Hart Head Barn

39 Customer Reviews

• "This was our second visit to your beautiful house and it didn't disappoint."

  We walked Loughrigg Fell, the coffin route and Alcock Tarn, Elterwater and Cathedral Caves and Skelwith Bridge to Elterwater. This place is perfect, and the hot tub is a great way to end a day of walking. We were lucky to see the northern lights put on a display on our last night. Thank you for such a fabulous base to enjoy this glorious part of the country that holds a very special place in our hearts. We visited a number of local restaurants and can recommend Matthew Bistro, The Badger Bar the Priest Hole and and the Swan for Sunday lunch.

  ScottNov 2024

• "We loved staying at Hart Head Barn - it was wonderful."

  It's a very comfortable property, well equipped, super comfortable beds and loads of space to relax in the lounge which can be a challenge to find. The hot tub was a bonus. My sister and I enjoyed a long overdue catch-up chatting and star-gazing whilst the men in our lives relaxed in front of the TV. Just one thing really that would have made the experience perfect - the mirror in the main bedroom is way too high up on the wall to use to dry/style your hair, put make up on etc (not that we used much make-up!). There isn't a single mirror in the house where you can 'sit and style' apart from outside the bedroom in the hallway which isn't ideal. My sister and I took it in turns to sit on the floor. It's not a show stopper but would be a nice facility to have. Much as I loved the house, I'm still recovering from knee surgery following an accident in Dec 2022 - and the walk back from the bus stop or the pub was an absolute killer for me. I dreaded it to be honest at the end of each day especially if you'd just had a nice relaxing meal - to then have to 'climb a mountain' to get home was not how I wanted to end my evening. Personally, I also didn't like the access by car either - it's way too steep for my comfort zone but I realise that this wouldn't faze most people and it's not something you can change of course. In summary, loved the house, loved the convenience, centrally located, loved the views from the property but didn't love the approach to the property and an accessible mirror would have been the icing on the cake. Thank you for contributing to a memorable stay, once again in the Lake District.

  Reviewed by Anita5.0★Sep 2024

• "We had a wonderful stay, with every thing we could need provided in the well-appointed Hart Head Barn."

  The photos are very accurate to the excellent condition of the cottage. After each day of walking we truly enjoyed a soak in the hot tub. The location is a perfect blend of rural quiet and (very small) village convenience. In the mornings we enjoyed walking to the nearby cafe at Rydal Hall overlooking a cascading stream, and in the evenings the food and drink at The Badger Bar pub just steps away, There are great hikes right from the cottage (try the loop around to see Rydal Cave, Rydal Water, and Grasmere, returning via the Coffin Road). Ambleside is just 5 minutes drive away. This is a superb base for a family or group in the central lakes.

  Reviewed by Jeremy5.0★Jul 2024

• "Lovely cottage, excellently located for walks and things to do."

  Reviewed by Claire5.0★Mar 2024

• "Hart Head Barn is a beautiful property in a stunning location."

  There is a gorgeous sitting room with views across to Lake Windermere. You can walk out from the house towards Grasmere and Ambleside. All the facilities are well maintained and the beds are very comfortable. The hot tub was just the icing on the cake! We had a wonderful holiday here.

  Thank you for taking the time to provide such a great review of HHB Sarah . I’m so glad that you really enjoyed your time here . Hoping that we can welcome you back for another stay sometime . Property Owner

  Reviewed by Sarah5.0★Mar 2024

• "WHAT A PLACE!"

  Fell in love with it from the moment we arrived. It’s a stunning property with every amenity you could ask for. The beds are very comfy and we both had great nights sleep. The property is very spacious and cosy at the same time! The lounge, one word WOW! Beautifully decorated, comfy sofas, great open fire and that view!!! We had the best week and didn’t want to leave. The location is perfect, we walked everywhere and didn’t use the car once. Special mention to the owner Jenny, nothing was too much trouble and answered the few queries we had. We’ve stayed at many properties in The Lakes and this is the best one yet! A very special place and the perfect place to relax & unwind!

  Thank you Matt for your glowing review . Makes all the hard work worthwhile . I’m always pleased to meet guests’ expectations and delighted if they are exceeded ! Very much hope to welcome you back one day Property Owner

  Reviewed by Matt5.0★Mar 2024

• "Great place."

  Beautiful location. Top notch fixtures and fittings. Everything you could possibly need for a comfortable stay. No need to use the car, lots of walking straight from the door. Bus stop close by and run every hour. Great hot tub!

