Olde Blue Bell Cottages are the perfect place for a family holiday. Situated in a rural village there is a children’s playpark just next to the cottages where older children can safely play on their own. For younger children, with an adult companion, it can provide a simple distraction, whilst the other adult(s) prepare for a day out, cook a meal, or simply have a moment of peace and maybe relax with a glass of wine. Each cottage has a secure garden with table and chairs, and a selection of board games and children’s books for some family fun.
There are walks from the door which aren’t too long, but provide stunning views of the fells and estuary whilst providing opportunities for hide and seek, ball kicking/throwing, etc. Children and parents alike should find something to keep them happy. I love to take a flask of coffee to the top of the hill, then sit on the bench and gaze out over the stunning scenery. It only takes about 25 minutes to walk to the top, but it really feels like you’ve been somewhere special.
As a farming village there are also plenty of sheep and cows in the nearby fields. You will pass the very cute Ryelands sheep on the hill of Heversham Head. I call them teddy bear sheep as they have thick brown woolly coats with short legs, black button noses, and little white moustaches. My favourite time of year is the spring as their lambs are even cuter.
The private estates of both Dallam and Levens are within a mile of the cottages. A large herd of fallow deer inhabit Dallam Park, and can often be seen on the brow of the hill or drinking from the river Bela, also the perfect venue for children to feed the ducks. Levens Park has a circular walk of around 3 miles. If you are lucky you will see the shy Black Fallow deer with their amazing antlers; the pygmy goats are much braver and certain to appear on the final stretch of the walk. In the summer you can paddle or swim in the river, with a picnic for afterwards or a visit to the famous Levens Hall and Topiary Gardens.
The cottages are also situated above some very quiet flat lanes, on the edge of the estuary, ideal for kids to cycle their bikes. For a coastal walk, zip wire, and café with the best views in the area, head to Arnside and walk along the shore to the Bob-In Café.
Family Friendly Days Out
- Bob-In Café & Zip Wire, Arnside
- Levens Hall & Topiary Gardens
- Lakeland Maize Maze & Farm Park
- Sizergh Castle
- The Outdoor Adventure Company
- Tree Top Trekking
- Wildlife Oasis & Meerkats
- Windermere Cruises
The Coach House
Olde Blue Bell Cottage
Olde Blue Bell Barn
Olde Blue Bell Cottage