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Ghyll Bank Cow Shed, Staveley

Visitor Rating
Rating
Exceptional
Cumbria » Staveley
6
1
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3

Ghyll Bank Cow Shed is a converted stone barn in Cumbria, set within the southern Lake District countryside. Original exposed beams and stone walls create authentic barn character throughout. The conversion features a wood-burning stove and traditional barn architecture that showcases its agricultural heritage.

The barn sits in open countryside with views across fields and fells. You'll find yourself surrounded by working farmland with direct access to walking trails from the doorstep.

This barn sleeps four guests across two bedrooms. The main bedroom has an en-suite bathroom whilst a second bathroom serves the twin room.

About Ghyll Bank Cow Shed

Ghyll Bank Cow Shed is a converted stone barn in Cumbria, set within the southern Lake District countryside. Original exposed beams and stone walls create authentic barn character throughout. The conversion features a wood-burning stove and traditional barn architecture that showcases its agricultural heritage.

The barn sits in open countryside with views across fields and fells. You'll find yourself surrounded by working farmland with direct access to walking trails from the doorstep.

This barn sleeps four guests across two bedrooms. The main bedroom has an en-suite bathroom whilst a second bathroom serves the twin room. The open-plan living area combines kitchen, dining and sitting space under vaulted ceilings with exposed timber frames.

Kendal lies 6 miles south (15 minutes) offering shops and cafes. Windermere sits 8 miles north (20 minutes) for lake access. Sizergh Castle stands 3 miles away (8 minutes) with gardens and woodland walks. Levens Hall is 4 miles distant (10 minutes) featuring topiary gardens.

Ghyll Bank Cow Shed suits couples and small families wanting authentic barn living in working countryside with easy Lake District access.

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At Sykes Cottages

Need To Know

More Barn Holidays You May Like

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their group stay at Ghyll Bank Cow Shed

Original Stone Walls

Authentic barn stonework runs throughout the conversion, creating genuine agricultural character that reminds you of the building's working past.

Wood-Burning Stove

The traditional stove provides warmth and atmosphere in the open-plan living space, perfect for evenings after countryside walks.

Exposed Timber Beams

Original oak beams cross the vaulted ceilings, showcasing the barn's structural heritage and creating impressive height in the living areas.

Rural Countryside Setting

Set within working farmland with fell views, you'll experience genuine Lake District countryside right from the barn door.

Walking from the Door

Direct access to footpaths means you can start exploring the southern Lakes without needing to drive anywhere first.

Open-Plan Living Space

The converted barn interior flows from kitchen to dining to sitting area, making the most of the building's footprint.

Getting To Ghyll Bank Cow Shed

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach Ghyll Bank Cow Shed by car, take the A590 towards Kendal then follow the A591 north. Turn onto minor roads signposted for Underbarrow. The barn has off-road parking for two vehicles.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Oxenholme Lake District, located 5 miles south of the barn. From there, take a taxi for the short journey through countryside lanes to the property.

Off-road parking for two cars
Oxenholme Lake District station (5 miles)
Accessible via A590 and A591

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

Sizergh Castle
Distance: 3 miles
LA8 8AE
Levens Hall
Distance: 4 miles
LA8 0PD
Windermere Lake
Distance: 8 miles
LA23 1LF
Scout Scar
Distance: 4 miles
LA8 8DN
Underbarrow Pool
Distance: 1 mile
LA8 8HG
Whitbarrow National Nature Reserve
Distance: 3 miles
LA8 8EY
Kendal Town Centre
Distance: 6 miles
LA9 4DX
Booths Supermarket Kendal
Distance: 6 miles
LA9 4NB
Staveley Mill Yard
Distance: 7 miles
LA8 9LR
Oxenholme Station
Distance: 5 miles
LA9 7RF
Kendal Bus Station
Distance: 6 miles
LA9 4BT
Windermere Station
Distance: 9 miles
LA23 1BA
Sizergh Castle
Distance: 3 miles
LA8 8AE
Levens Hall
Distance: 4 miles
LA8 0PD
Windermere Lake
Distance: 8 miles
LA23 1LF
Scout Scar
Distance: 4 miles
LA8 8DN
Underbarrow Pool
Distance: 1 mile
LA8 8HG
Whitbarrow National Nature Reserve
Distance: 3 miles
LA8 8EY
Kendal Town Centre
Distance: 6 miles
LA9 4DX
Booths Supermarket Kendal
Distance: 6 miles
LA9 4NB
Staveley Mill Yard
Distance: 7 miles
LA8 9LR
Oxenholme Station
Distance: 5 miles
LA9 7RF
Kendal Bus Station
Distance: 6 miles
LA9 4BT
Windermere Station
Distance: 9 miles
LA23 1BA

