Swift Barn

Swift Barn is a welcoming pet-friendly, reverse-level, semi-detached barn conversion resting in Gilcrux, Cumbria. Ideal for two couples, families or friends, this countryside abode features a toasty woodburning stove, lovely rural views and proximity to the Lake District National Park. Pull up and park the car outside this pleasing semi-detached barn and take a moment to breathe in the fresh air as you take in the countryside views that surround you, with vistas stretching across the Solway and towards the distant outline of southern Scotland. Walk to the front door and step into the small tiled hallway, kicking off walking boots and hanging coats ready for the next adventure, before heading through to the ground floor where the first bedroom rests. Here, a super-king-size bed invites you to unpack and settle straight into holiday mode, while the en-suite walk-in shower gives you the chance to wash away the day under warm water before wrapping up in soft towels and heading upstairs. Climb the carpeted staircase to the first-floor and arrive in the charming open-plan living area, where local art adorns the walls and immediately draws your eye to the landscapes that inspired it. Walk along the wooden flooring and pause at the window to gaze out over the village and the fields beyond, then sink into one of the sofas and feel the warmth of the woodburning stove gather around you while a favourite film plays on the Smart TV. Exposed stone walls and apex beams arc overhead, giving the space character, while the kitchen area tucks neatly along one side with wooden worktops and white fixtures; here you can set the kettle boiling, lay fresh ingredients out from the fridge/freezer and rustle up simple dinners on the hob before serving them at the dining table as the last of the evening light slips across the room. When you want a quieter moment, drift over to the snug area, settle into the armchair and let the light from the window behind you fall across the pages of your book, turning this little corner into a peaceful reading nook. At the end of the day, make your way to the second bedroom on this floor, where apex beams frame the ceiling and doors open directly out to the garden so you can step outside with a final breath of night air before retreating to the super-king-size bed and freshen up in the en-suite with its plush bath and separate walk-in shower.

In the morning, throw those doors open once again and wander straight out into the enclosed garden, feeling the grass underfoot, sipping your first cup of tea on the patio furniture while your four-legged companion explores safely nearby and the views back towards the Solway gently remind you just how special this setting is. A little walk from your door there is friendly pub to enjoy a relaxed drink or meal without needing to travel far with a shop a few miles away to pick up your essentials. The Lake District National Park is an easy drive away offering plenty of fell walking and spectacular views, as well as beautiful lakes to explore and enjoy. Visit the Lake District Wildlife Park to see meerkats, red pandas and birds of prey up close, and even take part in animal‑feeding sessions. For something indoors, head to The Puzzling Place in Keswick, where optical illusions, quirky photo opportunities and a gallery of holograms offer a fun day out for all. The Cumbrian Coast with areas of protected natural beauty, also offers great days out. Take a trip to Maryport to visit the Aquarium and Roman museums or enjoy a trip to the beach at Allonby with it’s lovely ice cream shop. Swift Barn a charming base for those seeking an escape in Cumbria.