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Swallow's Nest

(Ref. 914594)

Thornthwaite near Keswick, Cumbria & The Lake District Show on map

4.6

Sykes rating

  • 4 Guests

  • 3 Bedrooms

  • 2 Bathrooms

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Ground floor bedroom
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • cottage (34)
  • views (27)
  • lovely (21)
  • location (20)
  • great (18)
  • our (14)

63 Customer Reviews

  • "The cottage was perfect, wonderful views of the sunrise, ideally situated for walking and getting to other places the Lakes."

    Lots of information included walks, maps etc. Would definitely go back there. Would have been nice to have had some egg cups though.

    We are pleased that you enjoyed your holiday and thank you for your comments. The egg cups had got hidden behind a pile of plates. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Linda5.0Sep 2024

  • "Car paintwork damaged by vegetation on sides of single track road to cottage."

    Single bed bedding required to be replaced - recycled polyester duvet covers - not acceptable. China, Cutlery, Fridge, washing machine all required upgrading. Faulty toilet tank was reported, owner said it had already been reported by previous guests! No plumber arrived to repair it during our stay. Property has potential if access is improved.

    We are sorry that Swallow's Nest did not meet your needs. As you can see from the other comments. most of our guests love it and consider it excellent value. The single track road is used by vehicles of all sizes, commercial vehicles included. I looked round your car after you told me that 'ferns' had scratched its paintwork and could see no scratches. Regarding the bedding, we do not understand your comments. The plumber was able to repair the toilet tank last week.You had told me that the flush was working but with some difficulty; you had a second toilet. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Kirsten1.9Sep 2024

  • "Swallows Nest as always was the perfect holiday spot for the Lake District."

    Already booked for next year.

    Reviewed by Peter5.0Aug 2024

  • "A lovely, homely cottage with large rooms in an ideal location for getting around the area."

    The views from the cottage are amazing. Having to bring our own towels was OK but I can see it being a problem if luggage space had been an issue. We really enjoyed the large selection of DVD's available but a larger screen TV would have been nice so that we could all see it clearly from the far end of the room. It is ideal accommodation for a group of friends with 3 separate bedrooms. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would love to come again.

    Reviewed by Judith5.0Jul 2024

  • "Lovely cottage very peaceful with a gorgeous view out of the sitting room window"

    Reviewed by John5.0Jul 2024

  • "Very comfortable holiday home with all home comforts and spectacular views."

    We think that this was the 10th time that we have stayed in the property so that should speak for itself really.

    Reviewed by Anne4.7May 2024

  • "Wonderful location with a fabulous view over Skiddaw."

    Comfortable place to stay and within minutes from Bassenthwaite Lake and Whinlatter forest.

    Reviewed by Frances4.4Apr 2024

  • "A great week in this lovely property."

    Walks from the door, fantastic views from the window and a lovely host. Thankyou , we will be back next year.

    Reviewed by Susan4.7Nov 2023

  • "A very well equipped and comfortable cottage in a fantastic location."

    Outstanding views from the windows to the front and great walks from the doorstep to the lake and up to Whinlatter.

    Reviewed by Mark5.0Oct 2023

  • "Excellent accommadation, clean, comfortable with everything you could possibly need The location was beautiful and the views stunning."

    The only thing that would make it pefect is a garden for our dog - however we were made aware of the lack of garden when we booked.

    Reviewed by Gerard5.0Oct 2023

  • "Despite the very rainy time we had the most splendid views and every comfort we needed."

    Thank you.

    Reviewed by Golnar5.0Sep 2023

  • "This was our fourth holiday at Swallows Nest & as usual everything was of a good standard."

    Warm, comfortable & welcoming. Already booked again for next year. Love it.

    Reviewed by Peter5.0Sep 2023

  • "This is in such a quiet area and the views are beautiful."

    Ideally placed for a holiday in the lakes. The description and pictures on the listing are accurate and it still exceeded our expectations. I would definitely recommend.

    Reviewed by Pamela4.7Aug 2023

  • "We where allowed to park outside the property,which was helpful,as one person was classed as disabled."

    A little more space would have been helpful.

    Reviewed by Christine4.7Jun 2023

  • "We had an amazing stay at Swallow's Nest."

    The only downside being that there was no outdoor terrace to enjoy the breakfast outside in the morning sunshine that the cottage benefits from. In the evening, the cottage is in the shade from the mountain/hill just behind it. Our children are big enough to entertain themselves indoors, but if you have slightly younger children, an outdoor space where they could run around whilst parents enjoy their morning coffee would have been nice. The cottage itself is comfortable, and the kitchen well equipped. Power shower is nice. We would certainly come back again, but would maybe try for one of the Beckstone's cottages that do have outdoor space.

