North Stainmore, Kirkby Stephen, CA17

Set low in the valley of Hard Hills, Light Tree Cottage is a beautifully kept secret, nestled within a small horseshoe of three other properties. Its location is ideal for those seeking accessibility east to west via the A66, which is just a short drive away. The tall fell to the right of the access road acts as a natural sound barrier, shielding the community from unwanted traffic noise.

Once leaving the A66, you are immediately treated to the wide-open skies and majestic scenery for which this area is famed. Allow yourself to absorb the dramatic views as the road leads to the track that takes you to this beautiful home, which has been meticulously renovated in recent years with love, care, and attention by the current owners.

Park the car and enter through the boot room, upgraded in 2019. Solid limestone flags greet you underfoot as you pass through the dual sliding barn doors, painted in a soft olive green. This is the perfect space to store logs for the three log burners that warm this inviting home. A door leads out to the side garden, and adjacent is the door that leads to the useful utility room where washing can be banished from the kitchen area.

Walking through the inner hallway and past the oak staircase, installed in 2021 by CR Atkinson and Son, you will find the heritage door leading to a large walk-in pantry, where home produce can be kept cool and dry on stone slab shelving.
The flooring through the hallway and into the dining room is a thick and sumptuous carpet in a neutral tone of soft grey. Underneath this sits the original flagstone floor. Perfectly preserved and ready to be uncovered, should any new owner wish to have a more rustic feel to the spaces.

The lounge welcomes you with a striking original feature: a large cast iron stove with a working log burner, refurbished and reinstated in 2018. A stunning centrepiece, it beckons you to sit and warm your toes on cold Cumbrian days. But there is much more to see.

The current owners wished for a space to admire the open aspect and, in 2018, commissioned Everest to erect a large sunroom to the rear of the property. The original stone wall serves as a beautiful backdrop, blending modern design with traditional elements in a way that is both captivating and functional. A multi-fuel stove with an exposed flue ensures this space remains cosy even in winter when the snow-capped fells are at their most enchanting.

Back in the dining room, two deep window seats invite you to take in the much-improved garden views. Another multi-fuel stove, set within an original cast iron surround, warms the space. This is a room where friends can gather for a lively feast or an intimate dinner can be shared. Solid beams overhead pay homage to the building’s heritage, adding character and charm.

The kitchen is a space to cook, connect, and enjoy the garden beyond. Stable doors offer glimpses of colourful planting in spring and summer, with easy access to the patio for al fresco dining. The kitchen harmoniously combines rustic and modern elements, with limestone flags underfoot and elegant cabinetry sitting in perfect contrast to the traditional beams. Modern appliances ensure convenience without compromising the home’s character.

Wandering back through the house, the oak staircase leads to the upper floor, where three double bedrooms and two beautifully designed shower rooms await.

The landing is light and spacious, with room for a home office or craft area if desired.

Bedroom one enjoys open views of the gardens and fells, with the bed perfectly positioned to take in the vista. The plasterwork has been carefully crafted to expose sections of the original stone wall, highlighted by up-and-down modern lighting. A cast iron fireplace serves as a striking focal point, adding elegance to this serene retreat where a restful night’s sleep is assured.

Adjacent is a delightful shower room, installed in 2018 alongside the family bathroom. A mains-fed shower provides a refreshing start to the day.

Bedroom two is equally impressive, located further down the hall. Bathed in natural light from two windows, it offers breath-taking views of the surrounding landscape. A half-exposed stone wall sits gloriously against crisp white plaster, creating a charming aesthetic reminiscent of a French gîte. Soaring ceilings with solid beams add a sense of grandeur, while fitted wardrobes provide ample storage.

Bedroom three is a calm and beautifully decorated space, featuring a subtle leaf motif on one wall complemented by a wash of Farrow & Ball’s Dayroom Yellow. Thick stone walls create a cocooning atmosphere, ensuring comfort and tranquillity.

The spacious family shower room is elegantly designed, with a large walk-in shower, a low-flush enclosed WC, and a stylish vanity unit.

Stepping outside, the gardens of Light Tree Cottage are expansive and captivating, offering uninterrupted views that will enthral. A labour of love for the current owners, the raised beds provide vibrant colour throughout the seasons, while ancient stone walls offer a sense of protection and seclusion. A recently installed (2021) A four person hot tub is perfectly positioned to enjoy the scenery, serving as a delightful retreat. A sun-drenched patio provides the ideal spot for morning coffee or outdoor dining with family and friends.

Further down the garden, a well-placed shed or workshop adds practicality, while a second shed with large glazing offers a wonderful space to enjoy the views in all weather.

To enhance convenience, the current owners have instructed a locally renowned builder to create additional parking, increasing capacity from two cars to four.

Services and Further Information

The property is connected to mains water and electricity.
Foul and surface water drainage is via a septic tank, located outside the boundary wall but covered by deeded access for maintenance. The tank complies with current Environment Agency regulations.
The lane serving the property is shared with three other homes, with an agreed maintenance contribution of approximately £100 per year.
The roof was replaced in 2021.