SPRING & SUMMER IN THE LAKE DISTRICT
Lakes magazine
Buttermere
Bluebells at Patterdale
Spring at Holehird Gardens Rydal Cave
Lamb at Castlerigg Stone Circle
Herdwick and Ewe
Contents
Thank you Of all the years that the arrival of spring has heralded hope of new beginnings. Welcome back to spring and summer in the Lake District.
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Stepping into Spring
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Fall in love with the Lakes - The #CulturalConcierge
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Meet the Owners - Craig Cottage
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How to get a 5 star rating for your holiday lodge
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Things to do this Summer - The #CultruralConcierege
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Simon Rogan - 20 years and 3*
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Bluebell Walks
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The New Collection
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A-Z of Holiday Letting
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Ospreys are back! Cumbria Wildlife Trust
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A Day’s Walk
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Our Favourtie Spring Walks
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The Dog Friendly Collection
With thanks to:
Ben Bush Photography benbush.photos
Cumbria Wildlife Trust cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk
National Trust nationaltrust.org.uk
A Day’s Walk adayswalk.co.uk
Jane Watson Editorial Jeanette Edgar Cultural Concierge Joanna Bailey Content and design Simon Rogan simonrogan.co.uk Proud to be a member of Cumbria Tourism 3
Daffodils at Rydal Water
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Spring S T E P P I N G I N TO
Spring is that point in the year when we look forward to longer days, brighter weather, blossom on the trees, spring flowers and lambs in the field. Make sure you check out our Spring walks and Bluebell walks in this issue.
The Lake District World Heritage Site of course, is here, whatever is going on in the world, and you can rely on this beautiful place to continue to inspire you and yours with the freshest air, relaxation, exercise, rest, or adrenaline, whatever fix you are needing. Our Cultural Concierge takes us on a whirlwind trip around Cumbria, picking out some of her favourite activities, both inside and out, so check out her article for ideas. We also caught up with the owners of Craig Cottage in Windermere, for a Q&A about how they decided to work with Lakelovers to market their holiday cottage. This year is Queen Elizabeth’s Jubilee year as we celebrate her 70 years on the throne, giving us a 4-day Bank Holiday weekend, from Thursday 2 June – Sunday 5 June, but lots of community celebrations across the country, and most villages and towns are planning afternoon teas, festivals and gatherings and the traditional country-wide Beacon Events happening. Book yourself a break with us during the spring or summer months and enjoy a real break away.
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Fall in love with the Lake District
Left : Rydal Mount Gardens | Right : The Gaddum
Our #CulturalConcierge loves the Lake District as much as we do and has come up with a non-drive bus tour to take in some of the sights!
Many of us have fallen in love with this magical place and return again and again to renew that passion or seek out its beauty. No surprise for those of lucky enough to live here, that this stunning area is often cited as being one of the most romantic places in the world.
The Lake District has inspired poets, painters, and writers for over two centuries. It’s been the home of Romantic poets Wordsworth, Southey and Coleridge, the writer and critic John Ruskin, the writings and paintings of Beatrix Potter, and its landscapes the muse to JMW Turner. They continue to be the inspiration to writers and artists living and working here today. Why not take a cultural jaunt through the heart of the Lakes - get yourselves a ticket to ride! Not only does a Stagecoach Coach DayRider ticket release you from the car, it allows you to sit back relax and divert your eyes to the landscapes, enjoy ALL that Cumbria’s award winning restaurants and pubs offer, perhaps indulge in a tipple or two along the way, and show you ‘love the Lakes’ by being that little bit ‘greener’. There are routes that take you on buses as well as boats, from the south to the north and everywhere in between, but I am going to suggest the ‘Classic’ routes - Service 555 between Kendal and Keswick and the 599 open top bus, taking in Windermere/Bowness and Grasmere.
Pick your starting point and direction and here are my suggestions for a few stops: Every good adventure needs to start with a good breakfast- or at least an excellent coffee. Kendal has had a café culture dating back to 1819. Farrer’s have been blending their own tea and roasting coffee in Kendal for over 200 years - and it’s served in a coffee house that looks very much like it hasn’t changed much since then! You’ll also find fabulous brunch options at Brew Brothers, Farmhouse Kitchen, Comida, and Babaganoush. Kendal bus station is but a short hop away so off you go on the 555 or 599. Now depending how long you have you can alight at Windermere bus station and take a stroll through the village, Booths and Lakeland café literally a short stroll from the bus station and many lovely cafes and pubs in Windermere itself. (The 555 runs every hour so there are plenty of opportunities to hop on and off). Heading north again to Grasmere, and you’ll get your Wordsworth-fix at Rydal Mount and Gardens date from the 16th century, it contains a selection of the Wordsworth family’s prized possessions and portraits. The five-acre
garden remains very much as Wordsworth designed it with fell-side terraces, rock pools and an ancient mound – with great views! Just a couple of stops down the road – or even a legstretcher along the old coffin route, is Wordsworth Grasmere - “The loveliest spot that man hath ever found” – so said Wordsworth himself. This Wordsworth experience has the option of a long or shorter visit – with Dove Cottage, the new Museum, Woodland and Garden-Orchard all to discover. From here it’s a very short walk into the heart of Grasmere Village and the home of the Heaton Cooper Gallery. Built as a gallery and home by the artist William Heaton Cooper in 1938 his gallery became a popular destination for visitors after the publication of several successful books. Today, the gallery exhibits the work of the Heaton Cooper family of artists, including the contemporary artists, Julian Heaton Cooper and Rebecca Heaton-Cooper. It’s beautiful shop has everything you need (or never knew you needed!) for painting, drawing, and printing and has a superb café next door: Mathilde’s Café – itself named after a local love story...Grasmere Gingerbread is just down the lane, as is the beautiful St. Oswald’s Church. The bus stop is immediately opposite the gallery so you can enjoy the village green and shops too whilst you wait for your next ride.
