Fido Family Friendly Places

Located in the small hamlet of Hartley, approximately 1 mile from the popular Cumbrian town of Kirkby Stephen, this charming cottage, originally a brewery and inn, offers welcoming, comfortable accommodation ideal for couples or a small family who enjoy exploring, walking or cycling in stunning countryside. The Yorkshire Dales National Park, Upper Eden Valley and North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are all right on the doorstep, and it is also within easy reach of the Lake District National Park. Dating back to the 1700s, the cottage, which is attached to the main house, has retained lots of lovely character features, which include exposed stone work on the stairs and a fantastic spacious bedroom with beams and galleried area. These traditional features are combined with all the contemporary comforts one expects from a holiday home, such as Wi-Fi, a well-equipped kitchen and contemporary bathroom with bath and separate shower cubicle. There is also a useful vestibule area where you can store outdoor clothing and boots.
Once a traditional farming and quarrying village, Hartley is a quiet place to stay, and the main sound you will hear is the babbling beck which runs through the village to the front of the cottage. The remains of the 12th-century castle can be seen on the hill which overlooks the village and on the summit of Hartley Fell are the mysterious ’Nine Standards’, a line of nine standing stones. Situated on the Coast to Coast footpath, the cottage is perfect for walkers. There is a variety of walks on offer to suit all abilities from a quiet riverside walk or a stroll along the railway lines to more challenging fell walks. The Eden Viaducts footpath starts in Hartley and the Howgill Fells are within easy reach, as are the North Pennines. The area is also great for cycling, with Kirkby Stephen on the C2C (Sea to Sea) Cycle Route. Other routes nearby include the W2W (Walney to Wear) coast to coast route and the Lakes and Dales Loop. There is an electric bike hire shop in the village and normal bike hire in Kirkby Stephen, or should you wish to bring your own bikes, storage is available on-site. Other popular activities available locally include golf and fishing. The popular ’Walkers are Welcome’ town of Kirkby Stephen is just 1 mile away and there is a footpath which will take just over 5 minutes to walk into town. Here you will find a good selection of shops, pubs, cafés and eateries as well as a couple of supermarkets, and there is a weekly market held on Mondays. The town also has a heritage centre and train station which is on the famous Settle-Carlisle line. In addition to its stunning scenery the area is also rich in culture and heritage and there are castles at Brough and Pendragon, both of which are free to visit. Shops and restaurants 1½ miles, pub 1 mile.

Shore Meadow is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Set just 150 yards from a beautiful, secluded sandy beach and enjoying an idyllic position in this tranquil, south-western corner of the Lakes where the mountains almost meet the sea. This semi-detached cottage is a short walk from the peaceful village centre of Silecroft. It has stunning westerly views over the Irish Sea to the Isle of Man and easterly views to Black Combe Fell. The beach extends for miles in both directions and is perfect for dog walking, lazy days building sandcastles or taking to the sea for fishing.

Shore Meadow has two double bedrooms and has been furnished and equipped to provide a really comfortable stay. There is a spacious breakfast kitchen which opens to a patio area with outside furniture, a large living room with two sofas and a wood burner, plus a separate dining room with French doors to the garden. There is also a large, enclosed, lawned garden, ideal for young children and dogs, and private parking for two cars.

Black Combe, the closest of the Lake District Fells, is only 2 miles away, and all of the westerly fells, including Scafell and Scafell Pike, are within easy reach, offering great walking for all abilities. Nearby attractions include Cumbria Heavy Horses, a BHS approved riding centre offering fell and beach rides on Clydesdale and Shire horses; water sports centre at Port Haverigg; South Lakeland Wild Animal Park, home to tigers, lions, white rhino, giraffes and lots of monkeys; historic Muncaster Castle, with stunning gardens and many seasonal events, also home of the World Owl Trust, and Ravenglass and Eskdale Narrow Gauge Railway, where you can ride a steam train through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Lake District. A farm shop and gallery at nearby Bootle also offers breakfasts, lunches and afternoon teas. Short, beautiful drives take you to Coniston, with the Ruskin Museum which houses geology and copper mining exhibits; the boating centre and Bluebird Café, or Whitehaven, Cumbria’s oldest harbour, where the Rum Story exhibition gives a fresh view on the town, and The Beacon Museum, with five floors of interactive exhibits, powerful telescopes and seafaring displays, providing a fun family day out. Beach 150 yards. Shop 50 yards, pub and restaurant ¾ mile.

