Merlestead | Applethwaite | Keswick | The Lake District And Cumbria

4.9★

6 Guests
3 Bedrooms
3 Bathrooms
Pets Yes
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Features

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

35 Customer Review(s)

Anna
August 2024

“Wonderful property, extremely comfortable for 6 adults and 2 dogs.”

Very well equipped. Wonderful views and walks from the door. Would definitely stay here again and highly recommend, not sure why it's not 5* rated!

Very well equipped. Wonderful views and walks from the door. Would definitely stay here again and highly recommend, not sure why it's not 5* rated!

- Anna, August 2024
Claire August 2024

“Fantastic week.”

Beautiful house, perfect location. Already booked for next year

- Claire, August 2024
Bernadette July 2024

“We had a wonderful stay.”

Accommodation was just what we wanted. . Comfortable sofas in both rooms downstairs . Very nice indeed. Bedrooms fab comfy beds. Lovely bathrooms. Fabulous Owner deals with any issues promptly. Nice walk into Keswick. Would definitely return and highly recommend.

- Bernadette, July 2024
Ann June 2024

“Absolutely loved the cottage and its location.”

It had everything we needed.

- Ann, June 2024
Eamonn May 2024

“Excellent property great location”

- Eamonn, May 2024
Robert April 2024

“We’ve been holidaying in the Lakes twice a year for the last 12 or so years and we can honestly say this is the best accommodation we’ve come across so far.”

We loved the location, the bungalow was spotless, The follow up texts from Kim and phone call from the owner making sure everything was okay was an added bonus. Thank you once again for a wonderful holiday. We enjoyed it so much we’ve already booked a fortnight next September.

- Robert, April 2024
Lesley March 2024

“The cottage was absolutely gorgeous with everything you could need to enjoy your holiday.”

The welcome basket was one of the best we’ve ever had. Knowing people brought dogs they had covers just in case, little things like that show how they care about you having a good holiday. The garden was secure so no worries there. The walks from the doorstep were enjoyable. Looking forward to returning.

- Lesley, March 2024
Ian February 2024

“Excellent property in good location for the northern lakes.”

- Ian, February 2024
Diederick October 2023

“Elevated above Keswick is this superb holiday house.”

Its location with beautiful walks straight from the garden is fantastic and the interior is very beautiful and comfortable. The beds were the best we had in a long time! We were surprised to find out that this cottage 'only' had a 4-star rating. During our stay we concluded it is 5 stars for us. The big kitchen was so thoughtfully equipped that we used some of the storage ideas in our own kitchen at home. A second tap above the largest sink may be the only thing we would add. All in all this house makes you enjoy the beautiful Lakes even more. We totally forgot to write something in the guestbook, but we want to thank the owners for the stay and the giftbasket upon arrival!!

- Diederick, October 2023
Simon October 2023

“Outstanding cottage in an ideal location.”

Very convenient for Keswick and the North Lakes. Beautiful walks straight from the door.

- Simon, October 2023
Rebecca July 2023

“Beautiful holiday home.”

Idyllic and peaceful location with wonderful vista of the mountains from the living room and garden. The decor in every room was so lovely. Beds and sofas extremely comfortable. Underfloor heating in master en-suite bathroom and kitchen diner was really toasty. Utility room was fab, couldn't hear the washer on once door was closed. Nespresso was a bonus as we love our coffee and Booths stock a brill selection! The Alexa was so handy too. Landscaped garden was really pretty with the little stream and ferns. Our border terrier Baxter could wander about safely so we were chuffed about that! Our 3 daughters and my husband and I had a chilled week away. Been coming to the Lakes for 33 years, never fails to lift our spirits! Super picture of 4 adorable Borders in the hall by the way! Thank you for our hamper of goodies too, marvellous surprise! Highly recommend Merlestead! Becky and family.

- Rebecca, July 2023
Catherine June 2023

“Merlestead is a lovely property- more like a home than a holiday rental.”