You then head over the awesome Dunmail Raise past Thirlmere and through some magnificent mountain and lake views before heading down into Keswick. I recommend a stop off at Keswick Museum. The museum is housed in an original Arts & Crafts house on the edge of Fitz Park. Its collections reflect life in Keswick and brings us back to those old Romantics – as you’ll find out more about the story of the lesser-known Poet laureate: Robert Southey (also the author of Goldilocks and the Three Bears!). All my suggested stops also have cafes – yes, all of them! But I’d save some space for a real treat on the return leg. The Gaddum at Brockhole on Windermere has an enviable reputation for its five-star afternoon teas and lunches with its magnificent views across the Thomas Mawson heritage gardens to the Langdale and Coniston Fells. The Gaddum is only open in the evening for very special occasions. The beautifully designed Arts & Crafts rooms truly come alive in the evening – warm, relaxed and, might I say, romantic. And if you have any room left – head out on the bus for last orders to Hawkshead brewery or perhaps Wilfs Café, in Staveley Mill Yard. So, there you have it – a romantic bus trip through The Lake District world heritage site – enjoying its sights, sounds and smells whilst leaving your car at home.”
Rydal Mount Gardens
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Craig Cottage, Windermere
Meet the Owners
Craig Cottage, Windermere Craig Cottage is a stylish Victorian home in Bowness-on-Windermere, and an ideal base for friends and families to explore the Lake District. The beautifully renovated cottage is spread over two floors, with a south-facing garden, and private parking space. Craig Cottage is just a few minutes walk from the restaurants, cafes, and bars of Bowness and is within easy reach of Lake Windermere. We caught up with the owners of Craig Cottage, to find out more about their journey from buying a holiday cottage, working with us at Lakelovers, and bringing their property to the lettings market.
Tell us about your choice of Craig Cottage. Was it the location, or other factors, that made you choose it?
work to do, and how did that go for you, if you were living away from the Lakes?
Craig Cottage is the ideal destination for families looking to enjoy the best the Lake District has to offer. Central village location, off-street parking, good sized bedrooms, and lots of character with Lakeland stone and original features throughout.
We undertook an extensive refurbishment of Craig Cottage to bring it up to a high standard. We kept original features such as the fireplace, and stone flooring but upgraded the bathroom, living room, and bedrooms.
Did you always think of Craig Cottage as an investment holiday let?
We love your interior design! Did you do that yourselves or did you have an interior designer?
Craig Cottage is primarily a holiday let, but our agreement with Lakelovers gives us the flexibility to stay there ourselves from time to time.
Thanks! Not being local, we were fortunate to have a great local team. Gemma Dawe (Lake District Relocation) with a great understanding of what prospective guests are looking
Did you have a lot of renovation and decorating
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for in a holiday let and interior design advice.
How are your bookings looking since Craig Cottage went live on our website?
Simon Pinch (Pinch Property Development) managed our refurbishment brilliantly for us. What were you looking for in your holiday let agent? It’s really important that our clients have absolute trust and confidence when making a booking. Lakelovers are the leading letting agent in the Lake District and have a reputation for both quality properties and quality service. What made you choose Lakelovers and was there any individual person who worked hard on your behalf you’d like to mention? We’d like to give a special mention to Graham Wilkinson. Graham is responsible for onboarding new properties, and has a wealth of knowledge in what does, and doesn’t, work for holiday lets. This really helped us to get the brief right for our interior design and the extra touches in the cottage. How was the process from gathering information to our visit and then signing up with us? The process was super smooth and very straightforward. Everything is done electronically, including contracts, which really helps when you’re not based locally.
We’ve been really pleased with how the property has let. The last 12 months due to the pandemic and the world situation, have been particularly popular for domestic holidays and the Lake District has received an influx of visitors. At Lakelovers, we are always striving to surprise and delight our guests. Are there any little touches or extras you add to your cottage that you would recommend other Owners to consider? We love the idea of promoting local businesses and artists. The walls of Craig Cottage are furnished with an extensive collection of contemporary artwork. We’d like to give a special mention to local artist Holly Acland who created all of the beautiful artwork you can see in the property. We’d like to do more to promote food businesses too. Where would you recommend your guests visit when in Bowness or a little further afield? There is so much to see and do in Bowness, and the surrounding Lake District. We highly recommend treetop walking at ‘Go Ape’ in Grizedale Forest for the adventurous, Beatrix Potter’s World for those with young families, and The Old Stamp House for Michelin starred dining in Ambleside.
Craig Cottage, Windermere
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How to get a
5 STAR RATING for your holiday lodge
Our guests come in all shapes and sizes as do our lodges! Many of them are on the look-out for that extra bit of luxury and will choose one of our ‘prestige’ lodges above another, because it gives them that extra feeling of pampering and treating themselves. Guests definitely seek out the 5-star rating when choosing a break. We know that a luxury, 3 bedroomed, dog friendly property with garden or outdoor space, own WIFI, open fire, off road parking and a dishwasher, is the most booked type of holiday home (Source: Sykes Staycation Index) Here’s our quick guide of what to do to make your lodge stand out from the crowd and how to work at getting that 5-star rating.
Limefitt Park Ben Bush Photography
Left : Daffodils at Fallbarrow Park by Shaun Derby Photography | Top right : Keswick Bridge | Bottom right : Sunnybank Lodge, Limefitt Park
If your Park allows it, consider adding a Hot Tub for the ultimate pampering. Alongside searches for dogfriendly lodges, hot-tub searches come a close second. We are fortunate to have over 60 lodges with us that have both! If you do have a hot tub, we recommend some nice quality plastic ‘glasses’ for beer and prosecco, to avoid possible breakages of your glassware.
Interior design and decoration Guests expect stylish, modern luxury, with space to relax, and be together with family and friends. If you can provide something with the ‘wow-factor’ or perhaps a little bit glamorous this is appreciated for immediately lifting that holiday mood. Although we can’t usually have open fires in our lodges, a ‘living flame’ fire gives the room character and a centrepiece of cosiness.
