Smardale Hall | Kirkby Stephen | Smardale | The Lake District And Cumbria

4.7★

8 Guests
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Pets Yes
Show on map

Features

Hot tub
Off road parking
Open fire
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

73 Customer Review(s)

Mark
September 2024

“This was an amazing place to stay, it has so much more character than a lot of places, and relaxing in front of the log burner in the evening, or in the hot tub was the perfect end to a day after climbing mountains, or visiting English heritage sites.”

- Mark, September 2024
David September 2024

“We had a superb week at Smardale Hall.”

Perfect location and great views all around. Very comfortable accommodation. We will return soon.

- David, September 2024
Ian September 2023

“The weather was poor whilst we were there but that was not be the fault of the host or Sykes.”

We did enjoy the log fire with the essential logs immensely.

- Ian, September 2023
Eren September 2023

“Amazing property and area, it was great that we could have a walk round and see all the animals.”

We will definitely be back!

- Eren, September 2023
Mark August 2023

“Had a lovely family trip to Smardale, loved the kitchen and the space of this holiday let.”

It was simply away from it all (but the Wi-Fi worked). The views of the countryside were lovely and to be sat in the hot tub as the Sunday steam train passed by on the main line was really special. Walks galore from the property or very nearby or simply to relax In this piece of English history was a delight.

- Mark, August 2023
Jenny August 2023

“Our return to Smardale was fabulous.”

It felt like coming home. We last booked in 2018. Everything was great with notable upgrades since our last visit. It's not often that the 15th century is attainable. We love the property and the owners are very approachable and always on site. We had a lovely week and would love to book again.

- Jenny, August 2023
Gillian February 2023

“We really enjoyed our stay, it's not often you can stay in a C14th listed building.”

The owners are lovely and friendly. The setting is beautiful and peaceful. Perfect for us.

- Gillian, February 2023
Catherine December 2022

“We had a wonderful stay in an amazing house that took our breath away!”

The owners were very generous and made our New Years getaway even better than we could hope for! An unforgettable stay. Thank you xx

- Catherine, December 2022
Matthew December 2022

“Easy access, beautiful property, helpful host and provided plenty of wood for the cold snap we had - would certainly stay again!”

- Matthew, December 2022
Luke November 2022

“The hosts were excellent - very friendly and had gone to the effort of decorating the house for Christmas for us!”

They were helpful with all our requests too. The house is unique - we loved it and will be back.

- Luke, November 2022
Gail November 2022

“We have had a brilliant family weekend in this amazing, quirky property .”

Played hide and seek with the grandkids loads . Took full advantage of the hot tub . Plentiful supply of logs for the wood burner . Nothing was too much trouble for the owners . Went in a walk at the nature trail right next to the hall . Highly recommend the Black Bull in Nateby couple of miles away for good pub grub .

- Gail, November 2022
Manasa October 2022

“Smardale hall was a unique and wonderful place for a holiday with the family.”

Our children called it the 'castle house' and the living room and the fireplace captivated them and us a lot. The beds were super comfortable and despite being old and huge, it felt pretty warm - particularly when we had the fire going. The kitchen was very well equipped and see managed to have dinner there most nights and even Diwali and a birthday celebration. We only met Steven the owner - once as he led us up to the place with his car at we got there in the night and couldn't see there we were going and again as we left. He was lovely and very hospitable. We loved waking up to sheep being rounded up in the pen and beautiful sunrises and sunsets through the many large windows. There is a local walk that is along the old train line that is really beautiful and friendly for all ages. If there are any cons, it would be that you need a car to get here and it's a B road at the end so be prepared for awkward backing up in case you encounter oncoming traffic. Good news is Sainsburys delivers groceries so you don't need to pack everything to go here. The bathrooms are in the turrets and are quite cold so pack some robes to keep you cozy as you get in and out of the shower. Finally, we tried the hot tub on one night but it was warm. We should have asked Steven to help get it hotter but we didn't. Mainly as our mobile phones didn't work there. However, the internet is super fast so you can keep in touch with the world if you want to and plan nearby adventures. Thank you for having us and hope to return in the future.

