Aquila
Bampton, The Lake District, Cumbria, UK
Aquila is a luxury lakehouse with a seductively clandestine appeal, set right on Haweswater's sparkling shoreline within the tarns and fells of the Mardale Valley. From relaxing affairs to adrenaline-fuelled adventures, this modern lakeside retreat provides an escape like none before it, surrounded by the wild beauty of the Lake District National Park. Paradise found.
Introduction
Approaching this unique waterside home via its sweeping mountain road, you could be forgiven for thinking you’d been led to the elaborate hideout of a Bond villain’s lair. Far from devious plans and wicked grins however, this unparalleled retreat begs for romance, poetry and adventure. Aquila is set within one of the most awe-inspiring nooks of the Lake District. Spend days between home and high mountains; in summertime, nothing will beat a spot of wild swimming and al fresco garden barbecuing, whilst winter here is best spent following glitter-frosted paths over snow-capped landscapes of unimaginable beauty.
Inside
In contrast to the softly manicured gardens, Aquila's striking interiors incorporate steel beams, concrete ceilings and smoked oak floors. Modern yet homely and spacious, six guests can look forward to drawn-out mornings, relaxed afternoons and evenings of wining and dining within its cool and contemporary walls. When light fades and thoughts turn to bed, three stylish bedrooms offer a welcome rest for well-worn feet. The double bedroom benefits from mountain vistas, whilst the twin bedroom has beautiful views over the water. At 30 square metres, the master has a king-size bed and industrial-style en suite shower room decorated with Italian ceramics.
Outside
As put by the grand old bard of the lakes, there is 'nowhere in so narrow a compass with such a variety of the sublime and beautiful'. With Haweswater reservoir below, guests have the luxury of a stunning 100 square mile wildlife haven right on the doorstep. Haweswater was famously home to England’s only Golden Eagle until recently and with the magnificent display of birdlife on display year-round, the reserve is a twitchers’ paradise. Further afield, the local area provides a playground for outdoor activities; motorboat across Lake Ullswater, take a 4x4 over Gatescarth's rocky hairpins or climb Cumbria’s dramatic eastern fells.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 6 guests
From £1,950 per week, £1,450 per short break
Day hire options are available - Alternative group optionUp to 2 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsMaster suite with king-size bed and en suite shower room (big enough for two!), one double bedroom, one twin bedroom, a family bathroom with bath and overhead shower, plus a separate WC.
View bedrooms - PetsSorry, no pets allowed
- Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyYes, children are very welcome. One cot and one highchair are available.
- PracticalitiesAquila is just a few metres from Haweswater and is fenced from the south side, parking is on the private driveway accommodating up to four cars. The property has an electric oven, dishwasher, washer-dryer, fridge-freezer and Tassimo coffee machine.
- Homestay includesLinen, towels, 50" Freesat TV with DVD player, underfloor heating, iPad, WiFi internet, and a barbecue...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- RetreatsFrom surf lessons to dawn yoga and adrenalin-fuelled adventures, we work with the most inspirational of experts to ensure a truly tailored stay. On confirmation of booking, these details will be shared within your house book.
- Eco-friendlyLow-energy environmentally friendly systems
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Bampton
On the far east side of the Lake District National Park, this verdant spot in the heart of Cumbria, set deep within lush walking terrain, is a go-to destination for those seeking hikes, scenery and solace.
Getting there
- On the Map The property sits on Haweswater reservoir in Bampton. This is within the English Lake District, in the valley of Mardale in Cumbria.
- By Train The nearest train station is at Penrith, which is 11 miles away, or 30 minutes' drive by car.
- By Car Bampton is just over five hours from London by car, or one hour and fifty minutes from Manchester.
- By Air Carlisle airport is an hour from the property, whilst Manchester airport is one hour and fifty minutes away.
From the owner
“One of the reasons we love Aquila is summed up by a single word: view. The house perches on the edge of Haweswater, with views south and west towards Kidsty Pike and High Street. There are no houses to spoil your view; no boats to spoil the peace. Just you, the water, birdlife and mountains. Paradise.”
