Surprise View | Ravenglass | River Irt | The Lake District And Cumbria

4.6★

3 Guests
1 Bedroom
1 Bathroom
Pets Yes
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Features

Off road parking
Ground floor bedroom
Open fire
Garden / Patio
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Washing machine

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

48 Customer Review(s)

John
July 2024

“This is our fourth visit to Surprise View, and we hope it won't be our last!”

Surprise View is a real home from home - very comfortable, and with an amazing view of the Lakeland Fells. Very friendly goats as well!

Surprise View is a real home from home - very comfortable, and with an amazing view of the Lakeland Fells. Very friendly goats as well!

- John, July 2024
Paul May 2024

“It is a working farm, so respect and consideration is required from visitors.”

However I find no fault with the farm or it’s kind considerate owners whom leave you alone but always pass by to ensure everything is as you wish. A lovely part of the world with a beautiful view and close to a beach and shop via foot in under 10 mins to whatever you wish.

- Paul, May 2024
Catherine December 2023

“Lovely cosy cottage in a fab location.”

The farmer is really friendly and welcoming. We loved the friendly goats roaming round! Nice walk into Ravenglass along the viaduct. Only a short drive to wasdale, eskdale and the sand dunes at Drigg. Thank you for a lovely stay.

- Catherine, December 2023
Vicky September 2023

“The property was totally unsuitable for us.”

There were several flies in every room and evidence in ceilings and walls where people had squashed them. Many spiders on ceiling and especially corners. When I booked I explained we must have ground floor accommodation as my husband can no longer manage the stairs. I was totally horrified to find steep stairs going up to kitchen and living room. As we arrived in the dark and later than we had intended there was nothing we could do about it that night. We phoned Sykes the following morning and they said they were unable to assist with finding us alternative accommodation but would get their customer service to contact us by phone. To date this has not happened. We were left by ourselves, stressed and worried where we would sleep that night. Once back home we are straight into a planned building project and extremely busy. The only communication Sykes have had with us is an email 27.9.23, 20 days after our 1 night stay from Customer Relations Team saying Francesca will respond to us. She has not called. Asking us to complete another questionnaire is their only contact with us We are left out of pocket for the 3 nights we could not stay in our accommodation and still stressed by the experience. We are extremely disappointed with Sykes and would not wish this situation on anybody else. I am hoping that by writing this report it will galvanise Sykes into contacting us direct and resolving this problem. Since 18th sept we have heard nothing other than the 1 email mentioned above . Vicky

- Vicky, September 2023
Chris June 2023

“A comfortable and cosy cottage with lovely views from the upper floor lounge.”

Located on a working farm it is both quiet and rural and a great base for cycling the area. It has easy access by cycle or on foot via an estuary route to Ravenglass. The area has lots to offer from historic Muncaster Castle, steam engine rides, access to Wastwater and an easy train link to Whitehaven. The farm had lots of cute runner ducks and hens with their many chicks, running around the yard and visible from the kitchen window. An excellent base for relaxing and enjoying the Lakes.

- Chris, June 2023
Laura June 2023

“As lovely as the view from the property was, I was disappointed in a few things that put a damper on my stay.”

The shower didn’t drain and hot water didn’t last long most nights so I wasn’t able to have a proper shower during my 4 night stay. There were a lot of cob webs and massive spiders in bedroom. I wasn’t expecting the location to be so busy. It wasn’t as peaceful most nights as I hoped, but I suppose that’s a personal preference. Other guests had dogs off their leash and would bark and advance at my dog and I. Nothing happened as luckily the owners grabbed their dog in time, but it was irritating to deal with every time I left. I had trouble sleeping at night because there was a toilet in front of my bedroom window and would hear people open and close the door throughout the night. I was actually looking forward to coming back home. The view is very beautiful, and the property is in a great location for hikes and site-seeing but I won’t come here again sorry.

- Laura, June 2023
John May 2023

“A lovely stay again!”

We hope to be back soon. The view is one of the best in the Lake District

- John, May 2023
Robert September 2022

“The property was comfortable & homely , if a little tired .”

The tiles behind the cooker need fixing back onto the wall to prevent any future holiday maker jumping out of their skin when the panel decides to fall - - good job we had nothing on the cooker top at the time ! Also there was no mention of the camping facilities on site or the campers toilet & shower being only a few yards from our door & bedroom window meaning we heard anyone using this facility when they slid back the industrial sized bolt on the door to gain access. The " Surprise View " would be greatly improved if the windows were cleaned - - we cleaned the bottom half as best we could . The bed ( a king not super-king ) was comfortable & the bed for the third guest is now a full sized single bed & not a bed settee. A few niggles but nothing to spoil our holiday .

