Merlewood, Cumbria, England

Terraced cottages surround the 19th century manor house of Merlewood. These new-builds in the beautiful grounds are located just a short distance from the main house and are modern and fresh, furnished to high standards. The majority of them are west-facing and look towards a peaceful Cumbrian countryside setting. With the pull of the Lake District right on your doorstep, what better place to spend a holiday with loved ones?

Sleek one, two and three-bedroom apartments are also available in Merlewood’s grounds, and, depending on their size, these can sleep anywhere between two and six guests. These open-plan properties are ideal for couples, friends or family. Here you are in the heart of Cumbria, just a stone’s throw from stunning Morecambe Bay and, with many of the apartments accepting dogs, these are the perfect base for outdoor walking holidays.

Merlewood’s imposing Victorian Grade II listed manor house has been beautifully converted into the nine apartments that complete this site. These in-house apartments benefit from an incredible location, and most have charming views. On a site overlooking Morecambe bay, with coast to the south and the iconic scenery of the Lake District National Park to the North, these elegant apartments are surely the perfect holiday location.

Fun for all the family, the World of Beatrix Potter is an educational and insightful day out, with interactive exhibits helping to tell the story of Potter’s writing.

There are a number of enjoyable activities such as Jemima Puddle-Duck’s woodland glade and the Peter Rabbit garden. You’ll also find the award-winning Beatrix-Potter themed tearoom. There is ample parking at the attraction, which is open from 10am daily.

Situated in the picturesque Leven Valley, the Lakeland Motor Museum is a must-see attraction whilst visiting Cumbria. You’ll find a unique collection of road transport exhibits assembled over the last 50 years.

Suitable for people of all ages and interests, this attraction is not only accredited by Visit England but has also claimed a certificate of excellence award from Trip Advisor, providing a perfect day out, whatever the weather.

Choose Lakeland Segway for a truly memorable experience! A completely different way to explore, it is easy to see why these Segway tours have won Trip Advisor excellence awards. Take a guided trip around the Cartmel Racecourse or head off the beaten track in to the woodlands for the Adventure Tour.

On offer is a great selection of tours that include professional training, safety instruction and lots of practice to make sure you’re ready to set off. Group bookings are available, although it is advisable to book in advance.

Fancy a day at the races? Against the backdrop of the beautiful English Lake District, Cartmel Racecourse rekindles the spirit of the original steeplechases. On a race day, large crowds descend on the centre of the racecourse for picnics and parties while the horses race around the outside. Check the official website for race details and other events at Cartmel.

South Lakes Safari Zoo is a 51-acre Zoo established in 1994 and packed full of amazing attractions and experiences. Get up close and hand feed the big cats or wander amongst kangaroos. The experience at South Lakes Safari Zoo is truly one of a kind. Surround yourself with some of the planet’s rarest and most endangered animals during a fun-filled day out for all the family. You’ll find an abundance of outdoor space; perfect for a picnic. Of course there is the usual tearoom and gift shop too.

The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway is one of the oldest and longest narrow gauge railways in England. It was over 100 years ago that the original 3ft line closed. The heritage steam engines transport passengers from Ravenglass, the only coastal village in the Lake District National Park, some 210ft above sea level.

Journey seven miles of spectacular scenery within sight of England’s highest mountains, the Scafell Range. It will take about 40 minutes to travel up the line from the stunning protected nature reserves of the Ravenglass Estuary through the ancient Eskdale Valley. During the trip, remember to keep your eyes peeled for greylag geese, curlew, shelduck, red squirrels, buzzards and other wildlife. With the option of covered and open top carriages, you’ll be in the best of comfort and have plenty of opportunity to take in the scenery.

On arrival to the destination there’s lots to do; stop for lunch at the cafe serving homemade food or explore with the numerous trails and walks in this beautiful pocket of the Lake District National Park.

The Cumbrian town of Ulverston is one of the many places of interest located close by our fantastic array of Merlewood holiday properties. A historic, interesting town in its own right, Ulverston is also surrounded by particularly beautiful Cumbrian countryside, and boasts close proximity to Morecambe Bay.

Those who choose to stay at one of our delightful Merlewood based properties, situated in the South of Cumbria, can expect a wide range of exciting landmarks, countryside and towns to explore, providing a comprehensive, relaxing and interesting Northern English experience. There is plenty to discover and do in Kendal, regardless of the conditions you encounter during your holiday, or the preferences of those with whom you are holidaying; no matter if your trip is with family or friends.

One of the best loved stately homes in England, set in beautiful countryside and framed by the Lakeland Hills, Holker Hall is just 5 miles from Merlewood. It dates from the 16th century and has a great range of rooms to explore. The parkland is 25 acres of colourful gardens, beautiful vistas and gentle walks and the estate is host to a number of events throughout the year too.

Sizergh Castle, just under 10 miles from the property is the famous 13th century property outside Kendal. And Hill Top, Beatrix Potter’s former home is a 25 minute drive north, close to Windermere, and offers an insight into 17th century cottage life, looking just as she left it, and featuring a number of references to her famous lovable characters.

Visit Humphrey Head, the tallest limestone cliff in Cumbria, and be rewarded with a fabulous view of Morecambe Bay.

If it is a good view you are after then you could always hop aboard the National Trust Steam Yacht Gondola – a Victorian steam-powered yacht which tours Coniston Water. Take a relaxing cruise across the beautiful lake and enjoy stunning panoramas of the surrounding Lake District scenery.

See over 100 miniature buildings at the Lakeland Miniature Village; they are made from local Coniston slate and feature replicas of classics such as Hill Top and Slater’s Bridge. The village is hand crafted and has been growing for more than 20 years (and is still being added to!).

An hour’s drive will bring you to Hardknott, the remains of a Roman Fort that was founded under Hadrian’s rule in the 2nd century. You can see the outlines of the commandant’s house and the bath house. This site is just one of many in the area that hint at Cumbria’s long and interesting past.