Dog friendly holiday cottage, sleeps 4 - Kirkland, Cumbria

This charming property, situated at the edge of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is the ideal place to relax and retreat. Sleeping four across two cosy bedrooms, this holiday home suits both couples and small families. Spend the day exploring Carlisle (25 miles) or walking on the many trails around the area before heading back to the tranquil cottage to unwind and prepare for tomorrow.

The property, which has a wonderful south-facing patio, is spacious and welcoming. Exposed beams and stone in the open-plan living area give it a delightful farmhouse feel; sit back on the sofa in front of the wood burner after a long day, put your feet up and soak up the calming atmosphere. Open the back doors to let in fresh air while you cook in the kitchen area and eat at the rustic table.

At bedtime, snuggle into one of the cosy bedrooms; each has exposed beams and neutral decor to help you drift off into a peaceful sleep. Wake up refreshed and ready for a day of adventure, taking your morning coffee out into the garden to enjoy the rural scenery. Keen fishers should book a fishing ticket for Blencarn Lake (1 mile), with views so beautiful that you'd never guess it was a man-made lake!

If you're feeling fit, set off on a walk along Pennine Way to High Cup Nick (11.5 miles), a deep chasm on the Pennine fellside that overlooks the best glaciated valley in the north of England. If you're looking for something a bit more sedate, the enchanting Derwent Pencil Museum (28 miles) is always a hit with kids and you might even learn something too!