Beck Cottage

Beck Cottage is in the tiny hamlet of Force Forge dating back to the mid-1800s and stands on the site of an old Bobbin Mill․ Remnants of the stone pillars which supported the roof of the mill are still visible in the lovely garden․ The mill relied on the water in the beck (The Old Norse word for stream) for its power to drive the lathes․ The beck runs along the edge of the garden and the old mill race is also still visible․ It is thought that Beck Cottage was built originally to house mill workers, plus an office and wood store for the mill, later being converted entirely to residential accommodation.

The cottage has been extensively and sympathetically modernised with up-to-date conveniences whilst retaining its historic nature and feel․ The beautiful kitchen/living/dining room has a very recently installed state of the art kitchen.

This well-planned spacious room means the whole family can relax, cook and dine together and has large picture windows which provide natural light in and views of the beautiful garden, Beck and woodland beyond․ There is nothing nicer than to sit in the garden or on the patio beside the beck and watch and listen to the flowing water and wildlife․ This is a truly magical and unique spot․ Outside there is a picnic table provided for al fresco dining.

The tranquil setting of the cottage belies the fact that it is ideally located to take advantage of numerous Lake District attractions and activities. There are many beautiful local walks direct from the cottage where you are very unlikely to see another sole. The Grizedale Forest is on the doorstep, a perfect place for outdoor activities with its walking and biking trails. The village of Satterthwaite is just a mile to the north with the Eagles Head Pub, a children’s playground and church. Beyond the village towards Hawkshead is the Grizedale Visitor Centre with café, excellent children’s playground, segway hire and the Go Ape Tree Top Adventure and separate Zip Wire Course. Lake Windermere to the east, Coniston Water to the west and Esthwaite to the north are all within easy reach.

The picturesque village of Hawkshead is 5.5 miles north of the cottage. It 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, tea shops, 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. 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), the home of Beatrix Potter which features many of the illustrations in her books. Newby Bridge and Lakeside are about 7 miles 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.

In short Beck Cottage is the perfect location to chill out but with easy access to many attractions and outdoor activities if you want.