Pet friendly holiday cottage, sleeps 8 - Outgate and Tarn Hows, Cumbria

Escape from the daily grind and choose this traditional Lakeland property that sleeps eight in rural splendour. The village of Hawkshead is a mere 1.5 miles away with its shops, pubs and ample walking opportunities. There are plenty of activities to cater to all tastes nearby, whether you are a fan of water sports or would rather keep to dry land with mountaineering and cycling.

Fishing, golf and sightseeing are also possible and, after a busy day, the open fire is a delight for cosy evenings snuggled up with hot chocolate on your return. Leave your outdoor gear by the door and put your feet up in the lounge/diner, stoking the open fire for an added sense of homeliness. Play games at the table and make every mealtime an occasion, swapping stories and uncorking a bottle of wine to accompany your feast.

The country cottage-style kitchen has everything you need to transform local ingredients into tempting suppers. The views from the windows are impressive and, if you head outside, the large lawn area is studded with shrubs and trees. The five bedrooms are scattered between the ground floor and upstairs, all sharing a generous bathroom and a shower room.

Coniston Water, 4 miles away, is beautiful and inspiring for rambling and wild swimming, plus you can hire boats and take to the water for a unique perspective. Another iconic Lakeland destination is Lake Windermere, 6.5 miles away, and a traditional steamer service will reward you with afternoon jaunts to Ambleside, Bowness-on-Windermere and Lakeside. Browse the shops, sample the eateries and enjoy the sights, picking up some souvenirs and tasty homegrown produce.

For the avid adventurers, the Old Man of Coniston is a challenging ascent, or why not take to the treetops in Grizedale Forest at Go Ape, 4.5 miles away?