Guests say
Holy Waters offers a charming and peaceful riverside retreat in Staveley, with excellent access to local amenities, walks, and public transport. Guests praise its tranquil setting, unique church conversion character, and well-equipped kitchen. The cottage is comfortable and cosy, making it a great base for exploring the Lake District. Some guests noted areas for improvement, such as cleanliness, bathroom and kitchen updates, and minor maintenance issues. Overall, the property is highly regarded for its location and atmosphere, with most guests enjoying a relaxing and memorable stay.
Several guests found the cottage clean and cosy, but others reported issues such as the property not being cleaned on arrival, lingering odours, and missed spots (e.g., unhoovered carpets, dirty kitchenware). Cleanliness appears inconsistent, with both positive and negative experiences.
The location is consistently praised for its riverside setting, proximity to village amenities, public transport, and easy access to the Lake District. Guests appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and convenience.
Most guests found the cottage comfortable, warm, and cosy, with good privacy and a pleasant garden. Some noted issues for those with mobility challenges and mentioned tired furnishings, but overall comfort was rated positively.
The property is well-equipped, especially the kitchen, and offers good parking. However, guests highlighted maintenance issues such as outdated bathrooms, faulty TV remotes, heating and lighting problems, and complicated appliances. Facilities are generally good but could benefit from updates.
Some guests mentioned the presence of complimentary milk sachets (though out of date), and noted the lack of a welcome pack, which is often expected. Please note that gifts or welcome packs are not guaranteed.
About this property
Unique church conversion set beside the River Gowan in Staveley, one of Lakeland’s quieter villages just 4 miles from Windermere and Bowness.. 4 steps to entrance.
Ground Floor:
Living/dining room: Freeview TV, DVD Player
Kitchen: Electric Oven, Ceramic Hob, Microwave, Fridge/Freezer, Dishwasher, Washer Dryer
Bathroom: Bath With Shower Over, Toilet
First Floor:
Bedroom 1: 2 x Single (3ft) Beds
Ensuite: Toilet (Only)
Bedroom 2: Kingsize (5ft) Bed.
Gas central heating,gas, electricity, bed linen, towels and Wi-Fi included. Travel cot and highchair available.. Enclosed garden with furniture provided. Visit England 3 Star.. One of four properties imaginatively created in this former place of worship, Holy Waters has been cleverly designed to make best use of the architectural details of the church. The setting of the house is delightful, the garden running alongside the River Gowan, the presence and sound of flowing water always a welcome backdrop for a relaxing holiday. In the centre of Staveley, Holy Waters has all the great amenities of this flourishing village within a few steps and being at the foot of the Kentmere Valley, synonymous with great walking and cycling, this hidden gem of Lakeland is simply the ideal choice for a self catering break.
A lengthy refurbishment of the property has resulted in first class accommodation, rather quirky in design with exposed walls and beams contrasting yet complimenting the original church features, the arched windows particularly attractive. The open plan living area creates a very social, comfortable feel on the ground floor, the dining table perfectly placed for enjoying the garden and river aspect. All your self catering needs are taken care of here at Holy Waters and for those with young ones, a collection of toys and DVDs has been thoughtfully provided to get your holiday off to the very best of relaxing starts
Free WiFi
Nearby points of interest
- Lake Windermere
- Lake District National Park
- Esthwaite Water
- The World of Beatrix Potter
- Hayes Garden World Ambleside
- Hawkshead Grammar School Museum
- Beatrix Potter Gallery, Hawkshead
- Lakes Aquarium
- Lakeland Motor Museum
Reviews (20)
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Grace Hewson
Comfortable cottage in excellent position with wild garden overlooking river. Short walk to station and bus routes and to local pub with excellent food. Handy shop, newsagents, bakery and cafe. Delightful river walks and up to top of Reston Scar. Also walked Dales way to Bowness. Great to see so many swifts, swallows and housemartins and wonderful to hear nesting curlews.
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Sharon Hutcheon
Water logged towels stuck in the washing machine (fortunately we didn't need to use it); toaster overdue for replacement - had to repeatedly reheat in order to toast bread; cooker absolutely unnecessary complicated (child lock came on struggled to understand - even with instructions and dinner spoilt). Bracelet found on bedroom carpet, which suggests it wasn't hoovered.
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Aaron
Had a lovely stay in Holy Waters for a few days in the Lake District. Staveley is a lovely, quiet place with a nice vibe to it; and I felt very much at home. The apartment itself was very nice and clutter-free, and was an overall great stay with a lovely backdrop of the peaceful river running right next to it. Would recommend to anyone visiting the Lake District.