The Blithe Hare

3.4★

3 Guests
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Pets Yes
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Features

Open fire
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

18 Customer Review(s)

Linda
September 2023

“My husband and dog Bonnie had a lovely stay at Blithe Hare Cottage last week I think the price reflects the minus points.”

Lounge was small with a comfy 2 seater settee, it would not be suitable for a 3rd person as there is only a hard chair to sit on. Wi-Fi didn’t work but that didn’t bother us, central heating is great we only needed to use it a couple of times, would have loved to have had a fire but it would have been too hot I think it would be wonderful in the winter months, bring or buy everything needed for a fire though except matches. Kitchen had just about everything one would need, I think at some ...

Lounge was small with a comfy 2 seater settee, it would not be suitable for a 3rd person as there is only a hard chair to sit on. Wi-Fi didn’t work but that didn’t bother us, central heating is great we only needed to use it a couple of times, would have loved to have had a fire but it would have been too hot I think it would be wonderful in the winter months, bring or buy everything needed for a fire though except matches. Kitchen had just about everything one would need, I think at some point maybe the owner had 2 cottages as there was about 12 of everything plates glasses etc, no pint glasses for anyone that likes a pint, 6 saucepans 3 frying pans and numerous bowls and tins, as previously mentioned by others there is no cupboard space whatsoever for any food, I can’t think why the owner doesn’t address this, I decanted some of it into a drawer in the lounge and put some under the stairs so we had room to put some food in the cupboards then returned it to its place when we left, it wouldn’t be a problem if you don’t mind everything on the worksurfaces personally I like things put away. No little treats like other places we’ve stayed at like a pint of milk and a couple of scones etc, no tea coffee salt pepper etc you need to bring everything, there is a well stocked Spar over the road though. The smell coming from the drains was really bad at times we bought a fresh air spray which helped. Very steep stairs to bedrooms and bathroom gave me a good workout every time I went upstairs! The bedrooms and bathroom were lovely, great shower plenty of cupboard space, my hubby said the lighting in bathroom was not good for shaving 2 light bulbs missing. The jury is out on the bed, I found it quite uncomfortable but my husband likes a firm bed so he thought it was fine. The garden is tiny and needs sorting its quite overgrown with lots of weeds. It’s a bit of a trek to and from the car to the house but it didn’t phase us, possibly wouldn’t be suitable for anyone with mobility problems. There is a great Brooks supermarket just as you get into Windermere, also a Lakeland which was dog friendly as were most of the shops and cafes we visited were wonderfully dog friendly. Good base for exploring the lakes, our dog is very elderly so we didn’t walk as much as we would have liked. All in all we had a lovely time thank you

- Linda, September 2023

Thank you very much for your comments and for taking the time to let us know your thoughts. As I am sure you understand, every guest has their own requirements and therefore what suits one person may not suit the other. The owner will see your comments and can action on your points where necessary. As this is a self-catering accommodation we do not provide welcome pack products as standard. We are glad that you and your dog enjoyed your stay and all that the are has to offer. Lakelovers Owner Relations Team Property Owner
D August 2023

“In short: Arrival: Hard to get in with luggage (people parked blocking pathway in and had to force a way between car and bush / house steps).”

House instruction folder has little in it - eventually found some instructions spread throughout the drawers loosely. General stay: Good point is - a great big refrigerator with lots of room. Bad experiences: Shower cold. Shared bathroom doesn’t have lock on one of the doors - which caused issues The main bed has a mattress that is like sleeping on concrete - other bed was exact opposite and luxurious (unfortunately not big enough for us all to share). Washing machine did not work so we could not do laundry at all except smalls by hand Could not get heating to work efficiently Maintenance said they changed boiler setting ‘so should make the shower hotter’ - it didn’t really. Maintenance said they put a temporary fix on washer door ‘so it should be ok - it wasn’t tested to see if it did work for us - and it didn’t! Maintenance said they’d come back when they had a part to fix - we didn’t see them back while we were there. After maintenance had been we started getting power cut outs (fuse tripping) this was especially when using toaster - but also kettle and cooker). These are basic items needed regularly. There was no bin to be found (the instructions where it should be was incorrect - it was not there and we could not find it. We were forced to use others bins and felt embarrassed doing it so sneakily. Unfortunately - we were so disappointed that we pulled out two days early and went home - because of this as we’d had dreadful sleep. Which exacerbated the situation. Suggestion: Starting at basics you should sort out the house file and make sure all necessary instructions are in, together, accessible and clear. You should not have to search fior these or google advice. Police the parking in the street - instruction clearly states no parking but selfish people do exist. Alternatively - provide a park space (there are some available to rent at the bottom of the lane near the house). Have the heating on a sensible setting (not 5 degrees auto!) Have the water temperature on sensible setting for shower / hot water etc. Fix the power cuts issue Fix the washing machine Definitely change the main bed mattress. Ckear some cupboard space (far too many pots/ pans / dishes etc and absolutely no room to put any provisions.

