You'll find The Fold, a stylish one-bedroom cottage, on the edge of Troutbeck, a Lake District hamlet close to the town of Penrith. The former sheep building has been lovingly converted and is part of Kitty House, a 400-year-old Cumbrian Longhouse that's also home to The Byre, a neighbouring, one-bedroom sanctuary. Both self-catering properties are ideal for couples and solo travellers.
Step inside The Fold and be greeted by a bright yet peaceful atmosphere, where rustic blends with contemporary comforts, and the colour palette is warm and earthy. At ground level, you'll find a dining area, a cosy lounge and a well-equipped kitchen, but if you prefer to eat out, there's a pub within walking distance. Upstairs, it's all about the thoughtfully designed, Scandinavia-inspired snug, where you can relax and admire the countryside and Mellfell views. Back downstairs is your king-size bedroom and ensuite, complete with a bath shower.
Similarly chic is The Byre, where "city style meets rural charm" – think plush furnishings and characterful features like a log burner and beamed ceilings. In a previous life, The Byre was a stable and hayloft, but these days, it welcomes guests seeking a serene base from which to explore to Lake District, be it walking, cycling, kayaking or visiting picturesque villages. On the ground floor, you'll discover a cosy living room and an open-plan kitchen and dining space, plus a laundry room, shared with The Fold. The king-size bedroom is also on this level, plus an ensuite with a bath shower. And upstairs? A pink-hued, Scandinavian-centric oasis that doubles as a yoga/dressing room.
Whether you choose The Fold or The Byre, you've got yourself an excellent gateway to the UNESCO-designated Lake District National Park and all it offers: Ullswater is less than 15 minutes by car, and there are hiking routes galore nearby, from Hallin Fell to the Aira Force Waterfall trail. You can also pick up the 20-mile Ullswater Way. Meanwhile, the village of Glenridding is about a quarter of an hour away – the starting point for scaling Helvellyn, England's third-highest mountain. For the less adventurous, cruising around Ullswater is popular, and Keswick is just a nine-mile drive – from there, explore Derwentwater by boat. Then back to Kitty House to relax in your shared patio garden, where you can take in the glorious panoramas, or simply chill with a drink and a book before tucking into an al fresco meal.
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