Visit England ROSE award winner 2018

Bruno’s Bothy is detached and set in a peaceful location on a working farm in the heart of beautiful Cumbria. Renovated to an exacting standard and beautifully decorated with beamed high ceilings, wood burner, a delightful sun room overlooking the garden, not to mention the hot tub - you just might not want to venture further afield. If you can tear yourself away, Cumbria and the Lake District National Park is one of the most beautiful regions in the UK. The area has something to offer all visitors, from those seeking adventure, to those seeking peace and quiet. Not only is the Lake District National Park a short drive away, but from here it’s also easy to explore the great border city of Carlisle, Hadrian’s Wall and Scotland. Shop 4 miles, pub with restaurant 100 yards.

Seacote Gardens is a semi-detached home, set in the quiet and calm town of St Bees. The house has been tastefully furnished throughout and the owners have decorated the property with much care and attention. Sit back in the enclosed garden and watch the outstanding sunsets, or just enjoy exceptional starry nights, which are due to no light pollution. Seacote Gardens is the perfect seaside setting, with views of the Irish Sea and a fantastic children’s play area within 200 yards, as well as a lovely beach café and the RNLI slipway nearby. St Bees Head has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is the prime location of the start of the Wainwright Coast to Coast Walk, and the 9-hole St Bees Golf Club is 500 yards away, so this holiday home is also ideal for golfing getaways. On a clear day you can catch sight of the Isle of Man, and a dog-friendly restaurant is only 100 yards away if you don’t want to cook.
The beauty of this area is that it is so close to the Lakes and the coastal path is on your doorstep, with only a short walk to the RSPB St Bees Head Nature Reserve. Take a trip on the Ravenglass to Eskdale miniature steam railway, known to the locals as the ’la ’al ratty’, or visit beautiful Muncaster Castle, home to the World Owl Centre. Whitehaven is only 5 miles away and is filled with popular restaurants and a world-famous port. You can visit the Beacon Museum there, which is bursting with history, there are Coast to Coast cycle routes, coastal walks and golf breaks all from this fabulous holiday home. Whether you are looking for a relaxing seaside break or an adventurous walking holiday, Seacote Gardens is the perfect base. The beach is only 200 yards away where you’ll find a beach café, perfect al fresco breakfasts. Beach 200 yards. Shop 400 yards, pub and restaurant 100 yards

Wild Duck is a well presented, end-terrace cottage in the quiet village of Swarthmoor, located on the Furness peninsula. The open plan living space provides a comfortable and airy feel, with a large comfy sofa and armchair to relax in - the wood burner is the focal point and a warming welcome on those cooler evenings. A well-equipped kitchen has everything you need to start the day with a hearty breakfast or an evening meal, but with many excellent restaurants nearby you could be very easily tempted out for the evening. Upstairs there are two double bedrooms laid out over the first and second floor, with a good-sized family bathroom with bath and separate shower on the first floor. Young children have been well catered for, too, with a wicker crib, cot, toddler bed (as well as bedding for these) and a stairgate and highchair. Outside to the rear is a private and enclosed patio garden, a perfect place to have a drink and enjoy the sunsets on those long summer evenings with friends.
Located just on the outskirts of the popular town of Ulverston, 2 miles, home to many old pubs, restaurants, shops and a regular market, explore the many cobbled streets with small and interesting shops and historical architecture, it is the birthplace of Stan Laurel and the town’s Laurel and Hardy museum is well worth a visit.
Walkers will enjoy the start of the Cumbria Way from here, a relatively low level walk that follows paths and tracks along valleys and breathtaking passes. Nearby family attractions also include the South Lakes Wild Animal Park, Windermere, Coniston and a rewarding walk up Birkrigg Common with panoramic views over Morecambe Bay. Beach 3 miles. Shop 2 miles, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