- Manasa, October 2022
Ian May 2022

“This was our second time at this property.”

It is a fabulous get away location. We would highly recommend it.

- Ian, May 2022
Lyndsey May 2022

“My friends and I enjoyed our stay at Smardale Hall thoroughly!”

The character of the building, the views, the hot tub made this holiday incredibly special. The hosts were incredibly kind and friendly. Only minor problem was the shower in the en suite either ran very hot or freezing cold. But this did nothing to spoil our moods! We all said that we would definitely recommend this place to others as well as return ourselves!! Thank you for a great holiday!

- Lyndsey, May 2022
Karen April 2022

“Lovely stay.”

Beautiful setting. Will definitely be back xx

- Karen, April 2022
Nicola April 2022

“We had a wonderful week at this property.”

Stunning views from the house (and the hot tub), plenty of logs for the wood burner, great location (easy walk/bike ride to Smardale viaduct from the property), super comfy beds and the most friendly owners who, despite it being the height of lambing season, found time to let us experience their farm. We’d definitely love to return.

- Nicola, April 2022
Cheryl March 2022

“A unique property in a beautiful area.”

We had a wonderful stay and the owners were very helpful. Lots of walks and wildlife at the local nature reserve. Don't miss the farmers market at Olton and the Wensledale creamery is worth a visit too. We've been here before and we'll definitely return again.

- Cheryl, March 2022
Sarah February 2022

“Excellent location, lovely characterful property, in keeping with its age!”

We had a really comfortable stay! Not the best hot tub, could of done with being a bit deeper, when you sat in it most of you was out of the water so we were freezing!! Thank you for allowing us early entry because of the storm! We really appreciated it! We’ll be back soon!

- Sarah, February 2022
Simon February 2022

“We had a lovely week at Smardale Hall.”

Our hosts were tremendously attentive – the fire was lit before we arrived, there was an endless supply of wood and coal and they were immediately on hand for any questions we had. The house is spacious with a lovely kitchen and drawing room and the bed was superbly warm and comfortable. The house is on a working farm and the hosts were more than happy to show us around and even included us in the sheep scanning. The local walks in the Nature Reserve are wonderful with beautiful countryside all around and the Lake District is an easy drive and only about an hour away. Highly recommended for a very quiet week’s getaway or just a weekend break.

- Simon, February 2022
Rachael January 2022

“Lovely property with lots of history and character.”

Idyllic location with fabulous views and great walks on the doorstep.

- Rachael, January 2022
Susan November 2021

“We experienced all 4 seasons in a few days but the best by far was watching the snow fall from the hot tub.”

A roaring fire awaited us on arrival, which was most welcome the hall itself was well stocked and apart from catered to our very need. A very helpful farmer (owner) even transported us into local town for much needed shopping after we got snowed in. Would definitely be staying here again it was a very restful place to stay

- Susan, November 2021
Ian September 2021

“Its location was excellent for us.”

It allowed us to meet up with our daughter and at the same time travel down with our son. Its isolated location suited us perfectly and yet it has great walking nearby. Local service at Kirkby Steven suited us just fine and they were just superb. We would love to go bsck to this venue again in the future.

- Ian, September 2021
Simon August 2021

“It’s a castle!”

!

- Simon, August 2021
Christine July 2021

“Fantastic place to be.”

Cottage was lovely and clean. Owners were fab and allowed my son to see all the animals and feed the calves. He loved it! Only downside was that the owners were told there’d only be three of us (also shown this on the app) but our confirmation email had correct no which was 4

- Christine, July 2021
Mary July 2021

“Absolutely wonderful.”

..that was our second time visiting Smarsdale Hall.... we'd love to go every year!!!!

