Swallow's Nest, Catterlen near Penrith | Barn Conversion Holiday in Cumbria

About Swallow's Nest

Swallow's Nest is a beautifully restored stone barn conversion in the Eden Valley near Penrith, Cumbria. Original features include exposed beams, thick stone walls and traditional barn doors. The conversion retains its agricultural character whilst offering modern comfort. An open fire adds warmth to cooler evenings.

The barn sits in peaceful countryside with views across rolling fields and fells. You're surrounded by working farmland and woodland. The Lake District National Park lies just minutes away.

Swallow's Nest sleeps up to six guests across three bedrooms. The open-plan living area features a vaulted ceiling with exposed timber beams. The kitchen flows into the dining space. Two bathrooms serve the property.

Ullswater is 6 miles away (15 minutes). Penrith town centre offers shops and eateries 4 miles north (10 minutes). Lowther Castle and Gardens sits 3 miles south (8 minutes). Rheged Centre provides indoor activities 2 miles away (5 minutes).

This barn conversion suits families and groups wanting authentic rural Cumbrian living with easy Lake District access. Swallow's Nest delivers countryside peace with adventure on the doorstep.

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At Sykes Cottages

Need To Know

✓Oil central heating with underfloor heating on ground floor, woodburner in sitting area and solar panelled hot water
✓Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washer/dryer, dishwasher, tv with freeview, dvd player, surround sound cinema system, radio, ipod dock, wifi
✓Fuel, power and starter pack for woodburner included in rent, additional logs for woodburner available to purchase from the owner
✓Bed linen and towels included in rent
✓Travel cot and highchair on request
✓Off road parking for 2 cars
✓Sorry, no pets and no smoking
✓Shop 5 miles, pub 2 miles
✓Note: this property accepts a minimum of 3 night breaks

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What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their group stay at Swallow's Nest

Exposed Beam Character

Original timber beams and vaulted ceiling create an authentic barn atmosphere throughout the main living space with traditional stone walls preserved beautifully.

Open Fire Warmth

The working open fire provides a cosy focal point for evenings, perfect for relaxing after days exploring the surrounding Cumbrian countryside.

Eden Valley Location

Peaceful rural setting with fell views and farmland surroundings, yet only minutes from Ullswater and Lake District National Park access points.

Open-Plan Living

Spacious barn conversion layout with kitchen, dining and sitting areas flowing together under the impressive vaulted ceiling for sociable gatherings.

Countryside Views

Windows frame views across working farmland and rolling hills, giving guests a genuine feel for traditional Cumbrian agricultural landscapes.

Lake District Access

Prime position for exploring Ullswater, Penrith and the northern lakes, with multiple attractions and walking routes within a 15-minute drive.

Getting To Swallow's Nest

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach Swallow's Nest by car, take the A6 south from Penrith or north from junction 40 of the M6. Follow signs towards Askham and turn onto the minor road leading to the property. Off-road parking for two cars is available.

By Train

Penrith Railway Station is the nearest stop, 4 miles away with regular services on the West Coast Main Line. From there, a short taxi ride brings you to the barn conversion in the Eden Valley countryside.

Off-road parking for two cars

Penrith station (4 miles)

Easily accessible from the A6

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

Hutton-in-the-Forest

Distance: 2.9 miles (5 min drive)

CA11 9TH

Penrith Castle

Distance: 4.4 miles (6 min drive)

CA11 7EA

Brougham Castle

Distance: 6.3 miles (7 min drive)

CA10 2AA

Lady Anne's Way

Distance: 4.8 miles (6 min drive)

Thacka Beck Nature Reserve

Distance: 5.5 miles (9 min drive)

CA11 9FB

Dunmallard Hill

Distance: 9 miles (12 min drive)

CA11 0LL

Upfront Gallery

Distance: 3.4 miles (5 min drive)

CA11 9TG

Aldi

Distance: 4.3 miles (6 min drive)

CA11 7GS

Carleton Farm Shop

Distance: 5 miles (6 min drive)

CA11 8RQ

Penrith (North Lakes) Station

Distance: 4.5 miles (7 min drive)

