Eiderdown & Lavender

Eiderdown & Lavender: Cumbria

On the edge of the little village of Braithwaite, this cottage has the best of both worlds – you’re within walking distance of the village shop, yet there are uninterrupted views of the countryside from the upstairs windows. The garden is a delightful retreat, blooming with lavender, geraniums and pansies in the summer and home to all kinds of local birdlife that visit the feeders. Plus, you may spot the occasional duck wandering up from the little beck (stream) that runs by. Out here, you’ve got tables and chairs set up on the patio so you can take in the towering hills of the Lake District around you.

Should the weather turn, you can still enjoy a spot of birdwatching from the sunroom (there’s a pair of binoculars). Come sundown, retire to the cosy living room, where a wood-burning stove keeps the evening chill at bay. Sunny breakfasts can be enjoyed at the dining table by the double glass doors, leading out to the garden and the full kitchen basks in natural light, thanks to a picture-frame window.

Should you wish to explore beyond Braithwaite and its hiking trails, you can make the seven-minute drive to Keswick for watersports on Derwentwater and a selection of tearooms, cafés and restaurants.

Home truths:
*Your host can provide a cot and high chair for one infant, just ask
*In a remote location, having a car is recommended and there is private parking
*The second bedroom has zip-and-link beds so can be set up as a twin room on request
*A natural stream or 'beck' runs through the garden (with ducks) so children should be supervised
*Though there isn't a dedicated desk here, the dining table doubles up as a laptop-friendly workspace
*You'll have your own private entrance here