Guests say
Pen Cottage in Cumbria & The Lake District receives high praise for its picturesque location, well-equipped kitchen, and cleanliness. Guests appreciate the peaceful setting, beautiful views, and the thoughtful touches like welcome packs. The cottage's comfort and facilities generally meet expectations, with some minor suggestions for improvements.
The cottage is consistently described as very clean, with only one mention of an issue with mouse droppings in a cupboard. This seems to be an isolated incident, as the majority of reviews highlight the high standard of cleanliness.
The location is highly praised for its stunning views and proximity to local hikes and Keswick. The presence of a bus route adds convenience. Some guests mention road noise, but it does not significantly detract from the overall positive feedback about the location.
Guests find the cottage comfortable, with new mattresses and a well-equipped living space. However, some guests suggest improvements in seating comfort and the addition of softer floor coverings in the living room.
The cottage's facilities are generally well-regarded, with a well-equipped kitchen and modern appliances. Some guests noted the lack of oven gloves and minor maintenance issues, but these do not overshadow the overall positive experiences.
While guests mention welcome packs as a pleasant bonus, there are not enough references to consistently assess the level of thoughtfulness across all stays. Therefore, it is politely noted that such gestures, while appreciated, are not guaranteed.
About this property
Nestled in the heart of Thornthwaite in the North of the Lake District, is this beautiful property dating back to the 1600s, Pen Cottage. Formerly part of the Swan Hotel, the property has been converted into a number of luxury dwellings for family and friends looking to enjoy all that this idyllic location has to offer. Pen Cottage encompasses a fresh and modern feel along with a delightful display of fine furnishings and décor with oak beams and thick walls, echoing the warmth of the original 17th century coaching inn that it once was. From the entrance porch, head straight into the fitted kitchen where you will find all the essential appliances to rustle up a hearty feast, with assistance from the electric oven, gas hob, microwave, fridge and freezer. Gather round the dining table to enjoy your home-cooked meal while discussing how you shall spend the remainder of your holiday – will it be rambling the surrounding fells or exploring the quaint streets of Keswick and Cockermouth? A couple of steps takes you into the lounge where double glass doors invite you onto the decked patio, perfect for sitting out with a glass of wine while admiring the landscaped gardens and panoramic views of Skiddaw in the distance, with the elevated position affording Pen Cottage some of the most mesmerising views in the Lake District. As the night rolls in, choose between the king-size and twin bedroom to catch your rest, each of which benefit from oak furnishings to store your personal belongings. There is also a family bathroom with a choice of a relaxing evening bath, or a quick brisk shower to freshen up before the day ahead. Avid walkers and cyclists can delight in the surrounding area with the coast-to-coast cycle path nearby, as well as Whinlatter Forest Park to explore, or challenge yourself to a hike up Skiddaw, well-worth your efforts for the beautiful vistas once you reach the peak. Take a night off cooking and treat yourself to a meal at one of the fine restaurants in the area, with the Pheasant at Bassenthwaite and Ivy House in Braithwaite being just a few examples of wonderful cuisine, whilst Keswick offers evening theatre, cinema and fabulous shopping. The northern part of the Lake District offers a wide range of areas to explore, including Derwentwater, Ullswater and Helvellyn, along with opportunities to go boating, hiking and camping. Whatever you choose to do, consider Pen Cottage for your next escape to this magnificent National Park.
The popular town of Keswick is the holiday centre of the North of the Lake District and has plenty to offer the visitor at any time of year. The town boasts numerous shops and restaurants to suit all tastes, as well as offering miniature golf, excellent parks, the famous Theatre by the Lake, a charming cinema, the Pencil Museum, a climbing wall, fishing and great mountain biking opportunities, whilst the beautiful lake of Derwentwater at the head of the stunning Borrowdale Valley is only a few minutes walk from the town centre. Nearby, between Braithwaite and Buttermere is the beautiful Newlands Valley, while picturesque Bassenthwaite Lake is well worth a visit. From a gentle countryside ramble to a challenging hike up Skiddaw or the famous Catbells, there really is something for everyone. Visit Castlerigg Stone Circle, the Jennings Brewery and Mirehouse, a grand house and gardens on the shores of the Bassenthwaite Lake, or take a fabulous boat trip around Derwentwater. With plenty of attractions for the kids, lovely parks and the nearby Lake District Wildlife Park this is a great Lakeland destination whatever the time of year.
Accommodation
Two bedrooms: 1 x king-size, 1 x twin with en-suite walk-in shower, basin and WC.
Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC.
Kitchen/diner.
Sitting room with electric fire
Gas central heating with electric fire.
Electric oven and gas hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, washing machine, tumble dryer, dishwasher, TV with DVD player, WiFi.
Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Off-road parking for two cars.
Secure bike storage.
Large decked area with seating and barbecue and extensive shared landscaped gardens with pond.
Ground floor apartment with 2 internal steps
Nearby points of interest
- Derwent Pencil Museum
- Catbells Lakeland Walk
- Wastwater Alpaca Trekking
- Lake District Coast Aquarium
- Lodore Falls
- Buttermere Lake
- Scale Force waterfall
- Wastwater Lake
- Church of St Olaf
Reviews (26)
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Claire
Great links to main road and bus routes for exploring the local area. Inside is very spacious and well kept with lots of storage. Make sure you open the windows in the morning to avoid condensation build up. Wound definitely recommend.
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John
There is plenty of off-road parking and there are superb views of Blencathra and Skiddaw from the lounge and patio area. The kitchen/diner is very well equipped and the bed in the master bedroom was very comfortable. Central heating can be adjusted if it gets very cold but plenty sufficient if you are out and about. Would Highly recommend Pen Cottage and hope to return in the future.
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Stephen
Located in a quiet village with the Coledale Inn 2 miles away which is excellent for evening meals