Ivy Cottage, Skelwith Bridge, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9NW

Tucked away in the peaceful hamlet of Skelwith Bridge, this detached property is a true gem offering a unique rather special blend of comfort and style. With three double bedrooms and three bright and inviting reception rooms, this home is perfect for families seeking both space and elegance. Ancillary accommodation on the lower ground floor provides flexible living options.
There is plenty of car parking provision, and truly delightful gardens. Relax right here, hike the high fells, or stroll along the river bank - it's all available from the doorstep.

A superbly located and stylishly improved Lakeland family home, Ivy Cottage enjoys simply wonderful views to Wansfell and Loughrigg in one direction, and enjoys glimpses of the Langdale Pikes in the other. Starting its story as a bungalow, it has seen much thoughtful and considerate improvements over the years and now provides adaptable modern living accommodation. The main home is bright and airy and consists of 3 bedrooms, 3 shower rooms and 3 excellent reception rooms. The lower ground floor, accessed externally via its own private entrance, offers further living space complete with fully fitted kitchen and shower room. Ideal for offering visiting guests that extra privacy.

The spacious 21st Century living accommodation can be enjoyed in a variety of ways to suit your individual requirements, whether that is as a stunning family home with space for all, a peaceful and welcoming weekend retreat or an incomparable holiday let.

Tasteful throughout, this is a home to warm the heart.

Entered via a sweet covered porch and welcoming hallway it is easy to be drawn immediately to the bright breakfast kitchen. The highlight of this home though is surely the incredible triple aspect open plan lounge/dining room - an absolute joy with patio doors to the balcony and terraced style patio, extending the living space and bringing the outdoors in. A TV room/snug and a separate dining room provide further space; perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying cosy family evenings. The property's reception rooms offer versatility and charm, the elegant décor and thoughtful layout create a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout.

Additionally on the ground floor is a double bedroom with glazed patio external doors and a shower room close by - ideal for less able guests, and offering flexibility of single level living.
Two further double bedrooms, and shower rooms on the first floor make excellent use of the converted loft area and extension with ample storage tucked away under the eaves. Each of the three bedrooms is a retreat in itself, offering ample space and comfort.

Further ancillary accommodation is found on the lower ground floor - comprising of an open plan sitting room/kitchen - perfect for accommodating a sofa bed - with separate shower room.

The mature wrap around gardens are well tended and include a rich variety of mature shrubs and trees, plenty of car parking provision, view points and privacy. Numerous patio areas (you really are spoilt for choice!) provide the perfect setting for al fresco dining or simply unwinding with a good book amidst the lush greenery and the soothing sound of the River Brathay close by. Uniquely, the boundary of the plot actually includes part of the river below part of the island in the middle of this stretch of the Brathay. As the seasons move on, the views are gently revealed, creating an ever changing breathtaking backdrop.

Ivy Cottage is something rather special and highly recommended for viewing. Don't miss the opportunity to make this enchanting retreat your own.
 

Location Skelwith Bridge is a small peaceful hamlet in the southern area of the Lake District, situated on the River Brathay which flows into Lake Windermere, approximately 3 miles south of Grasmere. Skelwith Bridge is known for its scenic beauty - including nearby waterfalls and various walking paths and cycling trails. The well known Chester's by the River is a hop skip and a jump away for refuelling and relaxing.

Further amenities are found in Ambleside just a short 5 minute drive away. 

Accommodation (with approximate dimensions)  

Covered Porch The sweet covered porch sets the scene for the rest of this delightful home. 

Entrance Hallway Light and very welcoming with stairs to the first floor, and under stair storage cupboard along with a further "coats" cupboard and the ground floor shower room with shower unit, WC and wash hand basin. 

TV Room/ Snug 15' 0" x 13' 4" (4.57m max x 4.06m max) The first of three reception rooms, with views over the garden and to the beautiful countryside beyond. Perfect for quiet relaxation this lovely room is spacious enough for all, yet maintains that 'cosy' feeling. 

Lounge/Dining Room 24' 9" x 12' 10" (7.54m x 3.91m) A highlight of this welcoming home is this exceptional bright and sunny triple aspect room; the large windows letting natural light stream in.

Patio doors at either end lead to the well maintained patio garden to the front, or the balcony and large terrace to the rear, bringing the outside in, and extending the already generous living space. Offering fell views of Wansfell and Loughrigg, and a seamless combination of seating and dining areas - simply ideal for entertaining and gathering with friends and family.  

Dining Room 12' 7" x 11' 7" (3.84m x 3.53m) Closer to the kitchen which is just next door, is the dual aspect dedicated dining room (some may wish to combine the two rooms into one fabulous kitchen diner). It has ample storage in the form of hand crafted integrated floor to ceiling cupboards, and display shelves. This room enjoys enchanting garden views and would be equally suited as a home office or perhaps music room. 

Dining Kitchen 18' 10" x 9' 11" (5.72m x 3.02m) This well designed Atlantis fitted kitchen has a sleek stylish range of units with complementary Silestone worktops with an integrated sink and a half with Quooker tap, making clever use of a corner space. From the window over the sink, views over the garden to Loughrigg and Ivy Crag fells beyond provide possibly the very best distraction from washing the dishes.

