Sawmill Cottage Location
Sawmill Cottage is located by the River Crake in the tiny hamlet of Low Nibthwaite.
The hamlet is just 15 minutes’ walk (2 minutes by car) to the southern tip of Coniston Water, 1 of the Lake Districts largest and most beautiful lakes.
The cottage is located on the eastern side of the valley which is a very tranquil area, far enough away from main roads but still perfectly situated for easy access to the 4 corners of the Lake District.
The River Crake at Sawmill Cottage
Misty Coniston Water in winter
The location also gives easy access to both roads that run along the western and eastern shores of the lake.
When the rest of the Lake District is busy at peak times, the Coniston valley is far quieter and a great deal more serene.
The Coniston mountains are dominated by Wetherlam and The Old Man of Coniston, the highest most southerly mountain in England at 2634 feet. It’s great to be at the top of ‘The Old Man knowing that no-one south of you in England is higher up than you are-unless they are flying!
Quiet lanes, paths, bridges and bridleways give great access to explore the stunning local area on foot or bike from the front door of the house.
The location in the southern part of the Lake District is also milder and drier than the rest of Cumbria
Sawmill Cottage is 10 minutes’ walk to Allan Tarn, which is the peaceful tarn at the end of Coniston Water that was featured in Arthur Ransome’s book Swallows and Amazons and known as ‘Octopus Lagoon’ in the book.
Allan Tarn
Coniston Village
The nearest pub is exactly 1 mile from the cottage. There are several other pubs, a really good butchers and a village shop that sells newspapers and some groceries all just 4 miles away in the village of Greenodd.
Coniston Village is just 6 miles north which is just 15 minutes by car or 2½ hours walk via the footpath along the lake. Coniston Village has a good variety of shops, pubs, restaurants, cafés and an artisan bakery.
The lovely Lakeland market town of Ulverston is the nearest town just 20 minutes’ drive. Ulverston has a great choice of shops, cafés, pubs, restaurants and a Booths supermarket.
All the supermarkets deliver to the cottage except Waitrose as there aren’t any Waitrose supermarkets in Cumbria. We have Booths instead, similar to Waitrose but better.
Coniston Water
Coniston Water is the 3rd largest lake in the English Lake District and is one of the most imposing and beautiful English lakes.
Situated to the west of Lake Windermere, Coniston Water is just over five miles long (8km) and half a mile wide (0.8km) and is more peaceful and tranquil than it’s busier neighbour Windermere.
Despite being a more tranquil lake, Coniston Water still has plenty of activities for all ages. These include lake cruises, boat, canoe and kayak hire and once a year, the lake hosts ‘Coniston Powerboat Records Week, the only event in the Powerboat Racing Calendar to bring together all classes of boat.
You can read more about the Coniston area here
Bluebird Cafe, Coniston Water
Lake District Attractions
The Lake District is the largest National Park in England and 2nd largest in the United Kingdom, however it’s quite a compact area at only 32 miles (51 km) from east to west and nearly 40 miles (64 km) from north to south. As a result, all the hundreds of ‘must visit’ Lake District attractions and sights are all easily accessible from our cottage locations.
The Lake District & Cumbria are packed full with famous award-winning attractions. To see our current ‘top 50’ choice, Click Here>>>>
You can see & read more about Cumbria & the Lake District here>>>>
Local Lake District Information Links
BEATRIX POTTER AND PETER RABBIT
Beatrix Potter is famous throughout the world and this is the place to experience the best of her legacy. You can learn about the people behind the scenes, meet Peter Rabbit, learn about Beatrix Potter and experience the tales being bought to life.
Cartmel racecourse has the 3rd highest average attendance of any race meeting in the UK (after Ascot and Aintree) yet it is 1 of the smallest race courses in Britain.
People travel from near and far for this great social gathering and the atmosphere that provides a great fun day out for everyone. To top it off, this spectacular event is set against the backdrop of the stunning Lake District fells and mountains.
A historic village in an area of outstanding natural beauty. A regular winner of Cumbria in Bloom ensures it remains as picturesque as ever!
A lovely day out for all ages with several shops, pubs, cafes and 2 Michelin starred restaurants.
This two to three day trail follows this ancient trail along Morecambe Bay as well as the Furness and Cartmel penninsulas. Passing through a variety of places in the South-West Lakes including Cartmel, Dalton and Barrow. All areas are of great historic interest.
Enjoy a beautiful cruise on Lake Coniston in the Lake District. Choose to stay aboard for the whole cruise or get off and on to explore and walk.
Two special cruise are available: Swallows & Amazon and Campbells on Coniston.
This coastal path is 182 miles long going from the Cumbrian boundary which edges Lancashire to the Scottish boarders. Known to be one of the most beautiful coastlines in Britain. It can be walked in full over 10-14 days or in sections.
HAVERTHWAITE TO LAKESIDE STEAM RAILWAY
This historic branch line offers the chance to ride in a steam train to Lakeside which is the southern point of Lake Windermere.
There is a tea room, gift shop, adventure playground, picnic area and engine shed.
“A Lakeland garden for all seasons” overlooking Lake Windermere which also sells plants and between May-September offers free guided walks.
Holker Hall is one of the best-loved stately homes in Britain and home to Lord and Lady Cavendish & family.
Holker Hall is set in exceptionally beautiful countryside with gardens that merge into Parkland framed by the Lakeland Hills.
The Lakes Aquarium in Newby Bridge is a wonderful day out. There is a virtual dive bell, an underwater tunnel beneath Lake Windermere, Rainforest exhibits, coral reef tanks and various other exhibitions.
There is also a shop and cafe.
Offering a selection of walks and hides in the largest reedbed in the North West. Most of these are suitable for wheelchair users. Home to butterflies, deer and special birds. Children can learn in the visitor centre and there is also a tea room.
2 Michelin star restaurant. Simon Rogan uses the best seasonal and local ingredients for the amzing 15 course menu.
This estate has been family owned for over 400 years.
Enjoy the hall, walk through Levens Deer Park, eat afternoon tea or enjoy the topiary gardens which has over 100 pieces.
Morecambe Bay is a beautiful historical coast line with the added bonus of being able to offer a large range of outdoor activities. It stretches from the south west coast of Cumbria all the way to Fleetwood in Lancashire.
A medieval house in beautiful grounds with its own lake, pond and limestone rock garden. Displaying unique art work, shops and a cafe as well as offering events for both adults and families throughout the year there is something for everyone.
A beautiful National Trust owned Victorian steam-powered yacht offers a unique experience on Coniston water.
Cumbria Wildlife Trust maintain this shingle island reserve containing lots of interesting things and the only grey seal colony in Cumbria.
Enjoy the scenic views of the Lake District while cruising on the famous Lake Windermere.
Cruises start from Bowness, Lakeside or Ambleside and vary in length from 45 minutes to 3 hours.