- Mary, July 2021
Lesley July 2021

“Had a fabulous week at Smardale Hall.”

It’s so quiet and peaceful with just farm noises and the clickety clack of the train in the distance. The weather forecast hadn’t been great, but it turned out really well and we sat outside for all but one meal. The friendly dogs often popped by to say hello too. Plenty of room for five of us, a lovely light and well-equipped kitchen, we enjoyed the hot tub and used every day. Visited lots of different places in the Lake District and Barnard Castle and also walked into Kirkby Stephens and back for a car free day. Highly recommend!

- Lesley, July 2021
Phyllis Lrene June 2021

“Excellent hosts, friendly e very appropriable.”

Views stupendous, especially from the hot tub.Local nature reserve,highly recommend.We spent a wonderful week away staying here.Hopefully in the future will return.Thank you Gill Steve e family.

- Phyllis Lrene, June 2021
Chris June 2021

“Enjoyed an exceptional stay at Smardale Hall, wonderful accommodation, warm welcome from owners and beautiful weather the whole time - perfect!”

- Chris, June 2021
Dawn May 2021

“2nd time at Smardale Hall, aka the Princess Castle according to my granddaughters.”

Delightful period property. The views whilst in the hot tub are stunning, especially when the steam train goes past. Real fire in the lounge. It's a working farm and the hardworking owners love to show you their livestock. A real retreat for families, walkers or whoever, who want to recharge their batteries and have some quality time.

- Dawn, May 2021
Lisa May 2021

“The pictures don’t do this house justice , so beautiful and spacious well situated hot tub loads of space in the house beautiful fire just loved it we didn’t want to leave!”

- Lisa, May 2021
Mark September 2020

“Fantastic holiday!”

Only problem was the WiFi which was ok in the kitchen, not ideal for work

- Mark, September 2020
Helen September 2020

“This is a lovely property and great for kids as there is a lot of space inside and out.”

I heard my son telling someone he met at a play area that we were staying on a working farm and he was so excited by this, the goats scared him though lol. The house itself is large and spacious, agree with someone else, if you want brand new with whitewashed walls then this isn’t the place for you! This property is homely and because of the old style of the building the decor fits beautifully. Beds are comfortable, it’s very clean and the kitchen is amazing. The WiFi isn’t the greatest and one of us needed to work while there (self employed) and couldn’t connect the laptop to the WiFi, the owner came round and very kindly provided us with another WiFi and code which worked. The hot tub is lovely and placed where the views are beautiful; house one side which is great to Look at and fields the other. Kids were excited to see the steam train going past from afar, we had a little walk along the old railway line and we enjoyed playing hide and seek inside when it was raining. We took a couple of our own games to play but there are some there, the kids played with some dinosaurs they found. Overall, a gorgeous place that has been very well looked after and very clean.

- Helen, September 2020
Anne August 2020

“A lovely setting and very relaxed place to be .”

Thank you

- Anne, August 2020
Claire July 2020

“Smardale Hall is a great location and place to stay.”

We had a fab week staying there and would recommend it. Loads of walks from the doorstep and a great location. Yes, there are damp patches on some of the walls but it's a really old building, and this had no impact on our stay at all. It was never cold, with the heating coming on automatically if temperatures dropped even slightly, and plenty of wood if a fire was required. The beds are really comfortable and the bedrooms had blackout blinds which makes a great difference. The host also phoned us on the morning of our arrival to let us know the hot tub had unfortunately broken but she was very apologetic and had organised a repair for the next day, informed us as soon as it was fixed and we were still able to use it for the majority of our stay.

- Claire, July 2020
Bria July 2020

“The owners are friendly, welcoming and very responsive.”

There was an issue with the hot tub, and they were out to fix it almost within minutes of being made aware. The beds were exceptionally comfortable, and there was plenty of space for everyone to be together or to have space apart. Magnificent views, wonderful wildlife and farmlife all around. I can't fault anything about this holiday.

