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Woodpecker

(Ref. 4561)

High Head Castle Farm, Ive Valley near Penrith, Cumbria & The Lake District Show on map

4.9

Sykes rating

  • 4 Guests

  • 2 Bedrooms

  • 2 Bathrooms

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Ground floor accommodation
  • Ground floor bedroom
  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Cot available
  • Highchair available
  • Dishwasher
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • cottage (33)
  • lovely (30)
  • stay (24)
  • our (17)
  • comfortable (16)
  • well (15)

67 Customer Reviews

  • "Absolutely fantastic property warm cosy spotlessly clean welcome pack was a lovely touch didn't want to leave hopefully be back ."

    Thank you!

    Thank you for your kind comments, so pleased you enjoyed your holiday Property Owner

    Reviewed by JoeDec 2023

  • "Came away to escape fireworks with my dog who gets terrified by them."

    This was a perfect peaceful sanctuary! It was really comfortable and we had a great stay. Thank you!

    Thank you pleased you enjoyed your stay Property Owner

    Reviewed by DeborahNov 2023

  • "We had a really lovely stay."

    It was a warm cosy accommodation with a lovely wood stove in the living room. Tea coffee sugar and milk was provided when we arrived along with a bottle of wine and cookies which was a lovely touch as after a long trip there a cuppa and a biscuit is exactly what you need. Looking forward to visiting again next year!

    Reviewed by RebeccaOct 2023

  • "Fantastic stay"

    Reviewed by LewisOct 2023

  • "Amazing relaxing holiday."

    We will be back.

    Reviewed by MarySep 2023

  • "What a wonderful cottage!"

    !! We wanted somewhere to relax and recharge our batteries and Woodpecker was the perfect place. The cottage is so cosy and very well equipped. It is so peaceful and is surrounded by amazing countryside. It was great to be able to book so last minute and for just 2 nights, and being only an hour from home we will definitely be back!!! Until next time Thankyou!

    Thank you for such lovely feedback, sorry not to meet you but we were away for the weekend. Many thanks Property Owner

    Reviewed by AmandaSep 2023

  • "Our visit to Woodpecker Cottage was our seventh time staying there and like all the times before we have enjoyed our stay."

    It's nice to have fresh milk , biscuits and a bottle of wine waiting for you when you arrive . The cottage is homely and comfortable to stay in and dog friendly. There are plenty of places to visit with being close to the Lake District and Scottish Borders. We always look forward to returning . We have also stayed in the adjoining cottage , , Nuthatch Cottage which is smaller but just as comfortable . Well worth the visit .

    Reviewed by PaulSep 2023

  • "Woodpecker was a great place to stay."

    Everything we needed was there. It was well presented, clean and homely. Surprisingly big in comparison with the photos on website. Having two en suite bedrooms was an added bonus. The owners are lovely and have a wealth of information about the area which was great as it was our first time in that part of Cumbria. Directions to Woodpecker were easy to follow. I would highly recommend this place to anyone.

    Thank you for your kind comments, pleased you enjoyed your stay with us, you even brought the glorious weather. Property Owner

    Reviewed by GladysSep 2023

  • "Had a lovely stay place was spotless very comfortable plenty of equipment."

    Only slight hitch the plugs in the sinks in both ensuites did not stay in nothing to spoil the place itself went into the village which had everything.went out everyday shame the Black lion pub was not opened.but the pub in village where brilliant with us and dog friendly also the chippy had everything and the bakery even had a co op lovely park really enjoyed Mrs Stamper was really nice also was nice to have a welcome pack all in all had a lovely time

    Thank you for your nice comments, pleased you had a great holiday Property Owner

    Reviewed by LynneAug 2023

  • "The property felt like it was brand new."

    Comfortable, clean and with all the things we needed. Would happily recommend and stay again!

    Thank you for your comments they are much appreciated Property Owner

    Reviewed by StuartAug 2023

  • "Great for location; we really enjoyed the peace and quiet."

    Lots of good walking nearby, and the lakes easily accessible by car. Wi-Fi was patchy, but that was ok as we were out the majority of the time so didn’t really affect us. Only thing we missed was a washing machine to get some bits cleaned up before we left. That was our fault for not checking before we booked. Otherwise we had an excellent stay.

    Pleased you enjoyed your stay with us and thank you for your comments Property Owner

    Reviewed by JonAug 2023

  • "We wanted to express our gratitude for the wonderful stay we had here."

