Holly Bank

Groups of up to eight will find Holly Bank works well for a multi-generational break or a gathering of friends. The bungalow is single-storey, spread across ground level, with four bedrooms and three bathrooms—one en-suite to the main bedroom, one to the second, and a family bathroom serving the other two. A games room with television and PlayStation 3 gives younger visitors their own space, while the office desk there suits those who can't fully switch off. Everything on one floor means no negotiating stairs when carrying luggage or when energy dips.

An open-plan kitchen and conservatory flow into each other, with a woodburner in the living room for cooler evenings. The kitchen has a full range of appliances—oven, hob, dishwasher and washing machine—so you can cook properly rather than rely on takeaways. Wi-Fi, heating and linen are included. Outside, the property commands two acres of grounds with lawns, woodland, a summerhouse and a decked area; there's a BBQ for summer eating and a boot room where muddy walkers and dogs can be hosed down. Parking for five cars sits on site.

Bassenthwaite village is the immediate setting, with the Lake District fells visible from the windows—Skiddaw and the Borrowdale peaks among them. The Sun Inn and Castle Inn are each a short walk away for an evening out, while Keswick and Cockermouth, both market towns with shops and restaurants, are ten minutes' drive. One well-behaved pet stays free, and children are welcome; smoking is not permitted indoors.