Bassenthwaite, Cumbria

Enjoying a tranquil position in the lakeside hamlet of Dubwath, this cosy cottage makes a relaxing getaway for couples looking for a romantic retreat or for smaller families seeking a peaceful base for exploring the northern reaches of the Lake District. Providing fresh, spacious accommodation for up to eight guests, the property lies just 300 metres from the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake. This delightful hideaway has been stylishly furnished and decorated to make an ideal holiday home for walkers, water sports fans, nature spotters and hikers.

This cheerful retreat features a spacious open-plan lounge/kitchen/diner perfect for relaxing in after a memorable day exploring the Lake District. The lounge has comfortable seating so you can snuggle up with a good book or favourite movie in the evening. There's a charming dining area ideal for sharing family feasts which you can rustle up in the fully equipped kitchen in the corner.

Upstairs there are two light, stylish bedrooms, each with timber beams, a TV and an en-suite shower room: there's a lovely double room and a cosy super-king-size room with a skylight set in the low sloping ceiling. Outside, the pretty, enclosed courtyard has a cheery patio with garden furniture and makes a great space for a morning coffee or a glass of wine in the evening. The cottage is a wonderful base for water sports and nature watching, with both Dubwath Silver Meadows Nature Reserve and Bassenthwaite Lake Station within half a mile.

To the north of Bassenthwaite Lake you can visit The Lakes Distillery (1 mile) and Lake District Wildlife Park (2 miles). Experienced climbers can attempt Skiddaw (8 miles), with Whinlatter Forest (8 miles) and Mirehouse and Gardens (5.5 miles) to the south, within easy reach of the bustling town of Keswick at the head of Derwentwater (8 miles).