    From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the breath-taking scenery surrounding the cottage. The cottage itself was a cozy haven, offering all the comforts of home. The rustic charm combined with modern amenities made it a perfect retreat. The comfortable beds, and well-equipped kitchen created a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Exploring the Lake District was a true delight. The numerous hiking trails allowed me to immerse myself in nature. The views from the hilltops were simply awe-inspiring. Thank you once again for providing such a remarkable experience. May your cottage continue to welcome many more guests in the future.

    Thank you for such a lovely review, so pleased you enjoyed your time here. Property Owner

    Reviewed by CharlesJun 2023

  • "A lovely cottage, in great surroundings, all the facilities needed to cook if required, spacious rooms, relaxing to sit outside and listen to the birds, dog loved the walks!"

    We were near Carlisle, Dalston and Wreay to visit family- what more could we ask for! We’ll be back!

    Thank you for your lovely comments, so pleased you enjoyed yourselves. Property Owner

    Reviewed by LizMay 2023

  • "Relaxing & very peaceful."

    I would recommend.

    Reviewed by JohnMay 2023

  • "We have stayed at the cottages on a number of times now with our dog Harvey and we've always had a lovely time as the cottage is comfortably and well equipped ."

    The welcome pack of fresh milk , biscuits and wine when you get there is a lovely . There are plenty of lovely places to visit in the Lakes and over into Scotland so you are always out and about. We alway look forward to going back .

    Thank you, always nice to see you again. Property Owner

    Reviewed by PaulApr 2023

  • "We have spent a fantastic time in the cottage."

    We had the opportunity to see a cow born. The family is so friendly. The views from the house are unbeatable. We recommend this place 100%. For family, couple (ask for tree house), alone. AMAZING!!!

    It was so lovely to meet you and your delightful family. Thank you for the lovely comments. Property Owner

    Reviewed by TomasApr 2023

  • "Thanks for a great stay in your fab accommodation"

    Thank you please you enjoyed your stay with us Property Owner

    Reviewed by JodieApr 2023

  • "We had an absolutely wonderful stay and appreciated how tidy and well equipped the cottage was."

    We had everything we needed and were very comfortable. It was a perfect base for exploring the area. Our miniature dachshund also very much enjoyed the ground-floor property and having the entire family on the same level.

    Reviewed by JenniferApr 2023

  • "Lovely new year spent in the 2 cottages my mum is 85 her 2 friends 84 they were very comfortable here"

    Reviewed by CarolDec 2022

  • "We had a lovely stay."

    Warm cottage with everything we needed. Outside space and freedom to walk was amazing and the treats on arrival were a lovely touch. Hope to come back again.

    Thank you for your lovely comments, hope you had a safe journey back to Syke. Property Owner

    Reviewed by SuziNov 2022

  • "Lovely well equipped accommodation in a beautiful setting."

    Within reach of local attractions and towns. All communications with the owner answered quickly. I would thoroughly recommend a stay here.

    Thank you for your kind comments, so pleased you enjoyed your stay with us. Thank you. Property Owner

    Reviewed by DarrenOct 2022

  • "Absolutely perfect for a quiet, peaceful break."

    Cottage has an exceptionally well equipped kitchen. Very comfortable beds, private bathrooms. The whole cottage is extremely spacious. I think we only saw humans twice in the whole week we stayed there. It was amazing to stand and watch the cows in the field while they stood and watched us. Chickens wondered around the yard and we friendly. Owls flew passed and bats swooshed past our heads.

    Thank you for such an amazing feedback, sorry not to catch up with you again. Best wishes hope the exam results were good ! Property Owner

    Reviewed by AlisonAug 2022

  • "Very enjoyable few days great location will definitely come back thank you"

    Thank you for your feedback, pleased you enjoyed your time with us Property Owner

    Reviewed by StuartAug 2022

  • "The property was clean, well equipped."

    Bernadette was lovely and was on hand to help with any questions we had.

    Thank you for your lovely comments, so pleased you enjoyed your stay with us. Property Owner

    Reviewed by DeniseJul 2022

  • "Lovely setting."

    Welcome goodies on arrival. A pleasure to be able to walk around a working farm that is so well organised. Very comfortable and relaxing holiday.

