Birkerthwaite Farmhouse Beckfoot

Birkerthwaite Farmhouse is up near Beckfoot in Cumbria. It's at the end of a long, unmade track, so you feel properly set apart. The views from here are over the moorland towards Scafell. It's very quiet.

The farmhouse itself is old, from 1627. It's full of original features, like beamed ceilings and flagged stone floors. Some of the beams are said to be from old shipwrecks, which is a local thing. There are unusual oak cupboards built into the walls from the 1700s. It's got a 4 Star rating, which means it's comfortable and well looked after, but it's still an old building. The stairs are what you'd expect.

It sleeps four, in two bedrooms. There are two bathrooms, which is handy. There's an open fire and an Aga in the kitchen that makes the place feel cosy. The garden is enclosed, so it's safe for a dog. We take one pet.

For facilities, you've got WiFi, a washing machine, and parking right there. Bedding is included. There's a stairgate if you need it.

The nearest pub is about two and a half miles away. The shop is in Boot, about three miles. You're really here for the walking. The fells are right on your doorstep. A short drive gets you to Wast Water. For a day out, you can visit Muncaster Castle or the Hardknott Roman Fort. If you're feeling brave, the drive over the Hardknott and Wrynose passes to Langdale and Ambleside is stunning, but the roads are very steep and narrow. The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway steam train is a good trip, especially with kids. The Cumbrian coast with its sandy beaches is about half an hour to the west.

Useful links for planning: Lake District National Park and National Trust Lake District.