This delightful Lakeland cottage occupies an idyllic spot just a few minutes’ walk from Wray Castle and ten minutes’ drive from the picturesque village of Hawkshead. Middle Wray Cottage has been painstakingly converted from what was the coach house and stables to an old vicarage once owned by the founder of the National Trust, Canon Hardwicke Rawnsley.

Although enjoying a tranquil and peaceful location, the area offers a whole host of wonderful activities. Vicar’s Path leads down to the shores of Lake Windermere, cycle routes and footpaths lead through stunning countryside frequented by deer and other wildlife, and Outgate Inn is ready to greet guests who have made their way through the fields passed Blelham Tarn.

An upside down property, the rooms are arranged to make the most of the fabulous views. The ground floor master bedroom is stunning with its comfortable king size bed, generous storage and handy wash basin. An equally pretty single room can be used for sleeping or as a dressing room. The bathroom is gorgeous. Tiled throughout, with a heated towel rail and powerful shower over a P-shaped bath.

Upstairs to the breath-taking sitting room with kitchen and dining areas. This is a wonderfully bright and welcoming space, featuring high beamed ceilings and the best of contemporary design. The kitchen is superbly equipped with a lovely breakfast bar serving as a casual alternative to the more formal dining table. Comfortable chairs and sofas invite guests to relax and chat while supper is being prepared, and pretty picture windows look out onto the heavenly countryside and gardens that wrap around Middle Wray Cottage.

Lying at the northern tip of Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake, Ambleside makes a superb base for touring the central Lakes, with Grasmere and the Langdale Valley just a short drive away. There is plenty to do here - cruises, boat trips and watersports on Lake Windermere itself and numerous shops, restaurants and pubs in the village to suit all tastes. On the lakeside at Waterhead, the parkland offers lovely views down the lake and a short stretch of beach, whilst a walk in the other direction, following Stock Ghyll through woodland, will bring you to the entrancing waterfall of Stock Ghyll Force. Along with the Lake and the great walking on offer, Ambleside is also famous for its annual rushbearing ceremony and the diminutive 17th century “Bridge House” - one of the most photographed buildings in the Lake District and now the National Trust Information Centre.

Accommodation