Integrated Neff appliances include an induction hob with extractor over, oven, combi microwave oven and an automatic washing machine. Bosch appliances include an integrated fridge freezer, and dishwasher, alongside a White Knight tumble dryer.

Also having space for family dining, this wonderfully light triple aspect room is the heartbeat of the house.

With external door to the rear patio garden, and the Worcester oil fired central heating boiler. 

Bedroom 3 10' 0" x 9' 5" (3.05m x 2.87m) Benefitting from its own private external door accessed from the terraced balcony, this ground floor double bedroom is a true asset, ideal for single level living options. Having an integrated wardrobe and cupboards for excellent storage. 

Shower Room Having a shower set within a tiled cubicle, slimline sink set above a vanity style unit, and WC. 

First Floor  

Landing  

Bedroom 1 Suite 16' 4" x 12' 6" (4.98m x 3.81m) The dual aspect bedroom is spacious and enjoys both river and fell views - Wansfell in one direction, and the Langdale Pikes just visible in the other with the soothing sound of the River Brathay as a backdrop. A little landing area with great under eaves storage links the ensuite shower room. 

En Suite for Bedroom 1 With three piece suite comprising a Mira Sport shower set within a curved corner unit, wash hand basin set above a vanity style unit and WC. Additionally having a slimline heated towel rail/radiator. 

Bedroom 2 12' 2" x 11' 5" (3.71m max x 3.48m min) A room retaining characterful features namely the wonderful curved wall which was once the chimney breast, and quirky bespoke window seats tempting you to sit and pause a while enjoying the tranquil garden views. 

House Shower Room With three piece suite comprising a shower set within a curved corner unit, wash hand basin set within a vanity style unit and WC. 

Lower Ground Floor  

Annex  

Entrance Porch With river views, and having plenty of space for dealing with damp coats and muddy boots. There is also provision here for a tumble dryer. 

Open Plan Living/Kitchen Space 24' 5" x 12' 9" (7.44m x 3.89m max) Bright and airy thanks to its dual aspect, the sitting area has ample space to accommodate a sofa bed, and a table for dining. Ideal for giving visiting guests "their own space", or perhaps as a bijoux holiday let.

The Atlantis kitchen is fully fitted with high gloss contemporary wall and base units with complementary Silestone work surface incorporating an inset sink with Quooker tap. Bosch integrated appliances include an oven, combi microwave oven and induction hob, in addition to an Indesit automatic washing machine. 

Shower Room With a three piece suite comprising a Mira shower set within a cubicle, wash hand basin and WC, and having a tiled floor. 

Outside  

Gardens The extensive garden wraps around the property, and is private and tranquil in equal measure and full of birdlife accompanied by the soothing sounds of the babbling River Brathay. There are numerous places in which to sit and relax whilst taking in the glorious views, whether from one of many patio areas, or perhaps the raised viewing point at the head of some steps set into the banking - the choice is yours. Should the weather be kind, a splash and a swim in the river to the island is also an option. So many special areas from where to take a quiet moment, enjoy a book whilst listening to birdsong, or perhaps a glass of something cool at the end of the day. The covered seating shelter at the rear is perfectly placed to retreat to should the weather turn inclement.  

Parking The private gravel driveway can accommodate several cars. 

Property Information  

Tenure Freehold. 

Council Tax Band Westmorland and Furness District Council - Band E 

Services The property is connected to mains electricity and water. Drainage is to a sewage treatment plant installed in 2024. Oil central heating to radiators and double glazing. 

Broadband Superfast broadband is available - Openreach network. 

Mobile Likely service from EE, Three and Vodafone. Limited from O2. 

Energy Performance Certificate The full Energy Performance Certificate is available on our website and also at any of our offices. 

Directions From our office in Ambleside follow the one-way system through the town centre turning right down Wansfell Road. Bear left at the bottom and continue onto Borrans Road, taking the first right onto the A593 and following signs for Coniston. Continue along the A593, passing through Clappersgate and once across the bridge in Skelwith Bridge follow the road up the hill for approximately one third of a mile before taking a turning into the driveway on the right signed Ivy Cottage. There is ample parking for a number of vehicles on the private gravelled driveway.  

What3Words ///triads.thudding.flaunting 

Viewings Strictly by appointment with Hackney & Leigh. 

Anti Money Laundering Regulations (AML) Please note that when an offer is accepted on a property, we must follow government legislation and carry out identification checks on all buyers under the Anti-Money Laundering Regulations (AML). We use a specialist third-party company to carry out these checks at a charge of £42.67 (inc. VAT) per individual or £36.19 (incl. vat) per individual, if more than one person is involved in the purchase (provided all individuals pay in one transaction). The charge is non-refundable, and you will be unable to proceed with the purchase of the property until these checks have been completed. In the event the property is being purchased in the name of a company, the charge will be £120 (incl. vat). 

Discalimer All permits to view and particulars are issued on the understanding that negotiations are conducted through the agency of Messrs. Hackney & Leigh Ltd. Properties for sale by private treaty are offered subject to contract. No responsibility can be accepted for any loss or expense incurred in viewing or in the event of a property being sold, let, or withdrawn. Please contact us to confirm availability prior to travel. These particulars have been prepared for the guidance of intending buyers. No guarantee of their accuracy is given, nor do they form part of a contract. *Broadband speeds estimated and checked by on 19th September 2025