Grasmere At The Graythwaite Estate | Sawrey | Far Sawrey | The Lake District And Cumbria

Customer rating

4.2★

5 Guests
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Pets Yes
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Features

Electric car charging
Off road parking
Ground floor bedroom
Open fire
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Washing machine
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

32 Customer Review(s)

Dan
August 2026

“The cottage was pleasant and well stocked, but the way it has been converted means that there is only one door and as such severely limits air flow.”

Even with the windows open and all heating off the cottage is very stuffy and gets too warm, meaning sleep was impaired. The presence of the swifts was delightful, but the porch-way was filthy with bird poo which really should be hosed down between bookings.

Even with the windows open and all heating off the cottage is very stuffy and gets too warm, meaning sleep was impaired. The presence of the swifts was delightful, but the porch-way was filthy with bird poo which really should be hosed down between bookings.

- Dan, August 2026

Thank you for your review. We're pleased to hear you found the cottage pleasant and well stocked. As this is a conversion of an old farm building, unfortunately it isn't possible to add additional external doors, and we appreciate that this can limit airflow during warmer periods. August is also a wonderful time for the swifts that nest around the property, although we recognise this can make it more challenging to keep the external areas clean. We do our best to maintain these areas between stays and apologise that the porchway was not up to the standard you expected. Thank you for your feedback, which we will take on board. Property Owner
Shaheen October 2025

“The cottage was cosy and a nice size for family of 5.”

I would say the bathroom facilities could do with an upgrade quite dated and sink could do with a mixer tap as hot water was too hot for the kids. So they kept on alternating between hot and cold. Iron and ironing board could do with a refresh ironing board cover had lots of stains on it and the iron was very old school. Maybe lighting outside we returned many times after sunset but the whole route back had no street lighting just makes it pleasant to walk in the evenings. Kitchen was well stocked with the essentials, little cute teabags and coffee was plenty tonuse for few days getaway. Cupboard has washing up liquid, scourer and dishcloth. I did make an enquiry before arriving to ask if if this was provided I was told no for the scourer and kitchen roll. But on arrival it was there. Would've saved me bringing it from leicester. Overall a pleasant experience would consider booking again in the future. Thanks

- Shaheen, October 2025

Thank you so much for your detailed and thoughtful feedback. We’re really pleased to hear you found the cottage cosy and well-equipped for your family. We appreciate your comments about the bathroom, which is on our list of improvements. We will replace the iron and ironing board but unfortunately the outdoor lighting proves more difficult as some guests don't want it shining and prefer the total darkness of the area. Sorry for the confusion about the kitchen supplies, and glad you found everything you needed on arrival. We’re delighted you had a pleasant stay and would love to welcome you back again! Property Owner
Paula August 2025

“Lovely setting and peaceful.”

The cottage was clean, tidy and the welcome pack would benefit from condiments eg salt and pepper but only a minor issue. It was lovely to see the swallows nesting in the rafters and in the out buildings. I’d recommend staying here.

- Paula, August 2025

Thank you so much for your lovely feedback! We’re delighted you enjoyed the peaceful setting and found the cottage clean and comfortable. There should have been filled salt and pepper dispensers in the property and apologise for this not being the case during your stay. We have since replaced the missing ones and thank you for pointing this out to us. We really appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you back again soon! Property Owner
Anna July 2025

“Lovely cottage, though I thought it was in Grasmere- but this is the name of the cottage!”

LOL. However, was a happy accident as the place was lovely. Unfortunately, you are not able to access Esthwaite Water as it’s privately owned. Hawkshead is a 40 minute walk, where you can get supplies. You need to book food in advance, as most places fill early, the local pub was very nice. The cottage itself is comfortable, great sofa, beds, good kitchen equipment, but no welcome pack. The curtains are awfully thin, so can see the security light going on and off all night and if you sleep with the windows open, will hear the local cows all night would recommend earplugs and sleeping mask! Old pile of bird droppings at the front door needs scraping away- I tried to brush but needs a shovel! Bathroom a bit tired. Other than that, all good.