Is Ghyll Bank Cow Shed Right For Your Group

Discover why this cottage is the one for your party or family reunion...

For Families
Children can explore the surrounding farmland and countryside from the barn doorstep. The open fields provide space for outdoor play whilst footpaths lead into the southern Lakes for family walks. The wood-burning stove and cosy living areas work well for evenings in. The rural location means kids experience genuine working countryside rather than tourist attractions.
Groups Will Love...
The exposed timber beams and vaulted ceilings showcase this barn's agricultural past beautifully. Original oak frames cross the open-plan living space, creating impressive height and authentic character throughout. These structural elements remain from when the building served as a working cow shed. Combined with stone walls and traditional proportions, the beams remind you constantly that you're staying in a genuine barn conversion.
Pet Friendly
Dogs are welcome at Ghyll Bank Cow Shed, making it perfect for guests who want to bring their pets. The countryside setting provides immediate access to fields and footpaths for walks. You can explore the southern Lake District fells and valleys with your dog from the doorstep. The rural location means plenty of outdoor space for exercise without needing to drive elsewhere first.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Ghyll Bank Cow Shed

The Punchbowl Inn

Located 2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA8 8HQ

The Eagle's Head

Located 5 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA9 6NY

Wilf's Cafe Staveley

Located 7 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA8 9LR

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Ghyll Bank Cow Shed

Is Ghyll Bank Cow Shed pet friendly?
Yes, this barn conversion welcomes dogs so you can bring your pets along. The countryside setting and direct footpath access make it ideal for guests travelling with dogs.
What original barn features does this property have?
The conversion retains exposed stone walls, timber beams and vaulted ceilings from its agricultural past. A wood-burning stove adds to the traditional barn atmosphere throughout the living spaces.
How many guests does this barn conversion sleep?
Ghyll Bank Cow Shed accommodates four guests across two bedrooms. The main bedroom includes an en-suite whilst a separate bathroom serves the twin room.
What is the location like around this barn?
The barn sits in open Cumbrian countryside within the southern Lake District. Working farmland surrounds the property with views across fields to the fells beyond.
Can you walk directly from the barn?
Yes, footpaths lead from the doorstep into the surrounding countryside. You can start Lake District walks without driving, exploring the southern fells and valleys.
How far is Ghyll Bank Cow Shed from Windermere?
Windermere lies 8 miles north, roughly 20 minutes by car. Kendal sits closer at 6 miles south, taking around 15 minutes to reach.
What are the living spaces like inside?
The barn features open-plan living combining kitchen, dining and sitting areas under vaulted ceilings. Exposed beams and stone walls create authentic barn character throughout the ground floor.
Are there any historic houses nearby?
Sizergh Castle stands 3 miles away with medieval architecture and woodland gardens. Levens Hall sits 4 miles distant, famous for its topiary gardens dating back centuries.

