“The property is in a superb location right next to the Lake and with its own small jetty, and is reasnably comfortable as well.”
However, there were many niggles which for the sum paid to rent, took the shine off our holiday: 1. The road down to it is in a very poor state with large and deep potholes (if you have any back issues, which we did, dont do it); 2. Brambles grew in from the sides of the road, some of which you couldnt avoid (if you value your car paintwork again dont do it); 3. The jetty had a few maintenance issues (other properties had been renovated, this one hadnt), and there was even some broken glass not cleared from the foreshore; 4. the property was not very well cleaned with cobwebs and spiders in the kitchen and the entrance lobby hadnt been cleaned for sometime; 5. The best north lakeside walk (to Grubbins Point) was out-of-bounds due to a private function, the south walk outside the house, was covered in water so difficult to navigate and the garden that we were told was open, wasn't; 6. Maintenance issues are covered by the estate and they dont man the phones at weekends, so any issues on arrival, wont be dealt with until Monday (we had a few with the shower head broken, batteries flat in TV control, and not enough drinking glasses (there were other missings in the kitchen utilities as well); 7. Doorways are quite low, so myself and my eldest daughter (who are only 5' 10/11") hit our heads regularly; 8. The blind to the en-suite doesnt fully cover the sides of the windown glass and there is a footpath at the end of the garden; 9. The drawers to the bedroom furniture need easing so they open - and they should be checked by the cleaner as we found someone else's sock left behind. Sorry to moan but these were all genuine issues faced, which to be honest for the level of property we were renting and paying for, we dont think we should have encountered.
The property
Nestled on the western shores of Lake Windermere, enveloped by ancient woodland and 5000-acre grounds, is this beautiful cottage on the Graythwaite Estate. This splendid getaway occupies a tranquil setting for you and the family to relax and unwind, with all the finest attractions of Cumbria nearby. With a traditional feel throughout, this 17th-century cottage boasts low ceilings, exposed beams and stonework, lending a nod to its past. The cosy lounge is warmed by a woodburner in the inglenook, whilst the kitchen offers modern fittings. There are three bedrooms upstairs comprising of a king-size with en-suite bathroom, followed by two twins. The estate provides some wonderful facilities in the central courtyard, which is just a short walk away. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the indoor pool, let the children loose on the play area and try a game of table tennis. Summer afternoons can be spent at the picnic table, watching the sun glint off the water, while cooler days are perfect for exploring the surrounding woods, discovering the varied wildlife, which calls the estate home. The fantastic setting of this fully-restored. With the estate facilities to tempt you, including free fishing and the tranquil waters of the lake to inspire, rest and relaxation, you could be forgiven for not venturing further than the estate grounds during your time. But should you choose to head out, then why not book a canoeing, climbing or bushcraft adventure with the on-site team, or ask them for recommendations on local walks? You can even have fresh meals delivered straight to your door and a pack of provisions ready for your arrival. If you fancy being pampered then a discount at the Lakeland Hotel and Spa is sure to tempt, whilst the brave can take to the treetops at the local Go Ape centre or hire mountain bikes, enjoying a 15% discount simply by staying on the fabulous Graythwaite Estate! The village of Hawkshead is nearby with many amenities to try and further afield are the pretty towns and villages of Windermere, Coniston, and Ambleside. Consider a stay at this home-away-from-home.
Summary
- Three bedrooms: 1 x king-size double with en-suite bath, basin and WC, 2 x twin
- Shower room with shower, basin and WC
- Kitchen with dining area
- Sitting room with woodburner.
- Heated by woodchip boiler (underfloor in sitting room) with woodburner
- Electric oven, gas hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, tumble dryer, dishwasher, TV with Freeview, DVD, WiFi available at Home Farm courtyard (approximately 5 minute drive from property)
- Fuel, power and logs for woodburner inc. in rent
- Kindling available £4/bag
- Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
- Travel cot and highchair
- Off-road parking for 2 cars
- Lakeside patio with jetty and furniture
- Shared use of estate grounds and facilities 40 mins walk, inc. indoor heated swimming pool, table tennis room (please bring your own racquets and balls), children's play area, 2.5-acre trout fishing lake
- Two well-behaved dogs welcome
- Sorry, no smoking
- Shops 5.3 miles, pubs 2 miles
- Water from private supply, fed from freshwater lake
- To avoid disappointment, we recommend booking Graythwaite Adventure in advance
- Graythwaite fishery is free for all guests and equipment can be hired locally, a small fee is applicable to keep your catch, rod fishing license required
- Mobile reception at this cottage is generally good
- Please Note: This property is accessed via a half mile woodland track, not suitable for low-profile cars
- Please Note: This property has a £500 Good Housekeeping Bond
- Please Note: For your safety and in line with the Covid-19 guidelines, with effect from the 3rd September 2020 access to the swimming pool will be limited to hourly private sessions, advanced booking is recommended and can be done by contacting estate@graythwaite.com
- Please consider the following information when making your booking; the owner is doing everything possible to keep the facilities open, but there is a possibility that they may be restricted or closed at the time of your stay if the situation or guidance regarding Covid-19 changes.
Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £500.
About the location
HAWKSHEAD
Ambleside 4 miles; Kendal 24 miles.
The picturesque village of Hawkshead still retains the charm and character that so endeared it to its most famous residents - William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. Visitors can wander the wealth of tiny alleyways, thoroughfares, archways and courtyards between the whitewashed 17th century houses. There are many pleasant inns, teashops, guest houses and gift shops in the village, as well as the Beatrix Potter Gallery, which houses an annually changing exhibition of the famous author’s illustrations and stories. The other famous Hawkshead enthusiast, William Wordsworth, attended the Old Grammar School in 1779-87, which still stands today, and you can visit the building where the Lakeland poet developed his love of the form, and even see the desk into which he scratched his name as a small boy! Newby Bridge is ten miles away and offers attractions such as the Aquarium of the Lakes and Windermere Lake Cruises, sailing daily between Ambleside, Bowness and Lakeside. With stunning scenery and numerous attractions within easy touring distance, Hawkshead is in an ideal location at any time of the year.
Note: This property is accessed via a 500 metre woodland track. Not suitable for low-profile cars.
Note: Please be aware that the swimming pool, games room and gymnasium are located a 40 minute walk (or 5 minute drive) from the property
As well as the wide range of activities on-site, The Graythwaite Estate are pleased to offer you the following services to make your stay even more special:
*Maps and recommendations for walks around the estate and surrounding area, along with a list of things to see and do, and the pick of the best local pubs and restaurants
*The arrangement of canoeing, bushcraft, climbing, guided walks and other activities - just let the estate know and they’ll take care of it
*Exclusive 15% discount at Go Ape and Grizedale
*Delicious welcome packs from The Honey Pot in Hawkshead, ordered for your arrival - with guests at Graythwaite entitled to a 10% discount
*Graythwaite have teamed up with The Lakes Catering Company so you can enjoy a delicious, seasonal home-cooked meal, delivered straight to your cottage
More information about these superb deals and activites can be obtained directly with the Estate once your booking is confirmed.
This property offers the following short breaks:
- Winter
- Off-season
- Last minute
