In a countryside setting only 10 minutes drive from Bowness and Lake Windermere, the historic Starnthwaite Ghyll mill house has been tastefully converted into a special complex of character cottages. Full of rural charm with its open plan living, dining & country kitchen area, upstairs to charming bedrooms and family bathroom with shower over bath. The main gardens are idyllic, and the private furnished patio is perfect for al fresco dining or just relaxing for a doze. Delightfully off the beaten track, Gilpin View is one of a row of four attractive cottages overlooking the stream and the orchard to the lush Lyth Valley, close to Crosthwaite village, renowned for peaceful country lanes, orchards and the famous damson harvest. Your local is the award-winning Punchbowl Inn (1.5m away) next to a delightful old church. A 15 minute drive takes you past the Windermere Golf Club to bustling Bowness village on Lake Windermere's eastern shore, where you'll find sophisticated shops, endless boating activities, Lake District family attractions such as the World of Beatrix Potter, and a range of options for evening entertainment. From traditional Lakeland pubs to trendy tapas bars, cinema, theatre and nightclub, there's something for every taste. From Bowness Bay, you can hop on a Windermere Lake Cruise to Ambleside or Lakeside - a great way to explore while soaking up the scenery. If you'd prefer to explore the wider Lake District by car, perhaps to seek out walking routes, the A591 leads easily from Windermere village to Ambleside, Rydal Water, historic Grasmere and beyond.

Crosthwaite is a small village set in the picturesque Lyth Valley, famous for its damson trees, and boasts a lovely pub known nationally for its excellent food. The lakeside towns of Windermere and Bowness are nearby, with plenty of activities, interest and entertainment for all ages. Also within easy reach is the popular market town of Kendal, an historic Lakeland town with a fine reputation for shopping. Kendal nestles on the banks of the River Kent. Its old cobbled lanes and byways branch off the attractive main street, and the stone ruins of 12th century Kendal Castle sit perched on a hill with views over the town. Both Sizergh Castle and Levens Hall with its superb Topiary Garden, are nearby, as are limestone escarpments for easy walking, offering thrilling views of the Lakeland Mountains, the Howgills and Morecambe Bay.

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