- Bria, July 2020
Philip February 2020

“Smardale Hall is a unique and fascinating place to stay.”

The ancient house is comfortable and welcoming due to the friendliness and generosity of the farmers who live next door. I will be booking it again soon.

- Philip, February 2020
Jo February 2020

“Lovely hosts - we had a great weekend on the farm!”

- Jo, February 2020
Henry January 2020

“Lovely location, and hot tub was great and secluded.”

Like other reviewers have said, it is an old property and so you get what comes with that age of house, but as long as you are happy with that it is a lovely place to stay, beautiful location and plenty of walks from your doorstep. The owners are friendly (taking the family on a tour of the farm yard as we were looking at some of the animals), and had the fire roaring away ready for our arrival. We'll certainly be coming back, great location and property for a family break.

- Henry, January 2020
Lucy January 2020

“This holiday letting is fantastic.”

We went as a group of 2 families with primary and pre school age children. Steve and his family could not have been more helpful and friendly. It is on a working farm and Steve let the children look round it and even hold the chicks. The views are amazing and the hot tub was used every day. The size of the building is enormous and there is a lovely open fire and big kitchen to host everyone in. We will definitely be going again.

- Lucy, January 2020
Nicola August 2019

“Beautiful 16th century listed building.”

Some parts needed updating but you would expect this of this building. We had a fantastic weekend with the hot tub being the bonus. It is very remote which is exactly what we wanted. Extremely well stocked with everything you need. Beds very comfortable. The owners were lovely, going above and beyond our expectations. We will definitely return.

- Nicola, August 2019
Steve July 2019

“The hosts were great people and the house is lovely and large.”

Loved the hot tub in the garden looking at sheep over the wall. All in all a great experience

- Steve, July 2019
Rachel June 2019

“This was our third visit to Smardale - we love the house, the location, the farm and the owners.”

It's such a relaxing place to be, and the hot tub at the end of a long walk is very special. We hope to be back next year!

- Rachel, June 2019
Sally April 2019

“Lovely setting, welcoming hosts, fantastic hot tub, isolated but beautiful views.”

- Sally, April 2019
Dawn March 2019

“Listed building with parts 700 years old.”

Fabulous views, the hot tub is a must. The accomodation is spacious so with 5 adults and 2 kids we had loads of room. Kids loved playing hide and seek. The kitchen is well stocked. The beds are soooo comfy. Although the weather was challenging the owner kept us well supplied with wood and coal for log burner and central heating was on. It's a working farm and the owners were very welcoming and the children loved being shown the animals, holding baby goats, chicks and watching the calfs and newly born lambs. This is perfect for quality family time. We are already looking to book for next summer.

- Dawn, March 2019
Levi January 2019

“Was brillant we loved it.”

Only thing was the shower room lots off flies but i know it can't be helped.

- Levi, January 2019
Willeke December 2018

“We had a wonderful stay at Smardale Hall.”

The owners are very friendly and relaxed. The hot tub is a winner, we spend many hours within. The rooms nice and clean and the beds very comfortable. Beautiful surroundings, lovely walks. Our family had a great time at the house.

- Willeke, December 2018
Sarah December 2018

“The property is in need of some tlc - the damp problem is really bad much worse than others said.”

I also don’t believe it should be listed as having WiFi as the WiFi is only an extender from the owners and the signal was so poor it didn’t work. We enjoyed the hot tub however that had not been cleaned and had a ring of scum around it. Lovely setting but felt a bit neglected.

- Sarah, December 2018

I am sorry to hear you experienced Wi-Fi and maintenance issues during your stay at the cottage. We want you to have all advertised facilities on our website and we strive on having exceptional property standards in all Sykes properties. We will investigate the issues with the property owner to establish why our service has fell short on this occasion. This is not our usual expectation and would like to assure you that your issues are being handled. If you wish to discuss or elaborate more on the issues raised, please feel free to contact the Sykes office on the details below, quoting your booking reference number and any other information that may assist us in providing the best possible outcome and customer service. Lines are open 7 days a week from 9am until 7pm Property Owner
David August 2018

“Great setting and location.”

