Overview
Set in almost 3 acres of grounds at the very heart of the Lake District in the spectacular Langdale Valley stands Grass Ings.
A superb, detached, residence that has been tastefully developed by the current owners to create a high quality retreat for family and friends offering top quality accommodation in a glorious setting.
There are three terraced areas and a quaint summerhouse that capture the sun as the day unfolds and beyond the fully fenced garden is a traditional wild flower meadow leading down to the River Brathay.
There is 250m of river bank, a private jetty and seating area which offer the chance to unwind with nature or (at your own risk) to get out onto the water.
Yet despite this idylic location with uninterrupted views over Loughrigg Fell and Black Crag, Grass Ings is just a two minute stroll from The Talbot Bar and its neighbours; The Skelwith Bridge Hotel and the famous Chesters by the River with its acclaimed range of home made cakes.
Within a couple of miles is the Drunken Duck Inn and the Michelin Star restaurant at Forest Side.
Grass Ings offers an excellent base from which to explore and discover some of the best scenery and food and drink in the British Isles whilst being within easy reach of the bustling Lakeland villages of Ambleside, Grasmere or Keswick, with its award winning twice weekly market.
Accommodation In Detail
From pulling up on the driveway there is a real sense of anticipation to see what lies within the house and as you open the front door there is a view straight down the hallway to the rear porch.
So from the very moment you enter the house the beautiful, uninterrupted views become the focal point of your stay.
The welcoming, dual aspect lounge is tastefully furnished with comfortable sofas arranged around the feature fireplace with its cosy log burning stove and Smart TV.
Relax and enjoy the view across the valley from every seat or take advantage of the large window seat to soak in the stunning scenery.
The spacious, social kitchen is the real heart of the home with the large family dining table, in front of the picture window, the idea place for social and relaxing dinners with family and friends.
The well appointed kitchen has views across Loughrigg Fell and is equipped with an electric range cooker with five ring electric hob and double oven, two under counter fridges, dishwasher, microwave and Nespresso Vertuo Coffee machine and to the side the walk-in pantry or “Happy Cupboard” which is used as the serving point for drinks to which the owners have thoughtfully added an ice machine.
The large porch at the rear of the house offers beautiful views across the valley and the river and is a lovely spot to relax with a good book.
From here french doors open onto the first of three patios; this one captures the morning sun and is a great place for an al fresco breakfast.
The ground floor accommodation is complemented by a spacious cloak room with WC.
On the lower ground floor there is a cosy Den with Smart TV and Xbox 360 + games and popcorn machine, along with boot room which is ideal when returning after a muddy walk or with mountain bikes and is equipped with drying facilities, sink, washing machine, tumble drier and offers plenty of space for boots, coats and outdoor gear and is also home to the fridge/freezer.
Choose from one of three boutique bedrooms.
The superb master suite offers views across the river, a comfortable Ercol king size bed, that is a welcome retreat at the end of the day, and a luxurious shower room with walk in shower, basin and WC.
The two further bedrooms are presented with a king size bed and a super king bed/twin beds (please state your preference when booking).
They are complemented by a high-quality family bathroom with feature bath and shower cubicle and a shower room with a spacious walk in shower.
Back outside and the completely private south facing gardens sit to the rear of the house offers a choice of three seating areas; the breakfast patio, a sun terrace and in the centre of the garden a large dining patio.
There are landscaped borders of shrubs and to the side the lawn slopes down to the neighbouring wildflower meadow with the River Brathay flowing past.
The large drive offers ample parking for three cars.
Location
Away from the hustle and bustle of tourist traps, Skelwith Bridge is a great location for a Lake District cottage holiday.
Between vibrant Ambleside village, Lake Windermere and the breathtaking Langdale Valley, guests here are free to enjoy all of Lake District life.
Some of the most famous Lake District walks begin on your doorstep; including challenging routes in the Langdale Pikes, Loughrigg Fell and the tarn, or peaceful strolls (push chair and wheel chair friendly) on the shores of nearby Elterwater.
If you'd prefer a leisurely holiday, spend your days strolling gently in the Langdale Valley and sampling the excellent country pubs in the area.
Find classy shopping in Ambleside, and enjoy an elegant lake cruise on Lake Windermere or Coniston - all within very easy reach.
Your location just off the A593 makes exploring the wider reaches of the National Park a breeze.
For example; follow the road back to Ambleside and the shores of Lake Windermere, then north to Rydal Water and Grasmere, or follow the A593 south to picturesque Coniston.
