The School

4.8★

10 Guests
5 Bedrooms
5 Bathrooms
Pets No
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Features

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

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

25 Customer Review(s)

Lee
October 2024

“House was a top find.”

I stay in the lakes 2 or 3 times a year, always try and pick a different place to see as much as I can. The school easily in the top handful overall. House easily accommodated 10 people and didn't ever feel like people were under each other's feet. The local pub is excellent which is a bonus, not always a given (looking at you portinscale)... the fact that the local walk ends literally at your back door is the cherry on the cake and immensely satisfying. Have already recommended to friends and ...

I stay in the lakes 2 or 3 times a year, always try and pick a different place to see as much as I can. The school easily in the top handful overall. House easily accommodated 10 people and didn't ever feel like people were under each other's feet. The local pub is excellent which is a bonus, not always a given (looking at you portinscale)... the fact that the local walk ends literally at your back door is the cherry on the cake and immensely satisfying. Have already recommended to friends and the (constructive criticism) lack of dog friendliness is the only reason it hasn't been booked up already by one of them. 5/5

- Lee, October 2024
Katie May 2024

“We stayed at the School as a party of seven adults and a baby to celebrate my parents’ 70th birthday.”

It is a wonderful old, converted schoolhouse , done up to a high standard with tasteful decor. It is very well equipped with crockery, games etc. The house is on three floors which makes it perfect for a group stay as there are lots of different areas for people to enjoy without being on top of one another. Indeed, the lower floor has its own kitchen and sitting room leading straight into a beautiful garden so can be used as its own confined accommodation. The most amazing thing about the house (to which the photos do not do justice) is that there is a wonderful terrace leading off the kitchen which backs directly onto a fell. We had a blissful barbecue on the terrace looking out over the fell. The sitting / dining room also has a double height ceiling with lovely views. The house is very quiet and in a great location in the Northern fells in striking distance of Keswick (lovely Victorian town), Castlerigg stone circle (ancient circle of stones), Ullswater lake which is beautiful and has excellent canoeing, walks up Carrock Fell and Bannerdale Crags, amazing country houses such as Dalemain and Hutton in the Forest etc. etc. Our constructive feedback is that the electric oven is temperamental and it’s hard to cook food reliably, the terrace overlooking the fell could be made more attractive eg with potted plants and there were a few items listed on the website which we couldn’t find, namely the DVD players. These are minor things which did not ultimately detract from a wonderful stay at the house. We would highly recommend the School and would love to come back on another trip to the Lakes.

- Katie, May 2024
Michael March 2024

“Lovely conversion in a great location with many walks to take straight from the property but near enough to a nice local pub.”

Keswick only 15 mins away by car. A few minor points, one bedroom on main floor not en-suite and no toliet on that floor and very little by way of garden furniture. However, the place was very well stocked and all in all excellent for a family holiday.

- Michael, March 2024
Mary March 2024

“A stunning property set in idyllic surroundings.”

Exceptionally well equipped and tastefully furnished. Very comprehensive property manual. Warm and comfortable with gorgeous views. I cannot recommend this property highly enough.

- Mary, March 2024
Pam March 2024

“A wonderful house, very suitable for a group of friends of a certain age.”

Plenty of space to avoid each other, if needed but also large enough social spaces for everyone to be together when required. Kitchen very well equipped beds lovely and comfortable, log burner beautiful on a cold evening. Local pub, the Mill Inn, very accommodating and very satisfying food. One minor improvement would be to have 2 toasters!!

- Pam, March 2024
Steven January 2024

“Booked The School for my 70th birthday along with our three 'little ones' and their partners and was not disappointed.”

It is the best holiday rental we've ever had fantastic layout, really well equipped and space for everyone to socialise yet also have some private space. In my opinion well worth the money and the bonus of walks from the back door. We didn't want to leave and have already discussed having another family get together there. Had the bonus of being able to accommodate four cars on the drive.

- Steven, January 2024
Jennifer November 2023

“It would have been good to have more basic condiments.”