A slab for a barbecue is also helpful, along with barbecue tools (we always ask guests to bring their own disposable as cleaning the barbecue between stays is not possible for our housekeepers).
Exterior quality furniture, decking, and perhaps the very popular Hot Tub? The outdoor space is very important when renting a lodge after all, it is often an extra outdoor room. Your guests will spend many a happy hour here, with a morning coffee, eating together, lazing and relaxing, or perhaps enjoying a sundowner.
Make your lodge dog-friendly We know that 65% of guests will be travelling with a dog! If you can add this factor into your lodge you are sure to drive more bookings. Why not provide some dog treats, bowls for water and food and poop bags. We always respectfully ask guests to keep pets off the furniture, and to bring their own dog towels and blankets with them.
Of course, it needs to be in good repair and kept clean and tidy. We can help you with that service. We also recommend you purchase excellent-quality lounging and dining furniture, that is weatherproof out here, along with an umbrella for shade.
Perhaps your lodge has an outdoor tap and hose pipe
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for use in washing down muddy paws, and muddy boots? Even better if the hallway has space for boot storage and drying. High quality furnishings, bed linen and towels Hotel quality crisp sheets and fluffy towels really make a difference, presented professionally in each bedroom. You may need to consider updating them each year if your lodge is very popular with many changeovers. Little extras go a long way Coffee machines, cafetiere, nice wine glasses and classic crockery sets, are all very much appreciated by guests. Board games, walking books, and jigsaws are all welcomed for browsing and those rainy day moments. iPod and phone chargers and docks, bluetooth speakers, DAB radio, own WIFI. All make for happy guests and their children! Add a welcome pack Tea, coffee, sugar, S&P, and perhaps some local biscuits or cake are a lovely welcome for your guests. Some of our lodges provide a complementary welcome hamper for guests booking 7 nights or more. Simply talk to us and we will order a hamper of your choice and monetary value from our local award-winning Farm Shop - Low Sizergh Barn. We will then get this sorted and delivered, and simply add the price/ value onto your account.
Luxury toiletries Why not provide some locally sourced scented hand and shower gel for the kitchen and bathroom? Businesses like Bath House, Kirkby Lonsdale, can supply large ‘hotel’ style shower gels and hand gels, which may be easier to maintain and more cost-effective than small individual sizes. Secure storage Provide a secure place for bikes or sporting equipment. Many guests will be bringing bikes or water sports equipment with them. We realise that adding bike sheds is sometimes tricky to do – but if you could even consider providing a large plastic, waterproof storage box, perhaps with secure bike lock at the side of the lodge this would be appreciated. Once you’ve kitted out your lodge and had some new photos taken, we can then start to promote it in the ‘Luxury & Prestige’ Lodge categories. This also commands higher rental income and definitely increases interest in your lodge. Your guests will then really feel they have had a break indulging and relaxing in the beautiful scenery the Lakes has to offer and being pampered and looked after on a boutique-style getaway, with comfort and little extras to make the stay that little bit extra special. Why not contact us for an informal chat about how we can help to hike up your bookings, and how to improve your lodge. Email us at owners@lakedistrictlodgeholidays.co.uk
Left : Footprints by the Lake, White Cross Bay | Right : Bosun’s Lodge , White Cross Bay
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Jenny - Crossgate Luxury Glamping Hartsop near Glenridding | 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | Sleeps 4 Nestled below the pituresque Angle Tarn, lies this delightful glamping pod Jenny. Sitting in the heart of a 5th Generation working family farm in Hartsop, Jenny offers a superb retreat for couples or a small family of four, with its timber clad interiors offering a rustic hideaway to unwind in at the end of an action-packed day.
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Left : Windermere Jetty | Top right : Daffodils by the lake | Bottom right : Theatre by the Lake
Our Cultural Concierge’s highlights of things to do in 2022
Few things are more reassuring that spring is here than a host of golden daffodils. William Wordsworth of course, famously recorded his delight with a stretch of ‘dancing’ and ‘laughing’ daffodils by Ullswater in 1802. Our excitement of spotting seasonal blooms still marks the oncoming of the seasons.
Soon after, our woodland, wilder open spaces and hedgerows will develop their blue haze as the humble bluebell comes out to welcome the early summer sun. At about the same time you can smell and see, the beautiful white wild-garlic ramson flowers. Then, throughout June, July, and August, immerse yourself in the joys of the wild flower hay meadows as they buzz with insects, butterflies and chatter with birds. Against nature’s backdrop we put on a calendar of traditional and contemporary events to make the most of the longer days and milder evenings. Here’s a small selection I’ve picked for your diary. The venues websites will give you the latest news, ticket sales and updates. Until 29 May you can see two remarkable manuscripts from William and Dorothy Wordsworth on display ay Wordsworth Grasmere for the first-time side by side. The British Library has loaned its unique manuscript of William’s extraordinary poem I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud to be displayed alongside the Wordsworth Trust’s
own copy of Dorothy’s Grasmere journal. Perhaps we have the Romans to thank for the daffodil being such an iconic image of spring. The Romans are known to have planted daffodils in memory of loved ones or comrades fallen in battle and probably brought daffodils to Britain from the Iberian Peninsula. Seek out all the stories of the Romans in Britain as we celebrate 1900 years since the building of Hadrian’s Wall. Until 12 June, you can see To the Edges of Empire and Uncovering Roman Carlisle at Tullie House Museum and explore their permanent Roman Galleries. To the Edges of Empire offers an intimate look at 11 Roman treasures illustrating the vastness of the empire including the earliest known souvenir from Hadrian’s Wall: the Ilam Pan, the Newstead Helmet, a phalera from Roman Egypt. Uncovering Roman Carlisle comes only months after the completion of the excavation of the Roman bathhouse site at Carlisle Cricket Club. The exhibition documents the excavation, looking at what was discovered through the stories of the people that found them.
