Pippins, Elterwater

At the big picture level Pippins is placed fantastically in the Lakes for access to other popular areas, some of the best pubs (the Britannia is great and only a few steps away, but the Talbot at Skelwith Bridge is less busy and really friendly), Grasmere, Ambleside and lots of great walks from the door, and cycle routes. Its an attractive stone building, most rooms are big enough, shower good, beds comfortable and kitchen great. Heating easier to understand than many. Dog friendly and easy areas to take dogs for short walks. Useful porch. We experienced a sewer malfunction - staff came and cleared it quickly.

Overall it felt a bit cramped made worse when we had a lot of wet gear to dry. It transpired some of the best local paths are susceptible to flooding. Local placement wise, the cottage is on an awkward kink in the main route into Elterwater, the only one with with no parking space outside. You get a permit but we still spent most of the time in trepidation we would miss out on the last musical chair. There are options a way away but not a great prospect with dog and gear in the conditions we experienced. The outside area at back is small, no cover and no way to make it canine escape proof.

Spacious, extremely well equipped, perfect location for walking & pub and cafe, boot area in porch, two bathrooms, very clean, parking permit. Couldn't fault it.

There was nothing we didn't like