- Anna, July 2025

Thank you very much for your detailed review! We’re glad your “happy accident” turned out well and that you enjoyed your time at Graythwaite. We appreciate your honest feedback about areas that could be improved and we hope to welcome you back in the future. Property Owner
Kathryn August 2023

“Clean Tidy Comfortable beds and linen fine.”

Kitchen not very well equipped with cutlery No washing up liquid provided Small fridge, no freezer Entrance dirty with bird droppings No welcome pack eg bread/milk/wine/coffee - nice touch provided by most places

- Kathryn, August 2023

Thank you for your feedback. We're glad to hear that you found the property clean, tidy, and the beds comfortable. We appreciate your comments on the kitchen equipment, lack of washing up liquid, and the small fridge without a freezer. We'll address these issues to improve our guests' experience. Property Owner
Tarsem July 2023

“We loved the scenery around the property with a beautiful lake nearby, it was very rustic which is what we wanted.”

The facilities were good, clean indoors, comfortable furniture to relax on after a busy day outdoors. Parking on the property was perfect. Overall my family of 5 stayed comfortably we made full use of the modern kitchen & large bathroom there were adequate number of bedrooms with enough storage cupboards and drawers. The property is around 25-30 mins drive from the shops and restaurants for anyone looking to stay here. Only one negative feedback. The porch outside the entrance could have been cleaner alot of bird poo on the floor before entry into the property.

- Tarsem, July 2023

Thank you for your review. We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed the beautiful surroundings, found the cottage comfortable and well-equipped, and that it worked well for your family. We also appreciate your feedback regarding the porch area. During the summer months, the swifts nesting around the property are a wonderful part of the estate's wildlife, but they can make it challenging to keep these external areas completely clean. We do our best to maintain them between stays and apologise that the porch was not as clean as it should have been on your arrival. Thank you again for your feedback, and we hope to welcome you back in the future. Property Owner
Ariati April 2023

“A truly charming cottage with a lovely backdrop.”

A place to stay to get away from it all for those that doesn’t mind being a little away from amenities. Good facilities and very comfortable.

- Ariati, April 2023
Marc April 2023

“Very nice property immaculately clean, however bathroom shower screen did not seal on bath causing lots of water to leak onto floor.”

This has clearly been an issue for some time as the bath panel was swelling and paint coming off. A small detail but will have a detrimental effect on the look of the bathroom quickly. Bed linen and towels of good quality and immaculate. All beds very comfortable. Electric heating worked well. I do feel some logs should be provided for the first night for simplicity for late arriving guests. Wi-Fi good and fast, well equipped kitchen. We enjoyed our stay very much.

- Marc, April 2023
Helen December 2021

“Very few logs in log store, none of which were dry - considering having an open fire was one of the key reasons we booked this property, this was a big disappointment and inconvenience.”

Very average quality of decor and facilities, considering the cost.

- Helen, December 2021

Thank you for your feedback following your recent stay at Grasmere. Properties unfortunately do not get logs provided. An honesty box system was in operation, and our sawmill was replenishing stocks, however we were finding that guests weren’t being honest, and therefore we made the decision to remove all logs. Guests are able to pre-order logs through our farm shop ordering system so that they have them prior to arrival, or alternatively they can go to the farm shop themselves to purchase logs Property Owner
Dionne November 2021

“Would definitely book this property again !”

Lovely and clean and very spacious. Love the location

- Dionne, November 2021
Joseph November 2021

“Advertised with a supply of fire wood, but none available.”

not sure if it is advertised, but we have stayed here before and I think we had access to netflix/prime TV, but this was not available as the connection stated there was no internet access on the TV, is this something that could be looked at. Overall it was a nice stay, clean, tidy, great beds and bedding. Are visiting again in Jan 2022, hope we can have netflix then.

- Joseph, November 2021
Keith May 2021

“We had the most wonderful stay with our family.”

