Croft | Grasmere | Allan Bank | The Lake District And Cumbria

4.1★

6 Guests
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Pets No
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Features

Off road parking
Cot available
Highchair available
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

33 Customer Review(s)

Andrew
August 2024

“We had a lovely stay in the cottage.”

The weather was wet for most of the week but the cottage was cosy enough to allow us to enjoy some afternoons in as well as short walks and runs locally. We would have liked to enjoy the garden but that was solely down to the weather. No problems parking at all. Only improvements would have been more toilet roll and dishwasher tablets plus the window catches in the main bedroom were broken on arrival and need maintenence (picked up by past occupants which was disappointing) and we had to do a ...

The weather was wet for most of the week but the cottage was cosy enough to allow us to enjoy some afternoons in as well as short walks and runs locally. We would have liked to enjoy the garden but that was solely down to the weather. No problems parking at all. Only improvements would have been more toilet roll and dishwasher tablets plus the window catches in the main bedroom were broken on arrival and need maintenence (picked up by past occupants which was disappointing) and we had to do a temporary fix with string. Otherwise compfy beds and lounge, big fridge and freezer were welcome. TV is small but didn't really use it and there is no DVD player (though plenty of DVDs). Lots of books (including kids books) and jigsaws too. We would come again.

- Andrew, August 2024
Carol August 2024

“This is the cottage where we feel at home, and we return.”

It is the perfect base for our 3 generation family and we feel privileged to live in it for our annual Grasmere holiday, tucked away in the midst of the village with access to a garden. This year we had many meals outdoors, and only one cosy day in sheltering from torrential rain. We love the unfussy furnishings which set off the wonderful art, and the splendid library. The new back porch is great—a washing line or a drying rack would be really appreciated. The indoor drying spaces (kitchen pulley and airing cupboard ) are very helpful. The front porch is also much used. We think this is our favourite cottage!

- Carol, August 2024

Thank you for taking the time to leave your kind comments. We are pleased to read that you find this cottage where you are at home. We hope to welcome you back again. The Lakelovers Owner Relations Team Property Owner
Margaret June 2024

“Lovely cottage and garden.”

Very central location in Grasmere with easy access to the surrounding fells, so no need to use the car. We had no trouble with parking right outside the property. Comfortable beds, the en-suite was a bonus. Would have appreciated more control over the central heating - we used the electric heater in the sitting room a lot as June was particularly chilly. Upstairs window catches need maintenance to enable them to be securely left open at night. Nevertheless, a beautiful holiday cottage and would definitely recommend.

- Margaret, June 2024
Malcolm June 2024

“I agree with all the positive comments about the Croft, however the description states there is parking for 2 cars.”

These spaces are often occupied by visitors to the art gallery and tea room as the signage does not specify Croft parking only.

- Malcolm, June 2024
Piers May 2024

“An ideal house in an ideal location - the centre of Grasmere.”

Four of us and an infant (for whom extra facilities were available) enjoyed a peaceful week here with a lovely private garden for the youngster to play in too. Some technical issues encountered were quickly and expeditiously dealt with by the very friendly staff and the owner at the adjoining Gallery. Everything that should function did. The mattresses were a mite soft for our taste but nevertheless the beds were very comfortable. Who needs a big TV when on a Lakes holiday anyway with so many delights all around. We would highly reccommend this property.

- Piers, May 2024
Alison March 2024

“Very clean, warm, comfortable and well equipped house.”

Lovely to stay somewhere with sufficient glasses, crockery and cutlery for more than one meal! Very comfortable beds. Location perfect as we traveled with elderly parents so they were able to potter around Grasmere. As previous reviews have noted, the TV is very small and there is no DVD player in the house. We were lucky with the parking, but I can definitely see that being an issue at times. If it was possible to mark one of the spaces as Reserved for Croft Cottage when rented out that would help.

