2 Bedroom Cottage in Embleton

Listen for resident wildlife and the nearby babbling brook as you arrive at this luxury holiday hideaway – located mid-way between Cockermouth and Bassenthwaite Lake, it promises a complete escape from the everyday. Less than 200m north, Route 71 on the National Cycle Network offers a scenic connection between the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales. If you’d rather explore on foot, Buttermere and Skiddaw are both within 11 miles, while Helvellyn can be approached via a stone path from Thirlmere Reservoir (19 miles). Stock up on self-catering supplies in Cockermouth (3 miles) or in Keswick (11 miles) – stroll from the latter to the Derwentwater shoreline and you can hop aboard a cruise boat or hire your own vessel. A replica graphite mine welcomes guests to the town’s famous Derwent Pencil Museum; close-by, Castlerigg is considered the most atmospheric of all Britain’s stone circles, with panoramic views and the mountains of Helvellyn and High Seat as a backdrop.

The original features of this skilfully converted barn are accentuated by its stylish interior design. Step through the entrance hall and into a stunning open-plan social hub; underfloor heating warms this lofty space, while a central wood-burner adds ambience as you unwind before the Smart TV. A handsome dining suite is conveniently positioned close to the chic kitchen, which has bar-style seating at its island unit. Exposed structural beams draw the eye up towards a mezzanine level which – reached via a spiral staircase – has a sofa bed to accommodate any extra guests. There’s a sanctuary-like bedroom on each floor, both with a super-king-size bed that can, on request, be made up as twins instead. The first-floor bedroom is off a second mezzanine level accessed by its own spiral staircase, and each bedroom has its own TV so you can enjoy late-night movies and morning news bulletins at your leisure. Two ground-floor bathrooms ensure comfort and convenience for all – choose between a sleek shower room and a bathroom with a fabulous free-standing Castello bath.

Enjoy the peace of the countryside from a pair of outdoor spaces – an enclosed garden with outdoor furniture and a BBQ, or a second area with seating, a cold-up shower and a sauna. You’ll also have access to five acres of enclosed private woodland, while ample off-road parking means you can come and go with ease