Pen Cottage | Keswick | Barf | The Lake District And Cumbria

4.8★

4 Guests
2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Pets No
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Features

Off road parking
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

29 Customer Review(s)

Claire
November 2024

“Pen Cottage is in an absolutely wonderful spot, 2 minutes from Bassenthwaite Lake and 8 minutes from Keswick.”

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.

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.

- Claire, November 2024
John September 2024

“Excellent location on a minor road just off the A66 with a bus stop opposite the property and only 3 miles from Keswick.”

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.

- John, September 2024

Thank you for your kind comments, we are pleased that you enjoyed your stay. Hope you will be able to stay at Pen Cottage again sometime. Property Owner
Stephen August 2024

“A lovely cottage with fantastic views.”

Located in a quiet village with the Coledale Inn 2 miles away which is excellent for evening meals

- Stephen, August 2024

Thank you for your kind comments. There are a number of good pubs, inns and restaurants locally that offer excellent menus. We are pleased that you had a good holiday. Hope you may be able to visit again sometime. Property Owner
Hazel July 2024

“We really enjoyed our stay at Pen cottage.”

It was a beautiful location, very well equipped, clean, comfortable and wonderfully peaceful.

- Hazel, July 2024

Thank you for your kind remarks. We are pleased that you enjoyed your stay and the beautiful location. We hope that you will be able to visit Pen Cottage again sometime. Property Owner
Leigh June 2024

“Lovely cottage and have stayed here many times”

- Leigh, June 2024

Thank you for your kind comments. So pleased that you enjoy staying at Pen Cottage. Hopefully we see you again sometime. Property Owner
Janet June 2024

“The apartment has an absolutely fantastic view from the lounge and a lovely accessible garden.”

We enjoyed our stay very much and will book again. However it was a little spartan in the lounge area and the floor in the twin bedroom was very slippy. Both things easily remedied. The surroundings are gorgeous and there are some lovely walks.

- Janet, June 2024

Pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay at Pen Cottage and appreciated the views, the garden and the many walks in the area. The furnishings are kept simple in order to help keep Pen Cottage as clean as possible. We hope you will be able to visit again. Property Owner
Rebecca May 2024

“We had a fabulous week at Pen Cottage.”

The cottage was extremely clean, comfortable and had everything we needed. It was perfectly located for never-ending walking and exploring the Lakes. We’d definitely return and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend. Thank you!

- Rebecca, May 2024

So pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay at Pen Cottage. There are many walks from the cottage to the lake shore, the fells and Whinlatter Forest / visitor centre. We hope to welcome you to Pen Cottage again. Property Owner
Charles May 2024

“We had a great stay at Pen Cottage.”

All the facilities where first class The gardens and property are well maintained The only downside is this is listed as a cottage when the layout really is an apartment. But this wouldn’t stop me from booking again

- Charles, May 2024

We are pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay at Pen Cottage. The apartment is part of Swan House which was previously Swan Hotel, a 17th Century coaching inn. Pen Cottage is a ground floor apartment with direct access to the front and rear gardens. There are two internal steps between the kitchen and lounge. We feel that the wood beams in the original part of the building provide a cottage-type feeling. We hope you return to Pen Cottage. Property Owner
Nick April 2024

“Beautiful property with idyllic views,very quiet, clean and well appointed.”

As early risers would have liked to alter the heating on times though. The property is actually a ground floor apartment which is part of a former hotel and not a detached cottage. This did not affect our enjoyment and would gladly book again.

- Nick, April 2024

Thank you for your kind comments. We are pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay. Pen Cottage is an apartment in Swan House. This was formerly Swan Hotel, a 17th Century coaching inn. The apartment is ground floor with two internal steps between the kitchen and lounge. The wood beams in the older part of the apartment give a cottage-type feeling. The heating can be boosted at any time. We hope you will be able to visit Pen Cottage again. Property Owner
Susan October 2023

“Another chill out stay in Pen Cottage.”

We are fortunate enough to be able to come to our little retreat twice a year! Beautiful location and the cottage has become like a second home to us. Please don’t change anything!