- Alison, March 2024

Thank you very much for your comments and for taking the time to let us know your thoughts. Customer feedback is very important to help us continually improve our standards. The owner will be able to see your suggestions and can make amendments as required. We hope to welcome you back to the property in the future. Property Owner
David November 2023

“No DVD player at the property although specified.”

We contacted Lake Lovers office. They said that they would look into it and get back to us. No one came back, not even to apologise. Cups and glasses had been put away without being washed properly. We had to put everything we wanted to use in the dishwasher. Parking was an issue. Despite supposedly being allocated two parking spaces we struggled on more than one occasion to squeeze into one space. Having emptied the food cupboard into shopping bags on the night prior to leaving we discovered that mice had been in the bag eating cake and leaving droppings.

- David, November 2023

Thank you for your feedback and for bringing these issues to our attention. As we were not made aware of these whilst you were at the property we could not rectify them for you to make your stay more comfortable. We are sorry to read that another car was parked in the allocated slot but unfortunately, this can only be resolved with speaking to this person at the time. We have highlighted the points you have made with our housekeeping team and are contacting the owner regarding pest control and the DVD player. We do hope you had a wonderful holiday. Lakelovers Owner Relations Team Property Owner
Pauline October 2023

“On the whole a comfortable stay especially after the heating was turned up.”

It was a little cold before that! Recommendations, the door to the shower room in the smaller bedroom still does not close, it was the same last year. It would be nice to be able to close it. All in all a very pleasant stay, so central.

- Pauline, October 2023
Margaret October 2023

“Heating timer not working properly.”

Had to contact you twice about this. WiFi password given in Welcome Book and worked fleetingly for a few hours then unavailable. Apparently there is NO Wifi listed on the website - VERY CONFUSING I

- Margaret, October 2023
Jill September 2023

“We’ve stayed in lots of holiday properties and this one is alright but lacks that ‘extra’ touch of a nice welcome pack, such as some tea, coffee and sugar for that first drink after travelling.”

Most properties also supply milk and biscuits or cake to welcome you. There were no basics such as tin foil or kitchen roll - another staple at most cottages. Although the complimentary pack of cleaning products is welcome there were no spares in the cupboard ie washing up liquid or kitchen spray cleaners. Liquid hand soap was supplied in the bathrooms, but there was none in the kitchen for washing hands before food preparation. This is usually a basic supply in post Covid times! As mentioned in other reviews, the window fittings were loose or missing (one found on the outside window ledge) and the kettle lid was broken. Despite comments in previous reviews these issues haven’t been rectified - do owners read and take action on such matters? We must also mention that the chopping boards looked dirty so we bought our own. Additional expense but peace of mind against tummy upsets. We’ve used other Sykes properties and will do so in future, but not the Croft.

- Jill, September 2023

Thank you for your feedback. As the property is self catering, a welcome pack is not always provided. We take all comments on board. Thank you- The Lakelovers Owner Relations Team Property Owner
Tina July 2023

“The cottage is charming, we loved staying here.”

Location wise it's a great base to go off and explore the lakes, it works for us as we go with an elderly family member so the amenities of Grasmere is good for them when we went of walking. The cottage is well equipped and spacious enough for rainy days inside. The kitchen has everything you need to function. There are plenty of books and games for entertainment. The only slight negative was the cleaning, on arrival the dining table was sticky and dust on the windowsills, enough to write your name in it. Sounds picky I know and wouldn't stop me from recommending the cottage or staying again, it's just a bit of feedback. The cottage really is a little oasis.

- Tina, July 2023
Lesley June 2023

“Like a home from home.”

Clean, comfortable and well equipped, with a lovely garden. Stayed here several times and would be happy to do so again.

- Lesley, June 2023

Thank you for your feedback, we are glad that you had a lovely holiday. We hope we can welcome you back in the future. Heart of the Lakes Owner Relations Property Owner
Simon May 2023

“Another great stay in this lovely property.”

Some of the window catches upstairs need attention. Sorry about the lid of the kettle, it fell off when making tea!

