitewash property comes into view, its impressive chimney stands proud Against the open sky beyond. Packed full of character and quirky features, the cottage has a friendly welcoming warmth from the outset. Most guests don't make it past the cheery sun lounge before kicking off their shoes and opening a book to relax with. A small secluded courtyard offers a private place to dine on a summer's evening, while the cosy living room, complete with wood burner and exposed beams, is the perfect place to curl up with a hot chocolate on a cold winter's night.
Barely noticeable from the coast road which skirts the village, Baycliff has a traditional English country feel; the community centres around a pretty village green and many of the properties date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Situated between Bardsea and Aldingham overlooking Morecambe Bay, the village was once a fishing and farming community, historically part of Lancashire. A gentle stroll beyond the village green takes in a lovely playground with picnic benches and views across the bay. The pub opposite the park serves food daily; it has a beer garden, a well-stocked bar and receives excellent reviews for its menu and welcome.
The beach is a mere 10-minute stroll from the property. When the tide is out, the vast expanse of sand appears to reach as far as the eye can see. Hidden rock pools, colourful pebbles and the variety of shells left behind by the sea will keep children entertained for hours, while four-legged friends will enjoy the freedom to run in all directions. Across the bay, Morecambe and Heysham are visible on a clear day, and towards the east, the Lakeland fells provide an impressive backdrop. The bustling market town of Ulverston is only 3 miles away and, further along the coast, Barrow-in-Furness, famous for its shipbuilding heritage, offers plenty of places to explore, including two islands just off its shore. A 20-minute drive back towards the motorway brings you to the southern tip of Windermere, the perfect starting point for a day trip into the National Park.
A small driveway off the roadside offers convenient parking for one car and a gate leads into the enclosed yard of the cottage. The first thing you notice as you approach the front door is the bright sun lounge. A lovely hidden courtyard decorated with pot plants and outdoor furniture can be found beyond the stone archway. Although modest in size, it offers a private space for outdoor dining and is well lit for use into the evening too.
Entry into the cottage is through the delightful sun lounge which doubles up as a dining room with its drop-leaf table and chairs making good use of the space. A comfortable sofa and bespoke window seat create a welcoming feel and provide an idyllic place to sit and relax regardless of the weather outside. The washing machine is located in the downstairs toilet just off the sun lounge.
Glass-panelled French doors link the sun lounge to the main accommodation, and the accompanying window offers extra light into the sitting room. The dual-aspect room, centred around a wood burner, with original stone mantlepiece and terracotta tiled hearth, boasts lots of characterful features and quirky nooks. The pleasant, traditional decor is accentuated by the exposed beamed ceiling and stonework. Two comfortable sofas, a coffee table and side lamps offer a tranquil space to put your feet up and relax. Books, guides and maps complement the selection of family board games that are available for your entertainment during your stay. There is also a TV with Freeview channels and a DVD player available for guests to use.
On the split-level landing, there is a master double bedroom with a freestanding clawfoot bath, and a double bedroom with a bed and some storage space. Down the hallway, you’ll find a single room with pretty views. A family shower room completes the cottage with a WC and an electric shower.