Until the end of October: Continue your Hadrianic journey to the stunning west coast to Ravenglass, Eskdale and Muncaster Castle to see Roman Muncaster and a lively events programme. This exhibition of local Roman finds and artefacts from the port, fort and vicus in Ravenglass will tell you all about what the Romans were doing here and give you an insight into their daily lives. 29-31 July: A personal favourite in the cultural calendar is Potfest. Set to the backdrop of Hutton-in-the-Forest. Potfest has become a place of pilgrimage for makers, collectors and admirers of the finest contemporary ceramics. It’s great to make a purchase, but just as lovely to look and chat to the makers – they love to share! And of course, you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings and Cloisters Tearoom delicious goodies. Longer summer days means outdoor theatre and summer shows. So, dig out the picnic basket, shake out the rug and start planning summer afternoons and dusky evenings, chilled fizz and strawberries and cream. Don’t forget a rug and warm coats just in case the weather turns! July & August: Is the season for the touring troupes to be dusting off their costumes, polishing instruments and hitting the road again. Many of the County’s historic houses host them throughout July and August. Check out: Muncaster Castle, Blackwell, the Arts & Crafts house, near Windermere, Brantwood on the shore of Coniston, Holker Hall and Lowther Castle 23 July: New for 2022 - Folk Fell – an exciting new, family friendly, one day event based in the stunning grounds of Holker Hall. Enjoy some of the best headlining Folk Musicians, including the incredible Kate Rusby, on the 23 July. The event is designed to be relaxed and inviting with limited tickets, so everyone can have a great experience – tickets are on sale now. 21 August: The biggest Classic Car event in the region returns to Dalemain! This promises to be their most fantastic show yet with a day packed full of entertainment.
You’ll enjoy autotests, arena displays, great music, local food, and the option of a visit to Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens. Year Round: And if you’re a petrol-head, why not head for a visit to Lakeland Motor Museum –with hundreds of classic and some more familiar vehicles to browse. On some weekends there are rallies by classic car owners and enthusiasts only too willing to share their pride and joy stories with you. Year Round: Maybe steam’s your thing? Then take a cruise on one of Windermere Jetty Museums fully restored heritage boats. Escape with the gentle sounds and peaceful calm of the lake and embrace the spirit of Edwardian adventure. Their knowledgeable skippers will take you back in time with stories of the fascinating collection and the surrounding landscape that inspired the museum. There are often times when the weather isn’t perfect for walks and picnics, so my summer indoor pick is Theatre by The Lake. In April they bring passion and heartbreak to the stage with Kes, Ken Loach’s acclaimed British drama. Their Summer programme begins in June with the world premiere of The Climbers, an exploration of our fascination with the mountains, fittingly premiering in the reputed birthplace of the British climbing movement. And for something a little lighter, from July – September are staging the smashhit comedy One Man, Two Guvnors, a real laugh-outloud rollercoaster for you this Summer. These are just a few of my ideas to get you out and about enjoying culture in Cumbria. There are exhibitions, events, county shows and music events across the county. So, enjoy your time here, and why not enjoy a taste of Cumbria’s culture, get off the beaten track, discover new experiences and make some great memories.
Muncaster Castle
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20 YEARS AND 3 STARS Simon Rogan
A few weeks ago a Lake District restaurant, owned and run by chef Simon Rogan, achieved something pretty unique, becoming the first restaurant outside of London and the south east of England to achieve a highly coveted accolade. L’Enclume, Rogan’s flagship eatery in the medieval village of Cartmel, was presented with its third Michelin star, one of eight in the UK and only 134 around the globe. In the process Rogan became one of only the third English chefs to be recognised in this way. The Michelin Guide for Great Britain and Ireland remarked, “It would be hard to find a restaurant more immersed in the region in which it’s located than L’Enclume and the Lake District.” 2022, also happens to mark two decades since Simon took the bold decision to open L’Enclume. Converting what had previously been a blacksmith’s workshop into his first ever restaurant was seemingly at the time a bold step - but it’s one that has paid off. The name he chose, L’Enclume (French for the anvil), reflects the rich heritage of the riverside building, where to this day the original hearth and anvil can still be seen in pride of place. Since then, the restaurant has risen to international prominence for its hyper-seasonal and traceable
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tasting menus, alongside Simon’s work at the forefront of the farm-to-fork movement in the UK. This is a commitment he has clearly demonstrated over the years especially by establishing his very own farm. ‘Our Farm’ as it’s known is a multi-acre site less than a mile from his flagship restaurant, where an array of specialist ingredients are grown and harvested for use in the restaurants. The restaurant’s journey over the last 20 years has certainly been meteoric. The year 2005 saw the team earn their first Michelin star, followed by a second in 2013. In 2021 the restaurant earned a newly created Michelin Green star, recognising its sustainable ethos, which has been rounded off with the latest presentation by Michelin who commented: “In that time, it has never stood still… an enormous
amount of time and creativity goes into every superbly crafted, stimulating dish, which makes eating at this highly accomplished restaurant a truly memorable experience.” Simon Rogan remarked: “You could say it’s fantastic timing that we’ve received this news 20 years since I opened the doors of L’Enclume, which feels like forever but also just like yesterday. Following the win of our second star nine years ago, achieving a third star has always been front of mind and something we’ve been striving for every day; be it through the evolution of our dishes and honing of our service-style, the meticulous work undertaken on Our Farm, or how we work to make every one of our guests feel, from when they enter the restaurant to the moment they leave. He went on to add: “We might have grown our operation over the past two decades, but we’ve remained true to our core ethos and maintained the close-knit community feel amongst our team, whilst all this time proudly remaining as an independent restaurant group. This is an incredible week for us all and it’s going to take some time for it to truly sink in, but we will be celebrating this moment for a long time to come.”
