Treat yourselves to a rural retreat surrounded by nature in the newly created Westmorland Dales National Park and only 20 mins from the Lake District proper. Our little cottage offers modern and handcrafted rustic features, this is the perfect hideaway to soothe and restore your soul. Escape your busy life and enjoy our picturesque, quiet and hidden corner of Cumbria. You will soon see why we have lived here for 24 years. The space We are a little collection of houses in a converted farm one kilometre down an un-surfaced farm track, tucked in a natural fold of the land. This gives us the perfect balance of shelter from the worst weather with splendid views of the North Pennines and Lake District. The cottage has been recently renovated to provide cosy, comfortable accommodation for, ideally, two adults and one child. There are some hazards for toddlers that you should be aware of; stairs from main lounge and glass doors on the bedrooms. The space is arranged with 2 small bedrooms downstairs. On the ground floor is also the bathroom with walk-in shower, toilet, sink and washing machine. The bathroom has underfloor heating. Upstairs is a spacious lounge/diner with integrated kitchen. The space is light and airy with good views across the pastures. Electric heating provides instant warmth - the house is well insulated so very warm even in winter with a chill wind blowing outside. Outside there is a small garden facing the morning sun. A bench and small table and chairs can be used for breakfast or a brew in the sun. It’s worth noting that although our little hamlet is remote and quiet, the old farm comprises a collection of 4 houses so there will be some coming and going by neighbours and deliveries etc. We have found that people who enjoy getting out and about to explore this hidden corner of Cumbria are a better match than those expecting total solitude by staying home. Having said this we think you’ll struggle to find a more peaceful rural location. There are numerous footpaths from the house giving splendid views to the North Pennines and Lake District. Even a stroll up the track gives fabulous panoramas and a feeling of space. Many birds and animals can be seen and heard - look out for brown hares, red squirrels, curlews, oyster catchers and larks. On a clear night the starscape is stunning with no light pollution. There is no road noise; a rarity nowadays. One well behaved dog is welcome but please bring your own pet-bed and kindly keep them out of the bedrooms. The locality is fabulous for an outdoor break. There are 2 superb pubs that are a short drive, 20 minute cycle or 40 minute walk. Maulds Meaburn is a 15 minute walk and is very picturesque. The immediate area is fabulous for cycling with a network of very quiet country lanes for many miles. Sometimes we cycle for 10 miles and meet only 2 or 3 cars. The Lakes are on the doorstep and Appleby, Kendal and Penrith within easy reach. We are always happy to give you advice for a nice day out. We may be able to lend you a bike if you are stuck! Guest access The accommodation and small garden are self contained. There is one dedicated parking space. The half mile access track is a private road so perfect for a stroll or dog walk. Other things to note Mobile phone signal is poor inside the house, but OK outside. Our little hamlet is remote and quiet but it’s an old farm and comprises a collection of 4 houses so there will be some coming and going by neighbours and deliveries etc. If you stay home, you will get peace and quiet but the garden is not 100% private.