- D, August 2023
Geert July 2023

“There was an unplaesant smell in the kitchen apparant due to rellen problems.”

The cottage had a very small garden, parking was further away and A591 a bit too close. Cottage was nicely decorated and had new bathroom and kitchen. A manual of the washing/dryer machine lacked.

- Geert, July 2023

Thank you for your comments. We are sorry to hear of the issues that you found at The Blithe Hare. We are pleased to hear that you found the property to be nicely decorated. We will ask our Maintenance Team to look further into your comment about the smell. Thank you- The Lakelovers Owners Relations Team Property Owner
Beverley June 2023

“My 90 year old father was on holiday with us.”

There was no mention that the cottage was not appropriate for the elderly. The "lane" to the cottage was rough and not suitable for walker/wheelchair and the internal steps were very steep. The 3rd chair in livingroom was uncomfortable. The cupboards were overstocked....why does a cottage that hold an absolute maximum of 3 people need around 30 plates leaving no place to store food! The hoover barely worked - I believe the bag needed emptying but I wasn't going there. I appreciate there is nothing that can be done regarding accessibility but the cottage could be improved with a large de-clutter and general redecoration.

- Beverley, June 2023
Linda June 2023

“After losing my husband at Christmas to Dementia it felt so comfortable being in the Lake District with all our lovely memories we shared.”

My son came with me and my new little rescue dog Peggy. I found the cottage beautiful and I enjoyed sitting outside talking to the other holiday people. Came home yesterday really missing the cottage and the peace. My son said if he could turn the clock back to go back again and start our week he would.

- Linda, June 2023

What lovely comments, thank you so much. We are so glad that you had such a wonderful holiday and hope that we can welcome you all back again. Lakelovers Owner Relations Expert Property Owner
George May 2023

“This stay could have been improved greatly if some real issues were addressed.”

Downstairs is dull and smelly and in need of a deep clean. Living room cupboard is full of old tea tins/foodstuffs some 5 years past sell by. The other cupboard with hoover etc is just a rabble. Like many others, i would also complain that there is literally no cupboard space to use in kitchen as it is also crammed with old broken crockery. 7 of the 9 mugs taking up space were chipped. Someone needs to do a serious clear out. Upstairs was fresh and clean. The weather was nice but it was hard to sit outside as the wee garden area is totally overgrown! Two wee rickety chairs could do with being upgraded. So apart from local pub closed 2 days of our 4 day stay and not serving meals in this time and the elderly neighbours to feel that taking a noisy hedgetrimmer to boundary hedge at 7.30am was not unreasonable, not much left to say really unfortunately.

- George, May 2023
Peter April 2023

“No room for our food.”

Really annoying. Owners have taken it all up for themselves incl in the old lounge wall cupboards. This has been commented on by previous visitors to no avail. There's room in the kitchen for 2 more wall cupboards in the corner above the microwave. This is a 3 bed cottage. There is an old leather 2 seater settee in the lounge which is ok considering pets are allowed. However a third person would have to sit on a hard back wooden chair to watch tv. There is room for a small armchair if the wooden chair is removed and things arranged better. There is a smell of grease in the kitchen, again commented on by previous visitors. The front of the cooker is greasy especially around the knobs. Changeover team are not doing a thorough job. The upstairs is good. The bathroom is very nice as is the main bedroom. In the small bedroom the door only opens part way before hitting the bedside cabinet and if you want to raise or lower the blind you have to crawl across the foot of the bed so it's best left lowered. The bed is very comfortable. Could do with 2 or 3 hooks on the back of a door to hang pants and shirt on overnight. The hydraulic closer on the kitchen door is set at too strong a pressure and it takes some effort to open the door. So we propped the door open and missed the waste recycling instructions on the back. Oops. Some of the crockery is chipped and needs replacing. There are nice built-in cabinets in bed 2 and at top of stairs. Part of the insides 65 being shelved and part being open. Could do with a rail and/or hooks in the open space to be of more use. Fridge has only a small freezer compartment. Central heating is very good. The Blithe Hare sign by the gate is painted all over black so it's hard to read when you're looking for the cottage. Picking the name out in white would be helpful. WiFi works fine. Smart TV. Best of all is a near neighbour named Roger Mallinson (85). If you get to meet him be prepared to hear the most amazing life story all of which is confirmed true.

