Old Howgate Barn | Hawkshead | Self Catering Holiday Cottage

Customer rating

4.9★

4 Guests
2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Pets Yes
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Features

Off road parking
Ground floor accommodation
Ground floor bedroom
Open fire
Cot available
Highchair available
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

27 Customer Review(s)

Alison
July 2026

“We had a wonderful stay at Old Howgate.”

Fabulous accommodation, beautifully decorated and everything you could want in the kitchen. The beds were really comfy, and we slept so well. We were really fortunate with the weather for the week if anything, it was getting a bit hot, and with our dog, we were heading back to the accommodation early. With that in mind, the afternoon heat made the living area quite warm as the sun was streaming through the living room windows - although there were beautiful curtains to block it out. Maybe a ...

Fabulous accommodation, beautifully decorated and everything you could want in the kitchen. The beds were really comfy, and we slept so well. We were really fortunate with the weather for the week if anything, it was getting a bit hot, and with our dog, we were heading back to the accommodation early. With that in mind, the afternoon heat made the living area quite warm as the sun was streaming through the living room windows - although there were beautiful curtains to block it out. Maybe a fan would be a nice addition if our summers are going to continue to be so warm. We would highly recommend Old Howgate.

- Alison, July 2026

Thank you so much for your lovely review. We completely agree with you that it would be good to have a fan for the lounge in this exceptional weather. We do have fans on order but because of this wonderful weather, we’ve been given a mid August delivery date. I guess everyone is doing the same! We do hope that you decide to visit us again sometime. A new outdoor patio will be built in the next few months too, giving guests a relaxing outdoor space to enjoy the views towards Grisedale forest. Property Owner
Marion June 2026

“The accommodation was excellent perfect for four adults and a dog.”

A lovely quiet place to stay but was easy to reach the surrounding towns. The only thing I would mention on the accommodation description is to say that the kitchen also has an integrated freezer as well as a fridge. We were buying food before we arrived but didn't know whether we could buy frozen. Would definitely recommend this place to stay in the lake District.

- Marion, June 2026

We’re delighted that you’ve enjoyed your stay with us and hope you decide to return someday. The freezer is listed on the Sykes website, but perhaps you booked through an alternative website (Sykes take third party bookings) which may not have had everything listed, which is a shame. Property Owner
Jean June 2026

“Absolutely fantastic property.”

It was very well equipped, immaculate throughout.The best self catering accommodation we have been to.Will definitely be booking again

- Jean, June 2026

Thank you so much for your lovely feedback and we do hope you decide to visit again sometime. Property Owner
Sara May 2026

“Out of all the places we have stayed this really is the best ap good that we've already booked again for July and shall be booking our October trip to.”

Property is stunning somewhere we would love to live. Well equipped and clean the teenager loved the Bluetooth mirrors. Cant wait to come back. 10/10.

- Sara, May 2026

Thank you very much for such lovely feedback and we’re delighted that you’ve rebooked so soon! Property Owner
Ian May 2026

“We have just come back from a wonderfull week at Old Howgate Barn and I must say we where very happy with the acomadation.”

It started off when we arrived with no electricity to the property and with the help of the owner it was soon sorted and our holiday at Old Howgate could begin and a wonderful time we had.Thank You

- Ian, May 2026

We’re so glad you enjoyed your stay, and thankfully North West Electricity restored the electricity in the area within a few hours of your arrival. It was a real pleasure to meet you. Property Owner
Sophie April 2026

“We had a really lovely holiday at The Old Howgate Barn.”

The accommodation was a comfortable and modern country cottage with a fully equipped kitchen, cosy lounge with log burner, and 2 spacious bedrooms with en suites. Travelling as two couples with a toddler, a baby, and a dog, the layout worked perfectly for us. The accommodation felt practical, comfortable, and well-suited to both families and pets, making it easy to relax and enjoy our stay. Parking right outside the property was very convenient, and the location is excellent, with beautiful walks straight from the doorstep. With its accommodation, location and friendly hosts, we highly recommend The Old Howgate Barn.

- Sophie, April 2026

Thank you so much for such lovely feedback, we’re very pleased that both your families enjoyed our property. Property Owner
Jonathan April 2026

“What a delightful cottage!”

