A serene getaway for one or two people (or a family with two children using the sofa bed), this dog-friendly destination is set on a working farm in the spectacular Upper Eden Valley. Step out of your door and you can walk to the Smardale Gill Nature Reserve, where you may spot red squirrels and rare butterflies – you will be rewarded with stunning views of Smardale Gill Viaduct (1.5 miles). You can also access the renowned Coast to Coast walk in just 0.5 miles. The ancient market town of Kirkby Stephen, 2.5 miles away, has a selection of shops, galleries and places to eat and drink, while Appleby, Hawes, Sedbergh and Barnard Castle are all within 30 miles. The extraordinary limestone pavements of Great Asby Scar are 10 miles away, and Great Shunner Fell, Wild Boar Fell, Nine Standards Rigg and Sunbiggin Tarn are all also within 10 miles.
Four steps lead up to your decking and front door, and once inside, you’ll find a welcoming, open-plan space that’s perfect for a relaxing break. Carefully designed with full insulation and underfloor heating, the hut is wonderfully cosy and comfortable. A combination of natural timber and a gentle colour palette complements the delightful scenery outside. After a day in the great outdoors, you can snuggle up on the soft sofa (which can be converted to a sofa bed for two children) and enjoy a movie on the TV, or rustle up a tasty meal in the compact kitchen. This includes a fridge, a two-ring hob and microwave, and a worktop/breakfast bar with two stools tucked beneath. When you’re all set for a good night’s sleep, the double bed is nestled in one corner, allowing you to wake up to rural views. Completing this enticing interior is an en-suite shower room, which has a hot-and-cold shower and a conventional, flushing WC.
Outside, the small raised deck boasts a bistro table and chairs perfectly placed for coffee or a sundowner with views, and there’s a picnic bench on the larger, gravelled area below where you can dine in the fresh air. An enclosed lawn lies beyond. Adding to the convenience, private parking for one car is available beside the lodge.