The Tapestry
Underbarrow, The Lake District, Cumbria, UK
A kaleidoscopic interior masterpiece, vibrant hues and motifs from around the world combine at The Tapestry; a 17th-century luxury farmhouse in Underbarrow, a hop-skip from Windermere. At this eclectic, sure-of-itself abode, a mix of old and new come together in a rambunctious celebration of colour, pattern, and texture. At one with the Lake District landscape in which it resides, this is a home designed to lift your spirits and soothe your soul.
Introduction
When a well-travelled tastemaker and a style savant create their dream home, a traditional 17th-century Cumbrian farmhouse is transformed into a daring opus of art, textiles, design, and ceramics. The Tapestry sits harmoniously atop a hill, the whitewashed façade discreet in its surroundings; inside, the dark, antiquated bones of the Grade II-listed property have been given a new lease of life. Here, pattern-rich furnishings, one-off design pieces, and an interesting and considered collection of curios combine to create an immersive haven that’s perfect for family gatherings. Combining style and substance, it’s unsurprising that The Tapestry has graced the cover of House & Garden magazine.
Inside
Giving museums a run for their money, Swedish Gustavian cabinets mingle with a Moorish ottoman, Suzani and Anatolian textiles, and various objets des curiosités. In the vaulted sitting room — perfect for wine-stoked conversations late into the night — silk ikat lampshades, a grand fireplace, jewel tones, and gilt accents combine. Art abounds, from a Mughal painting to Christian Dior sketches, while the kitchen is a medley of antique pine, Delft tiles, and a scene-stealing red dresser. Upstairs, clawfoot bathtubs, upholstered headboards, and hand-stitched quilts take centre stage. A luxury farmhouse that's very much a family home; every piece tells a story, celebrated in majestic, opulent technicolour.
Outside
A landscape that Wordsworth described as “the loveliest spot that man hath found” provides a natural playground for lounging by the lily-pad-strewn pond, or a spirited game of hide and seek. Set in 13 acres, if it’s in-nature immersion you seek, the ever-changing landscape in which The Tapestry is ensconced ensures a truly elemental experience. With numerous hiking trails that lead from the doorstep in Underbarrow, and Windermere tantalisingly close as the crow flies, on-foot adventures are a must. As the sun drops, enjoy the quietude of your setting with an al fresco supper, before settling on the terrace, Chablis in hand, as the mesmeric views unfurl beyond.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 8 guests
From £2,650 per week, £1,995 per short break - Alternative group optionUp to 6 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThis luxury Cumbria farmhouse has four bedrooms and three bathrooms. On the ground floor, one double bedroom shares the first-floor family bathroom with one of the upstairs bedrooms. The main bedroom and second bedroom both have en suites.
View bedrooms - PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyYes, children are very welcome; one travel cot and one highchair are available.
- PracticalitiesThere is off-road parking for five cars. The kitchen has an electric Aga, induction hob, fridge, microwave and dishwasher. The freezer is housed in the laundry room, a few metres away across the yard. Please note that the garden is not enclosed and is on multiple levels, so do exercise due diligence if you are travelling with children or dogs. There are CCTV cameras monitoring the outside of the property for security purposes. The owner and their family reside in a separate property within the grounds; while they have use of the private driveway, they will be discreet and not disturb your stay.
- Homestay includesA luxury welcome hamper, iPad, Wi-Fi internet, Smart TV, sound system, barbecue, Nespresso coffee machine, books and board games, luxury bed linens, towels and bathrobes, and logs and kindling to get you started.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 foraging weekenders to crash courses in cold-water therapy, our bespoke retreats bridge the gap between luxury and back-to-nature philosophies. Create a hand-crafted stay that puts connectivity at the fore.
- Eco-friendlyGround-source heat pump, hidden solar panels, a green-energy supplier ensures the property operates without fossil fuels.
