Lakeland Cottages Blog

The Lake District – April News Update

David — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 13:50:16 +0000

Sea Eagles potentially being re-introduced in to Cumbria

Sea Eagles in Cumbria

Sea Eagles, with a wingspan of 8ft, may be introduced back in to Cumbria. A study is being undertaken by the University of Cumbria’s Centre for Wildlife Conservation. Dr. Armstrong, a senior lecturer at the university, says “The birds belong here. The habitat here is spot on. It’s the last part of England that they bred in and if it wasn’t for human persecution, they would still be here.” Sea Eagles are huge birds of prey and the subject of their re-introduction is controversial. The National Farmers Union regional Director, Mr. Robert Sheasby, has expressed serious concerns for livestock, especially lambs, piglets and free-range poultry.

Keswick Mountain Festival

Sign up for adventure and try something new at Keswick Mountain Festival which runs from the 16^th to the 20^th May 2012. There are a variety of events for all ages and all abilities. Amongst the popular events are the Derwentwater Triathlon, Latrigg Fell Race, Derwent Island Swim and the Borrowdale Trail Run. Or just attend one of the many lectures by visiting speakers such as Helen Skelton, Monthy Halls and Sir Chris Bonington. If you are planning to visit Keswick Mountain Festival, we still have properties available in Keswick for short breaks. Visit www.lakelandcottages.co.uk for your choice of Lake District cottages. Book your adventure at Mountain Festival by visiting www.keswickmountainfestival.co.uk

Keswick Jazz Festival

This exciting music festival, sponsored by Jennings Brewery, takes place on the 3^rd to 6^th May 2012. The festival hosts a 100 world class Jazz events over four days in venues across Keswick. You can book online at www.keswickjazzfestival.co.uk or call 017687 74411. Short breaks in our Keswick cottages are available over this weekend – call 017687 76065.

Love Your Lakes Approved

We are pleased to announce that Lakeland Cottage Holidays is now officially “Love Your Lakes” Approved by Nurture Lakeland [1] What this means in practice is that we actively promote the use of non-biological and phosphate free cleaning products in our holiday cottages. The resulting decrease in the level of phosphates in to Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite Lakes helps to ensure they remain protected from blue-green algae blooms. These blooms are due to Cyanobacteria [2] and are dangerous to humans. Cumbria’s Great North Swim [3] scheduled to take place in Lake Windermere had to be cancelled because of blue-green algae blooms. So, please do your bit to preserve the health of our lakes by using phosphate free products for your laundry and dishwasher.

1 .http://www.nurturelakeland.org

2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyanobacteria

3. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cumbria-11175208

Oh! We Do Like To Be Beside The Seaside

David — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 09:04:41 +0000

Allonby Beach

The BBC has reported that a study of 2,750 people by the British Psychological Society has found that bracing sea air has a more positive effect than the countryside or an urban park. The study examined how differing types of outdoor environments could result in different reactions from the people experiencing them. Being beside the seaside was significantly more likely to create a feeling of well being. You can experience the seaside when you holiday in the Lake District. Here’s our summary of seaside adventures you can have whilst staying in one of the many holiday cottages in the Lake District.

Allonby has miles of sandy beaches and was once known for its herring fishing – you can still see evidence of this in the old kippering houses. Allonby village has a long history of being a sea-bathing resort – going back to the 18th Century. Today you can enjoy a bracing walk along the beach and reward yourself afterwards with a treat from the famous Twentyman ice-cream shop.

The Solway Firth & Coast – this area to the north of the Lake District National Park is recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. As well as its importance as a nature reserve, the area also has numerous links to the past. At Crosscanonby you can see some of the best-preserved salt pans, where sea water was captured to produce salt.

St. Bees Head – start of the Coast-to-Coast Walk, is a massive sandstone outcrop known as one of the best places for wildlife in the UK. Walk along the cliif top path to view seabird colonies including England’s only nesting black guillemots. Other birds you may encounter are Fulmar, Herring Gull, Kittiwake and Razorbill. There is a sandy beach at St. Bees and many rock pools to explore.

Historic Ports of Maryport and Whitehaven – Whitehaven grew in size and prominence during the 19th century as coal mining became a major source if income. Maryport was first established as a Roman fort (Alauna) around AD 122 and was a supply base for the coastal defence’s of Hadrian’s Wall. Again, mining played a large part in the ports prosperity. The port declined after the general strike in 1926 and following the opening of a deep-water port at Workington in 1927. Today, both ports are popular tourist attractions with many attractions such as the Maryport Blues Festival and Whitehavens maritime Festival.

