Visitors who prefer to be right at the heart of things rather than on the fringe of 'The Lakes' will particularly appreciate Manesty which is in the centre of Lakeland at its most picturesque. Merely five pretty miles from Keswick and threequarters of a mile from Derwentwater, this is just what even half hearted walkers and country lovers go for. In fact, if anyone can resist climbing two or three of the surrounding hills during a stay, they are indeed strong minded .
Manesty stands at the foot of Catbells and Maiden Moor where the open fell meets the stone walls of the fields. It is built in the traditional Lakeland style, on a site chosen centuries ago for its sunny elevated position and its sweeping views across Borrowdale. Lying at the heart of the Lake District Manesty is the ideal base for a Cumbrian Holiday whether walking cycling or touring by car. From Manesty there are relaxing rambles along the river and round the lake and demanding day walks to Scafell and Great Gable in the heart of the Cumbrian Mountains. Alternatively there are easier walks across the head of the lake to Watendlath hamlet and tarn in their picturesque hanging valley and to the tarns and fells beyond. Equipment for most water sports is available for hire on Derwentwater and instructors in canoeing and sailing operate conveniently from Lodore. Cycling enthusiasts are well rewarded by a visit. From Manesty they can explore the lanes of Borrowdale and the Newlands valley, the lakesides of Buttermere and Crummock Water, the villages of Lorton, Stair, Grange and Braithwaite and the passes of Honister, Newlands Hause and Whinlatter.
The fine old farmhouse is beautifully situated and now incorporates three cottages: Manesty Band, for up to seven people, Manesty, for up to six, and Manesty Dairy, for two. The farmhouse is flanked by two converted barns, Cocklety How, for up to four people, and High Seat, for five. Each cottage is self contained with its own entrance, grounds and car parking space and is fully equipped as a comfortable, convenient home for a Lakeland Holiday. The Leyland family care for the cottages personally from their nearby home at Youdale Knot and as Manesty has been the family home for six generations they have a fund of local knowledge. Even after 150 years the family are relative newcomers. Manesty's history reaches back to ancient times, when it was the northern outpost of Furness Abbey's wool producing empire.
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