- RestrictionsNo stag or hen parties; fireworks and indoor candles are not permitted
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Underbarrow
A quintessential Cumbrian village, Underbarrow sits between the market town of Kendal and the iconic Lake Windermere. It´s an ideal launchpad for exploring the Lake District and hunkering down in its traditional pubs.
Getting there
- On the Map This luxury farmhouse is located in Underbarrow, a small village in Cumbria, three miles west of Kendal.
- By Car The Tapestry is fifteen minutes from Kendal, twenty minutes from Windermere, under two hours from Manchester, and five hours to London.
- By Train Oxenholme Train Station is twenty minutes away by car. There are regular trains from London Euston with Aventi West Coast, with a journey time of two hours, forty minutes.
- By Air Newcastle Airport is two hours, ten minutes away by car, Manchester is two-and-a-half hours away by car, and Edinburgh is three hours away by car.
From the owner
“Welcome to The Tapestry, our cherished Cumbrian retreat where we´ve woven together our love for eclectic design and the rich history of this 17th-century farmhouse. During your stay, we hope you´ll feel the warmth and creativity that we´ve poured into every corner.”
As a couple with a passion for transforming spaces, we've combined our diverse backgrounds to bring new life to several properties, but The Tapestry holds a special place in our hearts. Jeremy spent nearly a decade as the head of content at Mr Porter, while Simon, a former PR turned hospitality entrepreneur, recently renovated the Hare & Hounds Inn, Bowland Bridge, near Windermere.
When we first saw this farmhouse, we were struck not only by its character and history but also by the breathtaking views of the Lake District landscape that surrounds it. We knew this was an opportunity to create something extraordinary. We've scoured antique shops, markets, and artisan workshops from around the world to curate a collection that tells a story of our travels and our appreciation for the unexpected.
Each room is a testament to our belief that design should be daring, meaningful, and deeply personal. From the vibrant colours and intricate patterns to the mix of ancient and modern pieces, we have created a space that is both visually stunning and incredibly welcoming. The views from every window serve as a constant reminder of the beauty that lies just beyond the doorstep.
Jeremy and Simon
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Underbarrow with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
Hare & Hounds Inn, Bowland Bridge
A leisurely ten-minute drive from the house, our charming hamlet pub serves up regional specialities like steak and ale pie and creamy mash, as well as globally-influenced plates like fish bonbons and African-spiced lamb.
To See
Lake Windermere
One of the best ways to experience Lake Windermere is by boat, especially if you´re on a multi-gen trip. With jetties at Bowness, Ambleside, Lakeside, Brockhole, Fell Foot and Wray Castle, it’s a scenic way to hop around.
To Do
Beatrix Potter
If you’ve got little ones in tow, discover the enchanting world of Beatrix Potter. Visit Hill Top, her 17th-century farmhouse, view her original artwork at the gallery in Hawkshead, and don’t miss The World of Beatrix Potter attraction.
To Do
Cartmel
Spend a morning exploring the village´s antique store and artisanal shops; it’s a treasure trove of eclectic souvenirs and picnic provisions, and is the place where you´ll find the best restaurant in the country, L´Enclume.
Unique extras
From private chefs to luxury at-home spa therapists and adrenalin-fuelled retreats, once you’ve booked your stay we’ll introduce you to our owner-recommended suppliers to create a truly bespoke, memorable escape.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which 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.
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The best underrated trips to take in the UK
Condé Nast Traveller
July 2024The best UK staycation ideas according to Condé Nast editors
Condé Nast Traveller
July 2024The loveliest remote hotels, huts and castles in the UK for a road trip
House & Garden
June 202412 of the best new UK holiday cottages
The Times
June 202420 of the best treehouse stays in the UK
The Times
June 2024The best holiday cottages in the UK
Condé Nast Traveller
May 2024Wealthy Britons are letting their homes — but you won´t find them on Airbnb
The Telegraph
May 2024Plum Sykes´s guide to The Cotswolds
Financial Times
May 2024
Collections > Family-Friendly Self-Catering > UK > Cumbria > Underbarrow > The Tapestry
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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.