- Robert, September 2022
Helen July 2022

“Lovely cottage and stunning views.”

Met the owner Mike, who was welcoming and knowledgeable about the area. We would definitely stay again.

- Helen, July 2022
Sue March 2022

“Lovely cottage, clean welcoming & lovely views.”

Ideal to explore the Western Lakes

- Sue, March 2022
Sarah November 2021

“A lovely cottage, was cosy and warm especially with the log burner.”

The owners on site were extremely helpful.

- Sarah, November 2021
Mary October 2021

“A comfortable and characterful cottage perfectly located for exploring the south western lake district and coast.”

Very dog friendly. Stunning views of the SW lakeland fells come and go as you watch the weather patterns shift from the living room window.

- Mary, October 2021
Prue September 2021

“A warm welcome from our host at the farm.”

The barn conversion cottage was very clean, warm, cosy and comfortable (hurrah - a good bed!), and pretty well equipped. Our hosts had thought of almost everything! The only things I can think of to add would be coat hooks under the stairs to hang wet coats (don't want to put them in a wardrobe), a squeegee to clean down the shower, and a small laundry basket. Oh, and instructions for the washer/dryer! We couldn't get the dryer to work, tho I'm sure that was us being dim, nothing wrong with the machine. We especially liked the wonderful view from the upstairs sitting room window, the welcome pack for the wood burner (wood, coal, and a ready to light fire), and the gaggle of ducks pottering about outside our door. Also only 20 minutes walk to the beach, and in easy reach of Ravenglass. We liked it so much we are going to book the same cottage in the spring, and come back to see all the things we missed. Such a beautiful place.

- Prue, September 2021
Michael September 2021

“Great place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.”

Particularly enjoyed the fact that there was no internet

- Michael, September 2021
Devina July 2021

“Lovely peaceful location but close enough to see things”

- Devina, July 2021
Edyta June 2021

“Very nice place to stay, highly recommend”

- Edyta, June 2021
Jorrit May 2021

“Very relaxed place to stay, great location to access both the coast and the valleys in view from the cottage.”

- Jorrit, May 2021
Philip October 2020

“The cottage was originally booked for the Spring but due to Covid restrictions we had to defer the trip until October.”

However the cottage was lovely albeit on a muddy farm due to the weather. Heavy rain at night but apart from one day, lovely weather during the day so ideal for a holiday. It is also a working farm so bookers need to be aware of this. Don't expect to keep your car clean. The cottage had everything we needed and was very clean and tidy. It was also ideally located for us as it was near everything we wanted to visit. Ravensglass to Eskdale railway, Westwater, Conniston Water etc. Also took the train to Carlisle which is a great journey as the railway follows the coastline for much of the journey and only £18 return. There is a lot to do in Western Lakes and the cottage is an ideal location to see the area. The only criticism I have is with Sykes. Having originally booked for the Spring and having to move the booking to October due to Covid lockdown, we were never contacted re the price difference, which was about £100 cheaper. It would have been nice to have been asked if we were happy to continue to pay the extra £100 to the owners, which we were. We are retired and have not been financially affected by this disease, but understand many have been affected, so were happy to pay the extra. But it would have been nice to have been asked.

- Philip, October 2020
George September 2020

“Wonderful location sea shore and mountains.”

On a farm with lovely and helpful hosts .In easy reach of the pristine Ravenglas (plus railways) Do note the paucity of shopping venues in the area so take all your provisions.

- George, September 2020
Louise August 2020

“We really enjoyed our stay.”

Of all the years we've been visiting the Lake District, we've never had the weather as hot as it was, especially for the full week. The only thing we could have done with was a fan, but given the unusual weather, I guess it's not normally required. Very comfortable and despite being on a working farm, we were never disrupted by noise. Mike and Lesley, the hosts were very friendly too. It's a great location to get to all of the best sights in this area (only a mile walk to the estuary down a country lane). Definitely recommend a stay here!

- Louise, August 2020
Richard January 2020

“Fantastic cottage with all the comforts of home, great location and super host.”

- Richard, January 2020
Deborah November 2019

“This holiday cottage is the best!”