It is one of the rare places we have stayed where running out of plates and cutlery is just not possible as the kitchen is really well stocked. We were delighted with a lovely welcome pack from the owners - very thoughtful. The bedrooms are beautifully decorated and the beds are really comfortable. The en-suite bathrooms are gorgeous and perfect for a group of adults staying in the house. Merlestead has a lovely garden, and on the right days you can sit on one of the two patios and enjoy the sunshine and the views across to Derwentwater. Sadly the weather was not kind to us so we weren’t able to make as much use of theses facilities as we would have liked. The house is right on a public path which doesn’t disturb you, but which is really handy if you want to climb the hill behind. It is a five minute drive away from Keswick and I’m sure there is a nice walk too, but we didn’t use it as one of our party does not walk too much. It is conveniently located to see all of the Northern Lakes - close to Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite, 30 minutes from Buttermere, Crummock Water and Ullswater. We saw one or two comments in previous reviews about the steep access to the house. All we can say is that it is up a hill, which gives you fantastic views, but access is simple in a car and not at all difficult. There are a few steepish steps up to the front door from the drive, so don’t pack really heavy bags that you can’t lift! Don’t be put off by negative comments. The house is lovely and well worth a visit.

- Catherine, June 2023
William May 2023

“This was an excellent property in a beautiful location.”

It was spacious, comfortable and well appointed. The handbook was very helpful and the welcoming goodies were super. We would stay again.

- William, May 2023
Eamonn May 2023

“This is an excellent place to stay.”

The property is in very good condition, the facilities and accommodation are of a very high standard. The location is brilliant for exploring the area either on foot, bike or by car. There are lot of beautiful walks to be had directly from the path at the rear of the garden. For the more adventurous you can ascend Skyddaw, Latrigg is also easily accessible. It is a few minutes drive into Keswick with all its attractions and amenities. We will definitely by staying here again in the future.

- Eamonn, May 2023
Elizabeth March 2023

“Merlestead Cottage ticked all the boxes for us (4 adults + 1 dog).”

We loved the layout of the property, with its large kitchen/diner, handy utility, comfortable living room and luxurious en-suites. A few more logs/kindling for the starter pack would have been appreciated, however the welcome pack was fabulous. This is one of the best cottages we have stayed in and highly recommend the Pheasant pub for food.

- Elizabeth, March 2023

We are so glad that you enjoyed your holiday with us and look forward to welcoming you back in the future. Property Owner
Susan December 2022

“Lovely spacious bungalow in a lovely peaceful location.”

On arrival it gave us that feel good factor, and the kitchen dining area got a wow! It was extremely well equipped with everything we needed, especially the cooking facilities for preparing our Christmas meal, and the Christmas decorations were delightful. We also enjoyed the scenic walks straight from the door, the maps provided were very useful. My only niggle was finding several short black hairs on the bedlinen. However, the bungalow was exceptional, hence the reasons for giving 5 stars.

- Susan, December 2022

Thank you for your kind comments we are thrilled to hear you had a great week and enjoyed Merlestead. We apologise that you found some hairs on the linen and we assure you this is not a normal occurrence. We have taken these comments on board and discussed with our private cleaner to ensure this does not happen again. We hope to welcome you back again in the future. Thank you! Property Owner
Julia October 2022

“Unfortunately we had to go back as dog got really poorly with his heart .”

And hated the narrow approach up the drives

- Julia, October 2022
Simon September 2022

“Our second visit to this excellent property.”

Fits our requirements in every way. Ideal location, very clean and well maintained. All appliances and furnishings of a very high quality. We just love this bungalow and it’s location. Will definitely be returning.

- Simon, September 2022
John August 2022

“This was our second stay at Merlestead and we have already booked for next year.”

Accommodation is excellent. The views are brilliant. Everything you need for a relaxing holiday. Lovely walks direct from the cottage. Very close to Skiddaw if you feel fit enough!