  Thank you Debbie . Delighted that you enjoyed your stay so much . Yes it’s a real bonus having so many walks from the door particularly in the summer when the roads are busier . We hope to welcome you back again one day . Property Owner

  Reviewed by Debbie5.0★Feb 2024

• "This is around our 6th stay at Hart Head Barn and we were delighted with the refresh, which makes it feel even more cosy and sofas very comfortable."

  Not only do you have all the home comforts, good showers and a hot tub to soak in but there are multiple walks from the door without having to get into the car. This is definitely a house for all seasons with it's relaxing coal fire in the winter and patio/area tables in the summer. In terms of access to shops it is very close to both Grasmere and Ambleside and there are easy walks around Rydal and Grasmere as well the Coffin Trail on your doorstep and higher climbs if you want it. Totally recommend this holiday home, it never lets you down.

  Dear Jane . Delighted that you enjoyed another stay at HHB and really pleased that you like the refresh we’ve given it . Thank you for taking the time to post such a generous review and really hope you’ll be back again in 2024 . Property Owner

  Reviewed by Jane4.7★Nov 2023

• "We’ve stayed in this house a few times and absolutely love it and the location."

  Perfect for walks from the door and it’s a well-equipped, cosy house. Only minor issue was the security light at the front of the house didn’t appear to be working so we had a rather dark arrival.

  Thank you Lisa for letting me know about this . It is very dark without the lights so I will ensure they are sorted as soon as possible . Delighted that you keep choosing HHB when you come to the lakes . Property Owner

  Reviewed by Lisa5.0★Oct 2023

• "Just back from the most lovely week in the Lake District."

  First time staying in Hart Head Barn. We spent ages researching properties in the area. Our efforts paid off. Stunning barn. Interesting "upside down house" with gorgeous cozy lounge with stunning views. Well equipped kitchen with everything you could wish for. Beds comfy and snugly bed linen. Hot tub was a marvelous treat after long days walking in the fells. Highly recommend.

  LynnOct 2023

• "A lovely property, really well appointed."

  Plenty of beautiful walks available from the doorstep. We loved the hot tub, and the back yard was great with the little shelter for if it was drizzling, and a heater and light for the evenings. The driveway up to the house was very steep and could be a problem for some cars, and also we felt the house could use a thorough clean between lettings. We had a really nice holiday at Hart Head barn and would love to come back.

  Thank you for taking the time to provide a review . I am so sorry that you did not feel that the house was sufficiently clean . It is something that I take very seriously and do take a lot of care to try to ensure that it is always spotlessly clean upon arrival . I have passed this on to my housekeeper. Th. I am glad you enjoyed your stay Property Owner

  Reviewed by Jennie4.4★Sep 2023

• "We had a lovely week at Hart Head Barn."

  We found the accommodation very comfortable, well-equipped and extremely spacious. The views from the sitting room are stunning: even on a rainy day you can enjoy watching the trees and hills and the changing patterns of light above distant Windermere. It's great to be so near such a variety of good walks. We loved the Coffin route above Rydal Water, which is scenic but not too challenging. We also climbed Nab Scar, and from Ambleside up to Sweden Crag past the tumbling waterfalls. You could easily spend a week at Hart Head Barn without getting into the car! Having said that, it's only a short drive to Ambleside (we visited the jazz club and cinema, and sat out in the sun at the Giggling Goose tea-room), and not too far to Keswick (the Pencil Museum and Puzzling Place are great - plus the peaceful and incredibly beautiful walks beside Derwent Water). The Lakeland Wildlife Park is also well worth a visit. The hot tub was an incredible luxury: an invigorating and relaxing way to start the day or wind down in the evening. Wonderful to have the outdoor lights and heater too. A real bonus at the end of our stay was seeing a badger outside the Badger Bar, which was delightful. They put food out for them every evening. Thank you - it was such a refreshing end-of-summer break, and we hope to be back soon.

  Delighted that you enjoyed your stay so much . Thank you for taking the time to post such a helpful review for future guests to consider . We look forward to welcoming you back Property Owner

  Reviewed by Jess5.0★Sep 2023

• "Great holiday house - very comfortable and smart."

  Everything you need. Lovely lounge, very comfortable beds, great location not far from Ambleside. Badger Inn is walkable and serves good food.

  Reviewed by Sheila5.0★Jul 2023

• "Great stay in a well appointed and equipped cottage, everything we needed was at hand."

  The hot tub was also great after our long walks. We had the weather which also helped and enjoyed walking in to Ambleside for our evening meals. The suggestion list in the Cottage helped us find a few places to eat that we really enjoyed. Thanks.

  Reviewed by Neil5.0★Jun 2023

• "We had a Fabulous stay in a lovely property which is beautifully furnished, clean and well equipped."

