The Boathouse at Knotts End

A boathouse bolthole with private lakeshore in stunning Lake District scenery; the ultimate romantic rental (sleeps 2, self-catering)

It’s so tucked away you’ll zip past the entrance, yet it’s only 15 minutes from the M6. Perched on the western shores of Ullswater, in the northeastern Lake District, this19th-century stone boathouse keeps the world at bay: no neighbours, no passing cars, a private stretch of waterfront and unbroken views to the fells.

On first sight, after you’ve bumped down the track between copses and fields, the boathouse, shaded by trees, looks ridiculously small. Step through the arched oak doors, however, and it does a Tardis-like transformation, helped by the open-plan style, pale rafters and walls, and the slate floor that runs throughout. To the right is a gleaming, modern bathroom, on the left a run of swish kitchen units that lead into the bijou living area with its battered leather sofa and wood-burning stove. And at the far end is the bedroom, where arched French windows open to a balcony and glorious views. Furnishings are a comfortable mix of contemporary and antique - Moroccan lamps, Indonesian chests, modern oak - with bright silks adding shots of colour. Breakfast on the balcony, head out for hikes or boat trips, then dine cosily indoors or on the terrace under the stars.

Highs

• Gloriously romantic set-up and setting - you'll never tire of the captivating views and you get a rowboat to explore the lake
• A great location for outdoor activities: hike up Helvellyn, sail or kayak on the lake, or sit and birdwatch from your balcony
• Well-equipped for self-catering, with various areas to dine: the balcony, a picnic table under the trees, and a sunny terrace with a BBQ. Good local restaurants, too
• Lots of nice, homely touches: a Nespresso machine, a DVD library, cookbooks, walking maps and board games
• Friendly and helpful local caretakers in case you get in a fix/have a query

Lows

• Limited storage for clothes/shoes/stuff, so be selective when you pack
• The living space is small and open-plan, so you won't want to cook smelly food
• No TV reception (though there is a DVD player), and you'll struggle to get a mobile signal or decent radio station
• No drying facilities other than the bathroom radiator if you get wet; not ideal in such a rainy place
• Fairly strict cancellation policy