- John, August 2022
Ann July 2022

“Hi, this was our second stay at the property.”

We were not disappointed . We had an equally enjoyable stay. Familiarity added to the holiday vibe.

- Ann, July 2022
Kate July 2022

“Merlestead is a beautiful cottage, with very well presented rooms.”

There was a lovely welcome box upon arrival, with the dog taken into account as well. The kitchen diner is a fabulous light social space, the front room has a fantastic view, the bedrooms had lots of room and nice big wardrobes for storing bags in, and the ensuite bathrooms had actual counters to put down toiletries!! Everything was lovely and clean, and looked very well taken care of. On arrival, we immediately had a phone call from the owner to say that the cleaner had reported the kettle broken (handle had come off the lid, so still usable), they had ordered a new one to arrive the next day, and let us know where to tell the delivery driver to leave it so we didn't have to wait in. It was great to know they were so conscientious. We will definitely be coming back here again. Thank you so much.

- Kate, July 2022
Susan May 2022

“This is a beautiful holiday cottage in an ideal location.”

A stones throw in the car from Keswick and other stunning Lakes locations. The cottage is clean and has everything you need and more and is well decorated with some nice touches to make it a home from home. The kitchen and dining area is huge, light and airy. The views from the living room and the extensive gardens are amazing. We particularly enjoyed the walk from the back gate and the paths up to the hills overlooking Derwentwater, which is ideal for dog walking.

- Susan, May 2022
Susan March 2022

“Amazing holiday home beautiful views.”

We have had a fabulous week at Merlested great weather and we lived the big dining kitchen and the lively comfy living room.The photos don't do it justice, we all needed a relaxing break and this place did the job. Would love to come back

- Susan, March 2022
Ru February 2022

“Such a beautiful property in a beautiful spot.”

Very well presented, clean, comfortable and had everything we could possibly need on our holiday- very luxurious! Lovely walks from the doorstep, perfect for our dogs. Owners were lovely too. Really enjoyed our holiday, even with the 3 storms we had during our week!

- Ru, February 2022
Duncan February 2022

“We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Merlestead and would have no hesitation in recommending this property.”

The house is spacious, comfortable and well equipped. The house has some lovely walks from the front door and there are a number of great places to eat within a reasonable drive. My only complaint is that it is already booked for my holiday week next February and I will now have to try and find somewhere that matches it!

- Duncan, February 2022
Tania December 2021

“Property was spacious, modern and perfect for our group including two dogs.”

We were worried that as a bungalow we'd be on top of one another, but the house was like the "tardis" inside! The master bedroom was a real treat! The large utility room was great for drying and feeding the dogs especially as it led to back door and garden with outside hose. The house had a beautiful outlook and had plentiful walking from the door. House was lovely and warm and Christmas decorations were a bonus for us celebrating New Year as was the welcome hamper! We did not want to leave!

- Tania, December 2021
Andrew December 2021

“WOW - Wonderful Outstanding Welcoming property.”

It certainly is a home from home, colour coordinated bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchen with everything one needs from teaspoons, cooking utensils, pots and pans to mugs and glasses, everything has been thought of. If there is a gripe, its a minor one - logs for the fire. These have to be bought. Appreciated the festive decorations and table set for Christmas as well as the welcome box of goodies. Thank you. I would recommend this property without hesitation.

- Andrew, December 2021
Zoe October 2021

“Thank you for such a lovely holiday home.”

We had everything that we needed for a fantastic holiday and family reunion. The kitchen was beautifully kitted out which made home cooked meals a breeze. The walks and views from the house are splendid. We loved it!

- Zoe, October 2021
Carole September 2021

“The cottage was as expected from the website description.”

There are 2 issues I’d like to make you aware of. I called your offices beforehand to check that there was a cot and high chair available for our infant.I was concerned as a previous comment stated that there was no high chair available in the premises.The call handler checked with either a supervisor or the owners and assured me that the high chair was indeed in the property - probably in one of the many cupboards.It wasn’t. However the child was unable to join us on this occasion but it would have been a problem if he had joined us.Disappointing and needs to be addressed. Secondly the garden was quite overgrown making the rear pathway a bit of a struggle to access and the plants on the front step needed cutting back to prevent anyone slipping.