The location was just perfect. The accommodation was clean and comfortable and had all the facilities we needed. It’s a perfect location to explore the Lakes. The accommodation was spacious and comfortable. We have stayed here many times over the years and would highly recommend to families and couples alike. We will be back very soon.

- Keith, May 2021
Simon October 2020

“The bath needed resealing as the sealant was coming away in several places.”

The shower door didn't have a seal fitted which resulted in a wet floor after every shower. Would be beneficial to have a small vanity unit in the bathroom, as we didn't find the single glass shelf sufficient. Paddock wasn't fully enclosed as advertised as there wasn't a gate at the entrance or at the bottom of the field. Location was very good for the activities that we wanted to do. Area was very quiet and peaceful.

- Simon, October 2020
Steven September 2020

“Had good wheelchair access”

- Steven, September 2020
John August 2020

“Nice clean pleasant place to stay, already booked for next year.”

( next year please can you try to get us better weather ) Haha.

- John, August 2020
Leanne March 2020

“Fabulous area to stay.”

Cottage very clean and comfortable. Amazon Prime was a lovely bonus. Cottage could do with some books, advice on area and board games. It’s nice to stay somewhere with home comforts. Would recommend

- Leanne, March 2020
Man Han October 2019

“Lack of Toilet tissues,rubbish bags and recycle rubbish bags.”

Toilet door lock is too tight . It is really hard for normal people to open and close while using the toilet. My kid is really not happy about it .

- Man Han, October 2019
Christina October 2019

“A lovely warm cottage only problem was the tiny fridge this sleeps 5 people no ...”

A lovely warm cottage only problem was the tiny fridge this sleeps 5 people no where near enough space in fridge for a weeks shop

- Christina, October 2019
Emma September 2019

“This was out second stay at Grassmere cottage and we absolutely love it!”

! It’s so cosy with everything you could possibly need. Set in gorgeous surroundings, we had a very peaceful and chilled out week. Sykes were amazing as always :)

- Emma, September 2019
Elizabeth August 2019

“Cottage much improved since last year”

- Elizabeth, August 2019
Andy July 2019

“The Fridge appeared to be constantly defrosting, The bathroom door handle not working properly, No seal on bath screen so excess water on floor after shower, The 3 single mattresses have seen better days children complain of springs sticking in them and the Television kept losing its sound.”

We did however have a really good time and these minor issues can be easily rectified.

- Andy, July 2019
Alexandra May 2019

“Living room /kitchen accommodation was a little cramped and basic No ...”

Living room /kitchen accommodation was a little cramped and basic No dishwasher Bedrooms were fine but thought the accommodation was over priced overall

- Alexandra, May 2019
Susan May 2019

“Lovely cottage home from home, extremely clean, well equipped & extras touches go a long way, will definitely be back.”

- Susan, May 2019
Jennifer March 2019

“Lovely location.”

The accommodation was well laid out, spacious and very comfortable.

- Jennifer, March 2019
Lucy November 2018

“This was our third visit to the farm we love it and will keep using it,great ...”

This was our third visit to the farm we love it and will keep using it,great location great for dogs and great local pub

- Lucy, November 2018
Clare October 2018

“If you would like accommodation in a wonderful location, off the main road but within easy walk of a lovely pub- this place is perfect.”

It's comfortable, very child and dog friendly. A reasonable price. If you want somewhere very plush and newly renovated- look elsewhere and probably pay a little more.

- Clare, October 2018
Andrew October 2018

“2 little things: key safe code did not work , but the door to Grasmere was open, and there were 2 sets of keys inside on the table.”

blind covering the kitchen window would not go up or down .

- Andrew, October 2018
Danielle July 2018

“Cottage situated in delightful surroundings.”

Basic accommodation but comfortable beds. A little dark inside. Beautiful walks from doorstep. We shall be back.

- Danielle, July 2018
Thomas June 2018

“My wife and I knew how beautiful the Lake District was, but where the cottages are situated is absolutely beautiful.”

