Self catering accommodation in Hawkshead, Cumbria

Accommodation details

Have a fairy-tale stay at this gorgeous cottage at Hawkshead Hill in the magnificent Lake District. Sleeping four guests, the two-bedroom retreat, which was once home to milliner, nestles in exquisite English country gardens, 3 miles from Coniston village and 5 miles from Ambleside. Ideal for Lake Windermere and Coniston Water, it is just over 1 mile from Hawkshead, where you can visit poet William Wordsworth's school and the National Trust's Beatrix Potter Gallery.

Let yourselves into the 18th-century hideaway via the stable door that opens into the beamed lounge. Relax in this inviting space together after your many excursions. Choose a book from the shelves, watch your favourite programmes on TV, unwind on the soft seating and chat through your plans for the following day.

Stroll through to the kitchen/diner to make a cup of tea to enjoy with the Grasmere gingerbread you bought on your last trip out or to whip up a hearty dinner for everyone to enjoy at the table. At the end of each exciting day away in the Lake District, climb the stairs up to the first floor of the cottage to a king-size bedroom or a twin, which has zip-and-link beds that can be made up as a super-king-size by prior arrangement.

The family shower room is also at this level. Wander out into the leafy garden on sunny days to dine in the fresh air, watch the birds and listen to the sound of the babbling brook. Pull on your walking boots and stride straight out from the cottage. The National Trust's picturesque Tarn Hows is a 1-mile stroll, while Coniston Water is 2 miles away.

Head into Ambleside to potter in the shops, stock up on local produce and dine out. Book a launch out on Coniston Water from Coniston village.