Little Mellfell Cottage, Penrith

This rustic retreat is tucked away in a secluded location, surrounded by rolling countryside. Take the pleasant walk to Pooley Bridge (3 miles) from your doorstep and reward those efforts with a cruise on an Ullswater steamer – you can hop off around the lake and venture towards spectacular landmarks such as Aira Force waterfall (4 miles) where you can spot red squirrels. Source delicious regional produce and explore museums in the market towns of Penrith (8.5 miles) or Keswick (14 miles). Explore Dalemain House and Gardens (4.5 miles), Lowther Castle and Gardens (8.5 miles), and Brougham Castle (10 miles). Further afield, head towards Hawkshead, and be inspired by a tour of Beatrix Potter’s farmhouse, Hill Top (23 miles). Ambleside (23 miles) and Windermere (20miles) are both also within easy reach of the property. On arrival, open the five-bar gate (please close behind you), and drive up to the parking area near your holiday cottage. Step inside to find bright and airy country-style interiors with cheery pops of pattern and colour. Sink into cosy seating and relax by the warm open fire in the living room after a walk on the fells. Rustle up delicious meals in the open-plan kitchen and dining area where you’ll find everything you need including a range cooker with a gas hob, two electric ovens, a fridge/freezer, a dishwasher, and a handy washing machine. Gather around the large dining table and feast together as you make plans for a new day of adventures in Cumbria. After dinner, retreat to the living room and enjoy film and games nights with the TV and DVD player; there’s also an iPhone/iPod dock. When sleep calls, head up the short staircase from the living room where you’ll find a cosy twin bedroom, a family bathroom with a shower over the bath, and garden access. A further six stairs lead up to the top floor with one double bedroom and a bedroom with a beautiful four-poster double bed. This floor also has a shower room with a shower and WC. Outside, there’s a garden and seating area, shared with neighbouring properties, where you can relax and soak up the views towards Little Mell Fell – you might even be inspired to take the steep ascent. There’s a shop and a dog-friendly pub with an open fire within half a mile, plus another pub with food and lake views just 2 miles away.