There was a cruet set but the salt cellar was empty. A bigger log stack by the fire and information that there were additional logs in the garage. Slightly more generous in and out times would have been nice considering it was out of season and at a high price level.

- Jennifer, November 2023
Pete November 2023

“Fantastic house, in a fantastic, quiet location.”

The house was lovely and warm from the second we walked into the property. Multi level bedrooms which worked really well for our aging limbed party of 9. No shortcomings in the kitchen, there was everything you needed, plenty of utensils etc, fully working electrical items. The house flowed really well for social gatherings after a good walk in the surrounding area....from the kitchen to dining area and continued into the main fire/seating area....to the TV area at the end. Good WiFi signal so no issues there at all considering the location. Bedrooms and bathrooms spotlessly clean and excellent utility facilities for those muddy clothes after your walk. There was room for 5 cars as we put one in the garage. Having stayed in several properties like this in the Lake District, this has to be the best so far and would 100% rebook this property. Only negative and it is tiny, but definitely needs sorting, is the gate to the rear that takes you on to the fell. The wooden post that holds the gate has completely rotted and needs replacing...so when you open the gate, the whole thing falls away from the stone post.

- Pete, November 2023

Thank you for your comments and we are encouraged to read that this is the best so far you have stayed in in the Lakes. We are aware that the wooden post on the fellside gate is rotten and are in the process of getting this replaced. Property Owner
Benjamin May 2023

“We had a fantastic stay at this property, it was the perfect setting in a quite village with a quaint little pub.”

With walks starting straight from the back garden you won't find anywhere better. The house was very cosey all rooms were clean and the fire was a lovely place to sit around with the family.

- Benjamin, May 2023
Elizabeth April 2023

“Excellent facilities however outside seating to enjoy the garden and scenery would make it even better.”

- Elizabeth, April 2023
Garth April 2023

“Our 4 th visit to the School.”

We love the location and find that it works so well with our family ranging from 4 to 79! Weather was a bit mixed this time but we were able to do plenty of hiking.

- Garth, April 2023
Michael January 2023

“A fantastic house.”

Every comfort and everything provided. We couldn't wish for more.

- Michael, January 2023
Ian December 2022

“We love this place.”

Every room is immaculate and well presented. The kitchen has every piece of equipment you need and plenty of crockery. The house is always warm. Can’t wait to come back.

- Ian, December 2022
Godfrey November 2022

“We booked The School in November 2021 and again this November.”

We love it there and admire the thought and planning to convert the house from its previous structure and to provide so much room and levels of comfort. We found the games room this year and that proved to be very useful on one particularly bad weather day. We may be back again.

- Godfrey, November 2022
John June 2022

“The only problem was the TV in the main lounge which we were not able to use.”

We did contact the owner who referred it to you and you told us that the people in the previous week had been fine with it. This is just not true according to the housekeeper who told us they had not been able to work it.What ashamed for otherwise it is a lovely property which lives up to its billing

- John, June 2022

I am very sorry to hear you and Mrs Hall (who stayed the week before) were unable to use the TV in the main lounge. This seems strange as this TV is new and clear instructions are provided. I am visiting the property myself in a weeks' time, so will check it then. - John, June 2022 Property Owner
Yasmine April 2022

“Great house.”

Lovely location. Perfect for two families. Only comment - there’s a really annoying alarm on the freezer which comes on intermittently. As it’s in the kitchen, you really notice it when relaxing after a days walk. Would recommend getting this sorted as it was the only annoying thing about this lovely house. Thank you.

- Yasmine, April 2022
Paul February 2022

“Beautiful home in a stunning location.”

- Paul, February 2022
Godfrey November 2021

“Our mixed group were delighted with The School at Mungrisdale.”