L’Enclume
L’Enclume
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Bluebell Walks in the Lakes
The Lake District is famous for its spectacular bluebell displays and some of the UK’s best places to see them are right here. You’ll find swathes of wild bluebells carpeting ancient woodlands and painting fell-sides in their purply blue hue, along with cultivated displays in many of our gardens, where footpaths let you close to breathe in their heady scent. The spring bluebell show is an annual fixture here on the Lake District calendar, they are a sensitive flower and must be cared for. Take care with dogs, keep them on leads as you wander nearby, and please don’t walk through them or trample them or pick them, as this will ruin the display for others, and can stop the display in future years. They thrive in the Lake District’s ancient woodlands and mountains, where the soils have laid unchanged for centuries. Let’s hope this year is a bumper crop of bluebells, appearing from late April to early May.
Muncaster Castle Bluebell Walk Muncaster Castle sits at the bottom of Muncaster Fell overlooking the River Esk. It is a 70-acre familyowned rocky, woodland estate. Head around the back to the castle after a walk along The Terrace to take in the views down The Ghyll, to Bluebell Haven. The climb is worth it, to see such a large carpet of bluebells. The haze of native blue stretches as far as the eye can see. Rannerdale Knotts, Buttermere Rannerdale Knott is a perfectly formed small Lake District fell, right on the shore of Buttermere, which is one of the very prettiest lakes in the Lake District. Buttermere is one of three lakes that lies in the glacial Lorton Valley, in the quiet Western Lakes. Lorton Valley is often called ‘the secret valley’ or ‘the Easy mins valley of bluebells’ and is a45 must for celebrating bluebell season. Take care here as the blooms are in a
conservation area, so stick to paths and don’t pick any blooms. Skelghyll Woods, Ambleside Just a short walk from the centre of Ambleside, Skelghyll Woods are a very easy way of getting your spring bluebell hit. Enter Skelghyll Woods by following signposts near Waterhead car park to Jenkins Crag. Hop over a stile and you are immediately amidst bluebell strewn woodland. If you’re staying in Ambleside, why not head to the woods in the early morning to catch the golden spring light. Simply bliss. Continue up to Jenkins Crag for views over the lake too, and you can also follow the ancient tree trail through the woods, spotting the tallest tree in Cumbria. Brandelhow Woods, Derwentwater A great one for babies and toddlers on this 2.5 mile, easy, pram-friendly
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bluebell walk. Take the Keswick Launch to start the adventure and enter Brandelhow Park. Look out for the plaque commemorating the National Trust. These woods were their first Lake District purchase and you’ll come across a pair of giant hands holding an acorn, the symbol of the National Trust. A lovely walk right along the lakeshore. Low Wood, Wasdale Head to the wildest of the Lake District’s valley’s to see this wild and rugged landscape flourishing with wild bluebells. This is the most enchanting and magical bluebell walk in the Lake District, where you can imagine fairies hiding amongst the dancing flower heads. Don’t let any April showers put you off as bluebells drenched in spring showers is quite the sight to behold.
The
NEW C O L L E C T I O N
19 Hilltop At Hawkshead Hill
The Garden Suite at Fiddle Hall Barn Newby Bridge | 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | Sleeps 2
Tucked away on the outskirts of the peaceful village of Newby Bridge, amongst the picture-perfect grounds of the owner’s home, rests this charming stone-built holiday home, The Garden Suite at Fiddler Hall Barn. The Garden Suite at Fiddler Hall Barn is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike, and it’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring.
Brantlea Bowness-on-Windermere | 4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | Sleeps 8 | Pet Friendly
Brantlea, a stunning four-bedroom detached holiday house, is located in an exclusive residential area, moments from the vibrant town of Bowness-on-Windermere. Brantlea is an excellent choice for a group celebration in the Lake District, offering breath-taking views across Lake Windermere to the distant fells beyond and a welcoming open-plan layout.
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Dunfell Shepherd’s Hut Knock near Appleby-in-Westmorland | 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | Sleeps 2 Dunfell Shepherd’s Hut is a lovely, traditional shepherd’s hut located in the little village of Knock near ApplebyIn-Westmorland, Cumbria. Dunfell Shepherd’s Hut is a perfect base for a couple seeking a break away from it all, relishing a peaceful setting inside the Lake District National
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Burnside Cottage Braithwaite | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6 Burnside Cottage perched in Braithwaite, Cumbria, is a charming, historic cottage. The cottage, which is one of the oldest in Braithwaite, offers a family or party of six excellent amenities, off-road parking, a charming garden, and local amenities just a stone’s throw away; a prime location for exploring the Lake District National Park!
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Sparrow Cottage Keswick | 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | Sleeps 4 | Pet Friendly Sparrow Cottage is a fantastic base for a family of four looking to explore this beautiful region of the Lake District National Park; it enjoys elegant decor throughout and is accessible to a variety of outdoor pursuits. You can reach Keswick by car or by foot via the Railway Path, where you can see the beautiful Derwentwater with its watersports, the Keswick Museum with its unusual displays, and the Puzzling Place with its mind-boggling illusion.
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THE A TO Z OF HOLIDAY LETTING
Fern Bank
Before you even invest in a potential holiday let, there are many things to think about and organise. Check out our A-Z of Holiday Letting.
D – Decor Carefully consider how you decorate you holiday let to ensure it is both suitable and durable enough for regular use. Choose paint colours that are easy to buy in case you need to top up your paintwork. Also think about buying good quality furniture, especially in pet-friendly homes where it’s likely to see more wear and tear. If your decoration is quirky or unusual, we can potentially feature it on our social media channels.
A- Audience When starting out with holiday letting, an important thing to consider is what audience you’d like to attract. Countryside cottages will be popular with walkers, town centre homes would be ideal for families, and lakeside apartments are more likely to appeal to couples. Consider your audience when buying and decorating your holiday let.
E – Eco-Friendly In today’s changing climate, anything we can do to help the planet is important, especially for our beloved Lake District. If you’d like to try eco-friendly holiday letting, check out our guide on some steps you can take towards a greener holiday home. Ideas include energy saving light bulbs, providing natural cleaning products, and recycling bins.