  This was our third visit and it gets better every year. Thank you

  Delighted that you chose Hart head barn for a third time . Really hope to welcome you back again in the future . Thank you for taking the time to post a review . It is really appreciated Property Owner

  Reviewed by Stephen5.0★May 2023

• "Lovely cottage, very comfortable, good facilities, in a lovely setting."

  Mentioning the steep hill to the cottage (especially the final concrete dramp up to the cottage) would have been good. The only thing we didn't like was the rather punitive tone of the instructions about how to use the hot tub. It was all so negative ("do this wrong and we'll charge you £100", "make sure you have a shower first" etc) that we decided not to bother using the tub, which we had been looking forward to. Rewriting the instructions in a more positive and friendly way would be sensible.

  Really sorry that the tone of the hot tub instructions put you off going in … it’s such a lovely experience after a long walk . I will amend them so as not to put anyone else off ! Really hope it did not affect your stay too much and glad you liked the rest of the cottage . Property Owner

  Reviewed by Duncan4.7★May 2023

• "Superb cottage , furnished to a very high standard with the added luxury of the hot tub - which after a hard days walk was very welcome!"

  Thank you for your lovely review . It’s very much appreciated when guests take time to post a review . So glad you enjoyed the hot tub after your walks . Property Owner

  Reviewed by Richard5.0★Apr 2023

• "We love our stay at Hart Head Barn."

  It’s truly a home away from home. I cannnot fault the property - it is perfect in every way. There’s everything you need for a wonderful, enjoyable and comfortable holiday. Kitchen is complete with everything you need to make a meal and more. The bedrooms are all very cosy and the bathrooms clean and warm. The cottage central heating is set so it’s warm every time we come home from our walks. The hot tub is a great bonus after a long day. I can only imagine how perfect it would be to stay in the summer with the outdoor bbq and lunch / picnic area, the hot tub and the kitchen that opens up to the outdoor area. The lounge has everything you need to spend quality time with the family. The owner has really thought about everything you would want / need for a lovely holiday. Complete witn fairy lights in the outdoor area for a star gazing night in the hot tub. The boot room with heating is so handy to dry our boots and coats after a wet day walking. And location wise this is perfect to walk everywhere around Rydal water, Loughrigg Fell, the Coffin Trail, and Grasmere and Ambleside. We did all the walks straight from the cottage and climbed the two fells nearby. We almost didn’t use our car throughout our stay - except for the day we went to Derwent water. It is ideally located next door but one to Rydal Hall and Rydal Mount which is loads to do there in itself . And you can walk to Grasmere for a days outt, and take the bus home- so handy and no need to fight for parking. We just had a Perfect holiday in the Lakes, and thank you very much to Jenny for being the kindest host.

  What a lovely review ! I’m delighted that you loved your stay at Hart head barn . I really hope I can welcome you back for another stay in the future . Property Owner

  Reviewed by Yanti5.0★Mar 2023

• "ThIs was our third visit to Hart Head Barn and we will rebook."

  Where to start, the location in the middle of Ambleside and Grassmere is perfect, and yet the property is privately located away from the hustle and bustle of town life. The views are amazing, and it's literally a few minutes walk part way through the coffin walk or down to Rydal water. The property is extremely well laid out , clean, comfortable, with all the extra thought put in to make it feel special. The beds are super comfy with quality bedding, the showers are hot and powerful, just what you need and the hot tub is private and wonderful after a.day walking. The kitchen is equipped with all that you need if you want to eat at home and the lounge is also super comfy. If you are looking for a comfortable , well located, gold standard rent , then this is it. I almost don't want to share this secret haven but that would not be fair. The property is located up a hill with ample parking which is great for views but a consideration of you have a disability .

  Reviewed by Caroline5.0★Oct 2022

• "Marvellous yet again – lost count of our visits!"

  Thank you to the owner for their attention to detail!

  Sep 2022

• "Enjoyed every minute of the stay at this lovely cottage - the facilities are fantastic and it is in an ideal location to access all parts of the lakes - a couple of small quibbles/suggestions - instructions on how to use the electric oven and dishwasher would be welcome as we don't have those at home so struggled to work out how they worked."

  Our car did slip a little, burning rubber in the process, on the two steep inclines leading up to the cottage when it was raining and the little lane that you turn left into needs some attention as there is a large pothole on the left hand edge. The hot tub was great and we used it every day but it seemed to murmur away quite often and start up at times when it was all covered over so we were not sure if we needed to twiddle some knobs or do something to shush it up. Spotted the all weather table tennis table in the next door garden and whished we had one to play with too. Wish I could repeat the holiday all over again and would happily return and may well do that next year.

