Guests say
High Spy is a charming cottage in Keswick, highly praised for its stunning countryside views, peaceful location, and well-equipped kitchen. Guests appreciate the cleanliness, comfortable beds, and the inviting garden, making it a restful base for exploring the Lake District. While the heating system and lack of a freezer are noted drawbacks, and parking can be tricky, the overall experience is positive, with many guests expressing a desire to return. The cottage’s rural setting and proximity to local attractions and walks are standout features.
Most guests found the cottage very clean and tidy, with only occasional minor issues such as stale-smelling towels or the odd spider. The overall impression is of a well-maintained property.
The location is frequently described as peaceful, rural, and offering breathtaking views. Its proximity to walks, a local pub, and attractions like the wildlife park is highly valued by guests.
Guests generally found the cottage comfortable, with cosy beds and a homely feel. Some mentioned the cottage is smaller than expected, and a few found the heating challenging in colder months, but most were satisfied with the comfort provided.
The kitchen is well-equipped, but the absence of a freezer and some minor maintenance issues (such as lighting and firewood supply) were noted. The heating system requires attention, especially in winter, but overall facilities meet most guests’ needs.
Some guests mentioned a lack of promised firewood and minimal starter supplies (like loo roll), which affected their arrival experience. No gifts were mentioned, and guests should note that such extras are not guaranteed.
About this property
Bassenthwaite lake, Keswick and Cockermouth are all a short distance from this lovely, two-bedroomed property, which is perfect for exploring the Lake District National Park.. 1 step to entrance.
Ground Floor:
Living room: Sky, Smart TV, Sky Movies, Sky Sports, Open Fire
Dining room: French Doors Leading To Garden
Kitchen: Electric Oven, Electric Hob, Microwave, Slow Cooker, Fridge, Dishwasher, Washing Machine
First Floor:
Bedroom 1: Double (4ft 6in) Bed, 2 x Single (3ft) Beds
Bedroom 2: ¾ Double (4ft) Bed
Bathroom: Bath With Shower Over, Heated Towel Rail, Toilet.
Electic and solid fuel central heating, electricity, bed linen, towels and Wi-Fi included. Initial fuel for open fire included. Enclosed rear garden with patio and garden furniture. Private parking for 1 car. No smoking. Please note: There are 6 steps in the garden.. High Spy has fabulous views onto Bassenthwaite and the neighbouring fells, and is in a perfect location for exploring the Lake District National Park with walks for all abilities (many from the door). Switch off, relax, and unwind on the outskirts of the small village of Bassenthwaite, ideal for walking, climbing, and sightseeing. Located by a stream where ducks wander to and fro and with swings in a small, wooded area. From here, children, and the young at heart, can spend many happy hours playing pooh sticks from the bridge or sitting by the stream on the benches while you read your favourite book or have a picnic. Football and cricket can be played on the village green, or just relax and watch the world go by. Keswick is a magnet for the Lake District visitor, with Lake Derwentwater, several parks including crazy golf, mini golf and putting, all its outdoor clothing shops, cafés, restaurants, galleries, museum, cinema, theatre, brewery and more. Cockermouth, more of a ‘locals’ town has Jennings Brewery tours, Wordsworth House (the birthplace of the poet William Wordsworth), the annual food festival in September, and a good selection of unique independent shops and eateries.
The cottage is an excellent base with plenty to do and many places to eat nearby in this quieter part of the Lake District, avoiding the towns and busier villages if you prefer. You can take walks from the door down country lanes, including 2 miles to the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, or the more adventurous can walk to Dash Waterfalls or climb Skiddaw Mountain (fourth highest mountain in the Lake District) or some of Wainwright’s other northern fells. The lakes of Loweswater, Buttermere, Crummock Water, Ennerdale, Grasmere and Rydal, Thirlmere, Ullswater and Windermere are between 25-40 minutes’ drive. Mirehouse, with its grounds and adventure playgrounds; Dodd Wood Mountain forest and café; and the ancient church of St Bega, on the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, are under 10 minutes’ drive towards Keswick. A 5-10-minutes’ drive towards Cockermouth is the Lakes Distillery offering meals, guided tours and alpaca walking; the refurbished Bassenthwaite Lake Station where you can breakfast, lunch or snack on the grand train from the Orient Express film; The Lake District Wildlife Park, and, for those wanting to treat themselves with some pampering, there is the luxury award-winning spa at Armathwaite Hall.
Free WiFi
Reviews (20)
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Confirmed Guest
Lovely place to stay. Fantastic views. Pretty garden. We had everything we needed. Great pub within walking distance that served really nice meals.We found the Bassenthwaite railway. A restaurant on a train carriage. Great funOnly one minor issue. The property would really benefit from having a freezer or fridge with a freezer compartment as space is limited in the kitchen.We really enjoyed our stay.
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Confirmed Guest
Loved everything about this cottage, I will definitely be returning.
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Bob and Maureen
The cottage and facilities were excellent, with fabulous views across to Skiddaw and Whinlatter from the dining room window. Our only problem was the weather - it rained pretty much all the time which compelled us to come home early! However, would certainly look to book again.