Gunpowder Cottage | Elterwater | Eltermere | The Lake District And Cumbria

4.0★

8 Guests
4 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Pets Yes
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Features

Open fire
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

26 Customer Review(s)

Steven
November 2023

“Having stayed here before many years ago, we were happy to return as its a lovely cottage, great location and close to the famous Britannia Inn.”

However, lost marks for listing accuracy, as I feel its misleading to say 4 bedrooms, 8 guests. Whilst true, it needs highlighting in the bullet points that this includes a family room for 3 and a single room, not way down in the extended information. 4 couples might be disappointed! Cleanliness-lovely, crisp white bedding but lost a mark as the floors were really dusty in the lounge. Comfort-An information pack would be appreciated, as arrival is after 4pm on a Saturday and we needed wood for ...

However, lost marks for listing accuracy, as I feel its misleading to say 4 bedrooms, 8 guests. Whilst true, it needs highlighting in the bullet points that this includes a family room for 3 and a single room, not way down in the extended information. 4 couples might be disappointed! Cleanliness-lovely, crisp white bedding but lost a mark as the floors were really dusty in the lounge. Comfort-An information pack would be appreciated, as arrival is after 4pm on a Saturday and we needed wood for the fire, as its November. Local shops info would be great, or a complimentary basket of wood to get us started, especially as website said fuel included. Now assume they meant oil for heating, not wood. Facilities and maintainence- great, self contained cottage, however would benefit from oven gloves, dustpan and the soap dispensers at all 3 sinks were empty (I note that this has been mentioned in previous reviews). Also, the icebox at the top of the lovely big fridge was completely iced up, so much so that nothing would fit in and the door wouldn't shut. The living room wall lights are useless, either didn't work or the bulbs were hardly noticeable. An additional outside light on the corner of the cottage would be appreciated, as when walking up to the door, there is a very dark section along the property leading to the steep steps outside the door, which you have to be right in front of before the light comes on. I also have to question the safety of the internal doors, both contain clear plain glass, no etching or stickers to highlight them when they are shut. I hope that they are safety glass at least. I know that competition is often fierce for short lets, so attention to detail is important for properties that become our home for a few days.

- Steven, November 2023

Thank you for taking the time to provide this feedback. We are sorry to hear about all the issues you encountered at the property, unfortunately we weren't aware of any of the issues you had as we could have resolved them to make your stay more comfortable. We find that the description and images provided on the website are accurate to the facilities provided. We are glad that you enjoyed the location of the property. Lakelovers Owner Team Property Owner
Gail October 2023

“A cosy house in a very convenient location for lots of walks and the local pub.”

Nicely furnished with a new bathroom, hob and oven. We enjoyed lighting the log fire in the evening and the lounge was big enough for our party of 5 adults and 2 dogs. Some things could do with a bit of TLC due to the amount of use it gets and it definitely needs some new cookware. (As we stayed here last year I brought some from home and nothing had changed so I was pleased I did).

- Gail, October 2023
Clare August 2023

“The cottage is lovely and in a fabulous location for walking and getting around the area.”

Unfortunately we couldn’t use the downstairs bathroom due to a plumbing issue which wasn’t ideal hence why I have marked facilities and maintenance down.

- Clare, August 2023
Angela August 2023

“We had the best week, the whole family loved the cottage and my foster boy said he was really sad and wanted to live there for good he’s 8 btw… the bedrooms are spot on and the kitchen had everything you needed the glasses and cups etc was ample and the welcome pack had everything needed to keep clean… Perfect place for wandering out and back with the pub on the doorstep for food that was amazing!”

- Angela, August 2023
Leigh August 2023

“Hi, on the whole we had a lovely stay, and thank you for the welcome pack, that was a nice touch.”

. We have been to Gunpowder cottage before, and this time we mastered the use of the cooker. There was a constant flushing noise coming from an outbuilding, which was leaking water. Before we had chance to report this, we noticed the gardeners had been and the water had stopped, so assumed they had fixed the leak, but it was still quite noisy. The door handles inside are difficult to open and close, in particular for a young or elderly person, and the screws kept coming out of the upstairs one so we kept on screwing them back in, although they need bigger screws. This was a particular issue with the bathrooms which had to be fully closed when in use. When we arrived we had to wash some of the cutlery, glasses and plates, as some were left dirty. We also noticed the settees are getting a bit worn and have stains on them. However, we found the cottage a comfortable and cosy cottage, that is well equipped, and in a lovely location, so we have booked again for next summer. Just a thought, we overheard someone stopping elsewhere had said that they got 10-20% off meals at the wainwright and Britannia. This wasn’t available for us, could this be explored to support eating out through Lake Lovers as it’s very expensive now, just in case this could be an option, thanks.