So, if you want to explore the beauty of the Lake District, you don’t need to miss out on a seaside adventure. Stay in one of the many Lake District cottages and you can still be beside the seaside.

Competition Winner, Go-Ape Competition & New Properties

David — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 13:47:28 +0000

Valentine’s Hamper Competition

Thank you to all those who entered our Valentine’s Hamper Competition. We had over 500 entries. The answer was “Briar Rigg House of Keswick” – our competition winner is Alison from Hull will be receiving her Valentine’s Hamper from Cumbrian Food Direct in the next few days. Our next competition is for a Go-Ape Family Ticket (2-Gorilla’s, 2-Baboons) for Whinlatter. Visit our website www.LakelandCottages.co.uk for further details. Terms & Conditions apply.

Valetine's Hamper from Cumbrian Food Direct

This Month’s New Properties

This month we have taken on several new properties which we think you will enjoy. These are: Rainbow Cottage in Bassenthwaite, Hunter’s Moon in Skelwith Bridge nr Ambleside, Crofter Cottage in Keswick and Wood Hall nr. Cockermouth. You can find out more details by following the links below.

Crofter Cottage in Keswick

Rainbow Cottage in Bassenthwaite

Wood Hall, Kirkbride near Cockermouth

About Us

Lakeland Cottage Holidays provide self-catering, holiday accommodation in the English Lake District. To learn more about our cottages, to check availability and to book online visit www.LakelandCottages.co.uk or view our Lake District cottages here.

Lakeland Cottage Holidays – (0) +44 17687 76065, info@lakelandcottages.co.uk

Safety on the Lake District Fells this Winter

David — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 16:32:38 +0000

Preparation is the key if you are planning a trip to the Lake District during the coming winter months. In this article we cover the basics of how to stay safe when venturing out on the fells this winter. Over 500 hundred accidents are reported each year in the Lake District. Whilst many are due to slips on wet grass or rock (preventable by wearing proper footwear), many more are due to poor preparation and lack of experience.

Decide On Your Route

Consider the capabilities of those venturing on to the fells and plan a route that can be comfortably achieved by all members of your party. Estimate the time necessary to complete the route, allowing for delays due of bad weather and possible detours. Also, be aware of the number of daylight hours – having to negotiate difficult terrain when benighted is an un-necessary risk and best avoided. Also, consider ‘escape’ routes if you have to cut short your expedition due to deteriorating weather / conditions. Finally, leave a copy of your route and times with someone who can raise the alarm if you do not return on time.

Clothing

Multiple layers are the secret to a warm and enjoyable day on the fells. Layers allow you to quickly adjust the amount of clothes you wear and configure your clothing for the conditions you face. At rest you may need more clothes than when moving, exposure on a summit will also usually mean additional clothing. An outer waterproof & windproof layer will also be necessary. Carry spare warm clothing (including hats and gloves).

Equipment

You will need a stout pair of walking boots and if you walking across snow and ice, then crampons and an ice axe may also be required (make sure you know how to use your crampons and ice axe). Gaiters are useful if walking through soft snow. A walkers safety rope is also useful to keep your party together during white-out conditions. General equipment includes:

Food, a warm drink and plenty of water – even in cold weather you will dehydrate
Additional energy giving food/drinks for emergency rations
Large survival bag
Whistle and torch (and spare batteries)
First aid kit
Mobile phone / GPS – though these may not always find a signal

Check The Weather

Take the prevailing weather conditions in to account when planning your route and always be prepared to change your plans should the weather change. Weather in the Lake District can change and deteriorate rapidly, and conditions on the tops of fells are likely to be more severe than those at lower altitudes. The Lake District Weatherline provides forecasts and an assessment of the high-level conditions – 0844 846 2444 or visit www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/weatherline. The Mountain Weather Information Service for the Lake District www.mwis.org.uk/ld.php also has a mobile service.

On The Fells

Always keep your group together and watch out for those who appear to be struggling. Ensure that you know where you are and can give a grid reference. Keep an eye on the weather for any signs of deterioration. Check your progress and time against your original plan and adapt your walk to suit. Avoid areas of freshly banked snow and snow filled gullies however tempting they may be – avalanches are rare in the Lake District but do occur.

What to do in an Emergency

Send for Help – if you have a mobile signal call 999 (Cumbria Police) and report your position (grid reference ideally) and condition of your party. The police will call-out the nearest Mountain Rescue Team. If there is a casualty in the group ensure that they are kept warm, sheltered and protected from further injury. Attend to any injuries – giving first aid as necessary.

