Mellguards, Howtown, Penrith

A handsome Lakeland country house in an elevated position with uninterrupted views across the Fusedale Valley and Ullswater

In a commanding position overlooking the unspoilt beauty of the Fusedale Valley and Ullswater, Mellguards is a most attractive Lakeland country house offering generous, well-proportioned accommodation of considerable charm. The house, formerly two eighteenth-century cottages, has been carefully reconfigured to create a substantial family home retaining many period features, and now offers flexibility of layout, modern convenience and breathtaking views from all principal rooms.

Kitchen/breakfast Room, utility room, laundry room, dining room, 2 further reception rooms, wc, 2 stores
Principal bedroom, 4 further bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, wc
Double garage
Gardens

For Sale Freehold

Find Out A Little More... - The property sits in a peaceful and private setting, approached by a long tree-lined drive and nestled within mature gardens with direct access to the open fell. Internally, period features include exposed beams, solid oak doors, traditional fireplaces and flagstone floors. The spacious entrance vestibule leads to a study with feature fireplace and pastoral views, as well as a guest cloakroom with separate wc. The drawing room is a notable highlight – once two rooms – featuring dual fireplaces with Honister slate hearths, French doors to a sun terrace, and magnificent valley views.

A formal dining room benefits from a dual aspect and an open fire set within a handsome sandstone surround. The farmhouse kitchen combines function with charm, fitted with solid oak cabinetry, electric range cooker, integrated appliances including dishwasher and ample space for informal dining. Adjacent are two utility areas: one with traditional pine units and a Belfast sink, the other functioning as a laundry with stone sconces and cool storage for provisions.

Two staircases lead to the first floor, offering separation of the master wing and ideal guest accommodation. There are five generous double bedrooms, each commanding beautiful views. The principal suite includes fitted wardrobes, an en suite bathroom with twin basins, walk-in shower, heated cast-iron bath, separate wc and private landing. The guest bedroom also benefits from fitted storage and a spacious en suite with under-heated bath. The remaining three bedrooms are served by a well-appointed family bathroom with under-heated bath, shower and linen storage.

Outside - Externally, Mellguards is surrounded by magnificent gardens with sweeping lawns and a variety of mature trees and shrubs. The current owners have invested heavily in this area of the property, making the gardens a usable family space. There are outdoor stores, a gardener’s wc, and a detached double garage with ample parking.

Agent's Notes - A public footpath runs along the lane to the property, giving access to the fell and the wider Lakeland landscape.

Environs - Pooley Bridge 3.5 miles, Penrith 7 miles, Carlisle 28 miles

Howtown is a peaceful hamlet nestled on the eastern shore of Ullswater in the Lake District National Park. It offers immediate access to lakeside walks, including Wainwrights walks, fells, woodland trails, and the popular paths to Hallin Fell and Martindale. Howtown is accessible by road and via the historic Ullswater ‘Steamers’ ferry, which links it to Glenridding and Pooley Bridge. Local amenities within nearby Pooley Bridge include shops and a post office as well as traditional village pubs, restaurants and tea rooms. The nearby market town of Penrith also provides a full range of amenities, including supermarkets, schools, rail links on the West Coast Main Line, and access to the M6.

General - Services: Mains electricity and water. Private drainage. Oil-fired central heating. Fibre optic broadband.
Tenure: Freehold
Council Tax: Band F
EPC: Rating G
Money Laundering Regulations: Prior to a sale being agreed, prospective purchasers are required to produce identification documents in order to comply with Money Laundering regulations. Your co-operation with this is appreciated and will assist with the smooth progression of the sale.
A public footpath passes over part of the driveway. The owners of Mellguards benefit from direct access to open fell land.
Directions – What3Words is by far the best way to find the property.
Please note that the bridge at Pooley Bridge may be closed at times. From Penrith, take the A6 to Eamont Bridge. At the mini roundabout, turn right towards Tirril. Continue through Tirril for just over two miles and turn left, signposted Howtown. Follow this road for three miles to Howtown. Turn left at the Howtown Hotel and proceed up the tree-lined driveway. Keep left through the buildings and continue for a quarter mile. At the fork, turn left over a small bridge and through the trees. Mellguards will be found ahead.

What3words ///spinning.arrival.drumbeat

Viewing: Strictly by appointment

Photographs, property spec and video highlights: July 2025
NB: Google map images may neither be current nor a true representation.