Stephenson Ground, historic farmhouse in the hills

'Stephenson Ground' is a beautiful Lakeland farmhouse dating back to 1650, set high in the south Cumbria fells. Perfect for memorable relaxing breaks or active holidays with family & friends surrounded by fields, mountains & forest with stunning views in all directions. Open fires, well equipped kitchen, big comfortable beds, walled gardens and beautiful walks literally on the doorstep. 5 miles from the delightful village of Broughton-in-Furness and 8 miles from Coniston lake. The space Arrive, put the kettle on and RELAX... 'Stephenson Ground' is a special place in which to completely unwind. All the rooms are spacious and simply decorated with white walls, open fires and comfortable furniture. If you're looking for fluffy white dressing gowns, hot tubs or shops & restaurants on the doorstep, then this is probably not the place for you. BUT if you want somewhere to make yourself completely at home with friends and family, shut out the rest of the world for a bit, have glorious walks or bike rides straight from the doorstep, cook a big meal in our very well equipped kitchen or have rambling late night conversations beside the fire, then we think you'll love it as much as we do. There are books and board games plus a large games barn with ping pong & table football, so there's plenty for all ages to do if the weather's not ideal. Our nearest neighbours are a quarter of a mile up the road, so it's completely private with loads of space inside and out to really decompress. 'Stephenson Ground' has been in our family for over 50 years. It's perfect for family get-togethers, friend reunions, walking and cycling enthusiasts and all manner of laid back holiday lovers. The house can accommodate up to 10 people. The farmhouse and barns sit on a quiet lane that climbs steeply from the dramatically tumbling River Lickle. Fabulous south-facing views across fields and woodland towards the estuary & sea, while behind are the magnificent open fells and mountains of south west Cumbria. Please note: No smoking or candles are permitted in the house. Smoking is permitted outside. Guest access Guests have sole occupation of the whole house, terraced patio and two naturally landscaped walled gardens with seating. The cook-friendly kitchen has a large range cooker with two ovens (fan & electric), grill & 7 burner hob, microwave, large fridge, under-worktop freezer, dishwasher, plenty of pots, pans, serving dishes and good knives. We provide starter supplies of store cupboard basics (sugar, tea, coffee, salt, black pepper, ketchup, vinegars, oils, mustard, herbs). The breakfast/dining room has a wood burning stove and a large oak table that seats 10 in front of a picture window with fabulous views. The cosy sitting room has an open fire, comfortable sofas and armchairs. The five bedrooms are all fitted with hand basins and storage space. Ground floor - Green Room: kingsize double bed First floor - Yellow Room - Family room sleeping 4 (kingsize double bed plus 3ft bunk beds) Turquoise Room - twin/double room, (two side-by-side 3ft single beds) Pink Room - twin room (two 3ft single beds) Red Room (shared access with the Pink Room) - Family room sleeping 4 (kingsize double bed plus 3ft bunk beds) 3 bathrooms: Upstairs bathroom with bath, over-bath shower, loo & basin Upstairs shower room with walk-in shower, loo & basin Downstairs bathroom with large walk-in shower, loo & basin Other facilities: Boot room with washing machine & tumble drier South facing front patio with stone seat and fantastic views Parking for several cars Gated and walled gardens with seating. The gardens include natural streams and shallow ponds. Other things to note PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE BOOKING: Following feedback from previous guests, the following information may help you decide if this is the right place for you: 1. The local lanes are public roads maintained by the council but they are steep, narrow and may have potholes. Daylight arrival is recommended for first-time visitors or inexperienced drivers. As the farmyard is a public road, cars and farm vehicles do come through the yard occasionally. 2. The wifi is generally good but we cannot guarantee it 100%. Mobile phone reception is reasonable. 3. Despite regular and thorough cleaning, the age and location of the house and the open fires create dust which might not suit severe asthma sufferers. 4. The Red bedroom has an interconnecting door to the Pink bedroom, as well as a separate internal access. You may prefer that these two rooms are shared by family members or good friends. 5. We don't accept unsupervised student groups or groups of under 25 year olds. 6. We warmly welcome children of all ages, but the house isn't specifically child-proofed. You are welcome to bring your own cots, high chairs or stair gates if required. There are natural streams and shallow ponds in the gardens so young children must be supervised at all times when outside. 7. Please bring your own towels as we don't provide these. 8. Up to 2 well behaved dogs are very welcome for an extra charge of £20 per animal. Dogs are not allowed on furniture or anywhere upstairs and must be under close control at all times. 9. The house & garden have steps & uneven surfaces so may not suit anyone with restricted mobility and are not suitable for wheelchair users. The outside terraces can be slippery especially when wet. 10. The house is in a very rural location, surrounded on all sides by gardens and fields. We actively manage our gardens for biodiversity and the benefit of wildlife. If stray bugs or other creatures wander inside when doors or windows are open, please gently relocate them. 11. The weather can change very quickly so be prepared for all eventualities. 12. The house has a septic tank and a spring-fed water supply, so please be water-aware. 13. If you're planning a winter visit, the house can become inaccessible in very snowy or icy conditions but we'll always let you know if there's likely to be a problem. We want you to have a wonderful stay so do feel free to get in touch before you book if you'd like more specific information about anything - we're very happy to answer any questions, however daft-sounding! Once you've booked, we'll send you more information on the area, the best walks, the best pubs and where to shop.