Set in the Troutbeck Valley, a five minutes' drive north east of Windermere, the village of Troutbeck is one of the most beautiful in the Lake District, with an array of south facing cottages and farmsteads.
The cottage is at the head of the village, close to the popular Queens Head, the owners of South Stonethwaite Cottage have lovingly restored it to offer a beautiful Lakeland hideaway.
Every care has been taken to retain many of the cottages original 17th century features, with low ceilings, cosy fire place and lots of character (if only the walls could talk) whilst ensuring it is finished to a high standard with a quality family bathroom and beautiful kitchen complete with a small balcony that looks out on the stunning Troutbeck Valley
With a myriad of walks to choose from, two great county pubs both serving excellent local fayre, a small village shop and tea room the village has a real charm.
If the high fells are your chosen destination Ill Bell, Thornthwaite Crag, Stoney Cove Pike, and the mighty High Street can all be conquered right from the front door as well as two other 'Wainwrights' – Troutbeck Tongue and Wansfell.
The vibrant villages of Ambleside and Windermere are a short drive away and offer a great choice of local bars, restaurants and cafes along with a high quality selection of local shops many selling local crafts and produce.
You are only minutes from the Top of Kirkstone Pass, which drops down into Ullswater for boat rides, the mighty Helvellyn – the Lake District's second highest Mountain and the famous National Trust 's Aira Force water fall walks.
The property is set in a 'Walkers Paradise' but within easy reach of the Lake Districts many family attractions.
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Accommodation in detail
The approach is down a small lane between the cottages and as you round the corner, South Stonethwaite has its own parking area within its landscaped garden.
Most guests enter the cottage through the door to the kitchen.
On entering there is plenty of space for walking boots and coats.
The quality kitchen runs the length of the cottage and is fully fitted with everything you could need to enjoy your stay; electric hob and oven and integrated appliances.
French doors open to a small balcony that offers beautiful south facing views across the hamlet and the valley and high fells beyond.
By contrast to the contemporary kitchen, the dual aspect sitting room has a lovely country cottage charm with a cosy open fire, comfortable sofa and arm chairs and pretty views.
The original front door to the cottage opens from the sitting room to the garden.
The cottage stair case leads to the first floor with two bedrooms; the first a spacious room with super king size double bed which can convert to two singles, the second a smaller room suitable for one person with a double bed.
The bedrooms are complemented by a family bathroom with bath with shower over, basin and WC.
Please note: Guests will need to bring own cot and bedding for babies.
The cottage has a pretty, landscaped garden to the front with herbaceous borders, a park area for two cars and a patio area with bistro style garden furniture.
The popular Queens Head, recently re-opened following a £2.4 million refit after a devastating fire, has retained its original four poster Elizabethan bar and has creative a beautiful pub with delicious food and real ales including its own special Patter'ale, named after the landlords terrier.
All this only 100 metres from South Stonethwaite Cottage.
Location
A traditional Lakeland cottage in the Troutbeck Valley, provides a Lake District holiday experience like no other.
Still only a short drive from shops and restaurants in Windermere village, Lake Windermere itself and the vibrant lake shore communities of Bowness and Ambleside, the Troutbeck Valley is a peaceful haven away from the rush.
Spectacular Lakeland fells surround this lush valley; scattered with historic Lakeland houses and pretty woodlands, and blessed with several acclaimed Lake District country pubs.
One of which is literally a healthy stone's throw from your cottage, the Queens Head in Troutbeck village is renowned for their excellent food, Cumbrian produce and cosy fireside ambience.
Perfect for a special occasion.
There are endless opportunities for romantic Lake District walks from your doorstep.
Taking the car over Kirkstone Pass towards Ullswater, you'll pass Brothers Water - one of our favourite spots for a leisurely Sunday stroll.
For exploring further afield, despite the blissfully secluded feel of the Troutbeck Valley, you're never too far from the main linking roads throughout the Lake District.
The owners of the cottage, a local couple who both work in tourism (and who almost certainly know the Lake District better than anyone else), have put together some great suggestions and top ideas, in the cottage, for walks, food, shops and days out if it happens to rain.