Cottage au Bord du Lac, Edward à Capheaton, Northumberland - 2 personnes, 1 chambre

The one-bedroom cottage Edward sits at the end of a row of three restored lakeside cottages that make up one of the oldest properties in the Capheaton Estate. This prestigious estate in rural Northumberland has belonged to the Swinburne family since 1260, resulting in a remarkable legacy that the current owners, Willy and Eliza Browne-Swinburne, are continuing to nurture.

The estate encompasses 500 aces of woodland, walled gardens and landscaped parkland that extends down to a large lake as well as the historic Capheaton Hall, a Grade I listed Baroque-styled mansion dating to 1669, and a small village. Having grown up in Capheaton Hall, Willy Browne-Swinburne is deeply committed to the ongoing restoration of the grand house as well as the maintenance of the estate’s gardens, woods and habitats.

The trio of Lakeside Cottages is set near to the main gate to Capheaton Hall, a tranquil location with unbroken views of Sir Edward’s Lake and the lush woods surrounding it. From the front, the row of traditional stone cottages appears little changed since it was first built centuries ago. However, each property boasts a strikingly contemporary timber and glass rear extension that adds a whole new dimension to the space, light and feel within.

In the case of Edward, the cosy sitting room and bedroom are found beneath the vaulted, exposed brick ceilings of the original cottage while the open plan kitchen and dining area capitalise on the modern, light-filled nature of the rear extension. Engineered wood floors run throughout the cottage which, together with a large opening from the sitting room to the kitchen, create a lovely sense of flow throughout.

The sitting room is warmed by a wood burner and decorated with old prints of previous baronets of Swinburne, maps and family antiques to create a deeply cosy den. The bedroom is likely to be one of the most memorable rooms you’ve ever slept in: its vaulted ceiling is painted in midnight blue, its walls are daubed in crimson and a vast copper bathtub overlooking the rear garden and indulgent leather sleigh bed vie for your attention. A glass door leads directly out from the bedroom to the secluded patio and garden.

The modern bathroom, complete with twin basins and a large shower, and crisp white kitchen and dining area offer a sleek contrast to the sultry bedroom. The latter is flooded with light from the glass front door and a skylight, while the dining table sits in a large picture window overlooking the surrounding farmland.

Edward’s enclosed lawn and patio back garden provides a sheltered spot in which to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and guests are welcome to enjoy walks around the Lake and visits to the gardens at Capheaton Hall (subject to estate permission). For days when you’d like to explore slightly further afield, the splendid Belsay Hall, castle and gardens and National Trust Wallington house and gardens are both ten minutes’ drive away and keen golfers will find a wide choice of golf courses in the local area.

GROUND FLOOR

Access into a small porch with hanging rail.

Kitchen with electric oven, induction hob, microwave, slimline dishwasher, fridge with small freezer compartment, washer/dryer. Dining space with seating for two. Window seat.

Spacious sitting room with vaulted ceiling, large sofa, armchair, wood burning stove, Smart TV. Selection of books.

Bathroom with large shower (rainforest head), heated towel rail, double basin, WC.

Bedroom with fixed super king bed (hotel quality mattress), chest of drawers, alcove with hanging space, large copper bath tub. Door out to the patio area.

OUTSIDE

Small patio area to the rear with outdoor seating and enclosed lawned garden. A barbecue is not provided.

There is ample parking on the gravelled courtyard to the rear of the cottage.