The Lake District has long been one of our favourite holiday destinations in the UK, and with its breathtaking mountains, deep tranquil lakes and rolling Dales it’s easy to see why. From Lake Windermere to Ullswater the area is rich with tourist hotspots heaving with hikers and ramblers all the year round. But is there anywhere in The Lakes where you can still experience their magic?

Great British Life: Meadows EndMeadows End (Image: Archant)

Nestled in the heart of the Lake District…

The village of Cartmel is one of Cumbria’s best-kept secrets. Blessed with a rich history, vibrant community and top-rated restaurants, it is the ideal location from which to enjoy the lakes and the surrounding area. It’s close to the sandy shores of picturesque Morecambe Bay, and just an hour’s drive north from all the thronging attractions of Lake Windemere. Head a short distance east and you can even enjoy the Yorkshire Dales and the gorgeous Kent and Lune Valleys.

Great British Life: Meadows EndMeadows End (Image: Archant)

But it’s not just geography that makes Cartmel so unique, it’s perhaps the fact that here you can experience a slice of authentic lakeside village life. The friendly locals are always happy to see you, and each day offers up another chance to live a simple country existence. The historic town itself revolves around the beautiful Priory Church and cobbled square lined with inviting inns, private dwellings and well-stocked shops where you can pick up your daily loaf of bread and newspaper, or call in for a local ale and pub lunch.

But what can you get up to in Cartmel on those long summer days? What can’t you! From long walks in the fresh lakeside air to visiting local historic landmarks such as nearby Holker Hall you’re bound to find something that floats your boat. With a wealth of activities from golf to horse-riding, and of course watersports to enjoy you won’t be stumped for options. Even the most hardened city dweller can indulge a spot of shopping in the nearby towns of Grange-Over-Sands and Kendal

There is so much to enjoy, it’s no wonder this truly enchanting town was recently highlighted by The Sunday Times as ‘one of the 50 best places to live’. The birdsong, wildlife, endless green and picture-postcard beauty, the flat lakes that reflect cloudless skies, these are what make Cartmel feel so special.

Great British Life: WoodsetWoodset (Image: Archant)

The ultimate escape…

At the heart of the local community in Cartmel lies a very special luxury lodge park The Pastures where many visitors to the area have already snapped up a holiday home. Run lovingly by a husband and wife team, The Pastures is a haven for anyone looking for a second home in the countryside, a place to unwind and enjoy holidays or quick weekend getaways in beautiful Cartmel. It is only 90 minutes from Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds.

Great British Life: CartmelCartmel (Image: Archant)

If you’ve been thinking about taking on a place in the best of the British countryside, somewhere you can have relax anytime of the year you might want to take a look at its new project The Willows. The Willows is a bespoke development of 7 lodges of which 2 lodges are still available to buy.

With no stamp duty payable, the cost of owning your own private luxury lodge in Cartmel can be kept to a minimum. You can build the lodge of your dreams. From the decking to internal fittings and soft furnishings everything can be tailored to suit your taste. Would you like a wood-burning stove in your lakeside retreat? Perhaps an outdoor Jacuzzi? It’s all possible at The Willows.

To find out more about how you could make Cartmel the top secret location of your second home visit www.thepastures.co.uk/the-willows or call Andy on 07970 779329 or e mail andy@thepastures.co.uk.