Aquila was once an industrial building, used by Manchester Corporation in connection with the Haweswater Reservoir. When we purchased it in 2014, it was just a disused shell but we could totally see the potential. Making the decision to fully renovate, we converted the building into a home, whilst still trying to retain many of its industrial features.
With its high, concrete ceilings, steel beams and even some of the bulkhead lighting, Aquila almost feels like a Soho-loft. Sporting a contemporary (but not clinical) style and filled with attractive vintage furniture, we think the house is totally relaxing.
We put a lot of emphasis on quality, completing Aquila to an exceptionally high standard to offer our guests a unique holiday experience. That said, what everyone remembers most about their stay is the view; we are right on the lake and all you can see are mountains, water and nature. There are no other buildings in view. You have to see it to believe it!
Stephen and Frances
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Bampton with an insider’s perspective.
To Do
Canoe, Ullswater Lake
Head to the river mouth on Eusemere Pooley Bridge and hire canoes to silently glide around on the expanse of Ullswater, the nearest lake to Haweswater less than 10 miles away. For the more adventurous, there are also motorboats for hire.
To Do
Tarn Hows, Coniston
A popular picture-perfect spot, these mirror-like waters are hugged by soaring trees and backed by fells. Breathtaking in all seasons, Tarn Hows is great a place for both scenic walks around the lake and champagne picnics on a fine day.
To Eat
Alium at Askham Hall, Penrith
Michelin-starred fine dining not to be missed. The relaxing surroundings of this impressive former country house offers beautifully presented food, much of it sourced from the nearby Lowther Estate, not far from Lowther Castle.
To See
Aira Force Waterfall, Ullswater
The perfect place for a big brisk family walk and picnic, Ullswater is hugely picturesque. At Aira Force, a tumbling waterfall drops 65 foot and can be reached by an enchanting stroll through ancient woodland and landscaped glades.
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
Just to say, we had a fantastic time at Aquila, the house was perfect for us. Immaculately clean, every facility you could imagine, and more. We thanked Lindsay, the cleaner, for her hard work. She prepared it beautifully for us.
We absolutely loved Aquila. The location was simply magical and the property had been sympathetically converted from industrial use. The perfect spot to unwind from every day life.
Haweswater is like a winter oasis offering peace, solitude, and breathtaking beauty on your doorstep. Aquila, situated right on the lakeside, is one of the most stunning properties we have ever stayed at - so much so that we have stayed every year for three years now. We´ll be back for sure.
We will definitely go back as we thought it was beautiful and we had some incredible hikes in the nearby hills. Perfect break from busy life in London. Thank you!
Aquila is a great property and very well stocked! We had an amazing time on our holiday and the nearby hotel restaurant is excellent. We would not hesitate to use Unique Homestays again. Thank you.
This is quite simply a stunning property in a stunning location, on the edge of the water with the feeling of total isolation. The attention to detail and style of the place is just amazing, we were all absolutely blown away by the whole experience! The level of service throughout this whole process has been just brilliant. A truly fantastic experience all round.
We had the most amazing stay, it was the perfect place to spend time straight after our wedding. We will definitely be booking again with Unique Homestays. Amazing service and love your attention to detail. Cornwall is on our list next!
The property exceeded our expectations in terms of location and uniqueness. It was beautifully decorated for Christmas and the open-plan layout really brought us together for the holiday. We were really happy with the communication from Unique Homestays and the wonderful owners, it made our stay so easy!
Aquila is a beautiful property in a stunning location. We loved having a coffee on the patio overlooking the peaceful lake and valley. We saw deer and red squirrels in the mornings and watched the stars in the evening. The property was stylish with a lovely homely feel. It´s great to be able to find a holiday home that isn´t chintzy or twee. Especially loved the lighting downstairs!
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Aquila and Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
The race to book a 2022 staycation
The Telegraph
September 2021The Best Country Retreats
Tatler
July 20189 Places for A Brilliant British Break
Tatler
April 201725 of the best autumn getaways
The Times
November 2024Good manors
Condé Nast Traveller
November 2024Ways to improve your life—from our experts
The Times
October 2024The UK´s most relaxing riverside stays
The Times
October 2024At one with nature
25 Beautiful Homes
September 2024
Collections > Luxury Homes with a Private Chef > UK > Cumbria > Bampton > Aquila
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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
