Birchcroft, a heavenly Grade II listed property, is situated in the heart of the lively village of Ambleside. Still with its original flag floors and exposed oak beams, this whitewashed cottage is the very essence of Lakeland charm. For guests intent on a relaxed break in Ambleside and those looking for a base from which to explore further afield, Birchcroft makes a magical choice.

In the beamed sitting room, two inviting leather sofas snuggle round the feature fireplace with its electric wood burning stove. There’s no cosier spot in which to hunker down with a glass of wine and good book. The separated dining area is perfect for leisurely breakfasts and sociable evening meals that last for hours. By contrast, the kitchen is a bright and modern space, well-equipped with stylish units and all the appliances needed to make Birchcroft a home-from-home.

Upstairs are two pretty bedrooms, one king size and one double. Both rooms come with plenty of storage space and each has its own private bathroom or shower room and TV. The back door of the cottage leads out to a patio area and supplied is a central Ambleside parking permit.

The village itself is hugely popular with foodies, walkers, culture vultures and shopaholics. There are two quirky, independent cinemas to choose from, Windermere Lake Cruises depart regularly from Waterhead Pier, crossing the lake to Bowness and Lakeside and numerous wonderful walks begin in and around the village. Where could be more perfect?

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.

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