- Susan, October 2023

Thank you for your kind comments. We are glad that you enjoy returning and look forward to welcoming you back again. Lakelovers Owner Relations Team Property Owner
Anne October 2023

“Wonderful holiday made even better by the accommodation.”

First Class. In a beautiful place with great views there was nothing lacking at all. Would recommend to anyone. We had a fantastic week.

- Anne, October 2023

Thank you so much for your kind remarks. We're pleased that you had a good week and enjoyed the cottage's panoramic view of Skiddaw to Helvellyn. Property Owner
Richard August 2023

“We stayed for five nights in what is a delightful location and a lovely comfortable cottage.”

The cleanliness was of a very high standard and the cottage had all we needed for an enjoyable break. The views from the property are beautiful even on an overcast and wet day (of which there are many in the Lake District). I would happily stay here again.

- Richard, August 2023

Thank you for your comments. We are glad you enjoyed your holiday. Property Owner
Duncan July 2023

“This is one of the nicest holiday properties that we have stayed in.”

Beautiful views, lovely landscaped gardens leading down to a pond (NOT suitable for young children). Easy, off-road parking; house was very clean, nicely furnished, and is well equipped with good WiFi and modern kitchen appliances. Highly recommended.

- Duncan, July 2023

Thank you for your positive comments. The gardens are lovely all year round. Property Owner
Stacey April 2023

“Had a fabulous week at Pen Cottage, the accommodation was spot on and with fantastic views.”

There isn’t anything I can say wrong about it, great location, on a bus route if you don’t want to drive, peaceful and picturesque. Kitchen has everything you could want to cook a full dinner and there’s plenty of seating in the living room and snug. We did alter furniture to give a more homely feel to the living room plus the sofa was stopping heat from the radiator other than that it was perfect for our needs. My Dad even said he could quite happily live there so that say it all. 5 stars from us we will be back.

- Stacey, April 2023

We are so pleased all generations enjoyed Pen Cottage and you felt at home. You are welcome to stay again. Property Owner
Chris October 2022

“Remembered to take some oven-gloves after reading previous reviews.”

Very nice stay in very nice accommodation. Broken kitchen door handle was the only minor issue. Lovely garden area and views when the weather obliges. Welcome packs were a pleasant bonus, thankyou. Wouldn't hesitate to go back.

- Chris, October 2022

Pleased to hear that you enjoyed your holiday. Regarding oven gloves, these can be unhygienic unless cleaned after every visitor. Instead, our cleaners provide a white 'oven cloth' which is easier to wash. A clean 'oven cloth' is provided at each changeover. Thank you for your comment about the kitchen door handle - this was replaced the day following your visit. Hope you will be able to return for another holiday sometime. Property Owner
Susan October 2022

“We all love Pen Cottage and usually visit at least twice a year (have done for approx the last 12yrs) - we’ve already booked a week next April.”

Being small, I struggle with sitting on the sofas in the lounge so usually bring a chair in from the snug. It doesn’t stop me loving the place like a second home. Love the new mattresses but wonder if it’s time for new duvets? Thanks for letting us stay in your beautiful cottage.

- Susan, October 2022

Many thanks for your comments. Pleased to hear that you love the cottage. Hope you will be able to enjoy another visit sometime. Property Owner
Jane August 2022

“The cottage was well equipped, but really needed a pair of oven gloves.”

The place was very well kept, grounds were beautiful, just wish we could have stayed longer.

- Jane, August 2022

Thank you for your remarks regarding the cottage and grounds. Pleased to hear that you enjoyed your holiday. Regarding oven gloves, these can be unhygienic unless cleaned after every visitor. Instead, our cleaners provide a white 'oven cloth' which is easier to wash. A clean 'oven cloth' is provided at each changeover. Hope you may be able to enjoy another stay sometime. Property Owner
Christine August 2022

“Excellent company to book with, but the icing on the cake was Pen cottage.”