- Peter, April 2023

Thank you for your comments. We are glad to hear that you enjoyed your stay, We take all comments on board. We hope to welcome you back again. Property Owner
Karen April 2023

“Tastefully decorated.”

very clean cottage. found car parking instructions clear and very accurate. small bed very comfortable. large bed could be improved with a mattress topper as found it a bit hard. recommend putting a large print instructions in folder for how to work the washing machine. We had a great time, and would happily return and use this cottage as a base again for the Lakes. Have already recommended it to friend.

- Karen, April 2023

Thank you for your comments, we are pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay. We do find that mattresses are down to personal preference. We take all comments on board. We hope to welcome you back again. Property Owner
Lynn February 2023

“Property very cosy, photos on website did not match size of rooms etc.”

very creative photography!!, having said that , the property filled with unusual antiques with quality furnishings to a very high spec.

- Lynn, February 2023
Natasha February 2023

“Lovely cottage, very comfortable and cosy.”

Good location to visit the surrounding area. The parking is on the main road which is about 0.2k from the cottage so can be a bit tricky if you have lots of luggage, dog, shopping but it wouldn’t put me off staying again.

- Natasha, February 2023

Thank you for your kind feedback. We are glad to hear that you enjoyed your stay. We hope to welcome you back again. Property Owner
Natasha October 2022

“All in all a good holiday.”

First time visiting the Lake District and will definitely return

- Natasha, October 2022
David August 2022

“Great location and lovely cottage.”

Seating for 3 adults in lounge was a little lacking as sofa only for 2, but overall very comfortable, clean with quirky decor. Recommend for a holiday in the Lake District.

- David, August 2022
Phil March 2022

“Overall the cottage was comfortable and well equipped.”

However, there is a significant issue with the "drain" smell from the kitchen sink which needs immediate attention. Having looked through the visitors' book it's clear that you are already aware of this, but effective action has not yet been taken. If we had stayed for a full week this smell would have had a seriously detrimental impact on the enjoyment of our holiday.

- Phil, March 2022

Thank you for your feedback. We apologize for the issue you experienced with the drainage smell, the property has a soakaway, and maintenance have since been and cleared this. We hope you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner
Edward May 2021

“We arrived for our holiday and found no outside table and chairs to sit at and no space in the kitchen to put any food shopping.”

I read the feedback book on peoples comments and they had complained about the table, so clearly ignored. Then I went to bed and found the sheets had stains on so had to sleep on the top of the bed with a throw over me. The next day we decided we are hear so we will make the most out of it but as it was raining decided to watch TV but the signal kept going glitchy and out so it was impossible to watch then on the Sunday evening I went to make some toast there was a bang and the electricity went off, so I looked for lakelovers number and read that the office was only open from Monday morning so I did not think I could ring it. We decided enough was enough packed and went so an awful stay. I rang the next day to say what happened and was fobbed off and told I would not get compensated at all.

- Edward, May 2021

Thank you for your feedback. We are sorry you found numerous issues whilst at The Blithe Hare. We apologise there was no outside table and chairs. The bench had been damaged and we were awaiting a new one on order. There is now a new one in place. Our phone lines are open 7 days a week and we have the team on hand to help with any issues or queries our guests may have. We are sorry that you found conflicting information and therefore did not contact us as we would have been more than happy to send a member of the maintenance team. Property Owner
Phils and Gail Sep 2019

“Nice Cottage and fabulous weather all week.”

- Phils and Gail, Sep 2019
Yuan family Aug 2019

“A cosy home from home.”

Thank you.

- Yuan family, Aug 2019
Mr & Mrs Startlin Jun 2019

“We've loved our stay in this little cottage.”

Great wifi and smart TV and the bed extremely comfortable. Tastefully renovated to a high modern standard whilst being in keeping with the cottage. It was lovely to spend our honeymoon here.

- Mr & Mrs Startlin, Jun 2019
Sarah Jan 2019

“Wonderfully warm and cosy stay in this charming Blithe Hare.”

Even when snow storms struck. It has everything you need for a night or a year

- Sarah, Jan 2019

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Summary

Characterful, elegantly dressed cottage over two floors with original working fireplace
2 x bedrooms; 1 x king size, 1 x single, house bathroom
Kitchen / dining room, lounge
Small outdoor seating area
Electric cooker, Microwave, Washer / Dryer, Fridge with small freezer compartment
Small seating area to the front with garden furniture
Full gas Central Heating, Wifi
Walks from the door
Babies and children welcome
Free access to Choices Leisure Club
Bed linen and towels provided
On street parking nearby - please note no privately allocated parking space
One small pet - the owner will need to know the breed upon booking.