B – Bookings If you want to get maximum bookings for your Lake District holiday let, let us help! Lakes Cottage Holidays are the local experts in holiday letting and have the national marketing support of Sykes Cottages behind us. We work with over 500 partner sites such as Airbnb, Expedia & Booking.com to ensure your property is in front of all the right people, and our website allows bookings to be taken 24/7, 7 days a week, 365 a year.
F – Fire Safety Fire safety is extremely important in holiday letting, not only for your guests but also to protect you as an owner. Ensure you have a thorough fire risk assessment carried out on your property and put into place the relevant measures, including smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and appropriate fire exits. It’s important to keep this up to date, alongside gas safety certificates and holiday let insurance. Check our full list of holiday let regulations here.
C – Child-friendly cottages If your holiday let will be aimed at families, make sure you follow some simple child-friendly guidelines. From having lockable cupboards to providing cots and highchairs, you can find our full list of child-friendly tips here.
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G – Garden Space If your holiday let has a garden, make sure you get the most of of this space so guests can enjoy it. Consider providing garden furniture, outdoor games & BBQ’s to encourage guests to spend time outdoors. Brighten up your border with flowers and plants, and you could even install a hot tub if you want to offer a slice of luxury! H – Hot Tub: Many of our guests search for properties with Hot Tubs for the ultimate indulgence. We work with credited suppliers if you are interested in looking into this, and we can help with the maintenance and upkeep. I – Income Maximisation Income Maximisation is a clever tool that involves us closely monitoring market trends & using responsive systems to adjust your rental price, according to customer demand. This helps us to maximise your booking levels & increase your income at every opportunity. There are three different levels of income maximisation – read more about them here and see which one would be best for you. J – Just perfect! The more you can do to make the most of your holiday home the more guests will enjoy and you’ll be more likely to earn favourable reviews, which in turn, increases booking rates.
K – Key Collection Our local offices in Windermere & Keswick can facilitate key collection for your guests, in the case that you can’t have a key safe outside your property. L – Location Location is key when it comes to holiday letting. If you’re buying a property, find out where the popular, honeypot areas for tourists are, or the best locations to be for your chosen audience. Families want to be in the heart of the action, hikers want to be near the mountains, and couples usually want to be somewhere quiet and romantic. Take a look at the best places to buy a holiday let in the Lake District for some ideas. M – Managed Services When you let your property with Lakes Cottage Holidays, you can be as hands-on or hands-off as you like. If you’d prefer us to look after your property for you, then you can opt into our fully managed service. Included in this service are things such as organising a dedicated cleaner for your property, carrying out maintenance work, and doing periodical inspections to check all is OK in your property. N – New Opportunities If you’re looking to diversify your land then holiday letting could be the perfect answer. Convert your outbuildings, or erect new ones, and open up new opportunities to generate some extra income. Take a look here at more benefits of farm diversification.
Hot tub at High Rigg Shepherd’s Sunset
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O – Owner Portal All our property owners will benefit from their own, personal online portal. Here you can access all the important details about your holiday let including your bookings, financial statements and feedback. You can also find useful tips on the portal about things such as health and safety guides and information on short breaks & income maximisation. P – Pet-Friendly A sure-fire way to attract more guests is to allow pets in your property. People love to holiday with their furry friends, and we’ve seen that pet-friendly properties can increase your income by around 11%. We’ve put together a handy list of ways to prepare for pet-friendly holiday letting, to get you off on the right paw! Q – Quick Response As a Lakes Cottage Holidays owner you can rest assured that our friendly team are always on hand to answer your queries as quickly as possible. You can reach us by phone & email, or visit our local offices located in Windermere & Keswick. We’re also here to speak to your guests whenever they need us – our out of hours helpline ensures 24/7 support for emergencies, so you don’t have to worry about being disturbed. R – Referral Scheme If you know a friend or family member who’s thinking of holiday letting, refer them to Lakes Cottage Holidays and if they bring their property on board with us, you’ll both get £250 cash! There’s no limit to how many people you can refer, so get spreading the word! S – Short Breaks Accepting short breaks in your property is an excellent way to increase your income as well as filling up any unwanted gaps in your calendar. At Lakes Cottage Holidays we offer: Winter, Off-season, Peak, Christmas & New Year, Last minute. When partnered with our Income Maximisation tool, short breaks are a great way to increase your earnings and get you on your way to a highly successful holiday let.
T - Tea and Coffee A simple touch, but very much appreciated. An initial supply of tea and coffee for when your guests arrive is always appreciated. Perhaps include other basics such as Salt & Pepper and basic cooking help. We do offer to organise a Welcome Pack for you, just contact us for more details. U- Umbrellas Well, we are in the Lakes! Another nice touch to leave a couple of umbrellas in the hallway area for guests to use should the heavens open. V- Vase Our guests are often celebrating a birthday, anniversary or other special event. Adding a vase into the cupboard space would be appreciated for those flowers they may well bring with them, or order for delivery. W- Walks Guests will be looking for some advice on walks from the front door, or a short drive away. Why not leave them your top 3 walks perhaps with a cafe or pub at the end, for them to explore. Walking Magazines, maps and books always go down very well too. X- Excellent! This is the score you are looking for from your happy guests! If you take the time to think everything through to enhance your guests experience, you are well on the way to scoring ‘Excellent’ Y- Your peace of mind When you join us at Lakes Cottage Holidays you are also investing in your own peace of mind. Your pride and joy will be carefully managed by our teams, whilst you can sit back and watch the bookings rolling in. Z- zzzzzzz And as a result, you can enjoy a Good Night’s Sleep! Safe in the knowledge that your investment is ticking over nicely and bringing you income.