    Please you enjoyed your stay, thank you for your custom Property Owner

    Reviewed by GordonJun 2022

  • "Very spacious holiday let."

    The facililities are very comfortable just like a home away from home.

    Thank you for your lovely comments, all the best for your new home Property Owner

    Reviewed by AlexMay 2022

  • "A really cosy cottage which was clean and very warm."

    Lovely owner who provided us with a welcome pack of food and drink. Would definitely book this cottage again.

    Reviewed by PennyFeb 2022

  • "The owner kindly offered to let us arrive at an earlier date because of the extreme weather for travelling."

    . This has been a particularly wet and windy week so we were grateful for this warm , well equipped cottage. Despite the conditions we all enjoyed the stay. Our 2 year old loved the playground and meeting goats , hens and new born calves. Its a very quiet location with easy access to Carlisle, Penrith and the Lakes.

    Reviewed by FrancesFeb 2022

  • "The owner of the property could not have been more friendly and helpful during our stay."

    From a warm welcome to helping throughout our stay the support that we received was excellent. Had a relaxing and enjoyable stay in such idyllic surroundings. Would not hesitate to rebook or recommend to others.

    Thank you for your lovely comments so pleased you enjoyed your stay Property Owner

    Reviewed by PhilDec 2021

  • "Excellent peaceful cottage gave us time to relax , we would certainly book for a third visit."

    Reviewed by JohnOct 2021

  • "A excellent place to relax and recharge your batteries, some lovely walks."

    Very helpful and friendly owners.

    Reviewed by JoanOct 2021

  • "Very clean and good location, nice to hear the cows in a morning"

    Reviewed by PaulSep 2021

  • "No washing machine - the farmer offered us the use of hers but we felt a bit odd about that!"

    A washing machine would have made this perfect for our two week stay

    Reviewed by SelinaJul 2021

  • "Lovely cottage, great stay."

    Good facilities, lovely quiet countryside. Much appreciated welcome pack of fruit, milk, cookies and wine.

    Reviewed by JudithJul 2021

  • "The cottage was spacious, very comfortable and in immaculate condition."

    The lovely welcome gifts were much appreciated. We had everything we needed for a very relaxing visit and were sad to leave. We would highly recommend this beautiful cottage.

    Reviewed by JacquelineJun 2021

  • "Third visit to woodpecker, enjoyed seeing farm life."

    Watched milking of cows and to births of calves ! Would recommend if you want peace and quiet. Lovely owners, very friendly and easy to talk to and loads of information of farm life. Very pleasant stay indeed. Village near by for shops etc, fish and chips very good and massive fish ! Likely to return at a later date. Really enjoyed this 4 day stay. Loved the walks with Rocky my dog. Enjoy if you go.

    Reviewed by TerryApr 2021

  • "This was a last minute booking for woodpecker and what a good one"

    Reviewed by LuciaOct 2020

  • "Lovely cottage, very funny and clean."

    Good base to explore the Lakes and Scotland.

    Reviewed by LynnOct 2020

  • "This cottage is set in an ideal location."

    You have everything you need and it is very quiet . I can recommend Woodpecker without reservation .

    Reviewed by GeoffOct 2020

  • "We have been away on five cottage breaks with Sykes Cottages and each time has been as good as the last ."

    Each time we've been away we've had an email explaining what to do and what to expect when arriving. Also being able to take our pet dog to the cottages has been great. Cottages have always been comfortable and clean . We will be using Sykes again for our cottage holidays . We have recommended Sykes to friends who have stayed in one of the cottages we have stayed in .

    Reviewed by PaulAug 2020

  • "The cottage owners treated the current situation with total respect."

    They were at the end of the phone if we needed them but remained distant at all times.

    Reviewed by LucilleAug 2020

  • "The cottage was lovely,warm, clean and comfortable."

    It was more than we’re expecting. The facilities were great, especially log burner. The kitchen has everything you need and more. The location was perfect- close to many attractions. The owners are welcoming and helpful, if you need anything. We had a great time at Woodpecker and we can recommend it to anyone, who’s looking for a nice and quiet place to stay.

    Reviewed by MartaDec 2019

  • "We would definitely go again."

    Lovely area, easy to be in and comfortable accommodation. Handy for many of our interests. Peaceful. Hassle free holiday. Thank you

    Reviewed by WilliamOct 2019

  • "The people on the farm were very nice loved the goats and the donkey childs play area needs modernising but overall ok"

    Reviewed by PaulAug 2019

  • "Woodpecker cottage was lovely."

