Sycamore Cottage

Sycamore Cottage is a converted barn on the edge of Appleby-in-Westmorland, in a quiet corner of Cumbria just outside the Lake District National Park. The whole property is yours alone, with private parking for two cars and a bike store. A pond in the rear garden attracts wildlife; there's also a patio and lawn with garden furniture.

The single bedroom has two zip-and-link beds (which can be pushed together as a super king, or kept separate) plus a pull-out single bed, sleeping three. The kitchen is fully fitted with electric oven and hob, microwave and fridge; you can also access the owner's washing machine and freezer. The living and dining room has a sofa bed, TV, DVD and CD player, and an electric woodburner. Wi-Fi, electricity, bed linen and heating are included. The shower room has a cubicle shower and toilet. The cottage sits two steps up from ground level.

A gastro pub with a Michelin star is within a mile; there are several dog-friendly pubs serving food nearby. The location works well for exploring the Lake District, Eden Valley and Scottish Borders, or simply staying put for a quiet break. One dog is welcome. No smoking inside the cottage.