The property

The Blithe Hare is the quintessential, 17th century Lakeland cottage nested along a quiet row in Troutbeck Bridge at the foot of the Troutbeck Valley, midway between the vibrant villages of Windermere and Ambleside. The enchanting and stylish interior of this chocolate box cottage has been beautifully created with great flair to provide the perfect, romantic bolt hole and offers a relaxing living space dressed with an eclectic mix of hand-picked furnishings and carefully chosen accessories and artwork. You'll be surrounded by fabulous walking territory for all abilities; take a manageable stroll to Millerground where you can enjoy direct access to the water's edge and take in the stunning northerly views towards Ambleside and the Langdale Valley or head towards Ambleside and explore the slopes of Loughrigg Fell or Wansfell Pike. The Blithe Hare is within striking distance of a well-stocked shop, an excellent themed restaurant, The Sun Inn and, if you have an energy left, Choices Leisure Club where you'll find a challenging gym, pool, sauna and steam room. Accommodation in detail A short walk from the on-street parking along a private lane brings you to the cottage where you're welcomed by a traditional entrance porch with plenty of hanging space for boots and coats and through a stable door opening into the beautiful sitting room adorned with eye catching accessories and objects d'art. The slate flagged floor is dressed with rugs and comfortable furnishings arranged around the original working fireplace. The handcrafted, farmhouse kitchen with bespoke dining area to the far end is fully equipped with all mod cons for properly self-catering throughout your stay. Upstairs, the beautiful king size bedroom offers far reaching views from the upholstered window seat, exposed beams and original feature fireplace and shares the luxurious monsoon shower room with the smaller, none the less attractive single bedroom. Outside, an enclosed small garden with small seating area Location At the foot of the Troutbeck Valley, this superb Lake District cottage has an ideal location for a varied holiday in the Lake District. Troutbeck Bridge is located at the foot of the dramatic Kirkstone Pass drive, which provides a scenic route to the tranquillity of Ullswater - don't miss the fabulous Queen's Head Inn for a hearty meal en-route, followed by a peaceful stroll on the shores of Brotherswater. Between Windermere and Ambleside, off the scenic A591, you'll be away from the crowds and enjoy easy access to the facilities, shops, restaurants and attractions of both popular villages. You'll find a superb Booths supermarket, local shops and excellent transport links in Windermere village, with Bowness and Lake Windermere's eastern shore only a couple more miles down the road. Nearby Ambleside, on the northern shore of Windermere, is one of the Lake District's most vibrant communities. Visit and you'll lose yourself in tasty delis, find walking advice in expert shops, and stroll to the lake shore to hop on a ferry at Waterhead Pier - cruises depart regularly to take you the full length of the lake with stops at Bowness and Lakeside. Continue from Ambleside on the A591, and you'll come across Rydal Water and historic Grasmere, inspirational home of William Wordsworth.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £200.

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About the location

TROUTBECK BRIDGE

Windermere 2 miles; Ambleside 4 miles.

The small village of Troutbeck Bridge lies between the famous towns of Windermere and Ambleside, close to the renowned Kirkstone Pass, within the Lake District National Park. Made up of a scattering of Lakeland cottages, this quiet village offers a thriving and very popular local pub, serving real ales and fine food. The bustling towns of Windermere and Ambleside are close by, providing a range of amenities including shops, pubs and cafes. Lake Windermere boasts a range of lakeside activities, including trips to the famous Aquarium and the renowned Grizedale Forest Park, whilst children will enjoy the World of Beatrix Potter in nearby Bowness, where technology brings her characters to life. With destinations such as Coniston Water, Kendal, Keswick and the Lakeland Mountains all within easy reach, Troutbeck Bridge is an ideal location for exploring all that the region has to offer.

This property offers the following short breaks:

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Troutbeck Bridge, Cumbria & The Lake District (Ref. 1041501)

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“My husband and dog Bonnie had a lovely stay at Blithe Hare Cottage last week I think the price reflects the minus points.”

“In short: Arrival: Hard to get in with luggage (people parked blocking pathway in and had to force a way between car and bush / house steps).”

“There was an unplaesant smell in the kitchen apparant due to rellen problems.”

“My 90 year old father was on holiday with us.”

“After losing my husband at Christmas to Dementia it felt so comfortable being in the Lake District with all our lovely memories we shared.”

“This stay could have been improved greatly if some real issues were addressed.”

“No room for our food.”

“Tastefully decorated.”

“Property very cosy, photos on website did not match size of rooms etc.”

“Lovely cottage, very comfortable and cosy.”

“All in all a good holiday.”

“Great location and lovely cottage.”

“Overall the cottage was comfortable and well equipped.”

“We arrived for our holiday and found no outside table and chairs to sit at and no space in the kitchen to put any food shopping.”

“Nice Cottage and fabulous weather all week.”

“A cosy home from home.”

“We've loved our stay in this little cottage.”

“Wonderfully warm and cosy stay in this charming Blithe Hare.”

Summary

The property

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About the location

TROUTBECK BRIDGE