Self catering cottage in Bassenthwaite, Cumbria

Accommodation details

This charming cottage sits on the northern edge of the Lake District National Park, just outside the village of Ireby. The majestic Bassenthwaite Lake is 5.5 miles away, and you can also enjoy day trips to the Cumbrian and Solway coasts (both within 20 miles). For shops and eateries, the bustling towns of Keswick and Cockermouth are within 12 miles.

The property sleeps three guests and makes a cosy couple's bolthole or base for a small family. The cottage is warm and welcoming, with traditional furniture and homely soft furnishings sitting alongside characterful original features. The holiday home has an upside-down layout, and on the ground floor you'll discover two delightful bedrooms and a family bathroom.

Heading upstairs, a vast lounge/kitchen/diner awaits with a vaulted ceiling, exposed brickwork, and far-reaching views through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Spend time here, cooking up a storm in the kitchen area and sharing delicious, home-cooked meals at the wooden dining table by the Juliet balcony.

After dinner, get cosy in the lounge area to watch the Smart TV. Outside, dine alfresco in the courtyard or challenge your fellow guests to a game of table football, pool, or table tennis in the shared games room. Bassenthwaite Lake is one of the region's quieter lakes, making it the perfect place to switch off and relax.

Take a stroll along its western shore, marvelling at the reflections of Skiddaw and looking out for ospreys and cormorants circling overhead. Alternatively, spend a lazy afternoon pottering around the beautiful gardens at Mirehouse, on the eastern shore, or head to The Lakes Distillery to sample to artisan whisky, gin, and vodka.

For something a little more high-octane, head to Whinlatter Forest Park, to the south of the lake, to take on the zip wires and high ropes at Go Ape.