  Really pleased that you loved your stay here at hart head barn . Yes the lane and the drive way up are very steep . We have had the drive resurfaced to try to help but it's still steep we know . The benefit from the same are the gorgeous views from the barn ! Yes potholes . These are difficult too as we don't own this piece of land but efforts are in hand to try and keep on top of these repairs . All the instructions for appliances are in a plastic wallet - this does rely on the previous guest leaving it back in the correct place and sorry if you couldn't find this ! The hot tub is gorgeous isn't it . It is on constantly but doesn't require any attention . Just get in and enjoy ! Oh we'd love an outside tennis table too . There's just not enough level patio space to accommodate it or we'd provide one for sure . Hope to welcome you back , maybe in a different season as it's lovely all year round . Thank you for taking time to post a review . Property Owner

  Reviewed by Ian5.0★Aug 2022

• "The cottage is lovely, we had everything we needed to make our stay extremely comfortable."

  We were blessed with good weather and we're able to get out and enjoy the beautiful Lake District every day, but found plenty of board games available for rainy days, a lovely touch. This cottage is more suited to the fit and more able bodied, due to different levels within the house, steps down into the kitchen and the same in one of the bedrooms, as well as the steep access but otherwise I'd really recommend a stay here

  Reviewed by Jean4.4★May 2022

• "Jenny was an amazing host and the property was beautiful."

  the surrounding area was amazing and it was a perfect setting for our first family holiday in 3 years. we will definitely come back

  Reviewed by Yohan5.0★May 2022

• "Enjoyed our stay, especially the hot tub during a very windy and wet week."

  The cottage is up a very steep road and drive which didn't worry us as we knew the terrain but may be a worry to others. It is warm, comfortable, well equipped and set in a lovely spot in Rydal with Rydal Hall and its waterfalls, and lovely walks straight from your doorstep, we also saw a red squirrel. Only issue was that we couldn't open and shut some doors and windows very easily but would happily stay again.

  Reviewed by James3.8★Feb 2022

• "Coffee machine is needed"

  Thank you for your feedback and hope you had a great stay at Hart Head Barn. This is something the owner has thought about numerous times however unfortunately there is insufficient worktop space in the kitchen to make it viable. Kind Regards, Property Owner

  Reviewed by Melanie4.7★Dec 2021

• "Our second visit to this wonderful barn and still as wonderful."

  Perfect location , clean, comfortable and a wonderful hot tub too finish off the days walking. Every little detail accounted for to make our stay one that wants us to come back again and again. Already booked for next year can't wait.

  Reviewed by Caroline5.0★Dec 2021

• "Fantastic property with everything you need for a comfortable stay."

  It looked better in real life than in the pictures. The hot tub had many hours of use, and the window over looking Wordsworth’s house and Windermere in the distance was a great bonus. Location for walks was amazing. We have always overlooked Rydal in favour of Grasmere and Ambleside but found Rydal a great place to stay with easy access to both!

  Reviewed by Stephen5.0★Oct 2021

• "Great base for the week, ideally located."

  Nice cottage, we loved the upside-down layout and view from the front window. Plenty of activities to door from premises! That said there were quite a few minor issues with the cottage which on their own would be quite tolerable but when added together took the gloss off what should have been a memorable stay… 1. The driveway! I dread to think how many miles of tread we shredded off-of our tyres going up and down, especially on arrival with a fully laden front wheel drive automatic car, no word of warning about that. It was a bit slippery when damp due to rain/drizzle too. You need to mention this in the listing. Anyone with mobility issues needs to bare this in mind. 2. The cottage, whilst tidy wasn’t exactly clean, we found wrappers and crisps in the lounge and slices of raw meat around the bench at the front along with rusty bottle tops. Given COVID cleaning should be over and above! 3. The rubbish bin was overflowing, which meant we had to bag things up until after the rubbish collection, incidentally we put the bin out for 2 Hart Head Barn (which was unoccupied) as that was also overflowing. 4. Skirting boards, all generally paint chipped. 5. Upstairs Shower room, loose towel rail. 6. Twin Bedroom. Slats kept falling from the beds which meant the two in that room didn’t have a comfortable week. The door handle kept coming off. There’s also a mark on the wall. 7. Master bedroom. The wardrobe is a bit lop sided meaning the doors wouldn’t shut properly. Also, the shower was a bit ropey to be honest, believe it was billed as a luxury suite… 8. Kitchen, once we found the correct instructions things were a lot easier, we found these in the crockery cupboard, the information pack had the details for the old oven. Needless to say, we’ve put these into the pack for the next occupants. A lot of the cups/mugs are chipped. A 2-slot toaster for a 6-occupancy cottage seemed at odds, as did the single cafetiere! Fortunately, we brought our own… 9. Courtyard was a bit scruffy, not be swept in a long time, bits of the damaged ratan furniture all over. Evidence of confetti and cigarette ends in various places. There were also wine glasses down the side of the hot tub, which we couldn't reach. Incidentally the hot tub was lovely after a walk or a bike ride. Could be a really excellent place with a little extra effort. Too many minor issues. Real shame!