As soon as we walked in you could tell that everything had been finished to a high standard. The property is modern, tastefully decorated and well-lit. The two rooms are very cosy, each with a large bed, the upstairs one a king. The bathrooms are also a modern chic design with amazing power showers. The kitchen is more than functional and has everything you need. Plenty of cooking space, all the utensils you need, even for baking. The living room is comfortable and there is a smart TV where you can log in to Netflix, Prime, or in our case, Globoplay! The road to the property is narrow and full of holes but it’s only about half a mile until you’re on to wider roads and it’s only about 10-15 minutes into Ambleside and even less to Hawkshead. The only minor complaint is that there was a slight smell of mould (couldn’t actually see any so not sure why) in one of the bathrooms which was being offset by some perfumery of some sort which sparked off my wife’s allergies, but I’d also point out that the property was spotlessly clean throughout. I would thoroughly recommend this little converted barn to anyone looking for a little bit of luxury and that added extra touch, which the owners have obviously gone to great lengths to provide. From a personal point of view, since I’m a fairly sociable person, it would have been nice if the owner/owners had popped in to say hello, but others probably like the idea of being able to find the keys in a lockbox at the door without having interact with anyone! All in all, an enjoyable and very comfortable stay, and we’ll definitely be back.

- Jonathan, April 2026

Thank you so much for such comprehensive and glowing feedback. We’re pleased to confirm that the slight odour was from a faulty shower trap, which we were able to replace a few weeks ago. We hope to see you again soon! Property Owner
Graham March 2026

“A perfect property in a perfect location with lots of walks from the door.”

The photos don’t really do it justice. It’s been converted to a high standard in a very tasteful and well thought out way. From the very moment you enter you know that the owner has given a lot of thought about the design and layout. The decor is very tasteful and there is everything you could possibly need. There is even warm water dog washing facilities outside for when you’re beloved pooch enjoys the great outdoors a little too much. Will definitely be back and would highly recommend.

- Graham, March 2026

Thank you so much for your lovely review. We look forward to seeing you again! Property Owner
Helen March 2026

“We had the pleasure of staying for a week and it was hard to leave !”

! We booked this cottage months ago due to the great reviews it had and could see it was very popular. However, after reading the last few reviews noting some negative comments we were apprehensive about staying there but when we arrived all doubts disappeared and we were extremely happy with our choice :) I do now agree with other comments left and think there should be more basic provisions supplied. The standard of the property is excellent and it has become our favourite cottage having stayed in so many over the last 10+ years. Stunning location - close proximity to Hawkshead, Ambleside, Bowness and Windermere itself and not far from home so makes a great getaway. Thank you to the owners we really did have an amazing stay in comfort and look forward to coming back later this year. The Simons Family - Bolton -Le-Sands.

- Helen, March 2026

Thank you so much for taking the time to give us such lovely feedback. We did indeed have a few reviews commenting on the cleaning recently, but having looked into it, it would appear that our regular cleaning team were on holiday at the time and a few things were missed by the temporary team. We’re so glad you enjoyed our barn, and hope to see you again soon. Property Owner
Liz February 2026

“Howgate is a lovely size just a few finishing touches missing.”

No real information before you go as to what they don’t supply. When we arrived there was no washing up liquid no dish cloth no logs for the fire which normally is standard in 5star properties, you usually get enough for the first night at least. The other things are just what usually come as standard. The property was mostly clean, but the loo upstairs hadn’t been clean properly and there is an awful drain smell from the shower drain. We could not have stayed up in that room it was so bad. The sofa and chairs are very uncomfortable. I don’t feel it would take much to bring it up to a 5 star standard as everything else was lovely.

- Liz, February 2026

Update - we are pleased to confirm that the intermittent odour upstairs has been resolved - it was unfortunately a faulty shower trap. Regarding the lack of logs etc, it would appear that a relief cleaner dealt with the changeover rather than our regular cleaner, and she may not have been aware of the requirement to replenish logs etc. Many thanks for taking the time to give us your feedback. We will address these issues with Lakelovers housekeeping team as soon as possible. Property Owner
Donna February 2026

“Very well appointed house, but was missing a few touches.”

Arriving late afternoon in in February we were surprised there were no logs provided for the log burner and no information as to where we could buy some. My husband had to go back into Ambleside in the dark to try and find some. This was a disappointing start. It would have been nice to have a welcome pack, for the standard of the accommodation we would have expected something. It's a nice personal touch to make you feel welcome. There was no washing up liquid and only one toilet roll per bathroom - these are basics we would have expected to be provided. The downstairs shower was close to flooding even after only short showers. The mold on the shower door seal was off putting. Everything else was of a high standard, so it was a shame a few small things let the property down.

- Donna, February 2026

Many thanks for taking the time to give us your feedback. We will speak to Lakelovers’ housekeeping staff to address these issues. We do supply most of the items you’ve listed, but it would appear that they haven’t been put out. We do apologise for this. Property Owner
Shona January 2026

“Fabulous! We loved everything about this place.”

