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Horseshoe Cottage

Rydal, near Ambleside, Cumbria
Sleeps 4
Bedrooms 2
Bathrooms 1
Change Fri
No Dogs
4 star
Parking on site / nearby
Highchair available
Travel Cot available
Towels included
Family friendly
Romantic
Internet access
Open fire / wood burner
Pub nearby
9 more
Property code: OC-LR088

This fairy-tale cottage has been thoughtfully designed for character, comfort and convenience. The perfect size for couples or small families, it's in a wonderful location just around the corner from Rydal Mount, the historic home of William Wordsworth. Leave the car behind and head up towards the Fairfield Horseshoe, follow the 'Coffin Route' or stroll to Rydal Water and the Rydal Cave, a renowned beauty spot. Take a gentle stroll around Lake Windermere, hop on a steamer (the pier is 2.5 miles from the cottage) for a tranquil glide across the waters, or try one of the many adventure sports available nearby, from canyoning to kayaking. A historic pub serving good food is metres away – don't miss seeing them feed their colony of badgers at dusk. For an array of shops and places to eat and drink, Ambleside is just 2 miles and Grasmere is 3 miles.

Follow the path to the pretty, whitewashed cottage and step through the covered porch. Step straight into the enchanting lounge/diner, where rustic wooden beams hint at the long history of the property. A wood burner provides a focal point for cosy evenings around the fire (logs not provided) and there's a TV with a DVD player for entertainment. It all feels very much like a home from home. At the far end of the room, a rustic dining table with seats and benches offers a comfortable spot to gather and enjoy a hearty meal. An array of equipment is provided in the charming kitchen, including a microwave and a dishwasher, ensuring quick and easy cooking while you're on holiday. A washing machine and a traditional hanging rack make it straightforward to sort out muddy clothes after long walks. Take the stairs to the first floor and find two inviting bedrooms, both beautifully decorated in soft, tranquil tones, with lovely linens and soft carpets. They share a beautifully styled bathroom, which features a very handy shower over the bath.

From the kitchen, you can step out into a private courtyard, which leads up 14 steps to a small lawn. To the front of the house is a delightful open area and shared path to next door with a bench seat perfectly placed for admiring the views.

Read more

  • 2 bedrooms – 1 double, 1 twin
  • 1 bathroom with a shower over the bath and WC
  • Electric oven and hob, fridge/freezer, microwave, dishwasher, washer/dryer
  • Travel cot and highchair available
  • Wood burner - no logs provided but available to purchase locally 
  • TV with DVD player
  • Private rear courtyard with 14 steps up to a lawned area; open front garden with seating
  • Private parking for 1 car
  • Shop 2 miles, pub/restaurant 300 metres
  • Although this is a non pet property, the owner has a dog and does visit occasionally 
  • Arrival: 16:00 onwards
  • Departure: before 10:00
  • Sorry, no dogs allowed

Gerry Mahoney

This property is personally managed by Gerry.

Reviews

From guests that have stayed at the property.

Based on 7 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 3.7 starsOverall cleanliness 3.7 starsOverall cleanliness 3.7 starsOverall cleanliness 3.7 starsOverall cleanliness 3.7 stars3.7
Overall equipment
Overall equipment 4 starsOverall equipment 4 starsOverall equipment 4 starsOverall equipment 4 starsOverall equipment 4 stars4
Overall comfort
Overall comfort 3.5 starsOverall comfort 3.5 starsOverall comfort 3.5 starsOverall comfort 3.5 starsOverall comfort 3.5 stars3.5
Overall location
Overall location 5 starsOverall location 5 starsOverall location 5 starsOverall location 5 starsOverall location 5 stars5

Reviewed by Helen 27th June 2026

Guest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 stars

The cottage was perfectly situated to explore the Lakes, either on foot, by bus or car. Due to the excellent location and amenities within walking distance, we did not use the car at all on some days. The cottage was cosy and comfortable (and a welcome respite from the heatwave, especially downstairs). We would highly recommend Horseshoe Cottage anRead mored would definitely stay there again. Hide

Reviewed by Lilian 21st June 2026

Guest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 stars

In an idyllic location the cottage is full of character but is tired and needs refreshing.

Reviewed by Linda 15th June 2026

Guest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 stars

On arrival the cottage felt damp and had a damp smell. The weather wasnt very good but it didnt warrant lighting the wood burner. However, the electric heating,particularly in the living room, was inadequate. The downstairs wasnt as clean as it should be, lots of dust and cobwebs. It needs a deep clean. Its such a shame as the location is perfect. Read moreVery peaceful. Sadly we wouldnt return. Hide

Reviewed by Ian 12th May 2026

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Great quiet spot within easy walk of Ambleside. Super comfortable, well equipped and a great base within the Lakes.

Reviewed by Peter 13th September 2025

The location was excellent for walking from the cottage, great pup at the end of the road. The cottage was very cosy and tastefully decorated, fantastic power shower, excellent kitchen and facilities. All bed linen was The Wight Company goods. Cosy open fire. Excellent for two adults. Thanks you Claire for arranging Saturday turn round with the ownRead moreers. Hide

Reviewed by William 26th August 2025

We had a great week in Horseshoe Cottage. Irs a comfortable cottage with everything you could possibly want for a carefree holiday. The cottage is ideally situated on well established trails between Grasmere and Ambleside.

Reviewed by Jonathan 13th July 2025

Horseshoe Cottage was absolutely perfect. Great location for accessing so much of the Lake District. Easy walking distance of Grasmere and Ambleside. We had a fabulous week of walking the fells. Lakeland Retreats were excellent and fixed a blocked and overflowing gutter within hours of me emailing - thank you! We would love to return to such an idyRead morellic spot. Despite me wanting to keep this place a secret I must spill the beans and say it is highly recommended!! Hide

5 more
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Location

Map
Note: As the postcode is used to identify the general area of the property, it may not always reflect its precise location, therefore please only use this map as a guide.
The Lakeland Cottage Company is a trading name of The Travel Chapter Limited | The Travel Chapter Limited is registered in England and Wales. | Registered office Travel Chapter House, Gammaton Road, Bideford, EX39 4DF. Company No. 02431506 | VAT reg: 143053210.