This eco ethos, self-built home with both solar and air sources, having underfloor heating on the ground and first floor was lovingly built by the owners using traditional stone, offering a rustic retreat with a contemporary twist. Accommodating up to 9 guests in luxury and comfort, this cosy cottage is ideal for larger families, groups of friends or couples seeking a countryside escape in the Eden Valley, close to the Lake District with the Cumbrian Hills rising to the north.
The property boasts four bedrooms, all with large TVs, some with TV feature walls, comprising one king with en-suite, two more king-size bedrooms and a fourth bedroom which can accommodate three guests. All beds have luxury firm memory foam mattresses with beautiful crisp white linen. You will find drencher showers both in the en-suite and main bathroom, which also features a large double-ended bathtub with all toiletries and towels provided. The stylish modern kitchen with an island is perfect for socialising around and features all modern appliances, including a dishwasher, washer, and dryer. The lovingly furnished living room houses a cosy wood burner, perfect for chilly nights in, and a new Samsung Qled 85” cinema screen/media wall Nintendo Switch, perfect for movie and games nights! Super-fast broadband means your digital needs are well-catered for here.
The private off-road driveway accommodates two large cars comfortably or three smaller cars and there is substantial off-street parking in the village near the play park. Their beautiful enclosed rear garden is a great space for any children or family pets to play in there is even a private hot tub and outdoor living area and a large patio where you can relax and unwind with views of the beautiful countryside. Detached from the house is a large boot/Games room facility, perfect for kicking off muddy boots and coats, and a dog bath and shower for pampering your pooch after your days exploring, a professional darts board and a retro Nintendo games console. we have large Cosy blankets for nights sat under the stars, a drinks fridge, and recycling facilities.
The wonderfully welcoming owners have furnished the property with total guest comfort in mind and will be there to meet and greet you upon arrival. You will have the personal touch of them being on hand during your stay if you require, available to tailor your visit to your total satisfaction. E-bikes can also be booked before your arrival, by direct arrangement with the owners. The local area has an abundance of pubs, cafes, and a local shop/post office all only a short drive away. Langwathby train station is close by where you can ride the Carlisle to settle route, the cottage is also on the C2C route.
For busy days of exploration walking straight from Cherry Cottage, be sure to visit Lacy’s Caves, a series of five chambers carved out of the sandstone cliff, set along a beautiful walking route with views of the river and a wonderful garden to admire. Just a short walk from the village you can find Long Meg and her daughters, one of the finest stone circles in the north of England- ask the owners for its mythical and mysterious legend! These beautiful attractions can be enjoyed doing a circular walk.
If you are looking for activities to occupy the family, in the next village of Hunsonby there is an outdoor swimming pool open from April to September, and the village of Winskill has a large playground with zip wire to entertain our younger guests.
Whether it’s fun-filled adventures in the countryside or simply enjoying time well spent together, Cherry Cottage has all you would ever need. Shop, restaurant 2 miles, pub 1 mile.

All five lodges are open plan and offer ground floor accommodation, with one double bedroom, one twin bedroom and a walk-in shower. There is a private hot tub and terrace for each lodge, overlooking landscaped grounds, and parking for two cars.
If you plan to explore, there are lots of activities right on your doorstep. The South Lakes Safari Zoo is only a 10-minute drive away and is one of Cumbria’s most popular tourist attractions! Ulverston is just a 5-minute drive away, a busy market town inundated with old historic buildings and cobbled streets, and is the start of the 70-mile Cumbrian Way.
You are spoilt for choice on places to explore in the surrounding areas. Barrow-in-Furness is a short drive away, a large town with plenty of shopping, bars, restaurants, cinema and a golf course. Both Walney Island and Newby Bridge are a 20-minute drive away, and at Newby Bridge you’ll find the home of the Lakes Aquarium and Windermere Lake cruises, offering boat rides across England’s largest lake.
Ulverston is a great base for a gateway into the lakes so whether you are planning to enjoy walking a few of the 214 Wainwright fells, cycling the fantastic roads nearby or driving over to many other popular towns around Cumbria including Ambleside, Coniston, Bowness-on-Windermere and Windermere, you are spoilt for choice! Beach 4 miles. Shop 2 miles, pub and restaurant 1 mile.