Good facilities and the hot tub was great (might want to include a picture of this on the listing as it is a real feature), However the wifi was very unreliable even in the kitchen. Although there is some damp in the property it is well served with humidifiers. Very friendly and helpful hosts.

- David, August 2018
Carol July 2018

“A delightful generous and unique cottage which is part of a large working farm.”

It is comfortable, spacious and easy - and the 'dormitory' room with four comfortable beds worked very well indeed. It is very well appointed, everything worked well and there was abundant hot water. The location gives perfect access to the delightful area. Perfect for a family holiday!

- Carol, July 2018
Nicola April 2018

“The house is a fabulous 14th century property on a working farm.”

Extremely quirky but well equipped with plenty of crockery, cutlery, glasses and kitchen equipment for 8 people around a fabulous farmhouse kitchen table that easily fitted everyone. The hot tub and outside seating is across the yard in an area that gets the sun all day, so a really well chosen place to site them. As there were 6 mums on our annual 'away weekend' without the children, our only suggestion for improvement is the need for an extra shower. The en-suite bathroom (off one of the double bedrooms) has a shower, but the main bathroom has just a bath, so some consideration should perhaps be given to somehow incorporating a shower in the main bathroom else making the downstairs cloakroom into a shower room / wet room. Otherwise a wonderful, relaxing time was had by all. A great chat with the farmer about the farm, locality and his family connection with the area, before a 2.5 hour circular walk, a trip into Kirby Stevens, time in the hot tub and lots of fun and laughter - definitely just what the doctor ordered.

- Nicola, April 2018
Julie April 2018

“Great accommodation and great views.”

We loved our stay and would gladly book again. Spectacular views from hot tub and great hot tub for first timers..

- Julie, April 2018
Angela April 2018

“Just recently got back from a short stay here with my family.”

We had a lovely stay and the owners were very nice and helpful. It’s a great place to just get away from it all and relax in beautiful country surroundings. The hot tub was lovely too after a long walk around the nearby nature reserve! Kirkby Stephen is only a short drive away and Kendal is only a 40 min drive away too. We would definitely recommend and would go back again!

- Angela, April 2018
Sarah March 2018

“Smardale Hall is a really peaceful place to stay.”

The surrounding countryside is beautiful. The owners are very friendly and helpful. They allowed my 3 year old daughter to cuddle and feed their pet lambs on our final day there which made a lovely end to our holiday. I would definitely like to return.

- Sarah, March 2018
Corinne March 2018

“Stunning property.”

Larger than expected. Weather not good with heavy snow but that didn't stop the kids enjoying the hot tub. Farmer took me into town to buy extra provisions as was a moment if we were getting back down the lane. Would definitely come back. Really appreciated the assistance. Thank you.

- Corinne, March 2018
jodi November 2017

“A fantastic break.”

The hosts were lovely and we couldn't have asked for anything more. Such a picture perfect place.

- jodi, November 2017
Carly October 2017

“The only shower in the house (en suite) did not work properly - it was a dribble so some days I could not have a shower and had to wash down instead, not ideal when 5 people are sharing (and can sleep up to 8!”

) that needs to be addressed before I would consider re-booking. Everything else was perfect!

- Carly, October 2017
Rachel June 2017

“This is a fantastic house, in a beautiful location.”

The farmer and his family were very friendly and invited the children to look round and 'help' on the farm, which they just loved. Many thanks.

- Rachel, June 2017
David November 2016

“The owners were very friendly and were more than willing to attend to minor problems for us.”

The hot tub at this property is a real bonus.

- David, November 2016
Charlotte October 2016

“Beautiful house, wonderful scenery, had an amazing time.”

