The Great Barn

One of a pair of amazing self-catering properties, this luxury barn conversion is the sort of place where all your dreams of a Lakeland holiday seem to come true – much like its sister property, Waternook.  Set in a 26 acre estate, with half a mile of lake frontage, boathouse and jetty, it enjoys an rivalled location that's perfect for anyone looking forward to enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors and is also ideal if all you want to do is stay indoors and enjoy the views. It's hard to imagine a more comfortable place to stay – apart, of course, from its sister property just behind. Up to two dogs are welcome, and you can either self-cater or go for the full package with waiting staff and chef.

The stone Great Barn has been beautifully converted and can accommodate up to 8 guests in 4 spacious suites, each with a contemporary bathroom; three bedrooms have views of the lake. Downstairs, there is a variety of sitting rooms, from an extra large central lounge, the Lake Room, with a 75" TV, to a Minstrel's Gallery above and a cozy Snug overlooking Ullswater. You can also enjoy the views of the lake from the bright ground-floor dining room or walk out onto the terrace for an early evening drink before a lakeside barbecue. For those interested in outdoor pursuits you can enlist the help from concierge service providers offering everything from swim, SUP and kayak guides on the lake to fishing tuition and off-roading. Indoors, you can book everything from private cooking lessons to yoga and beauty treatments.

Like Waternook you have no excuse to be bored. Locally you are spoilt for choice with walks suitable for all abilities, all offering enviable views of lake and mountain. Waternook sits on the side of Hallin Fell, scale to the top and enjoy stunning views across The Lake District. Guests can also consider the 7-mile stroll to Glenridding – 'one of the most beautiful and rewarding walks in Lakeland', according to Wainwright – after which you can jump on the Ullswater Steamer at Glenridding and head back to Howtown enjoying the views from the boat. Finally there is of course the Ullswater Way, which goes around the lake and right by the house and is just about do-able in a day.