- Leigh, August 2023

Thank you for your feedback. We will ask the Maintenance Team to look at the doors, and will pass on your comments regarding the cleaning to the Housekeeping Team to ensure that our high standard continue to be met. We will look into the points raised. Thank you- The Lakelovers Owner Relations Team Property Owner
Alan July 2023

“The cottage was very nice in a superb location and a great private garden.”

A couple of minor points were that the handle to the dining room came off in my hand because the door was sagging and catching on the floor because the top hinge was loose but luckily I had some tools in my van and sorted the problem. No charge involved

- Alan, July 2023
Anthony May 2023

“Absolutely fabulous cottage and area to stay at.”

2nd year in a row at Gunpowder Cottage and the owners being kind enough to allow us to extend by a couple of days, made this year even more special. The lounge area is extremely comfortable and roomy with very large and comfortable bedroom too. All the facilities in the kitchen you need and so many walks directly from the door. Britannia Inn close by with a very good menu and friendly staff. Would recommend anytime except the week we want next year.......we will be returning, if you will have us?

- Anthony, May 2023

Thank you for your lovely comments. We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your stay. We would love to see you again next year. The Lakelovers Owner Relations Team Property Owner
Margaret April 2023

“Gunpowder is an excellent property for us, allowing dogs and 2 minutes from pub.”

It’s comfortable and very easy to clean up after a stay. The only gripe is not having our £200 good housekeeping returned to us for quite a few weeks. Last time we booked through Sykes/ Lakelovers I had to enquire about it before it was paid.

- Margaret, April 2023

Thank you for your comments. We are pleased to hear that you found the property to be clean. We take all comments on board. We hope to welcome you again. Property Owner
Antony April 2023

“Ovely cottage and the location is superb.”

No problems but a couple of minor things that could be improved. Quite a lot of the lamps and lights are faulty, either coming on but not very bright or flashing on and off. No cottage information folder or visiters book? There is a information folder from the 2001 foot and mouth epidemic which is more like a historical artifact now.

- Antony, April 2023
Hayley February 2023

“Great holiday cottage.”

My only complaint would be that there were no frying pans that worked with the new induction hob (but this can be easily fixed). Lovely location, well done out and very comfortable. We had a lovely stay as a extended family of 6.

- Hayley, February 2023

Thank you for your feedback. We are glad to hear that you enjoyed your stay. We will take your comments regarding the frying pans on board. We hope to welcome you back again. Property Owner
Alison October 2022

“Having read previous reviews we were a little worried about Gunpowder Cottage, but we need not have been concerned.”

The cottage was warm, comfortable and clean. Positives: great location in Elterwater, tucked behind the Britannia Inn; quiet, secure garden; recently redone upstairs shower room; well provisioned kitchen (hob can be temperamental - make sure the pan fits the ring); warm, comfortable living space with log burner (no wood provided). Negatives: while there are beds for 8 people, this requires a single bed in one of the double rooms - the cottage really only sleeps 7 and the living accommodation, while comfortable, could be cramped if there were more than 6 people (as there were only 4 of us, this wasn’t a problem); downstairs shower room is very dated and the shower itself isn’t great; no soap provided in either bathroom and no washing up liquid, just dishwasher tablets, but we have found the same issue in most Lakelovers cottages we have stayed in. Overall, we would stay here again but would like to see the downstairs shower room revamped.

- Alison, October 2022
Katharin August 2022

“This cottage was the perfect location but it was very tired and needed some tlc!”

Some of the draw fronts were hanging off and in one bedroom the door knob wasn't attached so continuously fell off! Such small things that could easily of been sorted out. A lovely new bathroom shower upstairs but a very tired and basic shower downstairs. Also tiny amounts of soap in the hand dispencers, surely these could of been replaced?? This cottage did not feel welcoming at all. We luckily didn't need to spend much time in the cottage and we certainly will not be returning.

- Katharin, August 2022
G August 2022

“Gunpowder,which we have rented annually for over 30 years, again provided an excellent base for our family holiday.”

The recent upgrads are very good; but the lack of some form of handgrip for the front steps remains a problem.The only other issue is that the draying room remainded locked for the whole week. We have already booked for next year in the name of my dauaghter Shelley

- G, August 2022
Carolyn August 2022

“This was our second stay at Gunpowder Cottage and there have been some excellent improvements.”

