Overview
If your idea of the perfect Lake District holiday is to have magnificent lake views, walks from your doorstep up onto mountain paths, a village within walking distance and plenty of activities both on and around the water, then the Hay Barn will be a perfect choice.
Hay Barn adjoins Bracken Barn, both sitting opposite Heathwaite Farm and Cottage. All overlook and have wonderful views of Coniston Water, and lie on the lower slopes of Coniston Old Man. Set in some ninety acres of grazing meadow and fell, in the heart of the Lake District, the properties are approached by steep narrow lanes from the village, which open onto a long private drive. Paths lead on up to the summit, giving the walker a stunning panoramic view of the Lake District.
Wildlife is abundant, with Buzzards soaring overhead, Green Woodpeckers hammering trees and Swallows performing avian aerobatics in and out of the old barns. The surrounding meadow is grazed by Herdwick sheep and cattle, which on occasion, are driven into the farmyard for dipping and shearing, a fascinating sight for children and adults alike - keep the camera ready.
Living Spaces
Hay Barn is bank built. You step into a small hall where a short flight of steps takes you up to the open plan living space. The sitting room area is of a good size, with comfortable sofas set under a beamed ceiling and, to add a little atmosphere, a living gas fire. All very perfect for tucking up in the evenings after your days exploration.
The kitchen is open plan to the sitting room, well equipped to self-cater. There is a small separate dining room, comfortably furnished and ideal for lazy lunches or tasty dinners long into the night.
Bedrooms & Bathrooms
From the hall, the stairs take you to the lower level and the two bedrooms. One is a double the other a twin. Finally, there is a bathroom with bath, overhead shower, basin and WC.
Garden Spaces
Although there is no garden as such, a garden bench provides a spot to enjoy a coffee take in the fell. To the front is the shared farm courtyard, around this you can explore the surrounding meadows and fell and find the perfect spot for a picnic.
The Location
Coniston Water, the village and the Old Man are three icons of the Lake District. Set in the very heart of the National Park this area has been a long-time favourite for walkers, climbers along with those that prefer a gentler, more relaxed holiday.
The village is welcoming with shops, inns and cafes and down at the boating centre you can hire boats to take out onto the water or take a trip on the lake cruisers or the ridiculously beautiful steam yacht Gondola.
The mountain is climbable by any reasonably fit person, with well-marked tracks to the summit. Even if you only go part way the view will be memorable.
East of the lake is the huge Grizedale Forest. A centre for all things woodland, there are trails that take you on a nine-mile route, where on the way you can spot the many sculptures created by resident and visiting artists. At the visitor centre bikes can be hired for mountain biking, and at Go-Ape, the tree top assault course, you can find your inner Tarzan.
Dogs are charged at £20 each per full or part week.