Guests say
The Reading Room in Askham is a beautifully decorated and spacious cottage, praised for its charming character, cleanliness, and well-equipped kitchen. Guests love the peaceful village setting, proximity to local pubs, walks, and amenities, as well as the comfortable beds and dog-friendly garden. Thoughtful touches such as welcome gifts are frequently mentioned, though not guaranteed. Some guests noted the cottage can be chilly on arrival and would benefit from improved heating and clearer recycling instructions. Overall, the property offers a memorable and relaxing stay in a picturesque location.
Cleanliness is consistently highlighted, with guests describing the cottage as sparkling clean, tidy, and well-presented. Only one review mentioned a minor oversight with dog waste left by previous guests, but this was an exception.
The location receives high praise for its quiet village charm, easy access to local attractions, walks, and amenities such as pubs and a shop. Guests found it ideal for exploring the Lake District and nearby sites.
Guests found the cottage spacious and the beds very comfortable. The main negative was that the property can be cold on arrival and takes time to warm up, but once heated, it is cosy and inviting.
Facilities are well regarded, with a well-equipped kitchen, quality appliances, and a secure garden for dogs. Some guests noted the lack of a proper shower and occasional heating issues, but overall amenities met or exceeded expectations.
Many guests appreciated thoughtful touches such as welcome packs with cake, wine, or Prosecco, and dog treats. However, these gifts are not guaranteed and may vary between stays.
About this property
The Reading Room perfectly blends modern comforts with traditional charm, offering the perfect holiday home for up to four guests..
Ground Floor:
Open plan living space.
Living area: Smart TV, Electric Woodburner
Dining area.
Kitchen area: Electric Oven, Induction Hob, Fridge/Freezer, Dishwasher
Utility Room: (1 Step) Washer Dryer
Bedroom 1: Zip And Link Super Kingsize Bed (2 x Singles On Request)
Bathroom: Bath With Shower Attachment, Heated Towel Rail, Toilet
First Floor:
Bedroom 2: Zip And Link Super Kingsize Bed (2 x Singles On Request).
Electricity, bed linen, towels and Wi-Fi included. Welcome pack. Back garden with garden furniture. Private parking for 1 car. No smoking.. The Reading Room is perfectly situated, nestled in the heart of scenic Askham. This luxury holiday cottage perfectly blends modern comforts with traditional charm, offering a peaceful retreat with easy access to the natural beauty of the Lake District.
This cosy yet spacious home, which once served as the village reading room, features flexible accommodations, with one comfortable zip-and-link bed on the ground floor and another on the first floor, easily configured as either Superkings or twins to suit your needs. Please be mindful of the low doorway height in the first-floor bedroom to avoid bumping your head. The shared bathroom is designed with relaxation in mind, equipped with a full-sized bath and a shower attachment for added convenience.
The charming village of Askham is ideally situated in the Lake District, offering a wealth of local attractions and natural beauty. Just a short walk from the cottage, Askham Hall is a stunning historic estate with beautiful gardens, and a Michelin starred restaurant, whose sister pub, The Queen’s Head, is just a couple of doors away from The Reading Room, all surrounded by scenic landscapes.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Lowther Castle and Estate, known for its vast, forested grounds, wildlife, and heritage trails. Bicycles can be hired from Lowther. Aira Force, a dramatic waterfall within a lush woodland setting is also nearby, on the banks of Ullswater. Additionally, Penrith is a short drive away, where visitors can explore Penrith Castle, quaint shops, and regular local markets. For seasonal events, the Askham area hosts summer festivals, food fairs, and heritage events celebrating the rich Cumbrian culture, giving you a taste of both local traditions and the region’s vibrant arts scene. As for local amenities, Askham boasts a village shops, cosy pubs, and a Health Barn offering therapies and pamper sessions. Nearby Ullswater lake offers water sports, boat tours, and swimming opportunities in warmer months. Literary attractions in the Lakes include visits to the homes of Wordsworth, Beatrix Potter and John Ruskin.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or a cosy escape, this charming cottage provides the ideal base for discovering the beauty and culture of Askham and the surrounding lakes.
Free WiFi
Only dogs allowed at the property.
Suitable for up to 1 pet
Reviews (27)
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Claudia Amro
Adorable cottage with everything you need, in an idyllic location. Perfect!The only thing I would suggest is adding a plaque with the house name to make it easier to locate the property and ensure a smoother arrival experience.
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John Andrews
A week away in the reading room was unbelivable, dog safe garden ,perfect for hiking , biking in the woods up the road , 3 mile hike to pooley bridge excellant shop and 2 pubs in the village. Will be visiting again soon
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Lee Siddall
The reading room was a beautiful place to stay for the few days we were there, very clean and beautiful decorated, Home from home. But on our arrival on Wednesday the place was very cold and took until Thursday to warm up. As the accommodation only as electric heaters and electric fire, which I don’t think had been on for a few days and why it took so long for the place to warm up. Luckily I found two share electric heaters in the storage room, I think if they weren’t there. We would have had to leave. But luckily once the place was warm, we could settle in and enjoy the beautiful lounge, comfortable beds and beautiful bath. Askham village was everything we could have asked for, great corner shop, two great pubs and beautiful walks to the castle, will definitely be back next year