    Reviewed by Carin4.4May 2023

  • "Lovely cottage."

    Great views. Fab location

    Reviewed by John5.0May 2023

  • "A really comfortable cottage."

    Peaceful location with great views and close access to Whinlatter forest. Dog walks from house to forest, lake and village. No intrusion from owners, but we knew they were available for help if we needed them. Thank you for a perfect Lakeland holiday.

    Reviewed by Jane5.0May 2023

  • "Wonderul location and close to keswick town and within easy reach of 3 lakes."

    Kewick town has a charging location (4) for EVs with 50kw/hr and at 75p/kwh came handy. when you arrive there I would rather take the turning left after the cottage rather than the c2c route for cycles as it is narrow and branches can scratch your car. The host were pleasant and we look forward to going there again.

    Reviewed by Akmel4.4May 2023

  • "Our second visit to Swallow's Nest."

    Wonderful accommodation and well looked after by Nigel and Margaret Illman. Superb setting.

    Reviewed by Graham5.0Mar 2023

  • "Lovely cottage and ideally placed."

    Have been now for the past 7 years so hope to be back again in 2023.

    Reviewed by Susan5.0Nov 2022

  • "Swallow’s Nest is a lovely property with outstanding views."

    There are lovely walks from the doorstep. Very cosy, lots of hot water, red squirrels in the garden. Ww had a wonderful few days.

    Reviewed by Jane5.0Oct 2022

  • "Very accommodating when our situation changed a month or so before our holiday."

    We would have had to have reduced our party size if the owner had not been so helpful. Great property in a wonderful location.

    Reviewed by Debra5.0Sep 2022

  • "We had a wonderful weeks stay at Swallows Nest."

    The cottage is superbly located for trips all around the Lake District. There are great views of Skiddaw from the living room. We would definitely stay here again and would recommend without hesitation.

    Reviewed by Oliver4.7May 2022

  • "Great place to stay."

    Only disappointment was that listing noted towels included but had email noting towels not included in this time of covid (May 2022).

    Reviewed by Colin4.4May 2022

  • "We loved the Swallow's Nest."

    The warmth of furnishings, spaciousness, the view from the living room.

    Reviewed by Graham5.0Mar 2022

  • "Swallows Nest provided very comfortable accommodation."

    It was lovely and warm and having 2 bathrooms was perfect. It is well located and great not having to worry about parking. We were a party of 4 but with 6 it would have been snug. Minor additions would be a set of large matching wine glasses and a soup ladle. Also, the toaster was a bit dodgy for 4 slices. Otherwise it was a good stay despite the weather! Thank you.

    Reviewed by Tricia4.1Dec 2021

  • "Ideal location."

    Close to Keswick but away from the thick of it. Good buses to Cockermouth and Keswick. Great views from cottage and good for accessing a few walks. Very comfortable and roomy. Good having 2 bathrooms. We have stayed here many times.

    Reviewed by Sandra5.0Dec 2021

  • "The issue of not providing towels is disappointing to anyone visiting this property."

    So, the kitchen, the mugs in the cupboard were full of stains, the fridge had tape holding the bottom door shelf together, no dishwasher. The double bedroom, the shower was very very small and the shower head was held together with tape. The location was excellent, a pity some aspects of the property are not up to standard.

    Thank you for your feedback comments. We appreciate you taking the time to pass on your comments about the property. Your feedback and scores are not reflective of the feedback that we usually receive as the last two Customers have given us 100% scores in all areas The property isn't advertised as having a dishwasher. I am sorry about the stains in the cups, I will make sure they are all checked on the next changeover. The fridge is fully functional. We had some slight damage to the bottle shelf by a previous Customer and rather than replace the fridge, we have repaired this as it works perfectly The en-suite shower is a standard size and is fitted with a mira power shower which rapidly provides plenty of hot water. Some damage has been caused to the clamp bracket (either through wear and tear or guests moving the shower head without depressing the release button, -most probably both). We are trying to get a replacement clamp bracket. Meanwhile a couple of inches of tape keeps it in working order and does not detract from the quality of the shower. The property is advertised as supplying towels however due to Covid, they have removed these during the pandemic. The owners do advise of this in the key collection details that they send to Customers. All owners are on hand to help with any issues you may have during your stay We are glad you enjoyed the area and thanks again for your comments Property Owner

    Reviewed by Robert2.2Oct 2021

  • "I feel not supplying the towels as listed and using covid as a reason is a cop out as I have had a previous holiday this year and the towels were supplied and I don't see them as being any different to the bed linen."