The kitchen is fabulous and offered a good selection of crockery, glasses, utensils etc. The new fridge freezer was ideal as we are a big family. The new bathroom is great. Loved the shower! We were very pleased that the awful smell from the oil heating system has been sorted! Some of the soft furnishings (sofa cushions and curtains) could do with a clean. Otherwise a fantastic stay.

- Carolyn, August 2022
Janice July 2022

“Lovely cottage.”

Only concern was the glass doors!! If you have children they have no concept of throwing a door open & the main room door had no stop & with a great big unit behind the door where the corner would hit the glass if your not careful. Se we left it open but it still moved, this is an accident waiting to happen. Views from upstairs were lovely, clean & tidy.

- Janice, July 2022
Geoffrey June 2022

“Good points.”

1. Location is excellent for low level walks and mountain biking and bouldering and climbing. The younger members of our party did the last three. 2. Accommodation was large enough for our party of five adults and two dogs. Large modern upstairs bathroom with shower. 3. Kitchen was well equipped save for exceptions below. 4. House was Reasonably clean, save for comment below. 5. Twenty yards to a busy friendly pub that served good food and drink. It didn’t generate disturbance with noise at night. 6. Within walking distance of several fine tea and cake shops. 7. Well fenced and fully enclosed garden. 8. A working TV 9. Good internet and Wi-Fi On the other hand. 1. Could have been cleaner; several cobwebs in bedrooms and on wooden beams. 2. There was no dustpan & brush nor a sweeping broom to allow us to sweep up dog hair and keep the place as clean as we would have liked. We had no major spillages but if we had…… 3. There was no large pot in the kitchen which, as the accommodation is for eight, is a big miss. There was one small and one medium saucepan which was not sufficient for us. More saucepans needed of a larger size. 4. There were no pegs for the rather “Heath Robinson” washing line. A decent fixing for a longer and stronger line would be an improvement. 5. We were five adults and two more plus a baby were due, but could not make it. Whilst we felt there was sufficient room for five add another two plus child and it would have felt a bit cramped. We were lucky in having good weather so did not have to spend too much time indoors. 6. Some of the Steps to back garden and washing line need refixing as they were unstable. Overall This house was fine for us and our feedback points out the detail of where it could be improved. We would definitely stay there again and really enjoyed the location as well as the property itself.

- Geoffrey, June 2022
Leigh May 2022

“Lovely cottage, perfect location.”

Strong oil smell from downstairs cloak room so didn’t put coats in so was fine and ok if you keep door shut and don’t use. Cooker was interesting and complex but figured it out that only certain pans work on it but wasn’t straight forward. Main thing is I would stay there again without question. Thank you

- Leigh, May 2022

Thank you Mr Smith for your recent review. The owner has taken onboard guest feedback and has recently replaced the kitchen, bathroom, (which is now a walkin shower room), along with new carpets for guests to enjoy. We hope to see you again in the near future. Once again thank you for your comments, Lakelovers team Property Owner
Claire April 2022

“We thought there was supposed to be a bath.”

Disappointed replaced with a shower. my elderly mother in law isn't able to use a shower how ever fancy it is . The pots and pans were inadequate in size and number for catering for 5 of us never mind if we had had 8 . Looks like this issue dates back to last summer as well 1 hob ring, the large one front right, is temperamental and some evenings didn't work. You still have a saucepan in the cupboard that won't work on an induction hob! Parking for 3 is inaccurate. 2 normal cars only unless you block the gate access beyond. We had to use our national trust cards to park in village car park . Elterwater perfect location .

- Claire, April 2022
Declan March 2022

“A lovely cottage in a fabulous location.”

Our family and the dogs had a great time exploring the lakes and coming home to a log fire in the cosy sitting room. Would definitely recommend this property and will stay again.

- Declan, March 2022
David October 2021

“After reading recent reviews of gunpowder cottage , we had worries that it was going to disappoint.”

However, we enjoyed our stay thoroughly. Credit due to the cleaners who worked hard to clean the property before we arrived. Yes, the oil smell exists, but only if you open the boiler cupboard. We didn’t find it intrusive. The property listing doesn’t hide it’s rated at 3-star and so in terms of all the deal breakers i.e cleanliness - it was fine. We did feel that the beds should have mattress protectors - given these times but only a point to consider. The Wainwright pub in Chapel Stile and the Britannia are both excellent pubs and the cottage is well located to just go for a long walk and then a drink in the pub which is 50 meters away!! It’s peaceful and in a lovely place. Really enjoyed it in Elterwater.

- David, October 2021
Nigel September 2021

“Property had not been well cleaned when we arrived and didn't look like it had been thoroughly cleaned in a long time.”