It was gorgeous . Very spacious very well equipped with everything you need and more, plenty of space to park your cars very quiet and the most unbelievable views looking onto the beautiful Lake District fells . Breakfast on the patio every morning and afternoon tea in the shared ground in the afternoon what more could you want . When I say shared grounds we saw 3 people ,plenty of room . I was lucky enough to have a Mum who was born and lived in Keswick , And remember Pen Cottage as apart of the Swan Hotel . I’ve been coming to Keswick for 65 years sadly no house of our own now , but trust me Pen Cottage is one of the best places you could stay. Fantastic

- Christine, August 2022

Thank you so much for such kind and positive comments. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your holiday. As you knew the Swan Hotel, you may remember that our kitchen was part of the original building (which was built in 1648) and was the hotel kitchen. Our lounge was part of the hotel dining room (this part was built in the 1960's). The long hotel dining room had five large windows overlooking the garden with the view to Skiddaw and Helvellyn. We are lucky to have two of the five windows! Good to hear that you were able to make use of the gardens in the fine weather. Hopefully you may be able to enjoy another holiday here sometime. Property Owner
Gary July 2022

“The Cottage was absolutely lovely, a great base for our holiday adventures.”

Superb position to explore the North Lakes. The cottage was so well equipped it surpassed expectations. Will definitely return again.

- Gary, July 2022

So pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay. There's plenty to explore in the North Lakes, hope you can continue your explorations before too long. Many thanks for your kind comments. Property Owner
James April 2022

“Excellent cottage, so well equipped.”

We stay every year & greatly enjoyed our visit again.

- James, April 2022

Pleased to hear you enjoyed another holiday at Pen Cottage. Thank you for your positive comments. Hope to welcome you back again before long. Property Owner
Darren April 2022

“This is a very well equipped and well-run cottage, where one easily gets a sense of the thoughtfulness of the owners.”

Everything worked well. the property is connected to other cottages nearby but on my stay there was a quiet atmosphere. the views are quite stunning and there is the benefit of a beautiful shared garden to the front. well-placed for local hikes and a short drive into keswick. i think a more prominent display of wifi details would be my only suggestion

- Darren, April 2022

Many thanks for your comments. Pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay. We've taken on board your remarks regarding the wi-fi, details will be displayed more prominently quite soon. Property Owner
Susan March 2022

“Another great stay in Pen Cottage - we try to stay at least 2weeks/year as we love the location and cottage.”

Thumbs up for the new mattresses but not so much the leather suite. We all struggled to get comfortable but understand that cushions are not an option re the allergy free policy. It will not prevent us staying again, in fact we have already booked for October.

- Susan, March 2022

Thank you for your comments, we're pleased that you enjoyed another holiday. Good to hear that the mattresses are appreciated. It's difficult to find seating suitable for everyone but good to hear that you will be staying again in October. Hope you enjoy your next holiday. Property Owner
Leanne December 2021

“Lovely holiday; cosy cottage with great facilities in a tranquil location.”

Really well equipped kitchen and great to have washer/ dryer and dishwasher. There were a few things which were really disappointing; one was that all the floors are hard tile/ laminate and it would have been really nice if some part of the living room floor was carpeted to allow you to sit on the floor or have a stretch etc. Even a rug would have helped and the sofas were not the comfiest. Also there were no dishwasher tablets, bin bags or washing powder. We would have preferred not to have to go into Keswick on bank holidays looking for these things, either that or make it clear in the pre arrival info. Doesn't cost much to leave 6 dishwasher tablets and a spare bin bag. One more serious thing was that one of the kitchen cupboards was full of mouse droppings and had 2 traps in (not set up) so it was clearly an ongoing issue. I became ill with stomach cramps on the second day and we felt this was one of the possible causes. It may have been unrelated but either way it needs addressing.