- Carole, September 2021
Claire August 2021

“One of the double rooms was made up as a double and not as a twin, which caused us problems as there were no single sheets and duvet covers at the property and only one single duvet.”

We managed to convert the bed to two singles, but one child had to sleep with a double duvet cover and double sheet while the other had a single duvet with no cover and a bare mattress protector to sleep on for three nights until sheets were delivered. The quality of the sheets that were delivered was very basic. I understand that I should have asked for twin beds when I booked, but it wasn't obvious to me at the time where I needed to do this. I think that it should have been fairly clear that a party of three adults and two children would need only one double bed. There was plenty of storage space at the property, so it would have been easy to leave single sheets and single duvets and covers in any event.

- Claire, August 2021
Sharon August 2021

“We are used to the breath-taking beauty of the Lake District as frequent visitors to the area, but this holiday was made all the more special due to finding the gem that is Merlestead.”

Such a fabulous holiday home, lots of space for everyone, well decorated, comfortable and tastefully furnished and a beautiful garden with several seating areas. I have serious kitchen envy as the kitchen and dining area are huge and so well-equipped. We spent most of the time we weren't walking in there and enjoyed having lots of space to cook and chat together. Can highly recommend Merlestead as a base particularly for walking up Skiddaw and to Latrigg and beyond and it is an easy amble into Keswick for walks from there. We'd booked for next year before we had finished our holiday.

- Sharon, August 2021
Ann July 2021

“The cottage was very easy to settle into.”

The facilities were perfect for a family holiday.

- Ann, July 2021
A June 2021

“We had an excellent stay at Merlestead which exceeded our expectations and the amazing kitchen/dining room was the heart of the house.”

The views from the lounge and bedrooms are stunning and we also spent quality time enjoying the same from the glorious gardens. The stream was a real bonus for our dog plus the excellent walks from the property itself. We would highly recommend Merlestead.

- A, June 2021
Lyndsay May 2021

“We did call to request a highchair one week before departure and it wasnt available at house.”

Hard to do anything about it once you you are there as the signal isnt great. This is the only negative thing i have to say, the property is immaculate.

- Lyndsay, May 2021
Cheryl April 2021

“A beautiful house and garden in a superb location.”

The house was furnished to a high standard and the huge kitchen was equipped with everything you could ever need...........and more! We'll definitely be returning!

- Cheryl, April 2021

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Summary

Highly Commended for a Four Star property
Three Bedrooms: super king double with en-suite bathroom with shower over bath, basin and WC, Superking double or Twin single beds with walk-in shower, basin and WC, Double room
Bathroom with shower cubicle, basin and WC
Additional WC
Sitting room
Open plan kitchen with dinning area and additional seating area
Utility room
Gas central heating with log burning stove
Smart TV, Electric double oven, four ring induction hob, dishwasher, fridge, freezer, washing machine, tumble drier
Garden with patio
Private parking for three cars
Secure storage for mountain bikes
Wifi
Two pet dogs welcome
Five minutes drive to pub and shop

The property

Benefitting from its elevated and secluded setting, Merlestead offers superb accommodation with lovely views to the hills of the north Lakes and Derwent Water, the “Queen Of The English Lakes”.

Presented to a very high standard, with all the accommodation on the ground floor, Merlestead is ideal for friends and families looking for quality accommodation.

It’s in a great location with excellent social space in beautiful surroundings, and conveniently located in one of the most desirable locations in the Lake District just a five minute drive from the popular market town of Keswick. Merlestead combines modern family living, with a large open plan kitchen / dinner that extend to the rear of the house into the garden, a spacious lounge with lovely views and a cosy log burning stove, a choice of three bedrooms, two with ensuite bathrooms and a family shower room.