- Shona, January 2026

Thank you! We’re very pleased you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner
David January 2026

“One of the best Sykes cottages we have stayed in, great parking space, very pet friendly, loved the dog welcome pack, nice and warm in the depth of another winter storm.”

The owner kindly supplied us with logs during the stay for the log burner,. Very clean and well presented. Very quiet location. Unfortunately due to inaccurate weather forecast we left cone day early to avoid driving home in snow on a Friday.

- David, January 2026

Many thanks for your kind review! Property Owner
Johanne November 2025

“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Five-Star Stay We were all very pleased with the accommodation and location of the cottage – it’s genuinely one of the best we’ve stayed at.”

The setting was perfect, and the property itself was very comfortable. That said, we did encounter a couple of issues worth mentioning. The upstairs ensuite had a persistent smell coming from the shower trap. This was reported, and while the owner kindly attempted to mask it with Zoflora, the odour unfortunately returned quite quickly. A few other small surprises: there were no initial logs provided for the log burner, meaning we couldn’t enjoy a fire on our first evening. And while the dog was treated to a lovely welcome pack, the human welcome pack consisted only of a packet of Tesco digestives and some long-life milk plus a cleaning pack (dishwasher tablets, sponge and cloth). None of these points detracts from the fact that the cottage itself was excellent and in a fantastic location – we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would happily return.

- Johanne, November 2025

Many thanks for your feedback and we’re delighted with our 5 stars . In addition to biscuits and milk, we do supply tea, ordinary and decaf coffee, hot chocolate, peppermint tea and sugars which can be found in the canisters in the kitchen. Property Owner
Susan November 2025

“This is a well designed barn conversion with modern heating and a lovely wood burner.”

Utility was useful for wet boots etc and nice wine cooler . There is a step down from living area to kitchen which is blind and needs some yellow tape to define it as we all nearly fell down it. We have reported it. The wood burner was left dirty and there was not enough wood for even one fire so bring some with you as being out in the stix it’s a way to get any. The usual Lakelover/Sykes standard things - cleaning and washing up stuff was lacking and it took the edge off the place for us. We’ve always been used to a lovely welcome pack at other properties . Still it was a relaxing week and would recommend staying.

- Susan, November 2025

Thank you for taking the time to give us your feedback, which we appreciate. We will contact the housekeeping department at Lakelovers because you should have received a complimentary cleaning pack, along with refreshments, and the fire left clean. Property Owner
Philip November 2025

“Has every thing u need after a long walk in the rain .”

nice big drying room as soon as you walk in . rest of the barn was very clean and tidy

- Philip, November 2025

Thank you for your lovely feedback . Property Owner
Nicola October 2025

“Amazing cottage!”

We can honestly say this is the best cottage we have ever stayed in and we loved every second of our holiday here. Cannot wait to return!

- Nicola, October 2025

That’s wonderful - thank you! Property Owner
Martin October 2025

“Howgate Barn is a fantastic holiday house.”

Just as described in the photos, perfect for a family of 3 or 4. Lovely touches such as the welcome pack for dogs and cleaning/washing up. Everything was in good order. Be aware you are in the middle of a working farm, which didn't bother us in the slightest as we live in the countryside. Dog walks from the house all need a lead due to open fields, the walk to Hawshead is very dark in Autumn/Winter so we opted for a cycle which is less than 5 minutes. Excellent food in the Kings Arms and lovely atmosphere there and in the Queen's Head. Ate in the Red Lion also which was great food though the pub could do with a but of modernising. The Outgate in was average at best, food from the freezer except the pizza which was good. Stop serving on the dot at 8pm. A great holiday and home from home (if a little warm for us! Took us a while to cool the bedrooms down!)

- Martin, October 2025

We’re very pleased you enjoyed your stay, and thank you for giving other guests feedback on the local pubs too! We hope to see you again sometime in the future. Property Owner
Sabrina October 2025

“Perfect short stay.”

Accommodation was fab, the boot room was an added bonus with the dog and she loved the welcome pack. Close to Hawkshead and Coniston (short drive) where there were some great shops and restaurants. Would 100% stay again!

- Sabrina, October 2025

Thank you for your lovely feedback, we’re very pleased everyone (and our four legged guest ) enjoyed it. Property Owner
Wendy September 2025

“Property is a very smart and clean barn conversion with everything you need for a great stay.”

boot room very useful after a day walking with muddy boots and damp clothing. couple of minor repairs needed and reported to sykes but didn’t affect our stay. didn’t use wood burning stove so not sure where the wood was for that, none supplied in basket.

