Reviews

I heard about the Hawthorn Retreat through my aunt who lives locally, and I’m so glad she suggested it because we didn’t find anything nearly as nice on any of the sites we were looking at.

My partner and I love secluded cabins and have stayed in a few places like this in the highlands, but the Hawthorn Retreat really is a cut above the rest and we really appreciated how much thought and care had gone into everything. My partner is an architect and we were marvelling at all the details and how well built everything is. The kitchen is very well equipped, and we were delighted to find loads of wood and charcoal ready for us. Everything was perfect and we really didn’t want to leave. It is such a gem of a place and we will definitely recommend it to friends.

This was our second stay at a Rowley Estates property. Both times the experience was fantastic. The properties are simply magical, extremely well supplied, they think of everything. Christine is so helpful, you feel like you are special, not simply a run of the mill guest as at some rentals. We had several family members join us, all were awed by Hause Hall , ( and previously by Melmerby Hall) and by Christine. We have stayed in many rental properties around the world. Rowley Estates is absolutely The Best.

Without a doubt the best location to just get away from it all, a little off the grid but still central to easily get to Penrith and Keswick and everything in between. The booking process was excellent, first rate, everything seemed to have been considered and this carried through to Elm Retreat itself, it is gorgeous, a perfect little place with literally everything you need to get away from it all. Great little touches , we wanted for nothing. We will definitely be back for another stay soon.

The Elm Retreat is the most beautiful place to stay!! It is well designed, exceptionally clean and there is everything you could need. The surrounding area is stunning and the people make you feel like a local within minutes. Christine was a brilliant host and made sure we had everything we needed. The welcome hamper was a nice touch as well. We will definitely be returning and I cannot recommend it highly enough.

We have just spent three nights at this beautiful cottage. The whole experience from start to finish was seamless. Dealing directly with Christine Rowley was a delight, so helpful at every step.
This is our second time using one of the Rowley properties and it exceeded all of our expectations including the outstanding welcome hamper.
So much to see and do in the surrounding countryside and even better it’s dog friendly. Can’t wait until our next visit.

Our family had such a great stay at Blencowe! We stayed in two houses, Cazenovia Hall and Riverain. Riverain was perfect for our group of 5 (and would accommodate 6 very comfortably). Each bedroom had its own bathroom. The three bedrooms were comfortable, and the bathrooms were perfect (great water pressure to wake you up!). The kitchen and living room were well-appointed. The grounds were beautiful, and the property was centrally located for day trips to Ullswater as well as a tour of Hadrian’s wall. And, the welcome hamper made it easy to settle in on our first day. Highly recommend a stay at Riverain – don’t hesitate!

Our family had such a great stay at Blencowe! We stayed in two houses, Cazenovia Hall and Riverain. Cazenovia was perfect for our group of 7 (and would accommodate 8 very comfortably). Each bedroom had its own bathroom. The four bedrooms were comfortable, and the bathrooms were perfect (great water pressure to wake you up!). The kitchen and living room were well-appointed. The grounds were beautiful, and the property was centrally located for day trips to Ullswater as well as a tour of Hadrian’s wall. And, the welcome hamper made it easy to settle in on our first day. Highly recommend a stay at Cazenovia Hall – don’t hesitate!

Amazing communication from Christine from the start of our booking, updated all the way to day of arrival. Very easy location to find and within half an hour of everywhere we wanted to visit in the Lake District. The accommodation was very clean, great layout and a beautiful private setting next to the river. 10/10 We loved it, thanks once again!

This is a great house in a great location and everything is prefect. We love the generous welcome package you get as well We will continue to go back.

A great location for a large family holiday. Lots of local things to do, walks, the Lakes and the beautiful Eden Valley, plus a great large garden, ideal for children’s games and ‘exploring’.