    Although not a massive inconvenience to bring our own they do take up valuable space in luggage, but I guess this is the owners prerogative and this didn't distract from the holiday

    Reviewed by Robin3.8Sep 2021

  • "This is a spacious apartment in a lovely location with a magnificent walk up Barf and Lords Seat right on the doorstep."

    Reviewed by Jemma4.7Jul 2021

  • "No parking outside the front of property Fixtures and fittings very tired, leaking tap, broken freezer door, faulty bedside lamp which was dangerous as flickered when turned on."

    Latch broken on front door. Why lack of Broadband with such lousy speed when fibre to the premise (fttp) has been available to this premise for at least 3+ years (this was checked on BT.com 40-900mb available at this location) this would benefit all guests at Beckstones Farm not just at Swallows Nest.

    Thank you for providing feedback on your stay at Swallow's Nest. There is parking outside the property, as shown on the pictures. We can also offer a car park suitable for 6-8 cars if required. As there are 7 taps in the property we will check each of them, however as we live in the area and provide our contact details we wish these had been brought to our attention during your stay so we can assist. We have checked the freezer compartment and can easily open and close this. We have inspected the door, and can't see any breakages. We have already checked the broadband for better speeds however this is not possible due to the location of the property, however we do already advise on our description that the broadband is only suitable for browsing. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Hayley1.9Jul 2021

  • "We stayed at Wrens Nest from 2013 -2019 and decided to move next door to Swallows Nest as the facilities are all on one level - my wife has mobility issues."

    We were impressed with the spaciousness and facilities.

    Reviewed by Graham5.0Jun 2021

  • "Accommodation was good clean and well appointed good acces to both Keswick and Cockermouth ideal for walkers"

    Reviewed by James4.7May 2021

  • "As we've stayed here before, the cottage continued to meet our expectations."

    Personally the double bed is much too hard for me but I took a memory foam topper and that helped a lot. Sadly we had to come home early due to the second lockdown and whilst we were there it poured with rain but none of that was the fault of the cottage or Sykes. My partner managed to get out on his mountain bike very day and enjoyed Whinlatter. I loved relaxing in the cottage and reading - a very welcome break from working on a busy ward :)

    Reviewed by Erika4.7Oct 2020

  • "Enjoyed a very pleasant, weeks stay at Swallow's Nest."

    The property is very comfortable, well situated and enjoys fantastic views across to Skiddaw and down towards Keswick. The property made a great base for us and was in a perfect location for exploring the northern lakes, with a short drive into Keswick or Cockermouth. Perhaps it would benefit from a touch of modernising but other than that I couldn't fault.

    Reviewed by Richard4.7Oct 2020

  • "Lovely place to stay, amazing views over an ever-changing mountain scene."

    Comfortable, everything you need - extensive dvd collection! Convenient situation for getting places; near enough to Keswick for shops and restaurants - just a few minutes drive - but far enough away to have the peace and quiet we wanted. Would definitely book again!

    Reviewed by Susan4.7Aug 2020

  • "We enjoyed our stay in this cottage, which was clean and warm, weather on this week was really terrible , we came home early as we werent able to get around as we had wished."

    However although we could not find any major problems with the cottage, we did feel that it perhaps lacked one or two personal touches . There were lovely Lakeland views though.

    Reviewed by Eunice3.8Dec 2019

  • "Lovely spacious, warm cottage in a wonderful location with fabulous views from the lounge window of Skiddaw."

    Very easy to get to from A66 and plenty of parking. Walks from the door to some amazing views over Bassenthwaite!

    Reviewed by Tracey4.7Nov 2019

  • "Swallow’s Nest was a great base for a week in the Lakes."

    The cottage was warm and cosy, well equipped, plenty of room for a family of four. Good family bathroom and nice en suite in the double bedroom. Kitchen has everything you need ( except no dishwasher). It’s in a great location for walking and for mountain biking, with a bridle path close by that takes you straight into Whinlatter Forest. Secure bike storage in a locked garage was another plus. Beautiful views from the picture window in the living room. We’d definitely recommend this cottage.

    Reviewed by Catherine5.0Oct 2019

  • "All good, have stayed in a lot of places and used other companies and got same good service as with other companies from Sykes so will use again when searching for holidays in future."

    Especially good comma from Sykes, thanks.

    Reviewed by Gillian5.0Aug 2019

  • "It is the second time that we have stayed at this property and will very likely chose it again."