- Leanne, December 2021

Thank you for your comments. We are pleased that you had a good holiday and found the cottage cosy. We are pleased to hear that the facilities, location, kitchen and appliances were so appreciated. Regarding the flooring, the cottage is designed to be allergy-friendly, hence the hard flooring which is more hygienic than rugs and carpets which can harbour dust-mites. The leather covered armchairs and sofas have been chosen for the same reasons. The lounge seating was new in 2021 and we have received many favourable comments regarding the comfort. May we respectfully suggest that anyone wishing to sit on the floor or carry out floor exercises should bring their personal roll-up mat for the purpose. Your latter comments are really housekeeping issues and these should have been made directly to Heart of the Lakes during your stay so that remedial action could have been taken promptly. We have confirmed that the cottage was prepared for your arrival but it would seem that the cupboard under the kitchen sink may have been overlooked. Dishwasher tablets and bin bags should have been present. Apologies for this oversight. Parts of Swan House are about 350 years old and Building Regulations in the 17th Century were not as stringent as they are now. As with all old, stone-built rural buildings, mice have a habit of getting into the voids in the stone walls and have occasionally found their way into the space under the kitchen cupboards. This was managed by use of bait in sealed containers (not traps) and the issue has been resolved. We have now changed to a property management company that employs professional cleaning and laundry teams. We can ensure a clean and fresh welcome to Pen Cottage. Property Owner
Michel November 2021

“We only slept and breakfasted at the cottage.”

.....no other cooking. But it was clean and enjoyed wonderful views. Great wifi also! We would stay again.

- Michel, November 2021

Many thanks for your comments. Pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay (and the technology!). Hope you may stay again sometime. Property Owner
Leigh September 2021

“Would have been nice to have a pint of milk in the fridge on arrival.”

- Leigh, September 2021

Thank you for your comment. We trust that you enjoyed your stay. We have taken on board your comments and there will now be a tea and coffee tray ready to welcome guests on arrival. Guests usually pick up groceries on their way to Pen Cottage. There is plenty of choice. Braithwaite has an excellent village shop, there is a small shop in Braithwaite camp-site (open when the camp-site is operating), Booths and Co-op supermarkets in Keswick and a couple of well-stocked shops at petrol stations in Keswick. Also, Pen Cottage is in the delivery area for some supermarkets (just make sure you request the delivery for 'Pen Cottage, 3 Swan House, CA12 5SQ' and that you are at the cottage to attract the drivers' attention when he/she arrives!). Property Owner
Piotr August 2021

“Very pleased with our stay in Pen Cottage.”

Everything went smoothly from booking to departure, very helpful customer service. Ideal location, comfortable cottage and wonderful views. Hoping to come back as soon as possible. We couldn’t recommend it more.

- Piotr, August 2021

Thank you very much for your comments. We are pleased that you enjoyed your stay and hope that you may visit Pen Cottage again sometime. Property Owner
Jacqui July 2021

“Beautifully presented, comfortable, ground floor apartment, with every convenience.”

The only two negatives was the road noise from the A66, which was as expected, given the closeness of the road, and second, the potential lack of privacy in the two bedrooms, as to they are on an eyeline for passers by to the flat upstairs. That said, we'd have loved to have stayed longer, it's a beautiful flat, in a beautiful part of the Lakes, and the view from the living room and patio was glorious! Thank you

- Jacqui, July 2021

Thank you for your feedback. We are pleased that you enjoyed your stay. We realise that there is some intermittent background noise from the A66. Unfortunately, we can't do much about this (and we all need to use the road from time to time!). When we sit on the patio, we imagine the time when steam trains used the Penrith-Keswick-Cockermouth railway line that ran along the side of Bassenthwaite Lake - where the current A66 is now. Apparently, trains would stop if flagged down (near the current A66 underpass) to allow local residents and Swan Hotel visitors on and off the trains. The road at the front of Swan House was the main road then. At least this road is now quiet and is just used by local traffic, cyclists and buses between Keswick and Cockermouth. Regarding the potential lack of privacy in the bedrooms, this is a good point now that the apartment above is in regular use. We plan to fit opaque blinds to these windows in 2022. We hope that you may be able to visit Pen Cottage again sometime. Property Owner
Lesley Caroline May 2021

“Pen cottage is extremely well situated for a hiking trip in the northern lakes.”

It was spotless on arrival and all the facilities are superb. I would definitely book again next time I am in the Lakes.

- Lesley Caroline, May 2021

Many thanks for your comments. We are pleased that you enjoyed your stay and hiking in the area. We hope you may be able to visit Pen Cottage again sometime. Property Owner
Bailey Dec 2019

“An excellent warm, comfortable and well-equipped property”

- Bailey, Dec 2019

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Summary

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 inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. 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

The property

Nestled in the heart of Thornthwaite this beautiful property dates from 1648 and was formerly part of the Swan Hotel, now converted into a small number of luxury dwellings.

