High Cross
Description
High Cross – An Iconic Lake District Retreat
High Cross is a distinguished property nestled in mature gardens beside ‘The Screes’. Steeped in local history, it holds a deep connection to the Abraham family—world-renowned for their breathtaking mountain photography and pioneering mountaineering techniques. Their remarkable collections represent some of the earliest visual records of mountaineering in the Lake District. Built after World War II within the grounds of the family estate, High Cross was a heartfelt gift from George Abraham to his son, who had been injured during the war.
Located just off the Ambleside Road (A591) at the entrance to Keswick, High Cross sits at the top of a private drive. Its elevated position offers spectacular views over Bassenthwaite Lake, surrounded by an awe-inspiring mountain panorama including Skiddaw, Blencathra, Catbells, Causey Pike, Helvellyn, and Scafell Pike. Whatever the weather, the breathtaking scenery provides a sense of peace and wonder.
The property is enveloped by tranquil woodland, with wildlife such as red squirrels and deer occasionally visiting the garden. A charming stream winds through the grounds, crossed by two miniature slate bridges leading to a bank of mature shrubs. The enclosed garden offers plenty of space for dogs to play and splash in the stream, though small children should be supervised near the water. There is ample parking for 3–4 vehicles, plus an additional space at the bottom of the drive.
Just a short walk from High Cross lies the bustling market town of Keswick. You can stroll or cycle along the resurfaced railway path into town, or head in the opposite direction for a peaceful riverside walk through bridges and ravines toward Threlkeld. Nearby, you’ll find the Castlerigg Stone Circle—built around 5,000 years ago—an intriguing site of historical significance that’s well worth visiting.
The Lake District is bursting with possibilities. High Cross makes a perfect base for discovering Wainwright walks, enjoying water sports, relaxing on a lake launch, rock climbing, or tackling the mountain bike trails of Whinlatter. Or simply explore Keswick and experience its friendly pubs, welcoming cafes, and celebrated hospitality.
Inside, the house boasts a fully equipped kitchen featuring a double oven, electric hob, dishwasher, microwave, American-style fridge and freezer, wine fridge, Nespresso coffee maker, kettle and toaster. The utility room includes a washing machine and tumble dryer. With gas central heating throughout, the home stays cosy year-round.
On crisp autumn days, settle into the snug and warm up in front of the Gazco stove. On sunnier days, throw open the French doors off the kitchen and dine alfresco on the patio. The property offers a main bathroom, en-suites in both the master and double rooms, and a downstairs shower room with cloakroom facilities.
Well-behaved dogs are very welcome, but we kindly ask that they stay in non-carpeted areas and are not permitted upstairs.
Your dates
Everything you'll need
- Wifi
- Baby Friendly
- Dishwasher
- Garden / Patio
- National Park
- Wifi
- Baby Friendly
- Dishwasher
- Garden / Patio
- National Park
- Off Road Parking
- Pet Friendly
- Near Pub / Shop
- Smoke Free
- Near Walks
What guests are saying
The house is in a nice setting close to the amenities of Keswick with plenty of parking.
Unfortunately, we had lots of problems whilst at the cottage. The downstairs bathroom was not heated so was really cold meaning that nobody could shower in that bathroom. The main upstairs ensuite toilet doesn't flush properly, the shower was blocked and was really dirty. Although the shower issue was fixed the other ensuite shower then wasn't draining. Overall, only 1/4 bathrooms was fully usable during the full or our stay. When we arrived one of the beds was covered in dog hair and smelled bad. Again, this was dealt with the next day, but in general the house wasn't clean, clearly hadn't been hovered and in general is tired. There wasn't enough towels for all of our guests when we arrived and some of the towels we did have smelled bad. The heating in the twin room wasn't working properly so the bedroom was cold and likewise the snug only has a single radiator which didn't heat the room properly so that room was also unusable. Overall, we had a really unsatisfactory experience and are currently in discussions with Sykes for a refund.
We really enjoyed our stay at High Cross, it is in a lovely position for Keswick and the surrounding areas.
Overall the accommodation was good, a little bit tired in some areas but nothing that a good deep clean and a bit of maintenance wouldn't sort out. Hopefully I think we will be seeing you again next year..
The property is in a great location - an easy walk into Keswick.
Beds were all comfortable and crockery, cooking utensils and cooking vessels were in plentiful supply. The double oven was very handy with our group of six. However, it would have been nice to be supplied with some information as to how things worked. Lots of the light bulbs didn’t work and one toilet had a sign saying it was quirky to use which was not accurate. The toilet needs to be fixed. Other reviewers have mentioned the toilet so it didn’t suddenly stop working during our stay. Whilst other toilets could be used during the day it was not convenient during the night. The glass balustrade was covered with moss and the path to the front door is quite dangerous in wet weather. We were told a gardener came once a week and we could request they not come. We didn’t mind the Gardner coming but were surprised when he came four days out of the seven we were there. Each time he asked us if it was okay but we didn’t feel we could send him away. Then another person came and did the lawns!
Good to know
House Rules
Good housekeeping bond
This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £450
Smoking
Not permitted
Stay Information
Check-in / Check-out
16:00 / 10:00
Property ref
1173864
Parking
Off Road Parking
Guest & Pet Policy
Pets
Allowed
Children
Children and infants welcome