    Reviewed by Walter5.0May 2019

  • "Once again we had a lovely holiday in this cottage, all the facilities you could need along with a friendly helpful host."

    Situated far enough away to feel as though you're in the countryside but close enough to all the local amenities.

    Reviewed by Caroline5.0Apr 2019

  • "The cottage enjoyed breath taking views."

    It was clean, warm cosy and well equipped for all our needs. The owners were welcoming and friendly but not intrusive. We loved the location and accessibility to the lakes. We would most definitely return.

    Reviewed by Ann5.0Apr 2019

  • "Have visited this lovely cottage many ,many times and never disappointed."

    A great retreat

    Reviewed by Susan5.0Mar 2019

  • "Cosy cottage in a lovely location"

    Reviewed by Jan5.0Mar 2019

  • "Nice cottage - clean, warm and dry with good facilities."

    It is in a superb location with great views, some good walks on the doorstep and easy access to Keswick for shopping and to the rest of the Lakes for walking further afield. The owners were very friendly and helpful. Only minor criticisms - a dishwasher would be a bonus and the WiFi is quite low bandwidth - my phone generally had a faster connection.

    Reviewed by Tim4.1Feb 2019

  • "This cottage is very cosy and comfortable, so ideal for a winter break."

    Lovely views over the valley too.

    Reviewed by Elizabeth4.7Feb 2019

  • "The cottage was lovely, cosy and with beautiful views."

    The owners were nice and helpful.

    Reviewed by Susan5.0Nov 2018

  • "This was our second holiday at Swallows Nest and we have already booked for next September."

    We are very satisfied with this warm and cosy cottage.

    Reviewed by Peter5.0Sep 2018

  • "Lovely cottage with great views."

    Good facilities and well stocked. We would visit again.

    Reviewed by Colin4.4Aug 2018

  • "Great holiday"

    Reviewed by Yvonne5.0Jun 2018

  • "What a fantastic place to stay, this was our first visit to the lakes which were spectacular."

    In the early morning and early evenings you could watch wild deer within feet of the front door. The cottage was in a lovely position and was clean, spacious and really comfortable and exceeded our expectations. If we had one very minor criticism it was that the beds were very hard but that may suit many people. A really enjoyable stay which we intend to repeat.

    Reviewed by Stephen5.0Apr 2018

  • "We had a wonderful holiday in the lake district all done to the beautiful setting of such a lovely cottage."

    The home was all we could hope for and more. The location was perfect for being out of town to enjoy the deers walking by the front door, but near enough to get anywhere we wished. I would love to recommend this cottage to everyone but then we would lose a perfect escape!

    Reviewed by Caroline5.0Apr 2018

  • "This cottage did not have a hair dryer, last thing you want to do after a long ..."

    This cottage did not have a hair dryer, last thing you want to do after a long journey is buying things for the let that should be standard, also no spare towels, t rolls, w liquid, I feel the cottage just lacks detail

    Reviewed by David4.7Mar 2018

  • "Brilliant views from Lounge."

    Great watching winter weather systems coming in from th East over Skiddaw and Helvellyn in the distance.

    Reviewed by Chris5.0Feb 2018

  • "A well heated and comfortable cottage, and so very suitable for a winter break."

    The views from the front and back of the cottage are really contrasting, with open views to the hills at the front, and close up views of a pretty wood behind. We loved the views in all directions. Would happily book again.

    Reviewed by Elizabeth5.0Jan 2018

  • "Superb cottage ( but don't tell anyone else or they will want to book it )"

    Reviewed by Susan5.0Nov 2017

  • "The pictures of this property do not do it justice, it is large and has big rooms with lots of space."

    The owners are lovely and very helpful. The property has everything you need for self catering. We stayed for a few very cold, wet and windy days in November but the house was lovely, warm and cosy and just what we needed to relax for a couple of days away from the hustle and bustle. The views from the property are absolutely stunning.

    Reviewed by Carol4.6Nov 2017

  • "Swallows next cottage was gorgeous."

    We had a lovely time in mid November 2017 and would love to go back. It is we'll appointed for buses to Keswick and cockermouth. The views from the cottage are spectacular, we wish we could have taken them home with us.

    Reviewed by Pauline5.0Nov 2017

  • "I would have liked a washing machine and tumble dryer."

    Two machines not a combined one.

    Reviewed by Nigel4.8Sep 2017

  • "Great location for exploring the lake District."

    Cottage had all the amenities required with plenty of space for the children and dog. However no safe outside area for small children.

    Reviewed by Lorraine4.2Jul 2017

  • "The cottage was fantastic / the owners were great and extremely helpful."