The cottage itself was well above expectations. It was such a relaxing time. The walks and drives are spectacular. So close to the ferry to Bowness one way and Hawkshead the other. Coniston and Ambleside are a short drive away. We had such a wonderful time that when we came home I booked another week for later in the summer. And I'd like to recommend th shoulder of lamb in the Tower Bank Arms pub just up the road.

- Thomas, June 2018
C April 2018

“Nice accommodation with nice surroundings.”

Would recommend

- C, April 2018
Christine June 2017

“Facilities excellent, no one answered or returned calls from numbers left in cottage.”

The cottage overall was lovely in a beautiful but remote area although did need a bit of talc.

- Christine, June 2017
Albert September 2016

“Due to the wet weather”

- Albert, September 2016

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Summary

All ground floor
Two bedrooms: 1 x double, 1 x family room with 3 singles
Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC
Open-plan living area with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with woodburning stove
Shared laundry.
Electric heating with woodburning stove
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge and Smart TV
Washing machine, tumble dryer and freezer available in the shared laundry
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Cot and highchair available from the communal laundry
Ample off-road parking in the shared courtyard
Shared use of a lawned garden
Pay-as-you-go EV charging available on-site
Two well-behaved dogs welcome
Sorry, no smoking
Shop 2.2 miles, pub 3 mins walk
Please note that logs, kindling, firelighters and matches are not included in your stay but can be ordered using the GoodEats link in your key collection information
WiFi and mobile phone signal may be limited due to the property's rural location
Water from a private supply, fed from a freshwater lake
To avoid disappointment, we recommend booking Graythwaite Adventure activities in advance
Osprey Safaris are available through Esthwaite Water Fishery
Please Note: This property charges a £250.00 Good Housekeeping Bond
Please Note: Esthwaite Water is privately owned and managed independently by Esthwaite Water Fishery
Guests do not have automatic rights to access the water, fish or swim, and any permits or access permissions must be arranged directly with the fishery
Please Note: Check-ins are not available on Christmas Day, Boxing Day or New Year's Day.

The property

Grasmere is a stone courtyard cottage located in Sawrey, Cumbria.

It is set within the grounds of a private estate, consisting of ten other properties.

Internally, the light sitting room lets the sun flood in but when the evening chill descends, you can cosy up in front of the excellent, easy to use and warming, woodburning stove.

Relax among the soft couch cushions and enjoy the benefits of the large TV.

Appliances of the highest order are on-hand to help you cook up a storm for your loved ones in the cosy little kitchen.

Following on from a busy day exploring, there's nothing more pleasant than experiencing a comfortable night's sleep in the spacious double bedroom and family room, housing three single beds.

With a modern family bathroom with a choice of a luxurious bath or a quick shower.

Nearby attractions include Wray Castle, a Victorian neo-gothic castle.

It was built in 1840 for retired Liverpudlian surgeon James Dawson and is a Grade II listed building.

It has associations with artist John Ruskin and children's writer Beatrix Potter, who spent a summer holiday there.

The surrounding grounds are open all year round and make for wonderful sightseeing opportunities.

Grasmere is an attraction for those historic enthusiasts.

Esthwaite Farm Cottages

A beautiful collection of eleven stone properties, located close to Esthwaite Water, in the idyllic village of Near Sawrey, Lake District National Park. From the moment you approach these delightful cottages, along picturesque narrow lanes, lined by swooping trees and quaint stone walls, you cannot fail to fall in love with this wonderful setting. It is the ideal choice for a break away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Set in a charming courtyard, these eleven homely properties provide welcoming accommodation, many featuring a warming woodburning stove. There is a mix of one- and two-bedroom properties, over one or two stories. With some having open-plan living areas and all with comfy bedrooms, fit for a great night’s sleep in this quiet and tranquil part of the world. The large lawned area allows children and pets to play safety whilst you relax and gaze across the valley. Take a walk to the forested hillsides or maybe take the private path down to the water’s edge. This is truly an unrivalled location for exploring all that the Lake District has to offer. Whatever your motivation for taking a break, there’s something for everyone nearby. Walkers and cyclists can get their kicks at nearby Grizedale Forest. Lake Windermere and Coniston Water offer opportunities for river cruises or water sports. Take a drive through the charming surrounding villages, including beautiful Hawkshead, and explore the boutique shops in Ambleside or Bowness. Further afield, the towns of Keswick and Ulverston are well worth a visit, and kids will love a trip on the Haverthwaite Steam Train, just a few miles away. These characteristic cottages offer the opportunity for a memorable stay that you will want to repeat again and again.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £250.

