A patchwork of drystone walls and green pastures surround this rural retreat, promising a complete escape from the everyday. It is set in the hamlet of Sunderland, just 13 miles from historic Maryport, the southernmost town of the Solway Coast National Landscape and home to the Lake District Coast Aquarium. En route there, Georgian Cockermouth is a pretty market town with a selection of dining options, local stores, and a vibrant arts scene. Head east instead and you can shop in Keswick (11.5 miles). Sitting on the Derwentwater shoreline, the town is synonymous with the Derwent Pencil Museum, while nearby Castlerigg (13.5 miles) is an atmospheric stone circle. Closer to home, Bassenthwaite Lake (6.5 miles) sits in the shadow of Skiddaw, while animal encounters are on offer at the Lake District Wildlife Park (4.5 miles). If you are heading to a wedding or fancy a spa day, Armathwaite Hall is a similar distance away.
Pull onto the driveway where there is plenty of room to park and unpack at a leisurely pace. Carry your self-catering supplies straight into the kitchen/diner – the heart of this country residence, it houses the practical must-haves of home and is complemented by a boot/utility room with a washing machine. Head into the lounge, where exposed beams and a wood burner set the scene for companionable together-time. Steps lead down to an equally welcoming snug with a TV, books, and board games to entertain. A shower room completes the ground-floor layout, while upstairs a bathroom serves three bedrooms. Choose between a king-size room with views towards Skiddaw, a twin room with the same outlook, and a double bedroom. As you might expect in a period property, there are some low ceilings and doorways and original fireplaces throughout.
Edged by a low stone wall, the front garden is laid mostly to lawn and offers far-reaching views. Furniture for al fresco dining is set on the grass, trees provide shade, and a small covered stream flows through. Adding a note of practicality, to the rear of the cottage there is space to dry laundry.