    We couldn't have wished for a better holiday and, yes, I have just booked it again for November

    Reviewed by Susan5.0Feb 2017

  • "Overall the cottage was well equipped and clean."

    The mugs in the kitchen were all stained which we cleaned before using,especially as there is a note asking you to keep the cottage in a condition in which you found it, also a hairdryer would be an asset.

    Reviewed by Nigel4.6Sep 2016

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Summary

  • All ground floor
  • Three bedrooms: 1 x double with en-suite shower, basin and WC, 1 x twin, 1 x adult bunks
  • Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC
  • Kitchen
  • Sitting room with dining area.
  • Gas central heating
  • Electric oven, gas hob, microwave, fridge, washer/dryer, TV with Freeview, DVD, radio, WiFi, selection of books, games, CDs and DVDs
  • Fuel and power inc. in rent
  • Bed linen inc. in rent
  • No towels provided
  • Off road parking for 2 cars
  • Lockable bike storage in garage
  • Small patio
  • One well-behaved dog over 12 months old welcome at a charge of £25 payable on arrival
  • Sorry, no smoking
  • Shop and pubs 2 miles
  • Lake Bassenthwaite 10 mins walk
  • Note: Property is on a slope, with 4 steps to access
  • Although it appears to be first floor, the entrance is from a lane to the rear at ground floor
  • Note: WiFi is suitable for browsing only
  • Note: Guests wishing to charge electric vehicles must seek prior permission from the owners and reimburse the cost of the electricity used
  • Note: This property is only able to accept bookings for a minimum of 3 nights in duration.

The property

A converted barn, this spacious, single-storey cottage nestles under Thornthwaite Forest, just outside the village of Thornthwaite, and four miles from the popular town of Keswick.

With spectacular, panoramic mountain views to Skiddaw and the Helvellyn range, and a ten minute walk to the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, this cottage near Keswick is a wonderful base for a walking holiday, or a relaxing getaway with friends or family.

The master bedroom in this Lake District cottage has an en-suite shower room, and there is also a twin room, an excellent family bathroom, and a third bedroom with bunk beds for added flexibility with sleeping arrangements.

Superbly presented, this Bassenthwaite Lake cottage has a large sitting room and a dining area, with views across the fields to the Lake District fells beyond.

Outside, there is a small patio area where you can enjoy a refreshing drink.

Red squirrels can often be seen from the cottage, along with ospreys, which nest locally.

Being surrounded by mesmerising countryside, there are plenty of paths and bridleways to explore, including one leading into Whinlatter Forest just 200 yards away, the Newlands Valley, and Borrowdale.

A short drive away, Keswick plays host to a good selection of shops, pubs and restaurants, and Hope Park, situated on the shores of Derwentwater, has a lovely pitch-and-putt course for the family to enjoy.

The Keswick Launch Company offers the perfect way to admire the beauty of the Derwentwater with trips up the lake, and the cottage is well-placed for a trip to the Cumbrian coastline, Carlisle and Hadrian’s Wall.

This charming Keswick cottage is perfect for exploring this beautiful region, at any time of the year.

Note: This property is located next to Ref. 18408 and 936223 together they sleep 11.

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About the location

KESWICK

Bassenthwaite 7 miles, Ullswater 16.6 miles; Cockermouth 13 miles.

The popular town of Keswick is the holiday centre of the North of the Lake District and has plenty to offer the visitor at any time of year. The town boasts numerous shops and restaurants to suit all tastes, as well as offering miniature golf, excellent parks, the famous Theatre by the Lake, a charming cinema, the Pencil Museum, a climbing wall, fishing and great mountain biking opportunities, whilst the beautiful lake of Derwentwater at the head of the stunning Borrowdale Valley is only a few minutes walk from the town centre. Nearby, between Braithwaite and Buttermere is the beautiful Newlands Valley, while picturesque Bassenthwaite Lake is well worth a visit. From a gentle countryside ramble to a challenging hike up Skiddaw or the famous Catbells, there really is something for everyone. Visit Castlerigg Stone Circle, the Jennings Brewery and Mirehouse, a grand house and gardens on the shores of the Bassenthwaite Lake, or take a fabulous boat trip around Derwentwater. With plenty of attractions for the kids, lovely parks and the nearby Lake District Wildlife Park this is a great Lakeland destination whatever the time of year.

View more holiday cottages in Keswick

Note:
Max. 4 people.

The property can only accept bookings for a minimum of 3 nights duration.

No towels provided for bookings made from 1 June 22

One well-behaved dog over 12 months old welcome at a charge of £25 payable on arrival.

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Last minute
  • Christmas