- Simon, May 2023

Thank you for your kind comments, we are pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay. We hope to welcome you back. The Heart of The Lakes Owner Relations Team Property Owner
Lesley April 2023

“Lovely place to stay, and we have stayed several times.”

We have booked again for summer. Facilities are great, garden and location lovely. Comfy beds. Slight issue with water not draining away in en-suite shower but otherwise a great property.

- Lesley, April 2023

Thank you for your kind comments, we are so pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay. We take all comments on board. We look forward to welcoming you back in the summer. Property Owner
Martin February 2023

“The cottage was clean and comfortable.”

So very well positioned in the centre of Grasmere we could walk out to some beautiful spots very easily. Some minor works were going on at the adjacent gallery but the times workmen were on site was controlled to ensure it did not disturb us.

- Martin, February 2023

Thank you for your kind feedback. We are glad to hear that you enjoyed your stay. We hope to welcome you back again. Property Owner
Allan December 2022

“The location and the accommodation in general are fantastic.”

Very spacious, comfortable and well laid out. Unfortunately, the cleanliness and maintenance of the property lets it down. In the en-suite bedroom we found clothes left in the chest of drawers; a used cottonwool bud on the carpet; the bedroom chair seat was broken; for some reason the mirror had been taken off the wall and propped up on top of the chest of drawers, obscuring the shower switch; and the left hand window arm could not be secured. In the kitchen we found an opened bag of mixed veg left in the freezer, and although the ceiling airer is a great addition, nothing can be hung off it unless it is left in the lowered position, as the retaining hook on the wall is not secure and cannot take any weight. Little niggles which spoil a great property!

- Allan, December 2022
Lorraine November 2022

“Beautiful house with garden right in the middle of Grasmere.”

Bus stop opposite and walks from the door. Very comfortable beds and sitting room. Homely with paintings and family photos. Well equipped kitchen and heating efficient. Covered area by front door very useful to take off boots in the dry. There is WiFi though details say there isnt. As others have said TV is very small and needs to be replaced with a bigger SMART TV. Water pressure is very low so showers not great but there probably isn't much that can be done about that. Really enjoyed staying.

- Lorraine, November 2022
Andrew November 2022

“Good to have WiFi installed thank you!”

.Should have table mats provided for dinning room table to protect it! We have booked again to enjoy this cosy cottage.

- Andrew, November 2022
Ian November 2022

“Great cottage with good facilities and location.”

The only improvement that could be made is to have a more visible sign to state that parking in front of the cottage is reserved (for at least one car) for Croft as on more that one occasion all the spaces were taken up and we had had to park away from the cottage.

- Ian, November 2022
Pauline October 2022

“A very comfortable and enjoyable stay.”

The house house been refurbished very well!

- Pauline, October 2022
Hugh October 2022

“A good location in the centre of Grasmere but quiet- next to an excellent Matilde's coffeee shop.”

Generally well furnished and comfortable. As previously mentioned the TV is tiny and not really posisble to use for a group of people. Slightly short on essentials - eg only 3 washing machines tables etc so had to go out and buy packs of house essentials before the end of the week.

- Hugh, October 2022
Lesley September 2022

“Another lovely holiday at Croft.”

Weather not so good this time but the house was warm and cosy. We have already booked for summer 2023!

- Lesley, September 2022
Carol August 2022

“This is our second holiday here in 2022–we are sharing with another daughter and her family.”

This time we used the garden a great deal, discovered the airing cupboard is perfect for wetsuits, and still loved the feeling of being in a family home, interestingly furnished, provided with an excellent small library, and lots of room for our own amusements and activities. The exceptional weather meant we could open all the windows and enjoy the outdoors even when at home. Being in the village with so much privacy attracted some fleeting envious looks through the gate as we enjoyed tea on the lawn! We had a true holiday in our favourite place.

- Carol, August 2022
Anthony August 2022

“Comfortable and well proportioned accommodation which I found to an above average standard for the rental market.”

