A very warm welcome to this absolutely stunning lodge. Have you ever thought of gathering all your favourite people under one roof in the loveliest of surroundings? Well this gorgeous woodland-set, former hunting lodge should surely fit the bill. With eight beautiful bedrooms, all boasting wonderful views, elegant and well equipped socialising spaces and an unrivalled position in Grizedale Forest this really is a dream place for that special family gathering or just an indulgent friend's break. All eight bedrooms are individually designed with luxurious en-suite shower/bathrooms and TVs. There are also two beautifully appointed ground-floor bedrooms, one with its own snug and balcony, which mean that guests with limited mobility are well catered for.
Grizedale Forest is a magical forest park with walking and cycling trails to suit all abilities. There's something for everyone here. For those wanting test their adventurous side there are exhilarating mountain bike trails, alternatively you could find yourself swinging through the forest canopy at the 'Go Ape' course. For those wanting a more gentle woodland experience there are plenty of easy walking trails and for those seeking quiet contemplation space there's even a sculpture trail through the forest with permanent and visiting works of outdoor art.
Set right in the heart of the Lake District, the lodge benefits from easy access to Ambleside, Hawkshead, Windermere and Coniston and all the attractions, shops and wonderful eateries they offer. For those looking to explore the rich history of the area then Brantwood on Coniston Water, Wray Castle on Windermere and Hilltop (Beatrix Potter's Lakeland home) are all within 6 miles' drive of the lodge. Why not consider messing about on the water while you're in the Lake District? Esthwaite Water nearby offers trout fishing throughout the year as well as the opportunity to spot some magnificent ospreys during their season. Both Coniston Water and Windermere offer gentle trips taking in the views on heritage steamers as well as the opportunity to hire kayaks, paddleboards and rowing boats to get a bit more hands-on.
On arrival at the lodge guests are greeted by a large porch with coat hooks and a bench seat with plenty of space for coats and muddy boots. From here you proceed through to the light and welcoming hallway, in here guests will find plenty of books, magazines and local information as well as a desk for postcard writing should you require. The main living room is a wonderful social space with a large bay window and french doors out onto the large raised deck outside. The design of the room is a gracious nod to the building's heritage with a calm colour scheme, elegant seating and a large wood burner for cosy evenings in. There's also a TV with Freeview and DVD to relax and enjoy.
From both the living room and the hallway there is access to the impressive dining space. The enormous dining table is fit for a banquet and absolutely perfect for long chats over diner about your Lakeland and forest adventures. There is a further porch area leading out onto the raised deck where you can enjoy group meals on the dining furniture in the evening sun. The dining room is well-equipped with sufficient crockery and cutlery housed in beautiful traditional dressers. Swing doors lead through to the kitchen which is a foodie's paradise as it is professionally equipped with a large Rangemaster oven with six gas hobs, an eye-height grill and a microwave. There's also a breakfast table for a morning cuppa or for sociable food prep. Next to this is a huge utility/prep room with two dishwashers, two large fridges, a deep freezer and washing machine. There's a further larder room with wine storage space.
The first of the two ground-floor bedrooms (Room 7) is situated off the main hall providing easy access to all of the living areas, this makes it ideal for anyone with more limited mobility. It's a delightfully welcoming double room with a cosy colour scheme, metal bedstead, wardrobe, dresser and TV with DVD. Its en-suite bathroom has an elegant Victorian-style suite with mixer shower over the bath. It also has a glorious view out onto the meadow and fellside. The second ground-floor bedroom (Room 8) is situated beyond the kitchen. It makes another ideal room for those with more limited mobility, those with young families or perhaps just members of the party who'd like a little peace, quiet and luxury! There is a lovely comfortable snug on the way through with its own TV and sofa, perfect for bedtime stories or for the teens and tweens of the group to commandeer their own space. Room 8 itself is a stunning four-poster double suite with elegant armchairs and an indulgent en-suite bathroom with free-standing bath and curved shower enclosure. It even has its own romantic balcony through double doors looking out onto the meadow and forest beyond. An evening glass of wine here would be absolute bliss.
Heading up the imposing staircase to the light-filled landing guests reach the remaining bedrooms all of which are equipped with their own TV.
Room 1 is a delightful dual-aspect room decorated win calm colours and French-style furnishings. There is a double four-poster bed, a large wardrobe, dressing table and an en-suite bathroom with mixer shower over the bath.
Room 2 is designed with warm rich colours and vibrant textiles. It has a four-poster double bed and a large wardrobe for storage. Its en-suite also has a mixer shower over the bath.
Room 3 is a lovely welcoming room with an elegant palette of colour and pattern, a king-size metal bed frame, a large wardrobe and a view to the fellside. Its elegant en-suite has a shower over the bath.
Room 4 has a calm blue colour scheme, a double metal bed frame, a dresser for storage and charming views to the meadow and forest. Its en-suite has a mixer shower in a curved enclosure.
Room 5 has a king-size white metal bed frame, a wardrobe for storage and a glorious wide-open view to the meadow and forest. Its en-suite bathroom has a mixer shower over the bath.
Room 6 has twin beds and a view to the rear of the house overlooking the comings and goings of the neighbouring farmyard. Its en-suite is a shower room with a curved enclosure and mixer shower.
Moving outside, the property is no less impressive with multiple areas to spread out and relax making the most of every drop of sunlight during the day. Mature trees and shrubs conceal secluded little corners with seating for a moment's contemplation or a quiet morning cuppa while the large social spaces are an absolute delight. The huge, raised deck, accessible by staircase from the garden or directly from the dining room, has dining space for a sunny evening gathering or just for a spot of dark sky star gazing. Beneath Room 8's balcony is a small gated garden which little ones will enjoy. Children and pets should be supervised at all times in the garden as the car park is open to the road and the garden is open to the surrounding field. There is parking for up to ten cars in the car park.