In the words of John Ruskin, here are `moorland, sweet river and English forest at their best'. Set deep in the heart of the magnificent Lune Valley, which has been captured and immortalised on canvas in J.M.W. Turner's `Ruskin's View', these six properties are surrounded by rolling countryside, grass fields and mature trees. Standing alone, whilst they enjoy shared use of an outdoor heated swimming-pool, they are detached from each other and benefit from separate locations within the owners' extensive country estate. As comfortable as they are uniquely charming, the Lune Valley Cottages are ideally situated for exploring an area steeped in history and rich in natural beauty. Routed trails and footpaths wind through the estate grounds, which are a haven to an abundance of wildlife and the perfect country for walkers. There are opportunities to try fishing on the private stretches of the river, renowned for its sea trout in the summer and salmon in September and October. An 18-hole golf course forms part of the estate. Alternatively, those wishing to venture further afield will find the stunning scenery of the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District National Park an invigorating tonic away from the hustle and bustle of modern living. A number of National Trust and other private houses and gardens (including the world-famous topiary gardens at Levens Hall), open to the public during the spring and summer, are within easy reach. Windermere, home to the largest lake in England, is 20miles, and here rowing boats can be hired for a leisurely trip on the water, or stylish steamers and vintage cruiser sail across the lake. Nearby Bowness is famous world-wide for The World of Beatrix Potter family attraction as well as the Steamboat Museum. The market town of Kendal is around a 10-mile drive and boasts several fascinating museums, a ruined castle and a fine art gallery. For an interesting day trip Lancaster is well worth a visit - the county town of Lancashire dates back to Roman times and is characterised by a legacy of predominantly Georgian buildings. The castle boasts a fascinating history - built in 1093, it was added to throughout medieval times, becoming a crown court and prison in the 18th century, a role it still fulfills today. Other attractions a Museum of Childhood, Maritime Museum and museum charting the history of Lancaster. Morecambe Bay is easily reached, and has a renovated Stone Jetty and a arts centre, but the sweep of the bay is still the major attraction, with the local sunsets a renowned phenomenon. The West Coast of England is only about 12miles, while Kirkby Lonsdale's shops, inns and restaurants are between two to three miles.

This spacious barn conversion is set back off the road and enjoys spacious accommodation. Open-plan living/dining-room with gas `wood burner', arch to well-equipped kitchen with gas range (for cooking). Sitting room/play room. Utility. Separate W.C. First floor: Two double bedrooms, each with 6ft bed; one with en-suite bathroom/W.C. with over-bath shower, one with en-suite shower room/W.C. Two twin-bedded rooms each with 6ft zip & link beds and en-suite shower room/W.C.

*Gas `wood burner' and full oil CH incl *Gas range incl *Shops 2 miles *Two additional TVs *Cot *H/chair *Raised balustraded decked area (children may need supervision) with hot tub and furniture *Shared outdoor heated swimming-pool (1 mile away) by arr 10am - 6pm June to end Aug, Mon - Sat *Duvets *Non-smokers only

*Elec incl *Parking *Two TVs *DVD *Music centre *Tel (honesty box) *Auto wm and t/dryer (combined auto wm/tumble dryer in Old Laundry LF6) *M/wave *D/washer *Freezer (American fridge/freezer in Deansbiggin Barn LK6) *Elec blankets *Fishing at cost by prior arr *Linen and towels *Friday to Friday