Yewtree House is an impressive Holiday home of considerable size and will comfortably accommodate up to 16 guests, with a large dining table. It is ideal for a large family gathering or groups of walkers seeking to enjoy the splendour of the Eastern Lakes. The house is easily accessible, only 5 minutes drive from the M6 in the village of Tirril, and lies only 3 miles from Ullswater and Pooley Bridge and 3 miles from Penrith. The pub in Tirril is within easy walking distance and provides a restaurant and small shop. Bar meals are served throughout the day. A mile away in Yanwath is another pub restaurant renowned for its cuisine.
Tirril Lodge sits in spacious grounds with views over open countryside to both the front and rear. Activities available locally include pony trekking at Sockbridge and a variety of water sports on Ullswater, including sailing instruction, as well as some of the best fell walking in the Lake District. The house is ideally situated for exploring both the northern and southern lakes and fells. Situated just 2½ miles from the beautiful scenery of Ullswater, you can enjoy a trip around the lake on a steamer and visit the impressive waterfall at Aira Force. A spectacular journey along the shores of Ullswater and over the Kirkstone Pass takes you to Lake Windermere. At the head of Derwentwater and 15 miles from Sockbridge, lies the town of Keswick with its lovely parks and selection of coffee, gift and outdoor shops.

Located in the beautiful and tranquil Eden Valley, Delmonte is on the outskirts of Langwathby, with its train station on the fabulous Carlisle to Settle line, a lovely local pub, which serves both excellent food and is just a short stroll away from the cottage. This ground floor bungalow has large airy rooms and with its elevated position, comes with fantastic views onto the village and onto the peaks of the Lake District. The Eden Valley nestles between the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales National Park and the North Pennines, Cumbria’s ‘hidden gem’, which maintains the illusion of untouched remoteness despite its extremely accessible location. There is superb walking and fishing locally. Penrith, Alston and Ullswater are all under 15 miles away, and Hadrian’s Wall is just 20 miles away. Pub, restaurant and train station ¼ mile.

Get ready for some fantastic memories. This magnificent Grade II listed Victorian Gothic mansion set beside Lake Windermere makes the perfect venue for large family get togethers, special occasions and surprise celebrations. Set in private grounds with lawned gardens and only a 5-minute walk to Bowness-On-Windermere, this place is simply unforgettable. High ceilings and stunning features offer a glimpse of its Victorian heritage. Following a stylish renovation, the impressive Fallbarrow Hall features the latest in interior design and contemporary fashion.

Featuring fifteen spacious en-suite bedrooms, plus two apartments with three additional bedrooms. You’ll find the combination of rooms, beds, and flexible sleeping arrangements ideal for an amazing holiday with up to 36 of your friends and loved ones. The themed bedrooms, sumptuous furnishings and luxurious surroundings are just the treat you’re looking for. Kick back in the jazzy cocktail bar or unwind while you catch the latest entertainment in the TV lounge. Enjoy some quiet time in the library or take in a movie in the cinema room. Take on your mates at pool or table tennis, while the little ones chill out in the kid’s den. Whether it’s a cosy night in or a much-needed family reunion you’re after, this place has it covered.

During the day, the large windows flood the area with plenty of daylight and great views of the grounds and gardens. If you’re planning a special meal, there’s a stunning dining room big enough to host an amazing banquet and you can easily get everyone together. The large kitchen is well equipped and provides a social and communal hub with all the cooking facilities you need. There is a utility and laundry room, ideal for walking gear and muddy boots, and plenty more to explore when you get here. Outside you can enjoy a large expanse of gardens with views of Lake Windermere.

Fallbarrow Hall is in a private and secluded area of Fallbarrow Holiday Park which features The Willow, a fine dining restaurant and cocktail bar, a marina with direct access to the lake, an adventure playground, and sports courts for the kids. Turn right from the park entrance and in 5 minutes’ you are in the popular tourist magnet of Bowness-On-Windermere with an abundance of shops, pubs, bars, and restaurants offering every type of cuisine you could wish for. Here you can ride the steamers on Lake Windermere to Ambleside or Lakeside. Grab an ice cream, feed the ducks, hire a boat, play mini golf, or play in the arcades. There’s so much to do and of course you are in the heart of The Lake District National Park, so if you love the outdoors, you’re in the right place. Walkers, cyclists, climbers will be in their element. Look no further, you’ve found the place of your dreams!