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About the location

SAWREY

Hawkshead 2 miles.

The village of Sawrey is situated two miles from Hawkshead down the eastern side of Esthwaite Water, overlooked by the woods and tarns of Claife Heights. Sawrey consists of two separate hamlets - Near Sawrey and Far Sawrey - both with a cluster of picturesque cottages, tea rooms and pubs. Near Sawrey is famous for Hill Top, the 17th century farmhouse where Beatrix Potter wrote her acclaimed children's stories. Now a museum, owned and run by the National Trust, Hill Top is one of the most visited houses in the Lake District. Far Sawrey is the hamlet furthest away from Hawkshead and the nearest to the ferry point on Windermere. It offers a church and pub/restaurant with a beer garden. There are good walks in the area, including those to Claife Heights and in Grizedale Forest. It's also a great base for enjoying a wide variety of typical Lakeland pursuits - with watersports close at hand on Lake Windermere, fishing on nearby Esthwaite Water and, of course, fell walking.

Please note Esthwaite property is an independent company and no one has rights to be on the water or fish or swim without paying Esthwaite water fishery.

This property offers the following short breaks:

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“The cottage was pleasant and well stocked, but the way it has been converted means that there is only one door and as such severely limits air flow.”

“The cottage was cosy and a nice size for family of 5.”

“Lovely setting and peaceful.”

“Lovely cottage, though I thought it was in Grasmere- but this is the name of the cottage!”

“Clean Tidy Comfortable beds and linen fine.”

“We loved the scenery around the property with a beautiful lake nearby, it was very rustic which is what we wanted.”

“A truly charming cottage with a lovely backdrop.”

“Very nice property immaculately clean, however bathroom shower screen did not seal on bath causing lots of water to leak onto floor.”

“Very few logs in log store, none of which were dry - considering having an open fire was one of the key reasons we booked this property, this was a big disappointment and inconvenience.”

“Would definitely book this property again !”

“Advertised with a supply of fire wood, but none available.”

“We had the most wonderful stay with our family.”

“The bath needed resealing as the sealant was coming away in several places.”

“Had good wheelchair access”

“Nice clean pleasant place to stay, already booked for next year.”

“Fabulous area to stay.”

“Lack of Toilet tissues,rubbish bags and recycle rubbish bags.”

“A lovely warm cottage only problem was the tiny fridge this sleeps 5 people no ...”

“This was out second stay at Grassmere cottage and we absolutely love it!”

“Cottage much improved since last year”

“The Fridge appeared to be constantly defrosting, The bathroom door handle not working properly, No seal on bath screen so excess water on floor after shower, The 3 single mattresses have seen better days children complain of springs sticking in them and the Television kept losing its sound.”

“Living room /kitchen accommodation was a little cramped and basic No ...”

“Lovely cottage home from home, extremely clean, well equipped & extras touches go a long way, will definitely be back.”

“Lovely location.”

“This was our third visit to the farm we love it and will keep using it,great ...”

“If you would like accommodation in a wonderful location, off the main road but within easy walk of a lovely pub- this place is perfect.”

“2 little things: key safe code did not work , but the door to Grasmere was open, and there were 2 sets of keys inside on the table.”

“Cottage situated in delightful surroundings.”

“My wife and I knew how beautiful the Lake District was, but where the cottages are situated is absolutely beautiful.”

“Nice accommodation with nice surroundings.”

“Facilities excellent, no one answered or returned calls from numbers left in cottage.”