You get a lot for your money. It has every comfort and is exceptionally warm and sound proof in the winter, a very cosy cottage. This is a working farm and the owner is very pleasant and helpful. The views are wonderful and the area offers crags, mountains, and beaches for walking, a must if you have dogs. Muncaster castle is just around the corner, the best time to see this is in May when the Rhododendron are breathtaking and blue bells on the woodland walk phenomenal. If you take the time to see Ravenglass 1 mile walk via beach there is a Roman bath house, steam train ride and quaint village with lovely pubs. One of the highlights is during the week we were here ( End of November) the MOD where firing artillery shells into the sea which was very exciting. Overall a lovely place with plenty to do and see. Can't wait to go back.

- Deborah, November 2019
Jennifer May 2019

“Great stay.”

Very friendly & helpful hosts.

- Jennifer, May 2019
Sally May 2019

“A brilliant cottage.”

Lovely owner. Quite and peaceful but close to loads of activities. Cottage very clean, well stocked and has everything you could possibly need. I would recommend to anyone. We will be returning.

- Sally, May 2019
Janice April 2019

“Ideal place to stop, particularly if you enjoy walking, which we do.”

Very peaceful place, with a lovely view, we enjoyed watching the hens strut their stuff and seeing the calves. Even if you don't like walking it is a good location to drive 10 to 25 mins, to several interesting places, seaside resorts, Muncaster castle, Wast Water - stunning views - a must do visit, the little steam train (La'al Ratty) in Ravenglass with its spectacular views along the way and lovely country stops. We enjoyed the 25 min walk into Ravenglass, we also had a lovely walk and visit to Muncaster castle. Surprise view cottage is great for self catering and if you fancy a break from cooking the pub food in Ravenglass is good. I did miss having a cafetiere for my morning coffee, but that is a minor personal preference.

- Janice, April 2019
Richard January 2019

“Friendly host, great location, warm cosy cottage with all the comforts of home.”

- Richard, January 2019
Anthony October 2018

“The directions to the cottage are absolutely shocking!”

“Pass dwelling on left” there are two “dwellings” before the cottage, which you do not pass. If the directions said to go into Cumbnalds Farm it would save twenty minutes driving in and out of the wrong place

- Anthony, October 2018
Diane August 2018

“Lovely cottage, ideal location, stunning views, the only negative was the shower ...”

Lovely cottage, ideal location, stunning views, the only negative was the shower was a bit hit and miss temperature wise,

- Diane, August 2018
Chris May 2018

“The owners are friendly and always there to assist in any issues.”

- Chris, May 2018
Karen May 2018

“We had a perfect week in surprise view cottage.”

Finding the farm was very easy and the views from the cottage were spectacular. So peaceful and serene with absolutely breathtaking views of the mountains. In fact, I don’t think we have ever stayed anywhere with such views. Plenty of parking space for the car. The farm owner was very friendly and informative about the area. Fresh eggs also available from the free range hens. It was only 30 minutes on foot to Ravenglass via a quiet lane and a path along the beach. There are also several very interesting walks from the Ravenglass railway. The cottage itself was ideal for us with everything that we needed for cooking, washing etc and also a fantastic log burner for the chilly nights. This is a totally unspoilt area of the lakes if you are looking to escape from the crowds. I can also recommend the Victoria Inn at Drigg for food. We really loved it here and would definitely go back.

- Karen, May 2018
Christopher April 2018

“Excellent cottage and this was my second visit.”

Lovely to have the magnificent view of some of the Lakes highest peaks. Two other comments and they do not mean I would not go again. I love the place. The drive up the track has rather a lot of pot holes - but I know it is a working farm and tractors will go up and down. Great to be on a working farm. TV is rather small and the DVD does not give a very good picture. Minor points! It is beautifully warm when the heating is on. I would certainly recommend the place to anyone - especially as it is so close to some of the most wonderful scenery of the Lakes and makes the Wastwater area easily accessible by car. La'al Ratty starts from nor far away and is a gem.

- Christopher, April 2018
Malcolm August 2017

“My one slight criticism would be the size of the shower cubicle.”

It's a little small but apart from that I would still book this cottage again as I had a very relaxed break and was very well received by the owners.

- Malcolm, August 2017
Julie June 2017

“We had a fantastic week in this cottage and the location was perfect for visiting both the coast and fells.”