Already talking about booking it for my next birthday.

- Charlotte, October 2016
Diane September 2016

“Stunning position, and lovely building.”

Really near to a nature reserve which leads down to an old viaduct which you can walk across, a lovely early morning walk! The Dales were fabulous.

- Diane, September 2016
Nitin May 2016

“The Setting is stunning with beautiful views all around.”

The Outdoor Hot Tub added to the pleasure. The house was fully equipped. It is a very fine stay where one could "switch off" and escape.

- Nitin, May 2016
Joseph April 2016

“We enjoyed the location, which was outstanding.”

Being on a working farm was much enjoyed by our 3 year-old granddaughter. The owners were helpful and friendly. The house was, without doubt, unique.

- Joseph, April 2016
Brynley February 2016

“We had a great time at Smardale Hall.”

We wanted something historic and different and that is what we got. We liked the first rate walks from the front door. We liked the tourist infrastructure in the wider locality, such as The Fat Lamb. Smardale Hall is really something else ... we are into Landmark Trust levels of excellence with this one.

- Brynley, February 2016
Ann-louise October 2015

“Fabulous place and perfect for families.”

We had a brilliant weekend, the house is lovely with plenty of space for the kids to explore and nice outdoor space. There's a lovely walk along the old train track nearby. We will definitely be returning!

- Ann-louise, October 2015
Catherine August 2015

“The situation of Smardale Hall is beautiful, and the property itself is full of character.”

The family running the property are very friendly and helpful. Smardale Hall is very well located for day trips and there is at least one lovely walk to do from the house.

- Catherine, August 2015
Campbell April 2015

“This was a great property and the hosts made us feel very welcome.”

I would really recommend this property.

- Campbell, April 2015
Roy December 2014

“Great character-filled hall, very spacious and great for a large group.”

Once warmed up it was very cosy, and loved the real fire in the lounge. Really big kitchen table was really good to gather round for meals. Good location if you like the outdoors, on a working farm with friendly owners.

- Roy, December 2014
Paul September 2014

“A really different place to stay - in a very good way and the main town is also very good.”

We also loved the national park walking track at the entry to the property

- Paul, September 2014
Domenico September 2014

“Our hosts made us feel special and extremely welcome.”

The farm buildings and surrounding area were idyllic and so peaceful. Being on a working farm made this an ideal relaxing family holiday. Probably the best holiday break we have had.

- Domenico, September 2014
Sheila July 2014

“Beautiful house in a wonderful setting.”

Very friendly owners. Made for a very relaxed holiday.

- Sheila, July 2014
Michelle May 2014

“Smardale Hall and the surrounding countryside is breathtaking.”

As is the grandeur of the Hall itself. The helpfulness and friendliness of the owners went beyond our expectations of being made to feel welcome on their working farm. Our children experienced one of their most memorable holidays so far, getting to know the farmyard animals, feeding newborn lambs and collecting the daily eggs. They were actively encouraged by the owners to participate in 'farming life', which they LOVED every minute of. Will definitely be returning!

- Michelle, May 2014
Susan November 2013

“The property was beautiful both inside and out.”

It is close to a nature reserve which provided a lovely walk right on the doorstep.

- Susan, November 2013
Rhiannan November 2013

“Amazing house would definitely go again.”

- Rhiannan, November 2013

Show less

Summary

Three bedrooms: 1 x king-size double with en-suite shower, basin and WC, 1 x double, 1 x family room with 2 singles and 1 adult bunks
Bathroom with bath, basin and WC
Ground floor basin and WC
Kitchen with dining area
Utility
Sitting room with woodburner.
Oil central heating with woodburner
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washer/dryer, dishwasher, TV with Freeview, DVD, CD, WiFi, selection of books, games and DVDs
Fuel, power and fuel for woodburner inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent, please bring own hot tub towels
Cot and highchair on request
Off road parking for 4 cars
Bike storage
Front patio garden with 8-seater hot tub and use of lawned garden
Three well-behaved dogs welcome at a supplement charge of £30 per dog
Sorry,no smoking
Shop and pub 3 miles
Note: Property is on a working farm and children should be supervised at all times
Note: Property is located near the Settle-Carlisle Railway and some noise may be heard
There are no more than 6 trains a day, no later than 8pm and with little noise
Note: WiFi is only available in specific areas of the cottage. Please note: If you are wanting to bring a 4th dog please get in touch with Sykes to enquire first.

