“Had a great couple of weeks at Ellwood.”
Only two of us (plus mutt) so plenty of space. We were very impressed with the cleanliness and layout of the cottage. We had a fire going a number of nights and the provided firewood was very welcome but the house itself was comfy - we just like log fires. The owner was in touch as necessary and was very friendly (even though we didn't meet in person!) and was very responsive to all queries. The wifi was great, allowing us to stream Spotify and if necessary stream to the TV. Throws were provided ...
Only two of us (plus mutt) so plenty of space. We were very impressed with the cleanliness and layout of the cottage. We had a fire going a number of nights and the provided firewood was very welcome but the house itself was comfy - we just like log fires. The owner was in touch as necessary and was very friendly (even though we didn't meet in person!) and was very responsive to all queries. The wifi was great, allowing us to stream Spotify and if necessary stream to the TV. Throws were provided in case of dogs jumping which was very thoughtful. There were loads of walking ideas in pamphlets and books in the cupboards and some interesting books so we didn't get bored. Extra freezer storage was in the 'barn' attached to the house which proved useful. We used the twin-bed-into-one humungous bed which was very comfortable. The owner very kindly offered a cleaning between the two weeks; we declined that as I'd only be scrubbing the day before so they didn't think I was messy, but we gratefully received new bedding and towels. We liked the area immensely. The house is on what seems to be a nexus of walking points so we wandered around the local area, and also popped into Keswick for lovely-but-expensive Boothe's and a great walk around Derwentwater. Due to it being on the northern tip of the Lakes it wasn't full of, well, people like us and day-trippers so it was very peaceful. We can recommend 'The Muddy Duck' kiosk; they sold nice dog treats so our furry friend kept dragging us there. The local pub is pretty good and the one in Hasket Newmarket even better (good beer!) but if you want food there make sure to book as you can't just walk in; dogs are welcome at both pubs. The Windmill Cafe is OK, if you have a dog you must sit outside so it is weather dependent. One of the highlights of course was the milk vending machine. I had sort of expected a cow, a bucket and a coin slot but it is higher tech and provides 1litre pasteurised full-fat milk into a customer-provided bottle at a reasonable price (contactless payment). The weather wasn't with us but we had a great time and will be back at some point!
- Charles, September 2023