    Very relaxing and quiet location. Cottage was amaculate and had everything you could need. Owners checked on you but left you to enjoy the time there.the walks on door step were lovely so would recommend the woodpecker.

    Reviewed by LynJun 2019

  • "This the second time we have booked this cottage."

    The first time was exceptional and the second time was equally as good. Will be booking the cottage again in the near future.

    Reviewed by ScottJun 2019

  • "A lovely peaceful cottage."

    Superb !

    Reviewed by TerryJun 2019

  • "My overall stay was amazing and that place was very nice, tidy, clean and peace ..."

    My overall stay was amazing and that place was very nice, tidy, clean and peace full no headache to go any ware for visit parking place was very secure and manage land lady was very helpful and co-operative in short that is ideal place for families and couples holidays

    Reviewed by AbdulFeb 2019

  • "The surrounding area is stunning, ideal dog walking countryside."

    Carlisle is easy to reach as is Dalston for shopping needs. I really enjoyed my stay at Woodpecker.

    Reviewed by LynnDec 2018

  • "Lovely holiday let in peaceful area."

    Not too far from motorway and great for exploring area. Everything you need for your holiday.

    Reviewed by AlisonOct 2018

  • "Loved Woodpecker cottage."

    Well equipped with everything you need and more. Very clean, comfortable and accessible. There was milk and wine in the fridge on our arrival; very thoughtful and much appreciated.The gated garden was reassuring as I could let the dog out in the knowledge that he was secure. There are two single beds and I loved that they had double, not single, duvets. Nothing worse than rolling over in a single bed and losing the duvet, so that was a very thoughtful touch! The double room is very spacious and the bed comfortable. We had some lovely days out as the location allows you to visit other towns without having to travel too far. I would definitely recommend Woodpecker Cottage as a place to stay.

    Reviewed by WendyOct 2018

  • "The cottage exceeded our expectations and was very good value."

    The location was excellent resulting in a good relaxing holiday, giving good access to the northern lakes, Carlisle and Scotland.

    Reviewed by JohnSep 2018

  • "This holiday let is amazing and if we get the chance we would definitely return"

    Reviewed by IsabelleSep 2018

  • "The cottage had everything that you needed and more."

    There was a welcome folder with a map and details of local facilities. Other items that were not listed on the website were provided such as fruit, wine, a fan in each bedroom, many DVD,s and books, toilet rolls in each of the bathrooms,hair driers, towels and tea towels, ice, tea, coffee, sugar and milk. If these items were originally listed then we would have known not to take many of them with us. The directions to the cottage were easy to understand and Penrith and Carlisle were within easy reach. The location was very quiet and while you could get in contact with the owner, it was nice that you were left alone to enjoy the holiday. There was ample parking close to the cottage which was very clean, warm and welcoming.

    Reviewed by ScottSep 2018

  • "Easy access to the A66 and M6 which made it easy to travel to the Lakes, Scotland and the North East!"

    Reviewed by ThomasAug 2018

  • "No we had a good holiday"

    Reviewed by PatrishaJul 2018

  • "The cottage has everything you need."

    We had a lovely time.

    Reviewed by TeresaJul 2018

  • "The weather was awesome!"

    Two dogs and three adults this time and once again, we thoroughly enjoyed the break. Woodpecker Cottage was everything we needed and had everything we needed. A working farm with livestock which is not only interesting to live with but educational too. Saw the cows being milked and walked for miles in the country. Loved every minute

    Reviewed by SandyJun 2018

  • "Spacious, well equipped, homely,clean cottage."

    WiFi adequate for e-mails, google etc. If you want much more don't go to a lovely,quiet remote area!

    Reviewed by WilliamJun 2018

  • "Had a great few days is this lovely, dog friendly cottage."

    Plenty of local walks on your doorstep or just relax and enjoy the quiet surroundings.

    Reviewed by MichaelJun 2018

  • "We had a lovely peaceful break at the Woodpecker and we’re extre lucky with beautiful weather the whole break."

    The location was great for visiting the Northern Lakes, Hadrian’s wall and the Solway coast (all less than 45 min drive.) The kids loved visiting the donkey and goats everyday and roaming the farm woodland. Some good walks from the cottage. The cottage was comfortable and it was a bonus to have an en suite for each roomy bedroom. The only disappointment for us was the dishwasher wasn’t working for our stay and we like a property with a dishwasher.