However the property was let down by the following: 1. Electric en suite shower facility very poor and frankly not worth having. 2. Main bathroom facilities generally very poor and requires upgrading. a/ Toilet flush poor, seat will not stay up when required. b/ Glass toiletry shelf badly positioned over hand hand basin causing an obstruction if washing your face. c/ Shower head kept dropping position on shower glider which was very frustrating. d/ Shower door difficult to manoeuvre. 3. Television far too small which other guests have already commented on.

- Anthony, August 2022
Lesley July 2022

“Lovely property in a great location.”

We enjoyed the beautiful garden and found the property had everything we needed. We liked it so much we booked it again for A break in September!

- Lesley, July 2022
Chris May 2022

“Superb location and parking.”

Minor points - I asked if the property had Wi-Fi told no, it does. Small tv for my failing eye sight. Lighting needs to be improved in second double along with window latches which are loose because of rotting wood also hot tap needs new washer. All minor points which could not spoil a great visit to The Lakes.

- Chris, May 2022
Douglas March 2022

“Certainly not a warm cosy cottage.”

The heating is on a timer and can’t be altered. Coming back in the afternoon from walking, on bitterly cold snowy days, there is no heat, it doesn’t come on until 4.30pm. It then went off at 10pm while we’re still watching television. We’ve never stayed in a holiday cottage before where we can’t control the heating ourselves. We paid over £1000 for this property and don’t expect to be told when we can have the heat on. The showers are pathetic too. Temperature in the ensuite shower was either freezing cold or scalding hot, the shower head in the over bath shower did not stay in place. No grab rail either. As for the tv…….! We certainly won’t be returning.

- Douglas, March 2022

Thank you for your feedback. I'm so sorry to hear your stay was unsatisfactory. The heating is controlled by an APP, and is set to come on three times a day, starting at 6.30am through to 11am, then 12.30 until 2pm and finally 4 pm until 10 pm. The week before your stay it had been very warm so the temperature was turned down, as the guests that week had to have the windows open! But as soon as you reported you felt it wasn’t warm enough, we immediately increased the temperate to 25 degrees. There was also the electric fire in the living room to boost the heat further. Property Owner
Carol March 2022

“We loved this cottage.”

It was perfect for our 3 generation holiday, and we that it had been a very happy family home in the past. It felt spacious and uncluttered, the recent renovation was an appropriate canvas for the wonderful artwork from the neighbouring Heaton Cooper studio, family photos and Henry Moore sheep. The views are wonderful and the garden much enjoyed. Prosaically there is plenty of room to dry wet and muddy clothing, enough cleaning supplies to keep the mud at bay, and the kitchen well equipped. Outside space to change boots undercover very welcome. And finally, the location is perfect—right in the heart of the village and at the beginning of our favourite walks. The photos need updating to reflect the cottage as it is—and the swimming pool is not available!

- Carol, March 2022
Dawn December 2021

“Needs new showers as they are very difficult to regulate the water temperature.”

Very clean warm cottage. Good facilities more trays needed in the kitchen and new instructions for central heating and information if you can use the leisure facilities as we only found out when we got to the reception at the Wirdsworth Hotel we couldn't use them.

- Dawn, December 2021
Mark August 2021

“We had a lovely week at the Croft and were lucky with the weather.”

Having 2 parking spaces in centre of town was massive plus. The beds were comfortable and the downstairs area spacious. Kitchen well kitted out and plenty of hot water/radiators for drying things. The cottage is steeped in history but really need some modernisation - especially the main bathroom and the en-suite. It really lacks a downstairs loo. The main shower (inside the bath) of the main bathroom requires very awkward move just to get under the shower (no hand rail and have to navigate around glass enclosure) - really don’t know anyone of old/without agility would get under it without falling over and injuring themselves - that needs sorting urgently and is dangerous. We have booked somewhere more updated next year for the same week (round the corner) which hopefully won’t have the same issue.

