Converted from some of the oldest buildings in Windermere, this spacious property retains many original features and makes a wonderful holiday home for a family or group of friends exploring the south-east Lake District.
Originally three separate cottages, now one spacious cottage, this is one of the oldest properties in Windermere, dating back to the mid-17th century. It offers stunning accommodation for up to six people. Downstairs you’ll find a wonderful comfortable living room, complete with a wood burning stove, and a bright and spacious kitchen-diner with a fantastic stone-flagged floor and original wooden beams. Also located on the ground floor is a useful boot room, idea for storing wet weather gear thanks to the underfloor heating which is installed throughout the ground floor, as well as a handy WC. There are three lovely bedrooms and two bathrooms on the first floor. Outside is a large garden, parking for three cars and an outhouse for storing bikes, a real bonus for a cottage in this location.
Tucked away from the hustle and bustle but just a short stroll from Windermere Village, you’ve got the best of both worlds here. A public footpath runs through the private parking area, so you can walk straight from the door without even needing to get in the car. There’s certainly plenty to see and do nearby too. Follow the well signposted route up to Orrest Head for the same stunning panoramic views that inspired Alfred Wainwright’s famous guidebooks. Catch the ferry from neighbouring Bowness across the lake to the western shores of Windermere; admire the views from Claife Viewing Station, visit historic Wray Castle or spend a day exploring the charming village of Hawkshead, once home to Beatrix Potter. Windermere has plenty of different eateries, from cafes to bars, as well as pubs and restaurants, ideal for refreshments when you get back from your adventures.
Head inside and into the living room - bright and spacious but full of charm and character, this really is a fantastic space. There are two stylish three-seater Chesterfield-style sofas to choose from, positioned to make the most of the wood burning stove and flat screen TV. This room is perfect for cosy evenings in.
Continue through to the wonderful kitchen-diner, with its beautiful stone flagged floor and original wooden beams. The modern country kitchen is well equipped and in here you’ll find an electric range-style oven with gas hobs, a built-in microwave, fridge-freezer, handy toaster and a kettle. The butler’s sink mirrors the other period features of the house but there’s also a built-in dishwasher if you don’t fancy washing up by hand. The large central island has two stylish stools, ideal for keeping the cook company. Gather round the wooden dining table in front of the gas-effect wood burning stove, perfect for catching up on the day’s events over a hearty homecooked meal.
Up the wooden staircase with its feature metal bannister to the first floor, where you’ll find the three beautiful bedrooms. All located off the light-filled landing, tall members of the party will need to mind their heads on some of the lower beams here.
The first king-size bedroom is full of character; with exposed stonework, a vaulted ceiling and original wooden beams, this is a lovely room with a fabulous yellow bed. There’s plenty of storage thanks to a large wooden wardrobe with hanging space and drawers. The second king-size bedroom is just a lovely as the first, with its feature wall of exposed stonework and a delightful outlook over the garden from the window. The blue velvet king-size bed is very inviting and perfect for indulging in a long lie in. There’s also a TV and a useful chest of drawers and matching wardrobe for storage. Light, bright and airy, the twin bedroom has lots of charming character features too and a lovely view over the garden. A wooden wardrobe with drawers provides plenty of space for storing clothes and there’s a wall-mounted TV so there’ll be no need to fight over the remote control. The twin bedroom can also be made up as a super-king upon request.
A modern Jack-and-Jill shower room, with beautiful slate floor and tiles, can be accessed from both the yellow king-size room and the twin bedroom. In here you’ll find a WC, washbasin and fantastic large shower enclosure, with a rainfall-effect shower head.
The family bathroom is also on the first floor. Alongside the WC and stylish washbasin, there's a large modern shower cubicle and a fabulous free-standing bath. The gorgeous bath is positioned so you can enjoy the fantastic view of the surrounding countryside from the window whilst enjoying a relaxing soak.
As well as parking for three cars, the property also has a delightful garden - such a treat for a cottage so close to the centre of Windermere. The large lawn area is equally suited to running off any extra steam or for finding a peaceful corner - the ancient apple tree is a very inviting spot to relax with a good book for a few hours. Outdoor furniture is provided on the patio area too, perfect for a spot of al fresco dining. The garden has wonderful views of the surrounding countryside and is frequently visited by a wide variety of birds and other wildlife.
A handy outhouse doubles as the utility room, with a washing machine and tumble dryer should you wish to make use of those during your stay. A second outhouse is also available for bike storage.
As well as being well placed to local amenities, Low Birthwaite is ideally located for exploring the rest of the Lake District. Take a scenic drive to pretty Grasmere, where you can stock up on the village’s famous gingerbread before continuing north to Keswick. Known as the adventure capital of the North Lakes, why not sign up for an activity with one of the local adventure companies? Try ghyll scrambling and canyoning or have a go at raft building or paddle boarding on Derwentwater. Head to Coniston, another charming Lakeland village sitting beneath the mighty Coniston Old Man, a fantastic fell walk for the avid hiker. Here you can learn all about Donald Campbell's water speed records or take a ride on the Steam Yacht Gondola to enjoy the water at a more leisurely pace. However you decide to spend your time, this cottage will be a welcome home-from-home to retreat to.