The dishwasher was full of poorly cleaned crockery when we arrived. We had to clean the dishwasher and then put most of the crockery, cutlery and glasses through again to get them properly clean. The microwave needed proper cleaning as well. There is a strong smell of heating oil from the boiler cupboard and the coat cupboard alongside it making these unusable. I doubt that the boiler installation would meet health and safety standards.

- Nigel, September 2021
Mark August 2021

“We have rented many cottages in Langdale but this has to be the worse experience to date.”

The cottage was dirty, empty drinks bottles and food packaging down the sides of cupboards, beds etc. Housekeeping had to come back out to correct some of the issues, we addressed the others ourselves. One of the hobs does not accept any pans (induction) and one of the saucepans is not even an induction pan so you cannot use it. Another frying pan has lost its handle. Stairs and landing carpet is long overdue for replacement. The oil boiler has a problem, the smell of oil is not normal, as the maintenance person said it was, after inspecting it. We know from past feedback there has been an oil leak and it has been looked at. Every family member who visited commented as soon as they walked in. The coat cupboard is next door and all coats now stink of heating oil. The same week has gone up by 30% for 2022. We have no choice but to rebook as there is nothing in the village big enough, otherwise I would not have rebooked. I would not normally leave online reviews, but this time I will, as I hope it prompts a upgrade of this holiday cottage soon.

- Mark, August 2021
Brenda July 2021

“Serious concerns about the way my concerns over the safety of the property - strong fumes coming from the oil boiler - were handled and explained to me as being common with oil boilers.”

Despite a request for someone to come out to check the safety of the property we were left all weekend with obnoxious fumes throughout the house requiring all doors and windows to be open - really unpleasant few days and obviously not safe. We did not receive a visit until Monday afternoon when a leak was identified and recitifed although even until departure at the end of the week the fumes in the boiler room (and to a lesser extent in the house) were strong making the drying cupboard useless (unless you wanted everything smelling of diesel/oil). I have taken this up with Lakelovers but a week on and no progress. Some other points, no mattress protector or pillow protectors on my bed which seems odd particularly in Covid times, no hand soap, no washing up liquid, no chopping board (just the big butchers block which did not feel particularly hygenic), no cafetiere, only one saucepan that worked with the touch sensitive hob. These are just minor things but the way in which the oil leak was handled has left me disappointed with the experience. Beautiful location and otherwise pleasant cottage.

- Brenda, July 2021

Thank you for your recent feedback. I am sorry that the boiler issue was not identified until the Monday when someone was able to attend. Upon speaking to the property management team initially, they advised that the smell was typical of an oil boiler and that it had recently been serviced so believed it to be safe and in working order. I understand a small weep of oil was found when they attended and this was repaired the same day. We are very sorry that the smell lingered beyond this and caused any upset to your stay. We have sent an offer of compensation which we hope to be acceptable and have taken your other comments on board. We do hope you enjoyed your stay otherwise. Property Owner
Martin June 2021

“Everything was fine but upon entering the property there was a very strong smell of heating oil.”

This remained throughout the stay and was dismissed when reported to lakelovers. I was simply told 'we'll let the owners know'. I hung a few coats in the cupboard next to the boiler cupboard and upon returning home they reeked of the oil. I would say this was a fire and health hazard that should be rectified immediately.

- Martin, June 2021
Martin May 2021

“The Central Heating was inadequate - it also stank of diesel which spread downstairs.”

The mattresses on the beds were stained. There was no chopping board in the kitchen.

- Martin, May 2021
charles April 2021

“A few problems.”

1 Advertised as log burner and central heating complete, sorry as we found out that did not include wood for the log burner. This compounded the matter as 2 the central heating did not work. However after two days it was working. This was due to the excellent friendly service by your telephone staff at both the Ambleside and Chester office also a special mention for Keith and Paul the c/heating repair men they we think really did give us great and pleasant attention, even providing us with four radiators to keep us warm till the boiler was repaired. 3 Did expect that the mattresses would have had mattress protectors supplied under the sheets.4 No cutting boards in the kitchen except for an enormous butchers chopping board. Apart from that we all had a really enjoyable stay

- charles, April 2021

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Summary

Four bedrooms: 1 x double bed, 1 x double (with single bed), 1 x twin bedroom, 1 x single
Family shower room with shower, basin and WC
Shower room with basin and WC
Cloakroom with basin and WC
Kitchen
Dining room
Sitting room.
Oil central heating with woodburning stove
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washer/dryer, dishwasher, TV, WiFi
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Cot and highchair available
Off road parking for 3 cars
Encolsed garden with furniture
Two well-behaved dogs welcome
Sorry, no smoking
Pub 5 mins walk
Shop 11 mins walk.