The property

Kirkby Stephen 3 miles.

Dating back to the 14th century, this enchanting Grade II listed semi-detached cottage is attached to the owner's home and sits on a working livestock farm with sheep and cows in a delightful rural location between the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District National Parks.

Complete with unique towers and turrets, this striking cottage provides spacious accommodation for any group hunting for a holiday with a difference.

The large sitting room features a cosy woodburner and a hideaway space set into each adjoining tower, providing a cosy spot to retreat with a book.

There are three comfortable bedrooms, including one with en-suite facilities, and a family bathroom, located in the first floor turret; another unusual feature of this delightful cottage.

Outside, there is a sunny walled garden, and guests are welcome to use the shared lawns that overlook the farmyard.

If you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the native red squirrels and deer that dwell in the Smardale Gill nature reserve on the doorstep.

The traditional market town of Kirkby Stephen is just three miles away and offers a good variety of amenities, and the option to enjoy a breathtaking journey by steam over the Ribblehead viaduct on the Settle-Carlisle Railway.

The quaint village of Ravenstondale is a short drive away and has excellent pubs and tea rooms, plus the 9 hole golf course allows visitors to leave their green fees in an honesty box, and enjoy a relaxed game in pretty surroundings.

This charming cottage will be loved by guests of all ages.

View on map

About the location

KIRKBY STEPHEN

Appleby-in-Westmorland 12 miles; Sedbergh 13 miles; Barnard Castle 21 miles; Penrith 22 miles; Reeth 22 miles; Kendal 23 miles; Middleton-in-Teesdale 27 miles; Ullswater Lake 35 miles..

The old market town of Kirkby Stephen lies at the foot of the Howgill Fells in the upper Eden Valley, between the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Parks. The traditional market town hosts a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs for every taste and budget. A delightful rural town with a thriving local community and many traditional old dwellings, Kirkby Stephen boasts cobbled old yards, quaint corners and a pretty picnic area where “Frank’s Bridge” crosses the River Eden, while just a mile from the town, the old railway station connects to the magnificent Settle-Carlisle Railway line, a must-do travel experience for everyone. Enjoy many excellent walks and cycle routes nearby, particularly the route of the old Darlington to Tebay train line over two magnificent viaducts, and visit the gothic gorge where the River Eden flows through wooded Stenkrith park. Explore the wonderful Howgill Fells or visit the majestic Pendragon Castle and Brough Castle. A superb location with the whole of the mystical Lake District National Park, the stunning Yorkshire Dales and the North Pennines AONB at your fingertips.

Notes: Maximum of 8 guests
Note: 3 well-behaved dogs are welcome at a supplement charge of £30 per dog, a 4th dog may come but please enquire with Sykes before booking otherwise the 4th dog will be rejected.

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Last minute
Christmas

Your selection:

Features

Reviews & Ratings

“This was an amazing place to stay, it has so much more character than a lot of places, and relaxing in front of the log burner in the evening, or in the hot tub was the perfect end to a day after climbing mountains, or visiting English heritage sites.”

“We had a superb week at Smardale Hall.”

“The weather was poor whilst we were there but that was not be the fault of the host or Sykes.”

“Amazing property and area, it was great that we could have a walk round and see all the animals.”

“Had a lovely family trip to Smardale, loved the kitchen and the space of this holiday let.”

“Our return to Smardale was fabulous.”

