Horseshoe Cottage, Wansfell Holme, Ambleside, LA23 1LS

Welcome to Horseshoe Cottage, Wansfell Holme, Ambleside, LA23 1LS

Enjoying a discreet and highly enviable position on the fringes of the ever-popular lakeland town of Ambleside, this exceptional residence commands a sunny west-facing aspect, beautifully landscaped gardens and breathtaking views towards Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells.

A rare opportunity has arisen to acquire this highly desirable former coach house and stables, originally built around 1830, converted into a house in the 1960s by renowned local builder, G. H. Pattinson, and later developed by the current owners in 2010-2012. Immaculately presented throughout, the property effortlessly combines its wealth of character and period charm with stylish contemporary finishes, creating a home of exceptional quality and appeal.

Offering three generously proportioned ensuite bedrooms, the accommodation is both flexible and thoughtfully designed, making it ideally suited to a variety of purchasers. Whether seeking a distinguished permanent residence, an idyllic second home or a luxurious Lake District retreat, this outstanding property provides the perfect balance of privacy, comfort and convenience.

The property enjoys an exceptional setting within close proximity to the picturesque town of Ambleside, one of the Lake District’s most sought-after destinations. Renowned for its charming character, vibrant atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings, Ambleside offers an excellent selection of independent shops, cafes, traditional pubs and highly regarded restaurants, together with a range of everyday amenities. 

Positioned close to the northern shores of Lake Windermere, residents can enjoy easy access to a wealth of outdoor pursuits, including scenic lakeside walks, boating, paddleboarding and cycling. The surrounding fells provide endless opportunities for hiking and exploration, with many of the Lake District’s most celebrated landscapes right on the doorstep. 

Combining the tranquility of a beautiful Lakeland setting with the convenience of nearby amenities, the location offers the perfect balance of both permanent living and holiday enjoyment. Excellent transport links connect the area to the wider region, while the breathtaking scenery of the Lake District National Park ensures this remains one of the most desirable locations in the country.  

Step inside 

This exceptional home blends contemporary styling with traditional character, creating a beautifully balanced and highly versatile living environment. Throughout the property, carefully retained architectural features, including exposed oak beams and quality finishes, combine with modern conveniences to offer stylish and comfortable accommodation.

Upon entering, a spacious and welcoming entrance hallway immediately sets the tone for the home, providing access to a convenient cloakroom fitted with a WC and wash hand basin.

The heart of the property is undoubtedly the impressive breakfast kitchen, with a double height ceiling making it a superb space designed for both everyday family living and entertaining. Fitted with an extensive range of modern base units, the kitchen is enhanced by striking exposed oak beams that add warmth and character. A substantial central island provides additional storage and casual seating, while high-quality integrated appliances include a Miele induction hob, Neff oven and a combination microwave with grill, tall integrated Miele fridge and separate tall integrated freezer, plus an integrated dishwasher. The kitchen also enjoys direct access to the gardens, allowing for effortless indoor-outdoor living.

Adjacent to the kitchen is a practical utility room, fitted with further wall and base units, a stainless steel sink, and plumbing for a washing machine. 

Moving through the ground floor, the charming snug offers a cosy retreat, featuring fabulous engineered oak flooring and a useful storage cupboard. The dining room provides an elegant setting for formal dining, with attractive shelved walls, ample space for a large dining table, and access to the outside.

The generous living room is a wonderful space for relaxation and entertaining. Double patio doors flood the room with natural light and open directly onto the gardens, while a feature log-burning stove set upon a slate hearth creates a welcoming focal point. A fitted media wall further enhances the room's contemporary appeal.

Completing the ground floor accommodation is a separate office, thoughtfully fitted with shelving and cupboards. This versatile room is ideal for home working, a library, hobby room, or additional reception space depending on individual preferences. 

A staircase rises to the first floor, where a characterful landing showcases beautiful exposed oak beams, and leads to all ensuite bedrooms. 

The principal bedroom is a superb retreat, enjoying stunning views towards Lake Windermere. The room benefits from extensive eaves storage, built-in wardrobes, and a stylish en-suite shower room fitted with a shower, a double wash basin and vanity unit, WC, and heated towel rail.

The second guest bedroom also enjoys beautiful lake views and features fitted wardrobes together with a luxurious en-suite bathroom comprising a bath, separate shower, wash basin with vanity unit, WC, and heated towel rail.

Bedroom three is equally well-appointed, offering fitted wardrobes, a necessary fire exit, and a modern en-suite shower room complete with shower, WC, heated towel rail, and wash basin with vanity unit.

Externally, the property is set within extensive and beautifully maintained gardens to both the front and rear. The grounds have been thoughtfully landscaped to create a series of attractive outdoor spaces, ideal for relaxation, entertaining, and enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.

The front garden provides mature planting, specimen trees, and charming pathways, while a delightful water feature enhances the peaceful atmosphere. Rich in variety and colour, there are established apple and pear trees, striking Acer trees, mature Rhododendrons, and the impressive Cornus 'Norman Haddon' tree. Stone pathways meander through the grounds, leading to a number of secluded seating areas that allow the gardens to be enjoyed throughout the day. Further features include attractive ponds connected by a stream, together with a dedicated bonfire area.

To the rear a seated terrace provides the perfect vantage point from which to enjoy far-reaching views towards the southern end of Lake Windermere, creating an exceptional setting for outdoor dining and entertaining. Additionally, raised planting beds and a greenhouse offer excellent opportunities for keen gardeners. 

The property also benefits from three storage sheds, an additional plant room, external power points, and an outside tap, providing excellent functionality alongside the outstanding outdoor environment.

Services

Mains electricity, water, air source heating and underfloor heating on both the ground and first floors. 

Drainage to a shared septic tank located in the front garden. 

Mobile and broadband services

For information on broadband and mobile services at the property, we advise prospective purchasers to consult the Ofcom website: checker.ofcom.org.uk  

Local Authority charges

Westmorland and Furness Council – Council Tax band G

Tenure

Freehold 

Please note

There is a right of access over initial drive and vendors pay ¼ of fee for maintenance. 

Directions 

what3words ///craftsmen.slices.everyone

Download the what3words App or go online for directions straight to the property. 

Anti Money Laundering Regulations (AML)
Due to the Money Laundering Regulations, now officially known as Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds Regulations 2017 we are required to follow government legislation and carry out identification checks on all purchasers. We use a specialist third party company to conduct these checks at a charge of £48 inclusive of VAT per buyer once an offer has been accepted and you will be unable to proceed with the purchase of the property until these checks have been carried out. This charge is non-refundable.