You can also easily access Keswick, Kendal and Windermere. Fantastic for long walks on the beach or costal paths. The location of the accommodation was very quiet and comfortable and we would definitely recommend and will look to revisit in the near future.

- Julie, June 2017
Des June 2017

“The shower was a very small cubical”

- Des, June 2017
Paul November 2016

“The building, the views,its location and its position on a working farm made it feel special.”

Great location as within 1 hour drive north or south were very many points of interest,attractions and fantastic scenery. A short interesting walk to Ravenglass with 3 licensed establishments and a fascinating land locked estuary.

- Paul, November 2016
Christine July 2016

“It was peaceful, well maintained and within easy driving distance to all of the Lake District.”

- Christine, July 2016
Emma November 2015

“We loved how tucked away the location was, yet at the same time it is only a moments drive to some pretty spectacular lakes and historic landmarks.”

It suited our hiking plans and the dog to a tee. It was quiet, cosy and relaxing and the hosts were very considerate.

- Emma, November 2015
Robert October 2015

“The cottage was a lovely place to return to after a day of work.”

The downstairs bedroom was very quiet and I slept very soundly.

- Robert, October 2015
Mike June 2015

“Loved the sights and sounds of being on a working farm - the cows, bull, sheep, and the farmer hard at work all hours of the day!”

Loved the view from the cottage and loved exploring the western lake/coast area. Loved returning to a comfy bed and good shower.

- Mike, June 2015
Stuart February 2015

“A completely relaxing holiday amid a working farm environment, although this wasn't reflected in the amount of noise and disturbance evident.”

It was a peaceful and very tranquil setting. The owner was extremely sociable and helpful. As usual a very nice holiday, may return.

- Stuart, February 2015
Rachael October 2014

“Quiet and remote, a perfect getaway.”

- Rachael, October 2014
Barbara October 2014

“The cottage was very comfortable and 'cosy'.”

The location was great and the views were beautiful. A peaceful and relaxing location.

- Barbara, October 2014
Tanya May 2014

“The view and location was perfect.”

The wood burner was a lovely addition to a clean, well furnished, comfy cottage. The owner was friendly and chatty.

- Tanya, May 2014
Lauma October 2012

“Very quiet and peaceful, just what we needed.”

- Lauma, October 2012
Helen September 2012

“Comfortable accommodation enhanced by the proximity of Ravenglass and the coast.”

- Helen, September 2012
Christopher July 2012

“Friendly owner and good view from lounge window.”

- Christopher, July 2012
Dudley May 2012

“The location of the cottage provided good access to Eskdale and surrounds.”

We liked the views afforded by having the living room upstairs.

- Dudley, May 2012
Liz February 2012

“The owners were very good, providing homely touches to the cottage.”

Lovely views and very quiet, just what we asked for.

- Liz, February 2012

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Summary

One ground floor super king-size double bedroom, a double sofa bed (suitable for 1 adult or 2 small children) and en-suite shower, basin and WC
First floor open plan living area with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with woodburner.
Electric heaters with woodburner in sitting area
Electric cooker, microwave, fridge/freezer, washer/dryer, flat screen TV with Freeview, DVD, CD
Fuel, power and starter pack for woodburner inc. in rent, additional wood available to purchase from owners
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Off road parking for two cars
Shared mature gardens with furniture
Sorry, no smoking
One well-behaved pet welcome
Shop 10 mins walk, pub 1 mile
Please note the minimum night stay in this property is 3 nights, this property does not accept 2 night bookings

The property

A charming terraced cottage near Ravenglass. Stylish and welcoming accommodation, an ideal romantic Ravenglass cottage retreat. Note: Cottage is next to Refs 9863 and 13766, together they sleep 10.

Cumblands Farm Cottages

Ravenglass 1 mile. Three delightful cottages near Ravenglass, converted from old stone farm buildings on a working arable and livestock farm in the hamlet of Carleton, a mile from Ravenglass in the Lake District National Park. Completed and finished to a good standard, these elegant Ravenglass cottages provide first-class accommodation, ideal for a warm and cosy romantic retreat or for a family holiday amongst the finest countryside that Lakeland has to offer. Features in two of these lovely Ravenglass cottages include open plan living areas located on the first floor to take advantage of the stunning views, and delightful welcoming bedrooms with their own en-suite facilities. The other Ravenglass cottage has a double bedroom with en-suite on the first floor and an open plan living area on the ground floor. With lovely styling throughout, two of these Ravenglass cottages offer original character including old beams, combined with modern comfort, whilst all three provide an ideal country holiday destination. The high level walking and climbing available from the doorstep of these cottages near Ravenglass is unrivalled, and there is a vast variety of walks and climbs to suit all skill levels. Add this to the fantastic bike trails in the area, a welcoming local pub serving excellent food, a lovely local tea room, Muncaster Castle, an 18-hole golf course and miniature railway in nearby Eskdale and you have all the ingredients for a memorable Ravenglass cottage holiday, whatever the time of year.