A large garden wraps around the property with a choice of two patios and a small elevated decked terrace. Merlestead offers great access to the stunning scenery of the north western Lake District with Derwent Water, Lake Bassenthwaite, Buttermere and Ullswater all within easy reach and offering a myriad of walks of all levels, mountain biking, and watersports.

Keswick, with its award winning, twice weekly market is just a five minute drive from the cottage and this lovely town offers a great choice of restaurants, cosy pubs and local shops. Please note that there is a small open stream that runs through the garden and parents of young children are respectfully asked not to leave children unaccompanied in the garden especially during or after heavy rain. Accommodation in detail A quiet, shared, driveway leads up to the gates of Merlstead, that open to a lovely garden that surrounds the house, which stands at the foot of Skiddaw, the Lake District’s fourth highest mountain.

Steps from the driveway lead to the front door to this larger than average Lakeland bungalow. A large and welcoming lounge offers plenty of space to relax and enjoy the views across the valley to the northern mountains, with glimpses of Cat Bells and Derwent Water.

As evening falls relax in front of the cosy log burning stove and the large screen TV.

To the rear of the cottage a large extension with vaulted ceiling has been added to create a fantastic, social kitchen with large family dining table, additional sitting area, a big breakfast bar, picture windows and french doors to the garden making this room the real heart of the home.

The high quality kitchen is well equipped with four ring electric hob and double oven, large fridge, freezer, dishwasher and additional TV.

To the side there is a large utility room with washing machine, tumble drier. A hallway runs the length of the cottage linking the living accommodation to the three bedrooms.

The two large bedrooms to the front of the property are both complemented by luxury ensuite shower rooms with shower over bath in the main bedroom & a walk in shower, basin and WC Both benefit from lovely views across the valley.

Both have super king beds and one can be presented as either superking or twin beds (please specify when booking).

The third bedroom, overlooking the garden, is presented as a pretty double room and has access a family shower room with shower cubicle, basin and WC and an additional WC. A large, mature garden wraps around the house with large lawns, mature shrubs and trees.

There is a choice of two patios, one with outdoor dining furniture and one with a picnic table.

At the top of the garden there is a small decked are with bistro garden furniture – ideal for a drink on a summers evening.

A small open stream flows through the rear of the garden which can flow very swiftly during and after heavy rain and parents of young children are, therefore, respectfully requested not to leave children unattended in the garden.

A gate from the garden allows direct access to the fellside beyond.

A lockable store is available for the secure storage of mountain bikes and outdoor gear. The owners welcome up to two well behaved dogs.

Private parking is available for three cars on the driveway. Location The village of Applethwaite makes an ideal base from which to explore.

With footpaths heading off in every direction there is something for everyone.

The path from the back garden provides access to Skiddaw and there are several less demanding paths to Latrigg, and Keswick is an easy 20 minute walk away by lovely country footpaths. The nearby market town of Keswick is one of the Lake District’s most popular destinations.

This friendly town hosts the very popular twice weekly market that has recently won the coveted “Best Outdoor Market” in the Great British Market Awards.

Keswick also offers a fantastic array of shops offering everything from craft bakeries and local produce, antiques, crafts, outdoor clothing and much, much more. If you are looking for somewhere to eat and drink, a week just won’t be long enough to sample the great range of pubs, restaurants, bistros, cafes and wine bars!

For a great evening out why not visit the 100 year old Alhambra offering first class cinema entertainment in traditional surroundings or enjoy an evening at “the most beautiful and friendly theatre in Britain”, the 400 seat Theatre By The Lake on the shores of Derwentwater. Enjoy a cruise on Derwentwater, walk onto the fells; - Cat Bells, Skiddaw, Coledale Horeshoe and Blencathra are all nearby; head underground at Honister Slate Mines or take the Via Ferrata challenge; enjoy mountain biking or follow the walking trails and Go Ape in Whinlatter Forest.

