Windy Nook

Pooley Bridge sits on the north-eastern shore of Ullswater, where the River Eamont flows into the lake and the landscape opens towards high moorland. Windy Nook is a cottage from the 1700s, set in this village where fell walkers and water-based leisure overlap. The building has kept its original character—exposed beams and stone walls among them—while the interior is fitted for contemporary use: a wood burner for cooler evenings, smart television, and a kitchen equipped for proper cooking rather than reheating.

Two bedrooms and two bathrooms serve four guests. Upstairs, the first room holds a double bed (4ft 6in); the second has zip-and-link single beds (3ft each). Each bedroom has its own shower room. Downstairs is a living room with books and games, a dining room, kitchen, utility room with washing machine, and a separate toilet. Electricity, bed linen, towels and wi-fi are included; the wood burner comes with initial fuel. One dog is welcome at no extra cost.

The Pooley Bridge Inn is within a mile. Beyond that, the village has pubs, tearooms and shops, and the Ullswater Steamers run cruises from the pier. Walking routes range from gentle riverside paths to serious fell days taking in the High Street and Helvellyn ranges. Aira Force waterfall lies about halfway along the lake. Penrith is five miles away if you need supermarkets or a railway station. No smoking inside the cottage.