Awards

The property

You might wonder at the name of this enchanting holiday cottage in the Langdale Valley, tucked away in the pretty village of Elterwater. Not many people know that Elterwater was once home to a gunpowder factory which used superior quality flint only found in the renowned local slate quarries. Curious guests will find out more at Ambleside Library, but all will be enchanted by the 'olde worlde' character of this wonderful holiday home, refurbished to provide modern creature comforts and spacious to accommodate large families or groups. At the gateway to the Langdale Valley, Elterwater village is a perfect location for soaking up the scenery, with walks in every direction and a warm welcome assured at the renowned Britannia Inn. == Accommodation in detail Private parking for 3 cars close to the entrance. Enter via a Lakeland slate tiled hall to the dining room, with doors to garden and interesting beamed archway to the modern kitchen. Heated cloakroom for drying walking gear, shower room and WC. The living room oozes character with its Lakeland slate fireplace, inset woodburning stove, old oak beams and soft cushioned furnishings. Upstairs to the four bedrooms; 1 double, 1 double with extra single bed, 1 twin and 1 single. Excellent house shower room with shower. Location This enchanting holiday home in the Langdale Valley takes a scenic, peaceful location; whether you wish to walk the Langdale Pikes, photograph the spectacular Langdale Valley or simply escape from the madding crowds, you'll find a blissful home from home here. Elterwater village sits between Ambleside and Great Langdale. With so many gentle or challenging Lake District walks beginning from your door, you may never need to use your car. The small nearby Elterwater tarn is a delight to behold, and can be reached via a path from the Elterwater Inn - a quintessential Lake District pub serving great food and real local ale. Only a short drive will take you to vibrant Ambleside village and the shores of Lake Windermere. There you'll find a sophisticated range of shops for stocking up the kitchen, acclaimed Lake District restaurants such as 'The Glass House' and Windermere Lake Cruises departing from Waterhead Pier providing a scenic route to Bowness and Lakeside!Also nearby is Coniston water, the Lake District's third largest lake. There you'll find more opportunities for boating activities, perhaps discovering Peel Island - featured in Arthur Ransome's Swallows & Amazons as 'Wild Cat Island'.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £200.

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About the location

ELTERWATER

Great Langdale 2.9 miles; Ambleside 4.2 miles; Grasmere 8.2 miles.

Elterwater is a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A tranquil hamlet with its tiny ‘swan lake’, Elter Water, sitting at the gateway of the striking Langdale valley. The soft valley landscape is in sharp contrast to the steep jagged Langdale Pikes. Elterwater sits between Ambleside and Great Landgale, where at the top of the valley the infamous Wrynose Path is the only way out of the u-shaped valley, giving it a superb sense of seclusion. The larger towns of Grasmere and Ambleside are a short drive away providing a host of options for shopping and eating out.

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“Having stayed here before many years ago, we were happy to return as its a lovely cottage, great location and close to the famous Britannia Inn.”

“A cosy house in a very convenient location for lots of walks and the local pub.”

“The cottage is lovely and in a fabulous location for walking and getting around the area.”

“Hi, on the whole we had a lovely stay, and thank you for the welcome pack, that was a nice touch.”

“The cottage was very nice in a superb location and a great private garden.”

“Absolutely fabulous cottage and area to stay at.”

“Gunpowder is an excellent property for us, allowing dogs and 2 minutes from pub.”

“Ovely cottage and the location is superb.”

“Great holiday cottage.”

“Having read previous reviews we were a little worried about Gunpowder Cottage, but we need not have been concerned.”

“This cottage was the perfect location but it was very tired and needed some tlc!”

“Gunpowder,which we have rented annually for over 30 years, again provided an excellent base for our family holiday.”

“This was our second stay at Gunpowder Cottage and there have been some excellent improvements.”

“Lovely cottage.”

“Good points.”

“Lovely cottage, perfect location.”

“We thought there was supposed to be a bath.”

“A lovely cottage in a fabulous location.”

“After reading recent reviews of gunpowder cottage , we had worries that it was going to disappoint.”

“Property had not been well cleaned when we arrived and didn't look like it had been thoroughly cleaned in a long time.”

“We have rented many cottages in Langdale but this has to be the worse experience to date.”

“Serious concerns about the way my concerns over the safety of the property - strong fumes coming from the oil boiler - were handled and explained to me as being common with oil boilers.”

“Everything was fine but upon entering the property there was a very strong smell of heating oil.”