    Reviewed by JulieMay 2018

  • "The welcome pack was a lovely touch ."

    .. wine, fruit, milk. The 6 nights were perfect. Very rural and peaceful. Surrounded by greenery and birds. Being on a working dairy farm added to the rural feel. Two separate bathrooms was a luxury. Everyone friendly and helpful. No complaints at all.

    Reviewed by ClareMay 2018

  • "We loved the setting the spring garden was lovely and a surprise was the little ..."

    We loved the setting the spring garden was lovely and a surprise was the little playground and sculpture trail complete with a friendly, and real, donkey plus two pretty goats with 3 kids between them

    Reviewed by MerielApr 2018

  • "Lovely location, peace and quiet, lovely owners."

    Will definitely stay there again

    Reviewed by TonyApr 2017

  • "THE COTTAGE WAS EXCELLENT EVEN TO THE SECURE GARDEN FOR THE PUPPY."

    THE LOG BURNER WAS REALLY COSY. PLENTY OF FRIDGE AND FREEZER SPACE...BEDS REALLY COMFY..CAR PARKING NEXT TO THE COTTAGE....WENT A WALK AND VISITED THE CALVING SHED ...

    Reviewed by JanetApr 2017

  • "The cottage was immaculate and comfy, It had everything you need for a relaxing perfect holiday,Friendly service and the chickens coming each day was a bonus."

    Spacious and modern, WiFi was perfect , easy access for our Dad who is disabled , perfect walk in double shower , We would recommend this beautiful cottage to all our friends , We had our own private patio and well gated for dog,s too . Will be returning in the future , Thank you for this pleasant holiday .John Ray and Gail .Manchester

    Reviewed by JohnSep 2016

  • "The cottage was superb, well equipped, clean, warm and spacious."

    We would definitely return and recommend.

    Reviewed by LindsayAug 2016

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Summary

  • All ground floor
  • Two bedrooms: 1 x twin (zip/link, can be super king-size double on request) with en-suite shower, basin & WC, 1 x king-size double with en-suite bath, shower over, basin & WC
  • Cloakroom with basin & WC
  • Open plan living area with kitchen, dining area & cosy sitting area with woodburning stove.
  • Oil underfloor heating with woodburning stove in sitting area
  • Electric cooker, microwave, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, TV with Freeview, DVD, CD/radio, WiFi, library of books/DVDs
  • Fuel & power inc. in rent
  • Supply of fuel for woodburning stove provided on honesty box basis
  • Bed linen & towels inc. in rent
  • Cot & highchair on request
  • Ample off road parking
  • Front patio, small garden with furniture, BBQ & lovely views
  • One well-behaved dog welcome
  • Sorry, no smoking
  • Shops 5 miles, pub 2 miles.

The property

A delightful, mid-terrace, ground floor Lake District cottage, one of a group of two in the grounds of High Head Castle Farm, on the owner's dairy farm, 10 miles from Penrith in the Ive Valley.

Lovingly converted by the owner, this Lake District cottage is set amidst beautiful rolling countryside and provides first-class holiday accommodation, featuring a woodburning stove and two king-size, en-suite bedrooms.

Whilst staying at your Lake District holiday home, why not take a wonderful farm walk?

If you can tear yourself away from your superb Lake District cottage, visit Brampton, Penrith and beautiful Ullswater.

Note: This cottage is next to Nuthatch, Ref 4560, and together they sleep 6.

View on map

About the location

HIGH HEAD CASTLE FARM

Carlisle 10 miles; Penrith 10 miles; Ullswater 21 miles.

Located a mile from the small Cumbrian village of Ivegill, High Head is set on a dairy farm in beautiful rolling countryside overlooking High Head Castle. Within easy driving distance is the bustling market town of Penrith, which offers a wide choice of excellent pubs, hotels, restaurants and entertainment, a museum, and Millennium Trails around the historic city streets. Within easy reach of Penrith is Rheged – an innovative visitor centre with shops, restaurants, exhibitions and a giant cinema screen showing educational and informative films. The historic city of Carlisle is within easy travelling distance, as is the stunning scenery of both the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales.

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Off-season
  • Last minute