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Ghyll Bank Cow Shed Reviews

A lovely, spotlessly clean, well spaced family sized accommodation with sweeping views over the nearby fells perfect for a relaxing break. A suggestion could be that hand soap in the bathrooms is provided and maybe a pint of milk. Id highly recommend this accommodation as not only is it well appointed and spotless, its well placed to access Windermere and the local village of Staveley
Lovely cottage, great views across the valley.
Angela
The picture of the cottage is deceiving. It is actually split into 3 seperate apartments. The back area is shared. There is a fantastic view to look at. We booked one of the end apartments. When we arrived the key safe didn't open so we had to contact the owners and wait for them to arrive back. They do live in a house next to the property but were out. They were very nice courteous people. We had 3 big bathrooms which were very roomy and clean, some missing a toilet brush, no hand soap in any or in the kitchen. Towels were good quality. The house overall was a nice area but could have done with a good dust, general clean. There were cobwebs in many areas. The kitchen was not very clean, cutlery drawer full of crumbs, cups had been put back in the cupboard without being cleaned. The previous occupants had obviously been very rude but this should have been checked with the cleaning service. I felt like I had to give all potscutlery a clean in the dishwasher before use! The carpets, sofa and dining chairs look like they need a good clean too. Overall the location is great for exploring the lakes and walking in the local area but the cleanliness of the property let the holiday down.
From the moment we walked through the door, we felt at home. The Cowbarn was clean and tidy set in beautiful countryside with panoramic views. It was out in the wilds but close enough to Staverley to make it comfortable, even if you are walking. There were six of us who stayed and there was plenty of room and the amenities were more than sufficient allowing hot water in all showers and the kitchen, even at peak times. What a great base for a great holiday
Lovely cottage giving us the peace and quiet we were looking for. Everything we needed was provided. Wonderful views
Very nice location. Accommodation really good. Close to Windermere town. Happy to return and explore more.
Lovely stay yet again for our party of 3 couples. Cottage is very good and view brilliant.
Barry John
Excellent service & would definitely book again ,great location 10 mins drive to ... Excellent service & would definitely book again ,great location 10 mins drive to Windermere & Staveley village has everything shops bars chippy bakers etc ,,,
Excellent property and Host! !
Third time staying at Ghyll Bank Cow Shed over New Year. Cottage is still good, in a wonderful position, with walks from the front door and fabulous views. Unfortunately holiday was spoilt a bit by very wet weather and the 2 other couples due to join us were unable to do so.
Excellent accommodation and comfort. Listing did not give the impression that there were stairs. Certain things were missing e.g waste paper baskets in lounge and bedrooms. There was no trays for carrying drinks or food down to dining area. Nonslip mats in the upstairs bathrooms would be a good addition. Difficult single track road to and from the property.
Philip
This was a fantastic trip which we intend to return to one day. The property was a beautiful comfortable barn conversion carried out to a high degree. Rustic enough to be authentic, modern enough to offer a subtle luxury. The downstairs bedroom was a bonus for my partially disabled wife. The only observation I would have was the upstairs toilets dont flush very well. The views were breathtaking, the walking was as good as advertised.
This is a fantastic cottage newly converted semidetached barn conversion. It was perfect for us as we were grandparents staying with our adult children and 2 small grandchildren. The space was ideal for family with children and had 3 bathrooms and 3 comfortable bedrooms. The outdoor space had exceptional views and an area to enjoy them! There are suggestions for walks leaving from the cottage. The village of Staveley was charming and had a number of eateries, a brand new park for the kids, a brewery and the best gelato we have ever eater at Kimis. It was peaceful with no urban light pollution making it perfect for star gazing. We also enjoyed watching shearing activity at the working sheep farm next door. Activities in the Lakes are within east reach and there are plenty of pamphlets at the property with suggestions of things to do in sunny and inclement weather. Thank you to the owners who checked on us to ensure we had everything we needed! Thank you also for fitting us in at short notice when our camping experience with a 3 and a 1 year old went awry in the very wet weather!!!
Rachel
