Ellie’s View

Families and small groups looking for flexibility in Bowness will find Ellie's View works well. The apartment has three bedrooms across one floor—a double with its own bathroom, another double, and a single—plus a second full bathroom, meaning people need not queue in the mornings. A dog is welcome, and the location suits those wanting to explore the surrounding countryside on foot or simply walk into town for shops and pubs within a mile.

The living space is open plan with a kitchen that has a gas hob, electric oven, dishwasher and washing machine, so you can cook properly rather than rely on takeaways. Freeview TV, DVD player and a CD player are there if the weather turns. Bed linen and towels come as standard, and wi-fi is included. The apartment does have stairs—external to the entrance and internal within—which matters if anyone has mobility concerns. Parking is via permit for one car, though it is not reserved. No smoking is permitted indoors.

Bowness offers the usual mix of restaurants, pubs and gift shops, while Lake Windermere's shoreline and the walking trails radiating from town are the real draw. On clear winter days you can catch glimpses of the water from the living area and front bedrooms across the slate roofs of neighbouring properties.