About Us

Lakeland Cottage Holidays – (0) +44 17687 76065, info@lakelandcottages.co.uk

The Lake District At Christmas & New Year 2011

David — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 15:14:53 +0000

Skiddaw in Winter

Christmas and New Year in the Lake District are especially magical times – a time when families and friends get together to celebrate in style. Of particular note is Christmas at Whinlatter which has several special activities arranged:

children’s self led trail: find Santa’s reindeer hiding in the forest
3 and 4 Dec Christmas crafts in the Visitor Centre
10 Dec Christmas Felt Workshop: make your own decorations
11 Dec Lantern making and a lantern walk at dusk to celebrate International Mountain Day.

There are also guided wildlife walks – check website for details

Another place of interest is Cockermouth – where the towns Christmas decorations are the best in the Lake District (well we think so anyway!).

Popular destinations for a festive New Years eve getaway are Ambleside and Keswick, where you can combine walking the fells with a visit to the pub in the evening. New Years Eve is especially popular, with many restaurants and pubs very busy.

Last Minute Availability

We still have availability for Christmas and New Year – You can take 3-night short break over Christmas from £255 for four people (subject to availability). Or take a break over New Year, take a 5-night break for seven from £651 – that’s just £18.60 per person per night.

About Us

Lakeland Cottage Holidays – (0) +44 17687 76065, info@lakelandcottages.co.uk

Hunter’s Moon at Skelwith Bridge

David — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 11:35:32 +0000

Hunter's Moon, Skelwith Bridge, Nr. Ambleside

Hunter’s Moon is our first property south of Dunmail Raise and marks our expansion in to Ambleside area. The property is located in Skelwith Bridge near Ambleside and has a chalet-style layout with the majority of its accommodation on the ground floor.

Skelwith Bridge, Nr. Ambleside

Skelwith Bridge, just 2.5 miles from Ambleside, is the gateway to the Langdales and is a small hamlet consisting of a handful of houses and a hotel. The 17^th century hotel, The Skelwith Bridge Hotel, is home to The Talbot bar which is open to the public. The hotel used to be called the “Hare and Hounds” and a ‘talbot’ was a type of hound formerly used for hunting. Skelwith Bridge crosses the River Brathay and alongside the river is “Chesters” – a popular café and gift shop (formerly known as Kirkstone Galleries).

Hunter’s Moon, Skelwith Bridge (NY 345 035)

Hunter’s Moon sits in the centre of Skelwith Bridge and is reached by a private drive from the main A593. The property accommodates six people, accepts pets and has a multi-fuel stove in the lounge. The front door leads in to the sun room with under-floor heating. This room also doubles as a dining room, with dining table and chairs arranged in front of the window which looks out in to the garden.

The sunroom leads to the lounge with sofas and chairs arranged around Morso multi-fuel stove (fuel not provided). The fitted kitchen has under-floor heating. Also on the ground-floor is the main double bedroom and a bunk-bedded room with full size bunk-beds. There is also a cloakroom with WC. Stairs lead up to the twin bedded room and family bathroom. The bathroom is fully tiled and has under-floor heating. Outside, the enclosed garden has private parking for two cars and a paved patio with garden furniture.

Sleeps 6 in one double, one twin & bunk-beds
All bed linen provided, towels optional extra
Upstairs bathroom, bath with shower over, washbasin & WC
Downstairs cloakroom with WC
Electric storage heaters and under-floor heating
All electric charges included in tariff
Electric Hob & Oven, Microwave
Fridge / Freezer, Dishwasher
Combined Washer / Dryer
Morso multi-fuel stove in lounge (fuel available locally)
Colour TV with Sky, DVD/CD Player
Patio style garden with garden furniture
Parking for two cars
One dog by prior arrangement
Regret, non-smokers only

Local Amenities & Attractions

Elterwater – a quiet and accessible area for walking

Skelwith Waterfall – a small but still impressive waterfall, especially after heavy rain

Colwith Waterfall – a series of smaller, powerfully water cascades

Chesters By The River – popular café and gift shop – www.chestersbytheriver.co.uk

The Skelwith Bridge Hotel – www.skelwithbridgehotel.co.uk

Public Transport

Train Station at Windermere – www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations/wdm/details.html

Windermere to Ambleside bus service 555, 599 – www.stagecoachbus.com

Windermere, Ambleside to Skelwith Fold bus service 505 – www.stagecoachbus.com

About Us

Lakeland Cottage Holidays – (0) +44 17687 76065, info@lakelandcottages.co.uk

We think Autumn is Best

David — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 11:41:17 +0000

Autumn Breaks in the Lake District

We think Autumn is the best season because at least the weather truly reflects the season. Here are some other reasons why we like Autumn best . . .