- Wendy, September 2025

Many thanks for taking the time to let us know about the repairs - we’ll check with Sykes and get them sorted asap. Property Owner
Joanne September 2025

“Beautiful cottage, just same as advertised, everything we needed.”

- Joanne, September 2025

We’re delighted you enjoyed your stay with us and hope to see you again soon. Property Owner
Rod August 2025

“Fantastic/ great cottage everything you need for a short or long break.”

Beautiful location

- Rod, August 2025

Many thanks for taking the time to give us your lovely feedback. Property Owner
Yvonne July 2025

“Absolutely loved my stay at howgate barn!”

The location was perfect for fell walking not too far away and close enough for a trip to Hawkshead and Ambleside! The accommodation itself is beautifully decorated and the light from the windows really makes it feel airy and spacious. The bedrooms were comfortable And cosy and shower nice and powerful. I just loved the beams and the open plan but cosy space I have few very small improvements that are really “even better ifs”: -the salt had ran out and oil, tinfoil and baking paper would of been welcomed. These usually come as standard in holiday lets. -fans would be a great addition as it was very hot And I couldn’t open the windows due to the flies (the fly spray was welcome thank you!) -Dinning chairs and breakfast bar chairs felt quite uncomfortable so this is a suggestion to replace/invest. Beautiful property, that I would return to in a heartbeat!

- Yvonne, July 2025

Many thanks for taking the time to give us constructive feedback and we’re delighted that you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner
Hazel June 2025

“Beautifully presented and very well equipped cottage.”

Wonderful stay.

- Hazel, June 2025

Thank you very much indeed - we hope to see you again sometime. Property Owner
Rosie May 2025

“We stayed at this property in 2009 when it was Weavers’ Gallery and were amazed at the transformation that has taken place since then.”

We were really pleased with the accommodation at the renamed Old Howgate Barn. The kitchen was very well appointed with all the utensils and equipment we needed. The house was cosy, clean and comfortable and we appreciated the welcome pack and hot shower for the dog. Great location with Hawkshead a short walk away through fields and country lanes. We will definitely be back and highly recommend it to others!

- Rosie, May 2025

Thank you so much for taking the time to give us such lovely feedback, and we’re delighted that you’ll be coming back for another visit soon . Property Owner
Jenny April 2025

“This is a beautiful property, everything has been thought of to make it a pleasure to stay here.”

The lounge, kitchen and dining area all well appointed. The shower was really powerful and the bed divine. We would definitely stay here again. Really close to Hawkshead by car or walking as there is a public footpath through the fields as well. The owners are renovating buildings near by so check if a lot of building work is going on at the time of your stay. It didn’t bother us at all however. I would recommend this barn.

- Jenny, April 2025

Thank you so much for your lovely feedback and we’re delighted that you enjoyed your holiday. The neighbours’ building work is coming to an end and should be finished by the end of May, but we’re pleased it didn’t interfere with your enjoyment. Property Owner
Tom April 2025

“The property is beautiful in a stunningly quiet location, well equipped, clean, modern.”

This property is so great, Its on a working farm which our little ones loved. 1 mile from Hawkshead and a great pub you can walk to close by. Our pup loved his welcome pack and our welcome pack was a welcome treat.

- Tom, April 2025

Thank you so much, we’re really pleased that your children enjoyed seeing the animals on the neighbouring farm next door. They’re not ours, but we get to enjoy them. We hope to see you again sometime! Property Owner

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Summary

Two bedrooms: 1 x ground-floor super king-size (zip/link, can be two singles on request) with TV and en-suite with walk-in shower, basin, and heated towel rail and WC, 1 x king-size with TV and en-suite with walk-in shower, basin, and heated towel rail and WC
Boot Room & Utility
Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with woodburning stove
Central heating
Underfloor heating
Oven, hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, wine cooler, washing machine, tumble dryer, kettle, toaster
3 x TVs, WiFi, Bluetooth speakers
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Bike Storage
Two well behaved dogs allowed
Sorry, no smoking
Shop 1.2 miles, pub 0.7 miles

The property

Old Howgate Barn is a beautifully presented two bedroomed barn conversion tucked away in between the charming hamlet of Outgate and the historic village of Hawkshead. Surrounded by farms and the stunning rolling hills of the Lake District National Park, with off-road parking, underfloor heating and double height open-plan living space, Old Howgate Barn really is perfect for four guests with two well-behaved dogs seeking a luxurious, tranquil retreat.

As you enter the good-sized boot room with underfloor heating you will find a wine cooler, heated towel rail, washing machine and tumble dryer for your convenience; a great space for muddy boots, coats and rucksacks before stepping inside the stunning split-level living space.