- Mark, August 2021
Roger July 2021

“After reading a review from Mr Delbridge dated June 2021 we contacted you with regards to maintenance issues before our holiday.”

You came back to us to say that all was done and would be ok for our arrival! Admittably the cleanliness was spotless but the shower in the bathroom was still iffy, the toilet seat had not been repaired, still no light in the second bedroom and lights not replaced in the ensuite shower room. We were also told that towels would not be provided and to bring tea towels, oven gloves etc. all of which were available in the cottage! Uneccessary extra luggage!!!! Annoying! On the upside the cottage was actually better than the pictures online showed -apparently had had some updates, new colour scheme, roman blinds etc. Photos obviously need redoing regularly to represent a true picture of the accommodation. The bed was very comfortable and the cottage was well equipped - except for wifi (there is none) and the TV could do with an upgrade. Inspite of the above we had a wonderful time at the cottage much improved by the glorious weather. We also spent a lot of time in the garden which was a little oasis in the middle of Grasmere and a credit to the owner - it was maintained twice during our visit. All in all I would recommend Croft Cottage - such a shame that simple maintenance issues prevent it from being perfect!!!

- Roger, July 2021
Carol June 2021

“Fabulous location and comfortable well equipped cottage.”

We enjoyed sitting out in the beautiful garden watching the birds and catching glimpses of the red squirrels.

- Carol, June 2021
Pamela June 2021

“Told shower over bath would be repaired, it was not and did not work on our last visit.”

Oven canopy dirty and skirting boards,cobwebs in kitchen,dining area and bedrooms.Cafetière still full of used coffee granules,left after use.Dirty plates and cutlery had to be washed before use.Stain on duvet cover in main bedroom.Lights did not work in single bedded room and light bulb in shower room needs replacing too. Upstairs decor in two main bedrooms,bathroom could do with painting and refreshing and some maintenance, toilet seat does not stay up. Advertised as new en-suite but sadly not new any more.

- Pamela, June 2021

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Summary

Three bedrooms: 1 x king-size with en-suite shower, basin and WC, 1 x king-size, 1 x twin
Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC
Kitchen
Dining room
Sitting room
Gas central heating
Electric oven and ceramic hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washer/dryer, dishwasher, Smart TV
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Shared parking for two cars only (shared with the gallery/cafe)
Enclosed garden with a veranda and lawn with patio furniture
Sorry, no pets and no smoking

The property

Croft is a real hidden gem.

Tucked quietly away in the heart of Grasmere village this delightful character cottage has been home to the Heaton Cooper family for more than four generations.

Firstly home to William Heaton Cooper, who built the studio and Croft in 1938, and his wife, the sculptor, Ophelia Gordon Bell and then their children, including the now internationally acclaimed painter, Julian Cooper.

Croft adjoins the Heaton Cooper Studio itself, offering a unique opportunity to stay in the artists' former home, experiencing the creative ambience that drew them to Grasmere and its surrounding countryside. The family have tastefully and sympathetically refurbished Croft with a nod towards 1940s style but with no compromise on modern amenities.

Paintings by the Heaton Cooper artists hang on the walls along with photographs of William and Alfred climbing and painting in the Fells.

Croft is a very special property and an important part of Grasmere's cultural heritage.

There is an abundance of walks from the door which include Alcock Tarn and the famous Lion and Lamb, along with a varied choice of eateries ranging from cafes and pubs to an award-winning restaurant. Accommodation: Entrance through covered walkway into the hall.

Leading off the hall is the separate dining room, which then leads on to the lounge (Smart TV) and windows looking out to the picturesque garden.

Useful understair cupboard for storing boots and outdoor gear.

Well equipped kitchen with tiled floor and access out to the garden. Upstairs there are three bedrooms.

The first room is a double with king-size bed and en-suite shower room (shower, basin and wc).

The second very spacious double overlooks the garden and is light and airy with king-size bed and shares the family bathroom (shower over bath, basin and wc) along with the twin room. The property is beautifully furnished throughout, using a mix of antique and contemporary furniture alongside muted colours and co-ordinated soft furnishings.

