Bassenthwaite , Keswick, CA12 4QP

This cottage is a wonderful place full of quirky nooks and crannies and interesting knick knacksLook out for the little bear and her friend in the secret hiding place in the beams; feel inspired by the big picture window that looks out onto the open countryside and farmland; settle down with a nice cup of tea by the wood burnerBassenthwaite is a lovely village, full of warmth and opennessThere are little alleys to explore, a proper village green and fantastic walks right from the front door.

It s a place to go back to time and time AgainBassenthwaite Lake is a 20 minute walk away and is famous for being the Lake District s only proper lake the rest being meres or waters It s the perfect place for a picnicNearby is the town of Keswick with a theatre, cinema, climbing wall, shops, various eating establishments and Derwentwater where you can hire boats or take a trip on the launch.

Cockermouth is 15 minutes in the opposite direction and is a place of real character and colour with its independent shops, good restaurants and the Kirkgate Centre (for theatre, film, music and comedy)It is also the home to Jennings beer one of Cumbria s most popular ales Inside, the hallway leads to the main open plan downstairs roomThis is a cosy and comfortable room full of interesting knick knacks and antiquesThe lounge area has sofa and two chairs, Smart TV, radio/CD player and plenty of books and games.

There is further seating by the large picture windowThe beams in this room came from a shipThe kitchen area is equipped with electric cooker, microwave, fridge, toaster and kettleThe dining table easily seats four.

There is a washing machine situated under the stairs in the hallway, with a small freezer above itUpstairs is a double bedroom, a twin and a bathroom which has bath, separate shower, WC and sinkThe views of open countryside from the bedrooms are lovelyThe bedrooms are quirky with all sorts of interesting decoration.

Outside there is parking for one car with further parking round the corner on the roadThere is a bench to sit on and enjoy a morning coffee or perhaps a glass of wine in the eveningThe owners, 'the allotment' which is more of a garden than an allotment which you are welcome to useIt is a haven of peace with fantastic views towards Skiddaw and comes complete with summer house, bench, garden seats, a willow arbour and three or four hens.

To reach 'the allotment', you need to cross the stream and follow the little path it's only a minute or so from the cottage.