Cunsey, Ambleside, LA22 0LT

Nestled on the shores of Lake Windermere, this marvellous apartment sleeps six and has mesmerising vistas in all directionsDiscover a natural playground of countryside trails from your doorstep, setting out to explore along the water s edge on foot or by bikeTraditional boat rides, tranquil picnic spots and bustling Lakeland villages await, so all you ll have to do is bring along your outdoor gear and plan your adventuresSlip through the stable door and through the utility room to find a stylish interior that exudes old world charm, inviting you to pull up a chair and tuck into tea and cake around the table.

The country cottage style kitchen has everything you need to prepare family meals and, on sunny evenings why not head outside to dine alfresco? A wood burner crackles invitingly in the lounge, lulling you into a state of relaxation as you catch up on your favourite TV shows over hot chocolateAt bedtime, you ll have a choice of three bedrooms scattered between the ground floor and the first floorTwo have the added bonus of an en suite apiece, but there is also a family bathroomThe exterior may be shared, but you ll be guaranteed privacy once you are tucked up inside.

Take the short stroll to Far Sawrey to whet your appetite for Lakeland fare in the friendly pub, then continue a little further to reach Hill Top (1.5 miles), the former home of Beatrix PotterThe surrounding fells once inspired William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter, and a trip to Hawkshead (4 miles) will reward you with sights that these literary geniuses once enjoyedThe cobbled streets of this bustling village are lined with interesting houses, independent shops and a brewery, and it is also near ethereally beautiful Esthwaite Water where you can spot ospreys hunting.