  Thank you for taking the time to feedback after your recent stay. We are glad that you love the upside down layout of Hart Head Barn and the beautiful views. It is always helpful if clients contact us immediately upon arrival if the property is not cleaned to our very high standards. There is no record of any contact from you during your stay. We would have happily rectified any of the minor issues to which you refer. It is noted also that the review you have posted omits an important part of your email to Lake Lovers namely … “like I said, a lovely cottage but too many minor issues hence this email and request of a partial good faith refund. I think £400 isn’t an unreasonable ask given that this is what you charge guests in the event that they leave the place in poor repair etc.” It is also noted that prior to receipt of your “review” the housekeeper for Hart Head Barn had contacted the owner in dismay at the damage caused by your guests to the bedding and towels. Photographs were taken and a replacement king-size duvet cover, king-size fitted sheet and one pillowcase has had to be replaced after strenuous efforts to clean bedding following your departure. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Louise2.8★Aug 2021

• "The barn was perfect for our needs with everything there to make our stay comfortable."

  The hot tub was a delight after days out walking. The barn has such wonderful views that you could sit and stare at them all day. But there is so much to do and explore just on the door step that you don't need a car. We were lucky with the weather and enjoyed a fabulous holiday

  Reviewed by D E5.0★Jun 2021

• "A fantastic, well equipped house perfect for the use of our group."

  Perfectly situated for walks and visits to local towns. We had a lovely time and really enjoyed the added benefit of the hot tub.

  Reviewed by Dermot5.0★Jun 2021

• "Quaint upside down cottage with amazing views which was VERY comfortable and felt like home from home - Everything that is needed, has been provided and all really good quality."

  Nothing has been scrimped on. The beds are so comfy it was difficult to leave them in the mornings !!! The owner was lovely and when we emailed a small query, she responded quickly. Would probably mention that there are steps and slopes up to cottage so less able people are aware. It was an absolutely lovely place to stay - steeped in surrounding history - next door but one to Wordsworths cottage and Rydal hall - Lovely local walks (Coffin walk from Grassmere to Rydal Church) Amazing views over Rydal water and lovely local gardens in Rydal Hall (all walkable from the cottage) Pub within walking distance (when Covid allows opening) An amazing base for the Southern Lakes. Would love to return - Thank you

  Reviewed by Penny5.0★May 2021

• "Beautiful place for a relaxing holiday."

  Tastefully decorated & extremely cosy. Amazing views and wonderful walks. Especially enjoyed the hot tub after a long day outside in the cold. Then in to relax by a real fire - perfect!! Can't wait to return!

  Miss DonochieNov 2019

• "We loved the attention to detail at the barn, nicely decorated and loved the hot tub."

  Loved the location and being able to leave the car and go for walks straight from the property.

  Mrs BourdonAug 2019

• "The cottage is well placed - lovely walk to Grasmere or Ambleside and Rydal water at end of drive."

  The views from the cottage are lovely and the hot tub is wonderful. Couldn’t fault it.

  Mrs WeatherheadJun 2019

• "Our 4th stay, we love the location, especially the views and walks straight out onto the fells."

  Love the hot tub and used it most days! Weather good so walked round Rydal/Grasmere, Loughrigg Fell and took the steamer at Ullswater to Howtown and walked back! We'll be back!

  Cordery FamilyMar 2019

• "Our 4th stay."

  .. feels like home from home now. Just love it, cosy, comfortable and so peaceful. Thanks for sharing Hart Head we'll be back very soon :) x

  Helen & FamilyMar 2019

• "Beautiful, no expense spared, cottage fully equipped."

  Amazing location with great views, Had a fantastic week celebrating a 50th birthday.

  Kirsty, Michael, Andrew, Amanda & JacobDec 2018

• "Fantastic accommodation set in a beautiful and peaceful area."

  Great hot tub, great walking, already planning our return. thank you.

  Kevin & FranNov 2018

• "Very comfortable cottage in a beautiful location."

  Fabulous for mountain walking & wildlife. Watch out for the red squirrel that run along the patio!! lovely robin... who adores biscuits!

  Jane & JulesSep 2018

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