CA11 7JQ

Penrith Bus Station

Distance: 4.2 miles (7 min drive)

CA11 7TP

Pooley Bridge

Distance: 8.7 miles (11 min drive)

CA11 0LL

Hutton-in-the-Forest

Distance: 2.9 miles (5 min drive)

CA11 9TH

Penrith Castle

Distance: 4.4 miles (6 min drive)

CA11 7EA

Brougham Castle

Distance: 6.3 miles (7 min drive)

CA10 2AA

Lady Anne's Way

Distance: 4.8 miles (6 min drive)

Thacka Beck Nature Reserve

Distance: 5.5 miles (9 min drive)

CA11 9FB

Dunmallard Hill

Distance: 9 miles (12 min drive)

CA11 0LL

Upfront Gallery

Distance: 3.4 miles (5 min drive)

CA11 9TG

Aldi

Distance: 4.3 miles (6 min drive)

CA11 7GS

Carleton Farm Shop

Distance: 5 miles (6 min drive)

CA11 8RQ

Penrith (North Lakes) Station

Distance: 4.5 miles (7 min drive)

CA11 7JQ

Penrith Bus Station

Distance: 4.2 miles (7 min drive)

CA11 7TP

Pooley Bridge

Distance: 8.7 miles (11 min drive)

CA11 0LL

Is Swallow's Nest 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 directly from Swallow's Nest. The open fields and woodland provide natural play space. The barn's rural location means kids experience genuine farm life with animals often visible nearby. The Lake District attractions within easy reach include Ullswater Steamers and Lowther Castle adventure playground. Indoor space works well for families.

Groups Will Love...

The vaulted ceiling with exposed timber beams creates the standout feature at Swallow's Nest. Original agricultural timbers span the open-plan living space, preserved from the barn's working past. These structural beams combined with the thick stone walls give authentic character throughout. The height and scale of the ceiling make the conversion feel spacious whilst maintaining its traditional agricultural atmosphere and Cumbrian heritage.

Pet Friendly

Swallow's Nest welcomes dogs, making it perfect for guests wanting Lake District walks with their pets. The surrounding Eden Valley countryside offers immediate access to footpaths and bridleways from the door. Fields and fells provide excellent exercise opportunities. The rural location means dogs can enjoy proper countryside freedom. The barn's stone floors and practical layout suit guests travelling with pets comfortably.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Swallow's Nest

The George and Dragon

Located 2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: CA10 2PF

The Queen's Head Inn

Located 4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: CA11 7TT

Granny Dowbekin's Tearoom

Located 6 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: CA11 0LP

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Swallow's Nest

Is Swallow's Nest pet friendly?

Yes, Swallow's Nest welcomes dogs, making it ideal for guests wanting to explore the Eden Valley and Lake District trails with their pets. The surrounding countryside offers excellent walking opportunities straight from the door.

What original barn features does this conversion have?

The conversion retains exposed timber beams across the vaulted ceiling, thick stone walls and traditional barn doors. An open fire and the agricultural character of the original structure have been carefully preserved throughout.

How far is Swallow's Nest from the Lake District?

The barn sits on the edge of the Lake District National Park, with Ullswater just 6 miles away. You can reach multiple lake access points and fell walking routes within 15 minutes by car.

What sleeping arrangements does the barn offer?

Swallow's Nest sleeps six guests across three bedrooms with two bathrooms. The layout works well for families or small groups wanting countryside accommodation with proper space.

Is there parking at the barn conversion?

Yes, off-road parking for two cars is provided at the property. The barn is easily accessible from the A6 and surrounding road network.

What's the nearest town for shops and amenities?

Penrith lies 4 miles north, around 10 minutes by car. The town offers supermarkets, independent shops, restaurants and all essential amenities for your stay.

Can you walk from Swallow's Nest?

Yes, the rural location provides direct access to countryside footpaths and bridleways. You're surrounded by farmland with routes leading into the Eden Valley and towards the Lake District fells.

What makes this barn conversion special for a holiday?

The authentic agricultural character combined with the peaceful Eden Valley setting creates a genuine Cumbrian experience. You get traditional barn features with modern comfort and immediate Lake District access.