The Escape, Sleeps 2, Portinscale

Escape to Serenity: Where Lakeside Beauty Meets Cosy Simplicity.

Nestled by the serene shores of Derwentwater, this charming hideaway offers an ideal escape for two, blending vibrant local culture with a peaceful lakeside setting. Tucked away in the quaint village of Portinscale, this retreat is perfect for unwinding from the everyday rush and embracing nature at a gentler pace. You can leave the car behind and explore the scenic surroundings on foot, taking in the beautiful landscapes and calming atmosphere. Just a five-minute stroll brings you to the lake’s edge, where woodland trails invite you to wander. Venture a bit farther, and you'll reach Catbells with Maiden Moor beyond—a rewarding ridge climb with breathtaking views of Keswick and the surrounding fells.

The cottage itself is a tranquil haven, designed for relaxation. With no television, it’s an opportunity for a true digital detox—be sure to bring a deck of cards for some cozy entertainment. The décor is stylish yet simple, allowing the natural beauty of the area to shine. For those moments when you crave a touch of modern convenience, The Chalet Tearooms are just a minute’s walk away.

Keswick, a vibrant market town, is within a 20-minute walk or a short boat ride from Nichol End. Here, you’ll find shops, restaurants, a climbing wall, cinema, and more—perfect for a change of pace.

Inside the cottage, you’ll enter a lounge with charming slate-flagged floors and comfortable leather armchairs. Although the wood burner is no longer in use, the fireplace remains a fascinating feature, crafted from various Lake District stones, from Borrowdale Slate to Eskdale Granite and St Bees Sandstone. The dining table in the lounge doubles as a games table, ideal for a game of Scrabble or Canasta. The adjacent kitchen features an electric oven and hob, a larder fridge, and storage space. A bathroom with a shower-over-bath completes the ground floor.

Upstairs, open tread wooden stairs lead to a cozy bedroom furnished with a double bed, bedside tables, and a wardrobe.

Outside, there’s a small area to enjoy morning sunshine. Parking is available on the street nearby.

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Property Includes

Retreats For

Adventure
Romance

Bathroom

Shower
Bath

Amenities

Garden or Outside Area
Shared patio
Bike Storage

Kitchen

Freezer
Fridge

Entertainment

Wi-Fi

Local Area

Pub within 1 mile
Remote
Central to town

Children & Pets

Travel Cot
Dog Friendly
2 well behaved pets welcome
High Chair

Layout & Access

Ground Floor

Living Room – Cozy and inviting with slate-flagged floors, leather armchairs, and a unique stone fireplace crafted from local Lake District stone (wood burner not in use). The dining table doubles as a games table, perfect for a game of Scrabble or cards.
Kitchen – Equipped with an electric oven and hob, larder fridge, and ample storage space for all your essentials.
Bathroom – Includes a bath with an overhead shower, W/C, and wash basin.

First Floor

Double Bedroom – Features a comfortable double bed, bedside tables, and a wardrobe. Wooden open tread stairs lead to this peaceful retreat, ideal for a restful night’s sleep.

Property Features

Traditional slate-flagged floors and open-beam accents
Bed linen, towels, and tea towels provided for your stay
On-street parking available nearby
TV-free zone for a digital detox – enjoy the natural surroundings and reconnect with simple pleasures
No smoking allowed
Wifi Included
2 well behaved pets allowed

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Location & Nearby

Where Nature Inspires and Tranquility Awaits.

The area surrounding Derwentwater and the village of Portinscale is one of the Lake District’s most enchanting spots, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and charming village life. Known for its serene waters and surrounded by iconic fells, Derwentwater is often called the "Queen of the Lakes." Its calm, reflective surface provides stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset when the surrounding peaks are bathed in golden light.

Portinscale itself is a quaint and peaceful village that serves as a perfect starting point for exploration. It feels delightfully secluded yet is just a short distance from the lively town of Keswick, renowned for its bustling market days, outdoor shops, and a variety of pubs and eateries. Portinscale offers a slice of traditional Cumbrian life, with welcoming tearooms, scenic walks, and easy access to both gentle lakeside trails and more challenging fell hikes.

Outdoor enthusiasts are spoilt for choice here. Catbells, a beloved local fell, is just a stone's throw away and offers one of the most accessible yet rewarding hikes in the Lake District, with panoramic views over the lake and beyond. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, Derwentwater's shoreline is dotted with wooded paths and hidden coves perfect for a quiet picnic. The lake itself is ideal for gentle water sports, with paddleboards, kayaks, and rowboats available to hire for a peaceful day on the water.

In this picturesque corner of the Lake District, you’ll find both tranquility and adventure at your doorstep, all set against a backdrop of some of England’s most breathtaking scenery.

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Guest feedback for The Escape

(4 out of 5) based on 2 Reviews

Deborah

On Tuesday, 08 Apr 2025

The cottage was very small with a staircase that was difficult to use for my parents. It was steep and narrow and with the bathroom being downstairs, not ideal for older people the negotiate in the middle of the night.

Stephanie

On Monday, 17 Feb 2025

Last minute staycation. Lovely little cottage. Great location.