Fern Bank, Cumbria

Situated in the delightful town of Penrith in Cumbria, is this superb, detached Grade II listed house, Fern Bank, just four miles from the shores of Ullswater. Set over two floors and sleeping up to eight guests, Fern Bank enjoys an elevated position with expansive views reaching the Lakeland Fells, as well as easy access to Keswick and Derwentwater, the beautiful Eden Valley and border town of Carlisle and Hadrians Wall.. Arriving at the property, a large driveway with off-road parking for four cars will greet you before you step into the spacious hallway to discard any coats and bags after a long journey. Look forward to relaxing in front of the woodburning stove in the sitting room, with fantastic picture windows with views out to the garden, as you select your favourite film to watch on the Smart TV. Whip up culinary delights in the ample open-plan kitchen, which has everything you need to ensure a comfortable stay. Gather around the dining table to savour a delicious meal and discuss plans for the day. Retreat to the sitting area and light the gas fire as you open a bottle of wine and toast to a wonderful holiday. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, retire to the snug where you can relax in front of your favourite show on the Smart TV, or select your next read from the large bookcase. Completing the first floor is a handy utility room with washing machine and tumble dryer and a cloakroom, ideal for a quick freshen up before heading out. As the evening draws to a close, climb the sweeping staircase up the first floor, where you will find four beautifully decorated bedrooms to catch your rest in, including a super-king-size with en-suite bathroom with a steam room, a king-size with en-suite shower room, a twin with zip/link with en-suite bathroom and a twin with en-suite shower room, each perfect for catching your rest in and preparing for the day in style. After a restful night, meet your guests out in the large private garden for an alfresco breakfast on the delightful patio. Get to know your local surroundings with a walk into the town, where you will find an excellent selection of pubs, restaurants and bars, perfect for an evening where you don’t feel like cooking, the informative Penrith and Eden Museum where you can learn more about Penrith and the surrounding Eden Valley, and the remarkable 14th-century Penrith Castle. The lovely village of Pooley Bridge on the shores of Ullswater is just four miles away. Less than 30 minutes drive from Fern Bank, visit the popular market towns of Keswick on the shores of Derwentwater. Walkers will delight at the scenic Thacka Beck Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll whilst spotting the local wildlife. For those who have brought their clubs, there is the fantastic Penrith Golf Club as well as the Penrith Golf Hub with a 9-hole driving range. Nearby, is the superb Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens, where you can visit the large 14th-century country house and its annual marmalade festival, followed by a stop at Deer Park, a picturesque spot where you will find grazing deer. Next stop is the bustling city of Carlisle, where you can soak up art and artefacts at the Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery, take a trip to the impressive 12th-century Carlisle Castle with Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life just a short walk away. For any historians in your party, they will delight at the history speckled around Carlisle, from the 18th-century Dixon’s Chimney to The Citadel and Carlisle Cathedral, there is a story on every corner. Be sure to visit the extensive Lake District National Park, where you will find Keswick, home to the Derwent Pencil Museum, the Keswick Museum & Art Gallery and the splendid Friar’s Crag. However you spend your time in Cumbria, be sure to choose Fern Bank for an unforgettable adventure.