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About the location

RAVENGLASS

Eskdale 4 miles; Wasdale Head 6 miles.

Ravenglass is a small village on the west coast of Cumbria, which made its living from fishing, and in the 18th Century the harbour was also used for smuggling tobacco and other contraband from the Isle of Man. A popular attraction of western Lakeland, the famous Ravenglass to Eskdale Railway, a narrow gauge steam railway known as "L’al Ratty" runs daily from the station through some of the finest and most scenic country in Britain. Just minutes from Ravenglass and easily accessible by a new cycle track is Muncaster Castle, with magnificent gardens and views up to Scafell Pike, and home of the World Owl Trust. This great location boasts a skyline dominated by towering peaks including Scafell - England's highest peak, whilst the nearby stunning valleys of Eskdale, Wasdale and Dunnerdale provide breathtaking scenery to be enjoyed throughout the year. With beautiful Wastwater - the deepest lake in the country, and St Olaf's - one of the smallest churches in England amongst the many landmarks in this beautiful area, this stunning location will have visitors returning time and time again.

Please note the minimum night stay in this property is 3 nights, this property does not accept 2 night bookings.

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Last minute
Christmas

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“This is our fourth visit to Surprise View, and we hope it won't be our last!”

“It is a working farm, so respect and consideration is required from visitors.”

“Lovely cosy cottage in a fab location.”

“The property was totally unsuitable for us.”

“A comfortable and cosy cottage with lovely views from the upper floor lounge.”

“As lovely as the view from the property was, I was disappointed in a few things that put a damper on my stay.”

“A lovely stay again!”

“The property was comfortable & homely , if a little tired .”

“Lovely cottage and stunning views.”

“Lovely cottage, clean welcoming & lovely views.”

“A lovely cottage, was cosy and warm especially with the log burner.”

“A comfortable and characterful cottage perfectly located for exploring the south western lake district and coast.”

“A warm welcome from our host at the farm.”

“Great place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.”

“Lovely peaceful location but close enough to see things”

“Very nice place to stay, highly recommend”

“Very relaxed place to stay, great location to access both the coast and the valleys in view from the cottage.”

“The cottage was originally booked for the Spring but due to Covid restrictions we had to defer the trip until October.”

“Wonderful location sea shore and mountains.”

“We really enjoyed our stay.”

“Fantastic cottage with all the comforts of home, great location and super host.”

“This holiday cottage is the best!”

“Great stay.”

“A brilliant cottage.”

“Ideal place to stop, particularly if you enjoy walking, which we do.”

“Friendly host, great location, warm cosy cottage with all the comforts of home.”

“The directions to the cottage are absolutely shocking!”

“Lovely cottage, ideal location, stunning views, the only negative was the shower ...”

“The owners are friendly and always there to assist in any issues.”

“We had a perfect week in surprise view cottage.”

“Excellent cottage and this was my second visit.”

“My one slight criticism would be the size of the shower cubicle.”

“We had a fantastic week in this cottage and the location was perfect for visiting both the coast and fells.”

“The shower was a very small cubical”

“The building, the views,its location and its position on a working farm made it feel special.”

“It was peaceful, well maintained and within easy driving distance to all of the Lake District.”

“We loved how tucked away the location was, yet at the same time it is only a moments drive to some pretty spectacular lakes and historic landmarks.”

“The cottage was a lovely place to return to after a day of work.”

“Loved the sights and sounds of being on a working farm - the cows, bull, sheep, and the farmer hard at work all hours of the day!”

“A completely relaxing holiday amid a working farm environment, although this wasn't reflected in the amount of noise and disturbance evident.”

“Quiet and remote, a perfect getaway.”

“The cottage was very comfortable and 'cosy'.”

“The view and location was perfect.”

“Very quiet and peaceful, just what we needed.”

“Comfortable accommodation enhanced by the proximity of Ravenglass and the coast.”

“Friendly owner and good view from lounge window.”