For steam train enthusiasts there is the little train at Threlkeld Mining museum or the L’al Ratty which heads up into the hills from Ravenglass on the West Coast. For day trips, Ullswater is a short drive away offering lake cruises, great walking and the beautiful Aira Force Waterfall and Buttermere and Crummock Water offer sublime scenery.

Ashness Bridge and Surprise View, situated above the Borrowdale Valley, should not be missed and perhaps even a cup of tea and homemade cake in the unspoilt village of Watendlath.

Shepherd’s Café at the foot of Shepherd’s Crag, a favourite venue for climbers, is a tearoom run on High Lodore farm serving delicious homemade lunches and teas, just 10 minutes walk from the launch jetty at Lodore and well worth a visit.

For the Ladies in the party, a trip to the new Spa at Ladore Falls Hotel is a must.

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

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About the location

APPLETHWAITE

Keswick 2 miles; Bassenthwaite Lake 9 miles; Cockermouth 12.9 miles

The idyllic village of Applethwaite is at the foot of the south facing slope of Skiddaw in a peaceful location yet only 2 miles from the convenience of neighbouring Keswick. Applethwaite has fascinating history, in the late eighteenth century woollen goods were produced in the area and the remains of old corn mills can still be found today. Also, William Wordsworth once owned a property in Applethwaite. Applethwaite is often used as a start-point for a walk-up Skiddaw and Bassenthwaite Lake is also nearby where it is known for osprey to nest; Derwentwater Lake also resides nearby, and outdoor enthusiasts can delight in its surrounding walks and trails as well the opportunity for watersports such as paddle boarding and kayaking at Derwent Water Marina. Applethwaite is well suited for exploring all the Lake District has to offer.

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“Wonderful property, extremely comfortable for 6 adults and 2 dogs.”

“Fantastic week.”

“We had a wonderful stay.”

“Absolutely loved the cottage and its location.”

“Excellent property great location”

“We’ve been holidaying in the Lakes twice a year for the last 12 or so years and we can honestly say this is the best accommodation we’ve come across so far.”

“The cottage was absolutely gorgeous with everything you could need to enjoy your holiday.”

“Excellent property in good location for the northern lakes.”

“Elevated above Keswick is this superb holiday house.”

“Outstanding cottage in an ideal location.”

“Beautiful holiday home.”

“Merlestead is a lovely property- more like a home than a holiday rental.”

“This was an excellent property in a beautiful location.”

“This is an excellent place to stay.”

“Merlestead Cottage ticked all the boxes for us (4 adults + 1 dog).”

“Lovely spacious bungalow in a lovely peaceful location.”

“Unfortunately we had to go back as dog got really poorly with his heart .”

“Our second visit to this excellent property.”

“This was our second stay at Merlestead and we have already booked for next year.”

“Hi, this was our second stay at the property.”

“Merlestead is a beautiful cottage, with very well presented rooms.”

“This is a beautiful holiday cottage in an ideal location.”

“Amazing holiday home beautiful views.”

“Such a beautiful property in a beautiful spot.”

“We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Merlestead and would have no hesitation in recommending this property.”

“Property was spacious, modern and perfect for our group including two dogs.”

“WOW - Wonderful Outstanding Welcoming property.”

“Thank you for such a lovely holiday home.”

“The cottage was as expected from the website description.”

“One of the double rooms was made up as a double and not as a twin, which caused us problems as there were no single sheets and duvet covers at the property and only one single duvet.”

“We are used to the breath-taking beauty of the Lake District as frequent visitors to the area, but this holiday was made all the more special due to finding the gem that is Merlestead.”

“The cottage was very easy to settle into.”

“We had an excellent stay at Merlestead which exceeded our expectations and the amazing kitchen/dining room was the heart of the house.”

“We did call to request a highchair one week before departure and it wasnt available at house.”

“A beautiful house and garden in a superb location.”

Summary

The property

View on map

About the location

APPLETHWAITE