Open fields, vast starlit skies and the gentle soundtrack of grazing sheep: welcome to The Little Fold, a soulful, design-led rural retreat set on a working Lakeland farm. Here, the rhythm of Lake District life unfolds at its own unhurried pace. Wander beside rivers, drift through woodland, sink into the hot tub beneath the night sky and discover a family-friendly haven that feels warm, authentic and quietly luxurious.

Could this be the perfect base for all of your Lake District adventures?

A Storybook Setting

Tucked away along a peaceful country lane—reminiscent of a scene from a Beatrix Potter tale—The Little Fold instantly immerses you in the romance of the Lakes.

Part of Skelwith Fold Farm, lovingly owned and run by the same family since 1954, the house honours its heritage with purpose: to offer guests a genuine taste of life on a traditional Lakeland sheep farm.

Rural yet reassuringly accessible, arrive along a mile of tranquil lane before pulling into the private parking area with space for three cars (additional parking available on request).

Stone-built and timeless, this four-bedroom farmhouse delivers the rustic elegance suggested by its exterior. Step through the stable door into a welcoming entrance hall where the warmth of natural wood floors and soft Edwardian tones set an instantly soothing mood.

A Taste of Lakeland Living

Begin slow, luminous mornings in the sitting room with a cup of coffee before the open fire—a space where comfort blends seamlessly with effortless modernity. Starlink WiFi ensures smooth connectivity without compromising the home’s rural soul.

Designed with families in mind, both the main lounge and the children’s bedroom feature soft play mats for tiny explorers, while shelves brim with books, toys and games for every age. The décor is tactile, warm and quietly refined—earthy greens, gentle neutrals and natural textures inspired by the farmland just beyond the windows.

Savour the View

With pastoral views from almost every window, The Little Fold feels deeply connected to its landscape. Watch the fields change with the seasons from the sofa or the TV, then wander through to the contemporary grey kitchen for a snack or morning coffee—best enjoyed from your personalised Little Fold mug.

Spacious, sociable and bathed in natural light, the kitchen is a natural gathering point, whether you're preparing a relaxed breakfast or a traditional Sunday roast.

Paws for Thought

With easy access via the back porch and utility room—ideal for muddy boots and paws—the kitchen forms the true heart of everyday life here. Dogs are warmly welcomed on the ground floor, complete with a dog wash, personalised drying coats and cosy throws for sofa snuggles.

Families are equally thoughtfully catered for. A highchair, generous dining room and French doors to the patio create a seamless flow for mealtimes—whether indoors or alfresco.

Snuggle Up

Just off the dining room is a stylish shower room, ideal for freshening up before supper. Afterwards, ascend to the first-floor snug: a beautifully inviting space defined by cushioned sofas, exposed beams and a wood-burning stove. The Juliet balcony frames countryside views and lets in soft summer breezes.

Climb the main staircase and the palette shifts to tranquil green—Little Greene’s Ambleside—complemented by period panelling and picture rails that echo the home’s Edwardian roots.

And So to Bed…

After a day exploring the farm, retreat to the first double bedroom on the left, where serene country views set the tone for deep, restorative sleep.

The central bathroom, finished with a deep freestanding tub, is perfect for luxurious evening baths.

A second spacious bedroom offers generous comfort and its own private shower room.

Further along the landing awaits the much-loved children’s bedroom—though its charm appeals to all ages. With a bunk bed, a single with trundle, a teepee reading nook and playful farm-themed wallpaper, the room comfortably sleeps up to four and captures that magical "holiday sleepover" feeling. A travel cot is available on request.

Finally, the king-size fourth bedroom offers peaceful seclusion, built-in storage and exquisite Lakeland views.

A Day on the Farm

Balancing rural charm with restorative luxury, evenings at The Little Fold often unfold beneath the stars in the six-person hot tub—a blissful end to days spent on the fells.

Children will adore the spacious garden, complete with a Wendy house, play kitchen and creative corners.

During lambing season, spring bursts into life with newborns in the fields. With over forty years on the land, the farm manager is always delighted to pause for a friendly chat. During summer, you may even spot playful pygmy goats—an addition the family soon hopes to introduce.

Embrace the Outdoors

Life at The Little Fold centres around the landscape. Walk from the doorstep across fields to The Drunken Duck for a pint or supper, or wander along the river to Chesters by the River for coffee, cake and a browse.

Ambleside and Windermere are just moments away, offering Michelin-recommended dining, excellent pubs and endless opportunities to explore. Taxis back are simple to arrange.

Stock up at Booths in Windermere or opt for a supermarket delivery to the farm. Local butchers and bakers in Ambleside and Windermere add to the pleasure of slow, cosy evenings in.

For walkers, the options are boundless—riverside strolls to the Brathay, laps around Loughrigg Tarn, the vistas of Todd Crag, or countless trails around Skelwith Bridge and Elterwater.

Your Lakeland Retreat

Peaceful, homely and beautifully grounded in its landscape, The Little Fold offers a retreat for those who cherish slow mornings with coffee in hand, children playing freely and views that stretch across iconic Lakeland summits—from the Langdale Pikes and Black Fell to Loughrigg rising just beyond the farmhouse.

Authentic yet elevated, this is Lake District holidaying at its most soulful.