Crooklands Cottage
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Hollywood Windermere | 6 Bedrooms | 6 Bathrooms | Sleeps 11 Resting in the heart of the Lake District National Park, Hollywood is an ideal base for couples or a large family wishing to explore the area around Lake Windermere. You’ll have plenty of options for dining out, including a wide range of pubs, restaurants, and cafés, as well as grocery stores where you can stock up on supplies to prepare meals in the privacy of Hollywood.
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Cumbria Wildlife Trust
The Ospreys are back! Cumbria Wildlife Trust celebrate the return of a pair of breeding ospreys to Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve. Blue 35 and White YW, the two ospreys who successfully raised and fledged three chicks last year, have returned to Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve, near Witherslack. Read on to hear more from Paul Waterhouse from Cumbria Wildlife Trust.
Paul Waterhouse, Reserves Officer for Cumbria Wildlife Trust, said: “We’re delighted to see the return of Blue 35 and White YW to Cumbria with what we hope will be yet another successful breeding season. Last summer all three osprey chicks fledged, bringing the breeding pair’s total to an amazing 21 chicks so far since 2014! We all watched and wondered if the smallest chick (nicknamed Tiny) would make it, but he did! Let’s hope for a successful (but hopefully less nail-biting!) season this year.”
Identifying Ospreys • Head: Mainly white, with a black ‘highwayman’s’ eye stripe • Body: dark brown above with a white underbody • Wing from below: long and narrow, white with brown barring and black ‘elbow’, and long black finger-like wingtip feathers • Tail from below: white with dark bars • Eyes: yellow (orange when young) • Size: wingspan 152cm–167cm (about 5 feet). Females are between 10–20% larger and heavier than the male. • Juveniles are similar to the adults but paler above, less marked below, and feather edges are creamywhite. They also have orange eyes.
Paul adds: “We’re delighted to have a new viewing experience for all Foulshaw osprey-watchers, wherever you are in the world! The new interactive camera is simple to use: go to our osprey webcam page, head to the interactive camera screen, and scroll around the nest – you can also zoom in and out. Huge thanks to Axis Communications who kindly donated the new 180-degree camera. We’ve been using their cameras across our sites for seven years, for security and documenting footage. This new interactive camera will give our osprey-watchers an even more immersive way of following these majestic birds of prey.”
Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve is open to visitors, near Witherslack, off the A590. With an accessible boardwalk around the nature reserve and several viewing platforms to watch the ospreys on their nest – you’ll need to bring your binoculars! Volunteers will help you locate the ospreys and show you the nest close-up on the webcam.
Osprey pair Blue 35 and White YW started nesting at Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve in 2014, following major habitat restoration work from the 1990s onwards. They are still recovering in the UK from historic persecution, which led them to become extinct in the British Isles as a breeding species.
To view the live osprey webcam go to their website here and join the conversation on social media using #FoulshawOspreys. Secret Side of Foulshaw Cumbria Wildlife Trust is offering a special half-day wildlife experience at Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve this spring and summer. For more details head to their website here.
About Ospreys Ospreys are migratory birds of prey, present in the UK in summer and migrating to West Africa and the Iberian Peninsula during winter. Satellite tracking has shown them flying up to 430 km in just one day. It takes them about 20 flying days to complete the journey, but, in autumn, birds stop off to refuel at lakes and reservoirs, catching their fish in spectacular fashion as they dive towards lakes, stretch out their talons and scoop them out of the water with ease.
Lakelovers is delighted to be a Corporate Sponsor of Cumbria Wildlife Trusts and encourages its teams to volunteer for the important charity. Stay with us during Spring and visit the Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve yourself.
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A Day’s Walk
Bringing you delicious Cumbria food to your doorstep We’ve been working with local business, and Cumbrian foodie champions, A Day’s Walk, run by the Sneath family in Field Broughton for a while now. They are a superb online food shopping and delivery service who source and provide delicious produce from local farmers, growers, producers or businesses all within ‘A Day’s Walk’ of the heart of the Lake District. They are also offering a free box of Farrer’s Special Blend Tea Bags for Lakelovers Guests. Simply use the code LLTEA when you order. (Minimum order £40) Incredibly fresh, clocks up next to no food miles and often made in small batches or seasonal – a lovely chance to enjoy some of the finest food and drink in the land from the comfort of your kitchen – at home or in your holiday cottage. • • •
They deliver on Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays, direct to your cottage or home You simply order online at least 3 days before arrival Browse their mouth-watering range of over 500 items
You simply order online at least 3 days prior to arrival, and they’ll deliver to your preferred address. Their delicious range of over 500 items caters for all tastes. Select from rare and heritage breed meats from South Lakeland; free-range poultry from the foot of the Howgills; artisan cheeses from Appleby; beers brewed with Lake District water from Bowness Bay; hand-toasted muesli from Wigtown; ketchup made from Lyth Valley damsons; ice cream made with Lake District organic milk and even Royal Warrant Morecambe Bay Shrimps
Early start to pick up fresh produce
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Some of our favourite Lake District
SPRING WALKS Spring walks in the Lakes are high up on our to-do list. Finally waking up from winter slumbers, the Lakes bursts forth with snowdrops, crocus, daffodils, and then bluebells and blossoms. Lambs are gambolling in the field, happy to be enjoying the early sunshine! Later in spring come the wild garlic or ramsons, with the amazing scent of garlic as you pass. Our ancient woodlands bud and blossom with vibrant shades of greens and blooms that range from pastel creams and pinks of the damson, cherry and apple blossom to bright orange and purple of the azaleas and rhododendrons. The gardens of our castles and historic houses begin to come alive again too, beckoning us all in for a spring walk, wander and a cuppa. Finding a favourite spring walk and then returning throughout the seasons, to discover its also a favourite autumn or winter walk – perhaps as children grow, with different friends – the experience changes. Spring is such a wonderful time to hear the birdsong and just enjoy nature waking up again. Read on and find your favourite Spring walk
Rydal Cave Herdwick in Great Langdale
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HOWTOWN TO GLENRIDDING Howtown to Glenridding along the southern stretch of Ullswater – this walk starts from the boat landing – so you get to enjoy a cruise on the wonderful Ullswater Steamers too (from the Glenridding jetty). Disembark at Howtown, then spend a leisurely few hours along the lakeshore, walking back to Glenridding. You’ll enjoy daffodils, birdsong, and wildlife right along this walk. Along the way, there are a couple of cafes. Side Farm, near the end of the walk, in Patterdale has amazing homemade cake.
