The one-bedroom cottage Emily sits in the middle of a row of three restored lakeside cottages that make up one of the oldest properties in the Capheaton Estate. This prestigious estate in rural Northumberland has belonged to the Swinburne family since 1260, resulting in a remarkable legacy that the current owners, Willy and Eliza Browne-Swinburne, are continuing to nurture.
The estate encompasses 500 aces of woodland, walled gardens and landscaped parkland that extends down to a large lake as well as the historic Capheaton Hall, a Grade I listed Baroque-styled mansion dating to 1669, and a small village. Having grown up in Capheaton Hall, Willy Browne-Swinburne is deeply committed to the ongoing restoration of the grand house as well as the maintenance of the estate’s gardens, woods and habitats.
The trio of Lakeside Cottages is set near the main gate to Capheaton Hall, a tranquil location with unbroken views of Sir Edward’s Lake and the lush woods surrounding it. Like her neighbours, Emily’s traditional stone façade belies the modern styling within and the contemporary timber and glass rear extension that houses an open plan kitchen and dining area and sleek bathroom.
Step through the front door of this charming cottage and you’ll likely be struck first by the vast stone fireplace that takes pride of place in the sitting room and then by the soaring vaulted ceiling. Warmed by a large wood burner, the welcoming room is decorated with a quirky mix of antique paintings, bold textiles and carefully selected pieces of antique Indian furniture.
In keeping with the sitting room, the bedroom is painted in soft tones with a whitewashed vaulted ceiling, although here the subtle backdrop gives full attention to vibrant pops of colour created by the soft furnishings and the truly fantastic bathtub. Large enough for two, the standalone tub is crafted from nickel and lets the bather(s) soak up views of the surrounding countryside through the window opposite.
Should you step into Emily through the cottage’s rear door, you’ll find yourself passing through a bright hallway to enter a sleek open plan kitchen and dining area. Washed with light from a skylight and large corner picture window, which features a window seat running along its length, it’s the perfect spot for easy meals à deux as you contemplate how to fill your lazy days on the Capheaton Estate.
Emily’s enclosed lawn and patio back garden provides a sheltered spot in which to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and guests are welcome to enjoy walks around the Lake and visits to the gardens at Capheaton Hall (subject to estate permission). For days when you’d like to explore slightly further afield, the splendid Belsay Hall, castle and gardens and National Trust Wallington house and gardens are both ten minutes’ drive away and keen golfers will find a wide choice of golf courses in the local area.
GROUND FLOOR
Access into a small porch with hanging rail.
Kitchen with electric oven, induction hob, microwave, slimline dishwasher, fridge with small freezer compartment, washer/dryer. Dining space with seating for two. Window seat.
Spacious sitting room with vaulted ceiling, large sofa, armchair, wood burning stove, Smart TV. Selection of books.
Bathroom with large shower (rainforest head), heated towel rail, double basin, WC.
Bedroom with fixed super king bed (hotel quality mattress), dressing table, wardrobe with storage space, alcove with hanging space, large nickel bath tub. Door out to the patio area.
OUTSIDE
Small patio area to the rear with outdoor seating and enclosed lawned garden. A barbecue is not provided.
There is ample parking on the gravelled courtyard to the rear of the cottage.