“We really enjoyed our stay, it's not often you can stay in a C14th listed building.”

“We had a wonderful stay in an amazing house that took our breath away!”

“Easy access, beautiful property, helpful host and provided plenty of wood for the cold snap we had - would certainly stay again!”

“The hosts were excellent - very friendly and had gone to the effort of decorating the house for Christmas for us!”

“We have had a brilliant family weekend in this amazing, quirky property .”

“Smardale hall was a unique and wonderful place for a holiday with the family.”

“This was our second time at this property.”

“My friends and I enjoyed our stay at Smardale Hall thoroughly!”

“Lovely stay.”

“We had a wonderful week at this property.”

“A unique property in a beautiful area.”

“Excellent location, lovely characterful property, in keeping with its age!”

“We had a lovely week at Smardale Hall.”

“Lovely property with lots of history and character.”

“We experienced all 4 seasons in a few days but the best by far was watching the snow fall from the hot tub.”

“Its location was excellent for us.”

“It’s a castle!”

“Fantastic place to be.”

“Absolutely wonderful.”

“Had a fabulous week at Smardale Hall.”

“Excellent hosts, friendly e very appropriable.”

“Enjoyed an exceptional stay at Smardale Hall, wonderful accommodation, warm welcome from owners and beautiful weather the whole time - perfect!”

“2nd time at Smardale Hall, aka the Princess Castle according to my granddaughters.”

“The pictures don’t do this house justice , so beautiful and spacious well situated hot tub loads of space in the house beautiful fire just loved it we didn’t want to leave!”

“Fantastic holiday!”

“This is a lovely property and great for kids as there is a lot of space inside and out.”

“A lovely setting and very relaxed place to be .”

“Smardale Hall is a great location and place to stay.”

“The owners are friendly, welcoming and very responsive.”

“Smardale Hall is a unique and fascinating place to stay.”

“Lovely hosts - we had a great weekend on the farm!”

“Lovely location, and hot tub was great and secluded.”

“This holiday letting is fantastic.”

“Beautiful 16th century listed building.”

“The hosts were great people and the house is lovely and large.”

“This was our third visit to Smardale - we love the house, the location, the farm and the owners.”

“Lovely setting, welcoming hosts, fantastic hot tub, isolated but beautiful views.”

“Listed building with parts 700 years old.”

“Was brillant we loved it.”

“We had a wonderful stay at Smardale Hall.”

“The property is in need of some tlc - the damp problem is really bad much worse than others said.”

“Great setting and location.”

“A delightful generous and unique cottage which is part of a large working farm.”

“The house is a fabulous 14th century property on a working farm.”

“Great accommodation and great views.”

“Just recently got back from a short stay here with my family.”

“Smardale Hall is a really peaceful place to stay.”

“Stunning property.”

“A fantastic break.”

“The only shower in the house (en suite) did not work properly - it was a dribble so some days I could not have a shower and had to wash down instead, not ideal when 5 people are sharing (and can sleep up to 8!”

“This is a fantastic house, in a beautiful location.”

“The owners were very friendly and were more than willing to attend to minor problems for us.”

“Beautiful house, wonderful scenery, had an amazing time.”

“Stunning position, and lovely building.”

“The Setting is stunning with beautiful views all around.”

“We enjoyed the location, which was outstanding.”

“We had a great time at Smardale Hall.”

“Fabulous place and perfect for families.”

“The situation of Smardale Hall is beautiful, and the property itself is full of character.”

“This was a great property and the hosts made us feel very welcome.”

“Great character-filled hall, very spacious and great for a large group.”

“A really different place to stay - in a very good way and the main town is also very good.”

“Our hosts made us feel special and extremely welcome.”

“Beautiful house in a wonderful setting.”

“Smardale Hall and the surrounding countryside is breathtaking.”

“The property was beautiful both inside and out.”

“Amazing house would definitely go again.”

Summary

The property

View on map

About the location