G L E N COY N E B AY & A I R A F O R C E
On the other side of Ullswater is full of the famous Daffodils which inspired Wordsworth’s favourite poem, fields full of lambs, and slightly later on the cute little Herdwick lambs arrive. Park at the National Trust Car park, have a wander down to the lake shore, and then take a walk along the signposted path toward Aira Force Car Park. Here there are many easy waymarked trails up and over the beautiful Aira Force, where you’ll enjoy daffodils and the trees coming into leaf.
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TA R N H OWS
This is a classic Lakeland round – of about 2k, and suitable for buggies and pushchairs. It’s a place that’s beautiful in any season but in the spring, full of daffodils and new growth. Simply park up and walk around the beautiful tarns. There are other paths to and from the Tarns if you want to increase the walk. On the way back, why not call in at the Drunken Duck for a bit of light refreshment.
BUTTERMERE This magical place is just wonderful and one of the best round-the-lake spring walks in the Lake District. The walk is relatively easy and level with fabulous views all around. The lakeshore path circles the lake for 4.5 miles (7km) with one short stretch on the road, and one little scramble. Park in the village, allow 3 hours and then visit some of the lovely pubs and cafes in the village itself.
SKELWITH BRIDGE TO E LT E R WAT E R
A nice family-friendly walk is to park up at Skelwith Bridge, then walk along the river to Elterwater. You’ll enjoy daffodils, bluebells, and wild garlic at different times along this walk. Chesters by the River is a fabulous cafe with great homemade food and cakes, and the Britannia Inn at Elterwater is a real Lakeland pub, with cosy bars and great pub food. 32
L A D O R E FA L L S , D E R W E N T WAT E R S H O R E , AND THE BOWDER STONE
Head over to the beautiful valley of Borrowdale and bring together a couple of very short strolls, to Lodore Falls and the Bowder Stone, linked by a visit to the hamlet of Watendlath and Grange Fell into a lovely circular route. We of course like the options for a few cafes: Grange Bridge Cottage Tearooms, and Grange Cafe just a little further on through the village. The farm at Watendlath also run a tearoom which is well known for its cakes. Park at the National Trust Bowderstone or Watendlath pay and display car parks.
BRANDLEHOW WOODS, D E R W E N T WAT E R , K E S W I C K This is a lovely wander through the woods below Catbells, on the shores of Derwentwater. The best way to arrive is by boat on the Derwent Launch to Hawes End or any of the jetties, then spend a lovely few hours meandering the paths and woodlands, where you’ll discover the giant wooden hand sculpture which celebrates this as the first piece of land bought by the National Trust in the Lake District.
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The DOG FRIENDLY COLLECTION
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Pennys Cottage Troutbeck | 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | Sleeps 4 Pennys Cottage is believed to be dating from the 17th Century and was once a former cow shed converted to a residence in the 19th Century. It is now a charming mid-terrace traditional cottage with many original features, enjoying beautiful and picturesque views across the Troutbeck valley down to the church surrounded by fields, trees and up towards the Garburn Pass, Ill Bell and the High Street ridge.
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One Town End Mungrisdale | 3 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | Sleeps 5 | Pet Friendly
Situated in a quiet remote corner of the Lake District National Park is this exceptional farmhouse cottage, offering an idyllic base for a rural family getaway. One Town End welcomes guests into a peaceful retreat, surrounded by scenes of imposing hills and luscious countryside, starting with a lovely enclosed front patio where you can take in the quiet settings either way a morning coffee or evening tipple.
Little Robin Cottage Ambleside | 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | Sleeps 2
The quaint terraced home of Little Robin Cottage is perfectly located in a raised position on the outskirts of the renowned lakeside town of Ambleside, Cumbria. The cottage is an ideal getaway and is close to many of the best attractions in the Lake District National Park.
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The Cragg Hawkshead | 4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 8 It is easy to see why this beautiful Grade Two listed character farmhouse will be a popular holiday venue for our guests. Dating from 1695, and set in Beatrix Potter country, The Cragg oozes character, combined with a peaceful, relaxing feel, a large garden and plenty of home comforts - everything you need for a perfect holiday in any season. There are walks and cycle rides from the door along quiet country lanes, and footpaths to nearby Hawksead and also to Claife Heights and Latterbarrow.
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The Eyrie Keswick | 4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | Sleeps 8
The Eyrie is a beautiful end-terrace, large, luxury apartment sitting in the centre of lively Keswick, Cumbria. This three-storey apartment offers spectacular views of the mountain ranges surrounding the town, whilst being within a short stroll of local amenities, making it the ideal accommodation for friends and families alike.
High Torver House Torver | 4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Sleeps 8
A detached property, set amidst 8 acres of woodland and gardens, backed by the Coniston Ranges in the hamlet of Torver, is High Torver House. This large, whitewashed property is perched on the fell slopes and provides commanding views across the valley, sleeping eight guests, making it ideal for a large family or group looking to enjoy a tranquil Lake District escape.
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T R U S T E D
Put your holiday home in
safe hands and earn a regular income
For over forty years, Lakelovers has helped property owners turn holiday homes into valuable investments. We know just what it takes to create a warm welcome for guests and generate a great income for owners. As the market leading agency in the Lake District, you can rest assured that our dedicated team can do just that for you and your property all year round. Get in touch today to unlock the earning potential of your property.
lakelovers.co.uk/letyourcottage | 015394 88855
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SPRING & SUMMER 2022 Buttermere