Most definitely the best place we have ever stayed at. The fact that it appeared to come with its own red squirrel was a bonus. We loved the way the building has been converted and the details like the long curtains. There was so much room there that our group of seven could easily disappear into their own parts of the house. Generally it was equipped for most things (maybe add a couple of large cooking dishes), very well heated and comfortable and supportive furniture and beds. The rooms were all of a good size and the bathrooms too. Perhaps the only consideration would be for people who are limited in their movement as the house is on three floors. However the ground floor is self contained with its own kitchen and lounge area The area is good for walking with Blencathra and The Cumbria Way nearby - in fact there is a lovely lower level walk into Keswick via Mosedale and the Cumbria Way.

- Godfrey, November 2021
Stewart October 2021

“Very well done for such a large complex property.”

- Stewart, October 2021
David October 2021

“Lock on garage side door defective.”

No security for bikes.

- David, October 2021

We would like to thank you for your feedback. The owner has let us know that there is a key for the garage which is located in the key safe. We are sorry you were unable to find this during your stay. Property Owner
Patsy September 2021

“No champagne glasses Poor outside seating/ eating area both outside kitchen and downstairs bedroom .”

Weather was beautiful I would have loved to sit out and watch the sunrise etc. Sess pit and flies a pain a bad smell for several days . Not nice for my guests . I was there 2,weeks no sheets left to change beds so I had to do ! No offer of a interim clean which I would have expected as I was paying too rate . Asking guests to take recycling with you is a ridiculous request . I had 27!guest in a fortnight ! Might have considered it if the book suggested where the recycle was ! Need to by a handheld Dustin for kitchen / breakfast table etc . Hoovers there are very heavy . Thank goodness I met the cleaners hard house to navigate on your own ! Table tennis table was filthy as was the garage freezer, totally unusable .

- Patsy, September 2021

Thank you for your feedback. We are sorry you were unhappy with certain aspects of The School. You clearly had good weather - which is always a bonus in the Lakes. Our housekeeper would have willingly changed the sheets/cleaned after week 1, had you asked. I have noted your points re cleaning and will rectify for future guests. Property Owner
Nick July 2021

“Property was not properly cleaned in important areas, Kitchen and bathrooms.”

Kettle not fit for use as rusted inside. No radio, limited TV channels, garden overgrown

- Nick, July 2021

Thank you for your feedback. I am sorry to hear that. We have replaced both kettles (although the rust is in fact peat from the fells). We have a gardener who comes on a weekly basis - so I am not sure why you found the garden was overgrown. Property Owner
Karen June 2021

“Had a fantastic time and the School was superb, very clean and exceptionally well equipped”

- Karen, June 2021
Mrs Gardner Dec 2019

“A lovely warm house, well equipped with lots of thoughtful extras.”

The size was ideal for 8 in the party with plenty of room to spread out.

- Mrs Gardner, Dec 2019
Ms Goldstraw Dec 2019

“All excellent.”

Quality of products and equipment were first class.

- Ms Goldstraw, Dec 2019

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Summary

Over three floors
Five bedrooms: 2 x king-size with en-suite bath, shower over, basin and WC, 1 x ground-floor king-size with en-suite bath, walk-in shower, basin and WC, 1 x ground-floor twin with en-suite walk-in shower, basin and WC, 1 x twin.Cloak/Shower room with walk-in shower, basin and WC
Kitchen with breakfast bar
Utility room
Living/dining room with woodburner
Lower ground floor: Kitchen/diner and sitting room.
Oil central heating with underfloor heating and lower ground floor woodburner
Electric range cooker with double oven, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, tumble dryer, dishwasher, TV with Free Sat, Wifi - please note speeds may vary due to the location of the property
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Travel cot and highchair provided
Ample off-road parking
Secure bike storage
Enclosed garden and terrace with seating
Sorry, no pets and no smoking.

The property

The former School is a Grade II listed property built in 1835 from local stone and slate.

It was used as the village school until the early 1960s when it was changed to a private dwelling with dual use as the village post office - there is still a post box at the end of the drive.

The School was completely transformed in 2006 into a luxury, architect designed home. The property is situated north east of the church in the small village of Mungrisdale in the Lake District National Park.