Paintings by many members of the Heaton Cooper family add to the property's local connections. Outside: The private parking available is strictly for two cars only.

Well appointed enclosed garden with large lawn and a variety of mature plants including a charming espalier pear tree which grows up the side of the cottage.

Patio furniture provided on the lawn.

Attractive stone flagged undercover veranda supported by slate-built columns is an ideal spot to enjoy a book out of the sun.

The cottage is attached to the working Heaton Cooper Studio and occasionally a member of the family may need access to the small storage shed at the end of the garden.

Village amenities immediately to hand. Note: Parking is strictly limited to 2 cars.

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

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About the location

GRASMERE

Ambleside 5 miles; Windermere 9 miles; Keswick 13 miles.

Situated in the heart of the Lake District National Park is the lovely village of Grasmere, probably best known as the home of William Wordsworth, a place he once described as "The most loveliest spot that man hath found". Any visit to Grasmere needs to include The Grasmere Gingerbread shop, where the Wilson family has been making gingerbread for over 60 years. Also in the village are a number of shops, pubs, a church which dates back to the 13th century, and Grasmere Lake. Grasmere Sports takes place every August, where you can watch participants compete in a variety of sports, including Cumberland wrestling. Just five miles away is the town of Ambleside and Lake Winderemere where you will find shops, pubs, restaurants and the 17th century Bridge House, which is one of the most photographed buildings in the Lake District. Cruises, boat trips and watersports can all be enjoyed on Lake Windermere, and the towns of Windermere and Keswick are also within driving distance. Grasmere is a wonderful base for your Lake District retreat.

Please note: The property owner also owns the Heaton Cooper Studio and Café which is adjacent. We have been advised that there may be building work between January and May (awaiting confirmation).
The noise will be kept to a minimum to minimise any disruption to guests in the Croft, Gallery or Café. Further information will be given to guests prior to their stay.

This property offers the following short breaks:

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Reviews & Ratings

“We had a lovely stay in the cottage.”

“This is the cottage where we feel at home, and we return.”

“Lovely cottage and garden.”

“I agree with all the positive comments about the Croft, however the description states there is parking for 2 cars.”

“An ideal house in an ideal location - the centre of Grasmere.”

“Very clean, warm, comfortable and well equipped house.”

“No DVD player at the property although specified.”

“On the whole a comfortable stay especially after the heating was turned up.”

“Heating timer not working properly.”

“We’ve stayed in lots of holiday properties and this one is alright but lacks that ‘extra’ touch of a nice welcome pack, such as some tea, coffee and sugar for that first drink after travelling.”

“The cottage is charming, we loved staying here.”

“Like a home from home.”

“Another great stay in this lovely property.”

“Lovely place to stay, and we have stayed several times.”

“The cottage was clean and comfortable.”

“The location and the accommodation in general are fantastic.”

“Beautiful house with garden right in the middle of Grasmere.”

“Good to have WiFi installed thank you!”

“Great cottage with good facilities and location.”

“A very comfortable and enjoyable stay.”

“A good location in the centre of Grasmere but quiet- next to an excellent Matilde's coffeee shop.”

“Another lovely holiday at Croft.”

“This is our second holiday here in 2022–we are sharing with another daughter and her family.”

“Comfortable and well proportioned accommodation which I found to an above average standard for the rental market.”

“Lovely property in a great location.”

“Superb location and parking.”

“Certainly not a warm cosy cottage.”

“We loved this cottage.”

“Needs new showers as they are very difficult to regulate the water temperature.”

“We had a lovely week at the Croft and were lucky with the weather.”

“After reading a review from Mr Delbridge dated June 2021 we contacted you with regards to maintenance issues before our holiday.”

“Fabulous location and comfortable well equipped cottage.”

“Told shower over bath would be repaired, it was not and did not work on our last visit.”

Summary

The property

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About the location

GRASMERE