A very warm welcome to this 18th-century gem that has been lovingly modernised to create an elegant cottage for six. With three beautiful bedrooms, warm and welcoming socialising spaces, and an exceptionally picturesque situation, it really is a very special base for a Lakeland holiday. While retaining much of its period charm, the semi-detached cottage now boasts high-spec appliances, luxurious bathrooms and indulgent furnishings to appeal to our 21st-century sensibilities.
A satellite cottage of the charming hamlet of Underskiddaw, the cottage sits right at the base of the mighty Skiddaw massif just a few miles from the much-loved town of Keswick. It has incredible panoramic views of Bassenthwaite Lake and the fells to its western side. benefiting from all the available afternoon and evening sun, the raised garden terrace is a wonderful place for al fresco dining - you might even be treated to a view of an occasional osprey. There are plenty of walks nearby to make use of its fellside situation. You could take the winding paths through woodland onto Dodd Fell and then onward up to Skiddaw's summit, alternatively enjoy a scenic walk to Bassenthwaite's shore. Just across the road lies The Calvert Trust where there is an excellent accessible pool which you can use by prior arrangement. The cottage is also just a stone's throw from Mirehouse, a stately home with glorious gardens, multiple play areas and fascinating literary connections.
Easily accessible from major road links, the cottage sits along the road that runs between Keswick and Bassenthwaite. Keswick is well known as the adventure capital of the Lakes but there's plenty more to enjoy there too. You could make use of the great range of cafes, pubs and restaurants; independent and outdoor shops; the regular market or take in a play or concert at the beautifully situated Theatre by the Lake. You could also get out and about on Derwentwater either under your own steam or aboard one of the stately launches. Why not bring bikes and explore the quiet, undulating roads in the area known as Back o' Skiddaw? However you choose to spend your stay, this cottage is a gorgeous base from which to enjoy this wonderful area.
On arrival at the cottage, guests are greeted by a charming arched porch entering the stone-floored main hallway. There's a cosy snug/playroom with a comfy two-seater sofa and two small children's chairs and a TV with Freeview. A perfect space for little ones or teens to commandeer. The beautiful main living room has two deep sofas and one tub armchair arranged around a wood burner set into a deep sandstone fireplace. It's a wonderfully cosy room with light elegant decor ideal for playing board games or discussing your Lakeland adventures. One of the traditional latched doors leads from here to the first of the two staircases, but more about the first floor later.
The kitchen/dining room is a gorgeous space with exposed beams and light modern units. It's well-equipped with a double fan oven, four ceramic hobs, a dishwasher, under-counter fridge, microwave, coffee machine and all the crockery and cookware you'll need. There's an under-stairs cupboard and a door to the second staircase. The large utility room has coat hooks and plenty of boot space for your outdoor gear, there's also a washer/dryer, an under-counter freezer and an entry to the downstairs WC. It also makes an ideal bedroom for your dog should you be bringing one along.
Moving up, one of the twin staircases will take you to the sleeping accommodation. Firstly to the sumptuous super-king-size room which has a wardrobe for storage, a decorative fireplace and a beautiful view of Barf and Sale Fells across the valley. The room can be made up as a twin should your party require it; please advise on booking of this is the case. Next, take a step down from the landing to the characterful king-size bedroom. It has been built in to the eaves giving it a delightful cosy feel and it looks out onto the flank of Dodd Fell from its window. There are drawers and a hanging stand for clothes storage. With its step down and exposed beams the twin room (which can be made into a super-king-size upon request) shares the cosy feel of the king-size room, there are drawers and hanging hooks for storage and the same lovely view to Dodd Fell.
Also on the first floor are the amazing family bathroom and a further shower room. Both have indulgent underfloor heating, modern suites and mixer showers with drencher heads in spacious enclosures. The bathroom also boasts a bath with shower attachment and a lovely view out to the garden and fells, what a wonderful place to soak away tired muscles.
Outside the house there is a parking area shared with the neighbouring cottages, a lockable storage shed for bikes or kayaks and a beautiful garden with mature shrubs and panoramic views over Bassenthwaite Lake and the surrounding fells. The raised terrace has a picnic table with attached benches (and there's also another separate bench) for outdoor dining and making the most of sunny evenings. Why not pour a glass of wine and soak up the glorious surroundings?