You can walk through rustling leaves
You can smell woodsmoke and bonfires
You can snuggle up around an open fire
You can wear woolly jumpers and scarves

Of course, the best place to take an Autumn break is in one of our Lake District Cottages. You can book short breaks, long-weekends or mid-weeks breaks in September and October. Check out our Lake District Cottages here.

David Burton ( 88JPF5YWBTY8 )

Lake District Weather – Four Seasons In One Day

David — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 10:05:06 +0000

Lake District Weather - Four Seasons In One Day

Quite often, when guests are booking one of our Lake District cottages, they will ask us about the weather. Whilst we can simply look out of the window and give them a description of what we can see, it is not necessarily that this is representative of the weather across the whole of the Lake District. The weather patterns in the Lake District can be localised with completely different weather being experienced between the north and south Lakes, or the east and west Lakes. One half of the area can be in glorious sunshine, whilst the other is shrouded in mist. In addition, weather variations are not restricted geographically. Rapid changes in the weather conditions can be experienced in a single day. A bright and clear start in the morning can soon turn to heavy rain and limited visibility during the afternoon. It is often said that we can experience four seasons in one days on the lake District fells.

It is therefore important to check the weather conditions and forecast before you venture out on to the fells. Below are some links that provide weather forecasts, some of which are more useful to walkers and mountaineers. When venturing on to the fells, please remember to leave details of your journey, alternative bad weather routes and times with someone who can contact the emergency services if necessary.

Lake District National Park Weatherline – 0844 846 2444

www.lakedistrictweatherline.co.uk

Met Office

www.metoffice.gov.uk/loutdoor/mountainsafety/lakedistrict/lakedistrict_latest_pressure.html

Lake District Mountain Weather Information Service

www.mwis.org.uk/ld.php

Locally Reported Lake District Weather

www.lakedistrict-weather.co.uk/keswick-weather.html

You can book a holiday in one of our Lake District cottages here, or by contacting us on +44 (0)17687 76065, or email your requirements to info@lakelandcottages.co.uk – alternatively, find us on Facebook

Spectacular Autumn Colours In The Lake District

David — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 09:43:05 +0000

It’s never too early to book your autumn break in one of our Lake District cottages. Spring comes late to the Lake District and this has the consequence of a much longer and later autumn. The valleys and fells are full of colour late from late September through October. Of particular delight are the woodland walks along the River Derwent in Borrowdale. You can walk from Grange in Borrowdale along the river bank to Rosthwaite, and either take a bus back to Grange or complete a circular walk by returning via Watendlath. It’s not just the trees and valleys that have fantastic colours – the high fells too display some spectacular colours. So, don’t hesitate and book your autumn break now. To view our properties and check availability, go to Lake District cottages.

Autumn Colours on the High Fells of the Lake District

To book a holiday cottage in the Lake District, call us on +44 (0)17678 76065, or alternatively visit our website www.lakelandcottages.co.uk Photograph courtesy of Martin Campbell, Cumbria Tourism.

New Property – How Cottage, Grange in Borrowdale

David — Tue, 10 May 2011 14:37:53 +0000

: How Cottage, Grange in Borrowdale

We are very pleased to welcome How Cottage – the latest addition to our portfolio of Lake District cottages. How Cottage, a mid-terrace in the heart of Grange-in-Borrowdale, is still undergoing refurbishment and so we don’t have any photographs of the interior. 2011. The owners are refurbishing all the main living areas, so the cottage will be bright and fresh for its guests. How Cottage accommodates four people and will be available to rent from July.

The property can be accessed from the front and rear, both entrances leading in to a central hallway. The lounge, furnished with twin two-seater sofas arranged around a coffee table and open coal fire, has views of wooded King’s How fell. To the rear of the cottage is the kitchen with fitted units and appliances on two sides and accommodates table and chairs providing comfortable dining for four. Upstairs, there are three bedrooms – to the front of the cottage is the main bedroom with a king bed, and a single bedroom. To the rear is a twin bedded room and bathroom.

The cottage has an enclosed front garden with slate patio with a flower border. In addition there is stone store providing secure storage for four cycles. The cottage has parking for two cars. The cottage is well suited to walkers and cyclists – with routes for both in all directions. Read more about How Cottage, check availability and book online.