I had a wonderful seven week stay at the Cowshed with my cat. The views were fabulous and the cottage itself very comfortable. Donald and Sylvia were wonderful landlords, coming regularly and keeping the communal areas in good condition and mending things when necessary. We always had a chat and I will miss the property and them. A few minor things which I hope is constructive it would be useful to have salt and pepper, and perhaps some oil, tea and coffee bags available for use on arrival. Some new kitchen knives and a new large frying pan the existing have largely lost their nonstick wouldn't go amiss. Some clearly labelled recycling facilities too. Thank you!
Fabulous property in a stunning location. The 3 bathrooms is a great bonus for when you are busy getting ready of a morning. Would love to return in the future. Thank you for a Wonderful stay.
We enjoyed the stay. The views were relaxing and the sheep came right upto the window. The underfloor heating worked well and we were never cold. Bed was very comfy. This is a terrace of 3 cottages so you will meet your neighbours. Sufficient kitchenware, though a bit used, bowed pans and patchy frying pans. I do begrudge bringing our own soap, but that seems to be a thing these days. As said in other reviews you have to flush twice It was excellent value for money compared with what else was available. Its a modern conversion and its only the personal touches which are niggles.
What a wonderful place, the views are never going to be forgotten. The property is so very well kept and the owners were so helpful, on behalf of my whole family and the dog,Thank you very much for helping to make this a holiday to remember, and as we visit the area annually we may return here. John & Pat
Lovely cottage and amazing location. Was great to meet the owner who warned us of a road closure. Would definitely recommend.
Very well equipped cottage with great views. Dogs must be kept on lead near cottage due to proximity of sheep.
Sharin
Thank you for the lovely stay. Everything was well thought of. We would love to visit again.
Nikita
Really nice and cosy place to stay and the location was great for getting around the Lake District, only 10mins to Windermere. Cottage was as described, great wifi and plenty of facilities. Only minor issue was that the underfloor heating was almost too warm! Especially in the bathrooms. But probably just us not managing to figure out the controls! Overall a great place to stay.
Barbara
Very comfortable home . Helpful people running it .Recommend it as a lovely place to stay
Very comfortable cottage. WiFi was excellent.
Lovely cottage, amazing location, breathtaking views
Barbara
The view was wonderful. Everywhere we went, we felt welcomed and safe. The shops, public houses and National Trust properties were well organised with regard to COVID. As expected the WiFi was temperamental.
Rosemary
Overall we found this barn conversion an excellent holiday Home and location and a lot of thought had been put into making it home from home. The views were also spectacular. A really great base. However We understood the rooms were en suite but in fact We had to go out of bedroom door for facilities. I needed therefore to have taken a dressing gown. We all had our own bathroom which is why I chose the property they just werent en suite. so why say they were? Also we thought were just 3 lets on site. But once there found another 2!!! One of which held up to 18!! Luckily for us the party had cancelled but yet again Sykes were found to be economical with the truth. The photos showed no indication of the other 2 houses. The Planned peaceful holiday could have been a disaster but thanks to rule of 6 it wasnt. 37 on site plus The extra vehicles is quite different to 17. Please Just be honest Sykes with your descriptions.
Suzanne
We enjoyed a lovely week at Ghyll Bank. The Cow Shed was in a beautiful location, with stunning views and ideally situated for days out in The Lake District. The cottage was well equipped and perfect for our needs.
An extremely comfortable and well appointed cottage. The views are spectacular, very quiet location and within easy distance of the lovely village of Staveley. We would definitely return again.
Susanne
We had a lovely time and really enjoyed the cottage. Wonderful views, close proximity to lake Windermere and lots of walking options made this the perfect place to stay with two teenagers and a dog.
Lovely cottage in beautiful location with excellent panoramic view of the hills
Loved our holiday break. Totally suitable for 6 people and a dog. Sofa could have done with a clean but maybe that is the standard of accommodation with dogs. First time taken dog on holiday We have previously rented accommodation with Kate and Toms, with this company there is a welcome package in the kitchen. This would have been much appreciated in this cottage as it was a drive to the shops. Just a few sachets of coffee couple of tea bags and milk would have been welcome. Maybe this could be added to the accommodation it would only cost the owners a few pounds
Tracey
Amazing, as always. See you again next year.
Adrian
Disappointed to have to leave for home the day before our last day due electricity outage
Very rural location but that made it better, views great, but dont expect to walk to a pub, but still well located to get around the lakes. Only downside Wifi a little hit and miss! Spec of property was good. Would recommend..
Cottage was outstanding. Loved it
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