Pen cottage encompasses a fresh modern feel while displaying a delight of fine furnishings and decor with oak beams and thick walls, keeping the original warmth of the 17th Century Coaching Inn it once was.

The elevated position allows Pen Cottage to hold some of the most mesmerising views in the Lake District.

The quality of this property is second to none, proudly showing off oak flooring throughout and perfect craftsmanship in the furniture. There are many walks to be enjoyed in the surrounding area, the coast-to-coast cycleway passes the door and bird lovers will particularly relish the chance to see the ospreys which nest nearby.

Good restaurants in the area include the Pheasant at Bassenthwaite and Ivy House in Braithwaite whilst Keswick offers evening theatre, cinema and all main shopping. Accommodation: From the entrance porch, straight into the beautifully fitted kitchen with a twin bedded room to your left with large en-suite shower with WC and basin.

King size bedroom with lovely garden views and family bathroom with bath with shower over, basin and wc.

A couple of steps take you up to the lounge which enjoys double glass doors inviting you on to the decked patio overlooking the landscaped gardens with pond and the truly embracing panoramic views across to Skiddaw and Helvellyn range.

Cosy red leather settees await your arrival, with ample seating (TV, DVD, electric fire and free Wi-Fi).

Outside: Large decked area to the rear with garden seating - ideal for alfresco dining whilst taking in the view!

The property also benefits from extensive shared landscaped gardens with pond (younger children should be supervised) which incorporates a communal covered barbeque area and bike storage area.

Nearest shop and pub in braithwaite 1.5 miles, keswick centre 3 miles. Note: Cot included, sorry no high chair available.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £200.

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About the location

KESWICK

Bassenthwaite 7 miles, Ullswater 16.6 miles; Cockermouth 13 miles.

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.

Sorry, no pets and no smoking. Note: Due to the pond in the garden, children must be supervised at all times when outside

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Last minute
Christmas

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“Pen Cottage is in an absolutely wonderful spot, 2 minutes from Bassenthwaite Lake and 8 minutes from Keswick.”

“Excellent location on a minor road just off the A66 with a bus stop opposite the property and only 3 miles from Keswick.”

“A lovely cottage with fantastic views.”

“We really enjoyed our stay at Pen cottage.”

“Lovely cottage and have stayed here many times”

“The apartment has an absolutely fantastic view from the lounge and a lovely accessible garden.”

“We had a fabulous week at Pen Cottage.”

“We had a great stay at Pen Cottage.”

“Beautiful property with idyllic views,very quiet, clean and well appointed.”

“Another chill out stay in Pen Cottage.”

“Wonderful holiday made even better by the accommodation.”

“We stayed for five nights in what is a delightful location and a lovely comfortable cottage.”

“This is one of the nicest holiday properties that we have stayed in.”

“Had a fabulous week at Pen Cottage, the accommodation was spot on and with fantastic views.”

“Remembered to take some oven-gloves after reading previous reviews.”

“We all love Pen Cottage and usually visit at least twice a year (have done for approx the last 12yrs) - we’ve already booked a week next April.”

“The cottage was well equipped, but really needed a pair of oven gloves.”

“Excellent company to book with, but the icing on the cake was Pen cottage.”

“The Cottage was absolutely lovely, a great base for our holiday adventures.”

“Excellent cottage, so well equipped.”

“This is a very well equipped and well-run cottage, where one easily gets a sense of the thoughtfulness of the owners.”

“Another great stay in Pen Cottage - we try to stay at least 2weeks/year as we love the location and cottage.”

“Lovely holiday; cosy cottage with great facilities in a tranquil location.”

“We only slept and breakfasted at the cottage.”

“Would have been nice to have a pint of milk in the fridge on arrival.”

“Very pleased with our stay in Pen Cottage.”

“Beautifully presented, comfortable, ground floor apartment, with every convenience.”

“Pen cottage is extremely well situated for a hiking trip in the northern lakes.”

“An excellent warm, comfortable and well-equipped property”

Summary

The property

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About the location

KESWICK