Raven Crags rises behind the house with outstanding views over the North Lakes area.

Guests have direct access on to the fell to the rear and there is a good sized south-west facing enclosed front garden.

Those of you who love walking in the high fells will take great delight in the hills around with paths to the summits of Skiddaw, Blencathra and the Caldbeck Fells starting from the door. The Mill Inn at Mungrisdale is famous for its bar food and there are other excellent country pubs in the area, especially at Caldbeck and Threlkeld.

There is shopping, live theatre and golf at Keswick, Cruises on both Derwentwater and Ullswater lakes will complete your holiday in this beautiful property. Accommodation: From the garage walk around the side of the house to the fell at the back where you will find the entrance into a hallway where there is room to hang coats and leave shoes and boots.

Up a couple of steps on to the main level where you will find the large double-height sitting/dining room with beautiful views out over Mungrisdale through the large fan-shaped windows, an impressive fireplace with woodburner, TV (basic sky package) and free Wi-Fi.

The kitchen leads off from the dining area with cream shaker style units and granite worktops, breakfast bar and large range cooker.

On this level is also a small twin room with views to the rear.

(This bedroom has sole use of the shower room down one flight of stairs which also acts as the main cloakroom.) Downstairs there are two bedrooms - one twin with en-suite (shower, wc and basin) and a double with king-size bed and sliding patio doors out to the garden and en-suite bathroom (bath, separate shower cubicle, basin and wc).

There is a large open plan lounge area with sliding patio doors out to the garden and a second kitchen with dining table.

There is a separate laundry and utility room.

This floor can be used as a separate 'apartment'. On the top floor are two spacious master bedrooms, both of which have glass gallery windows enabling you to look out over the lounge area below.

Both bedrooms have king-size beds, comfortable seating and en-suite bathrooms (bath with shower over, basin and wc). The whole interior is very comfortable and spacious and has been professionally styled with designer fabrics and furnishings, oak flooring in the main living areas, carpeting in the bedrooms and tiling to bathrooms.

Double glazing and oil central (underfloor) heating and hot water. Outside: Good sized south-west facing landscaped garden with flower beds and shrubs, and terrace with garden seating and lovely fell views.

Double garage and parking in the drive for three or four cars.

Nearest pub The Mill Inn at Mungrisdale less than a mile.

Keswick approx 9 miles or 15 mins drive.

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.

Note: Fuel for wood burning stove can be purchased locally.

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season

Keswick, Cumbria & The Lake District (Ref. 1042842)

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“House was a top find.”

“We stayed at the School as a party of seven adults and a baby to celebrate my parents’ 70th birthday.”

“Lovely conversion in a great location with many walks to take straight from the property but near enough to a nice local pub.”

“A stunning property set in idyllic surroundings.”

“A wonderful house, very suitable for a group of friends of a certain age.”

“Booked The School for my 70th birthday along with our three 'little ones' and their partners and was not disappointed.”

“It would have been good to have more basic condiments.”

“Fantastic house, in a fantastic, quiet location.”

“We had a fantastic stay at this property, it was the perfect setting in a quite village with a quaint little pub.”

“Excellent facilities however outside seating to enjoy the garden and scenery would make it even better.”

“Our 4 th visit to the School.”

“A fantastic house.”

“We love this place.”

“We booked The School in November 2021 and again this November.”

“The only problem was the TV in the main lounge which we were not able to use.”

“Great house.”

“Beautiful home in a stunning location.”

“Our mixed group were delighted with The School at Mungrisdale.”

“Very well done for such a large complex property.”

“Lock on garage side door defective.”

“No champagne glasses Poor outside seating/ eating area both outside kitchen and downstairs bedroom .”

“Property was not properly cleaned in important areas, Kitchen and bathrooms.”

“Had a fantastic time and the School was superb, very clean and exceptionally well equipped”

“A lovely warm house, well equipped with lots of thoughtful extras.”

“All excellent.”

Summary

The property

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About the location

KESWICK