Finkle Laithe is a magnificent stone-built barn conversion situated in the quaint hamlet of Matterdale, within easy touring distance of the stunning Ullswater Lake. Dating back to 1767, this characterful dwelling has been converted to a high-standard whilst retaining many original features including arrow slit windows, traditional latch doors, beautiful oak trusses, beams and lintels, together creating an excellent base for a small family or two couples looking for a relaxing getaway to this serene part of the Lakelands. Cross the slate flooring that lines the hallway, over to a handy space to store coats and boots, before continuing through to the wonderful hand-built kitchen/dining room, sure to inspire plenty of home cooking, with attractive granite worktops, an electric aga cooker, combination oven and an impressive island unit - the perfect place to rustle up a meal for all. A spiral staircase leads to the sitting room, where exposed beams and an inglenook fireplace with woodburning stove provides a restful space to unwind in the evening, whether that be with a good book or by tuning into your favourite TV shows. Off the sitting room is a homely double bedroom which boasts a contemporary en-suite bathroom with roll top bath and shower attachment, so you can decide best how to prepare for the day. The second bedroom can be found resting on the ground floor and houses a king-size bed with hand-built ash furniture and a dressing area, as well as a stylish en-suite shower room with a local slate top finish, under counter basin and a heated mirror. Enjoy the picturesque views of Gowbarrow Fell from the south facing landscaped gardens, complete with table and chairs to enjoy your breakfast outside before embarking on an action-packed day. There is also private off-road parking for two cars in a gated driveway and secure storage for bikes, kayaks and canoes in the garage. Ullswater is within easy reach for steam cruises and quiet water sports, including dinghy sailing, canoeing and fishing, or hire a boat to experience the scene at your own pace. Once those are completed, be sure to visit the impressive Aira Force water, which provides amazing sights at various parts of the Eden river. Blencathra, Derwent Water and Hellvelyn are all within easy reach, while a drive over the spectacular Kirkstone Pass takes you to Ambleside and Windermere. Finkle Laithe is a charming base to begin or continue your Lake District exploration.

The bustling market town of Penrith, once the capital of Cumbria, enjoys a central position between the Lake District and North Pennines and is ideally placed for taking in all that the region has to offer. Renowned for its wealth of specialist shops, the sandstone buildings of Penrith hide intriguing yards, lanes and alleyways, with a myriad of attractive cottages, gardens and little shops. With a wide choice of excellent pubs, hotels, restaurants and entertainment, Penrith also offers a museum, and Millennium Trails round the historic city streets. Within easy reach of the town is Rheged – an innovative visitor centre with shops, restaurants, exhibitions and a giant cinema screen showing educational and informative films. Brougham Castle (The Windsor of the North), Long Meg and her daughters (the 3rd largest stone circle in England) and the historic city of Carlisle are all a short drive away, as is the stunning scenery of both the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales.

Accommodation