Admire the original beams and oak floors as you put your feet up in front of the wood burning stove and Smart TV, perfect after a long day of exploring. The designated chef can rustle up a delicious feast in the well-equipped kitchen, whilst you sip a cold glass of wine at the breakfast bar and listen to music from the Bose speaker before taking your place at the dining table. If the sun is shining, take advantage of the private patio with furniture; the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee as you admire your beautiful surroundings. When the night draws in, make your way up the beautiful oak staircase to the king-size bedroom complete with exposed beams, or step down to the delightful super-king bedroom where the bed can be split into two singles if you wish.

Both bedrooms have 32 inch smart TVs and stunning ensuite shower rooms with Bluetooth speaker, shaving point and a dimmable light built into the mirror; a sanctuary of relaxation perfect for freshening up and completing your night-time routine. In addition to private parking for two cars, there is a secure kayak and bike storage room which you share with the adjacent property. For days spent exploring Cumbria’s finest, visit nearby Ambleside and Windermere, bustling towns with cobbled streets, boutique shops, welcoming pubs, Brockhole, Zip World, Roman Fort ruins, lakeside activities and much more. Taking a short drive will bring you to Grasmere village, the market town of Keswick or head East to the bustling centre of Kendal, where you can explore the wealth of Lancastrian landmarks, such as the famous Kendal Castle and Kendal Museum, or even the glorious Lakeland Climbing Centre. Walkers and cyclists alike have superb routes to choose from straight from the door, including Wray Castle, Grizedale Forest, Lake Windermere, Coniston, Tarn Hows and Latterbarrow to name just a few. With all of these attractions near to Old Howgate Barn, you’ll be spoilt for choice on your Lake District retreat!

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

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About the location

HAWKSHEAD

Ambleside 5.1 miles; Kendal 17.4 miles.

The picturesque village of Hawkshead 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! With stunning scenery and numerous attractions within easy touring distance, Hawkshead is in an ideal location at any time of the year. A short distance beyond Hawkshead and towards the Windermere Ferry is the village of Near Sawrey, and “Hill Top” (now owned and run by the National Trust), home of Beatrix Potter which features many of the illustrations in her books. Newby Bridge and Lakeside are a short distance to the south and offer attractions such as the Aquarium of the Lakes, Windermere Lake Cruises, sailing daily between Ambleside, Bowness and Lakeside plus the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway and Haverthwaite Motor Museum. Lake windermere offers ample watersports facilities, boat tours, and there are a great many walks throughout the Lake District National Park, including those at Scafell Pike and The Old Man of Coniston, and there are many opportunities for birdwatching, mountain biking, and wild swimming.

This property offers the following short breaks:

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“We had a wonderful stay at Old Howgate.”

“The accommodation was excellent perfect for four adults and a dog.”

“Absolutely fantastic property.”

“Out of all the places we have stayed this really is the best ap good that we've already booked again for July and shall be booking our October trip to.”

“We have just come back from a wonderfull week at Old Howgate Barn and I must say we where very happy with the acomadation.”

“We had a really lovely holiday at The Old Howgate Barn.”

“What a delightful cottage!”

“A perfect property in a perfect location with lots of walks from the door.”

“We had the pleasure of staying for a week and it was hard to leave !”

“Howgate is a lovely size just a few finishing touches missing.”

“Very well appointed house, but was missing a few touches.”

“Fabulous! We loved everything about this place.”

“One of the best Sykes cottages we have stayed in, great parking space, very pet friendly, loved the dog welcome pack, nice and warm in the depth of another winter storm.”

“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Five-Star Stay We were all very pleased with the accommodation and location of the cottage – it’s genuinely one of the best we’ve stayed at.”

“This is a well designed barn conversion with modern heating and a lovely wood burner.”

“Has every thing u need after a long walk in the rain .”

“Amazing cottage!”

“Howgate Barn is a fantastic holiday house.”

“Perfect short stay.”

“Property is a very smart and clean barn conversion with everything you need for a great stay.”

“Beautiful cottage, just same as advertised, everything we needed.”

“Fantastic/ great cottage everything you need for a short or long break.”

“Absolutely loved my stay at howgate barn!”

“Beautifully presented and very well equipped cottage.”

“We stayed at this property in 2009 when it was Weavers’ Gallery and were amazed at the transformation that has taken place since then.”

“This is a beautiful property, everything has been thought of to make it a pleasure to stay here.”

“The property is beautiful in a stunningly quiet location, well equipped, clean, modern.”

Summary

The property

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About the location

HAWKSHEAD