Guests say
High Spy is a charming cottage in Keswick, praised for its breathtaking views, peaceful location, and well-equipped kitchen. Guests consistently highlight the cleanliness, comfortable beds, and delightful garden, making it an ideal base for exploring the Lake District. While the steep driveway and lack of a freezer are noted drawbacks, the overall experience is positive, with many guests expressing a desire to return. The cottage’s rural setting, proximity to walks and a local pub, and cosy atmosphere are standout features.
Most guests found the cottage very clean and tidy, with only occasional minor issues such as stale-smelling towels or missed cobwebs. Overall, cleanliness is a strong point.
The location is highly praised for its stunning views, tranquillity, and easy access to local attractions and walks. The rural setting and proximity to a good pub are frequently mentioned positives.
Guests generally found the cottage comfortable, with cosy beds and a homely feel. Some noted the cottage is smaller than expected and mentioned heating challenges in colder months, but overall comfort is rated well.
The kitchen is well equipped, but the lack of a freezer and some minor maintenance issues (e.g., low shower ceiling, tricky parking, and heating system) are noted. Facilities are otherwise good, with a dishwasher and garden being appreciated.
Some guests mentioned the provision of firewood and kitchen basics, but there were occasional disappointments when promised items (like firewood) were missing. Please note that gifts or extras are not guaranteed.
About this property
Bassenthwaite lake, Keswick and Cockermouth are all a short distance from this lovely, two-bedroomed property, which is perfect for exploring the Lake District National Park.. 1 step to entrance.
Ground Floor:
Living room: Sky, Smart TV, Sky Movies, Sky Sports, Open Fire
Dining room: French Doors Leading To Garden
Kitchen: Electric Oven, Electric Hob, Microwave, Slow Cooker, Fridge, Dishwasher, Washing Machine
First Floor:
Bedroom 1: Double (4ft 6in) Bed, 2 x Single (3ft) Beds
Bedroom 2: ¾ Double (4ft) Bed
Bathroom: Bath With Shower Over, Heated Towel Rail, Toilet.
Electic and solid fuel central heating, electricity, bed linen, towels and Wi-Fi included. Initial fuel for open fire included. Enclosed rear garden with patio and garden furniture. Private parking for 1 car. No smoking. Please note: There are 6 steps in the garden.. High Spy has fabulous views onto Bassenthwaite and the neighbouring fells, and is in a perfect location for exploring the Lake District National Park with walks for all abilities (many from the door). Switch off, relax, and unwind on the outskirts of the small village of Bassenthwaite, ideal for walking, climbing, and sightseeing. Located by a stream where ducks wander to and fro and with swings in a small, wooded area. From here, children, and the young at heart, can spend many happy hours playing pooh sticks from the bridge or sitting by the stream on the benches while you read your favourite book or have a picnic. Football and cricket can be played on the village green, or just relax and watch the world go by. Keswick is a magnet for the Lake District visitor, with Lake Derwentwater, several parks including crazy golf, mini golf and putting, all its outdoor clothing shops, cafés, restaurants, galleries, museum, cinema, theatre, brewery and more. Cockermouth, more of a ‘locals’ town has Jennings Brewery tours, Wordsworth House (the birthplace of the poet William Wordsworth), the annual food festival in September, and a good selection of unique independent shops and eateries.
The cottage is an excellent base with plenty to do and many places to eat nearby in this quieter part of the Lake District, avoiding the towns and busier villages if you prefer. You can take walks from the door down country lanes, including 2 miles to the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, or the more adventurous can walk to Dash Waterfalls or climb Skiddaw Mountain (fourth highest mountain in the Lake District) or some of Wainwright’s other northern fells. The lakes of Loweswater, Buttermere, Crummock Water, Ennerdale, Grasmere and Rydal, Thirlmere, Ullswater and Windermere are between 25-40 minutes’ drive. Mirehouse, with its grounds and adventure playgrounds; Dodd Wood Mountain forest and café; and the ancient church of St Bega, on the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, are under 10 minutes’ drive towards Keswick. A 5-10-minutes’ drive towards Cockermouth is the Lakes Distillery offering meals, guided tours and alpaca walking; the refurbished Bassenthwaite Lake Station where you can breakfast, lunch or snack on the grand train from the Orient Express film; The Lake District Wildlife Park, and, for those wanting to treat themselves with some pampering, there is the luxury award-winning spa at Armathwaite Hall.
Free WiFi
Nearby points of interest
- Wastwater Alpaca Trekking
- Wastwater Lake
Reviews (22)
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Confirmed Guest
High Spy is a comfortable, well equipped cottage with lovely views. Although there was parking outside the cottage we found the steep shared driveway made access a little difficult, especially as it was difficult to turn round and backing up the slope wasn't easy. The other residents and us parked in the layby a few yards up the road which could just about accommodate 4 cars. There was no plug for the bath.. we found a plug in a drawer but it didn't really fit. The shower was very good though
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Confirmed Guest
A stunning view from the living room extension. Also good view from the bed rooms and kitchen. A nice garden with a garden table and chairs. The shower room ceiling is a bit low. Parking is a bit difficult due to a steep slope.
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Confirmed Guest
Lovely place to stay. Fantastic views. Pretty garden. We had everything we needed. Great pub within walking distance that served really nice meals.We found the Bassenthwaite railway. A restaurant on a train carriage. Great funOnly one minor issue. The property would really benefit from having a freezer or fridge with a freezer compartment as space is limited in the kitchen.We really enjoyed our stay.