Howbeck Lodge, Lake District, Cumbria.

The farm and surroundings

Howbeck Lodge Farm is situated in the Northern Fells at the foot of the Skiddaw range in the Lake District National Park.

The Lake District National park
England's largest National park includes Scafell Pike - its highest mountain, Wastwater - its deepest lake, and thriving communities. Although the Lake District countryside may seem wild, its appearance is because of human activity, particularly farming. People have been using the area for at least 10,000 years. Many of the Lake District names still used today originate from early times for example: dale (valley), gill (gorge), beck (stream), tarn (lake) and thwaite (clearing). Once trees had been cleared, charcoal was made and then used as a fuel to make iron in Furness, copper in Borrowdale and Coniston and lead in Glenridding. Howbeck Lodge is on the outskirts of the beautiful unspoilt village of Hesket Newmarket, with easy access to the rest of the National Park, Hadrian’s Wall, Solway coast and yet only 9 miles from the M6 motorway.

Something special in Hesket Newmarket; a community owned brewery
The brewery was first set up by Jim and Liz Fearnley, who at that time ran the Old Crown in Hesket Newmarket. As the brewery's reputation spread across Cumbria, a number of other pubs expressed interest in the beers,and a small network of loyal outlets was gradually established. When the Fearnley's announced their intention to retire in 1999, a group of local enthusiasts came together to work out how best they could ensure the survival of thebrewery in thevillage. So the Hesket Newmarket BreweryCooperative was born, a community enterprise run on democratic and voluntary principles, through which around 70 real ale enthusiasts (who either live locally or have local connections) own equal shares in the brewery. After a successful first year, most shareholders opted to receive their dividend in liquid form! The cooperative also intends to channel a share of future profits into community projects. The brewery received a special award from Solway CAMRA for 'high quality brewing'. The original modified dairy tanks have been replaced by a completely new brewing plant capable of producing 50 barrels (nearly 15000 pints) a week.

 

Farming at Howbeck Lodge

Howbeck Lodge is a traditional family sheep and beef farm, farming over 300 acres. John is passionate about his livestock, their welfare and a regular trophy winner at local shows during the summer months. Christine is well known locally for her homemade produce and will provide guests with her cakes, biscuits, soups, ready meals, jams and marmalades, all available from the farm pantry in the quaint little barn next to the Featherdown tents which has been restored to provide hot showers downstairs and the farm pantry above where you will find all the essentials you will need for a comfortable stay here at Howbeck.

The Howbeck Lodge family
John and Christine Stobart have farmed at Howbeck for over 20 years. They have 3 children, David, Joanne and Sarah. Although Jo is married to Chris and they have a son, Oliver - they still spend as much time as they can back on the farm.

No pets allowed

Sorry, but no Pets are allowed on Howbeck Lodge.

Specials at Howbeck Lodge

We are passionate about our animals, land and countryside and are part of a higher level stewardship scheme, which enables us to look after the land, hedges and old farm buildings as they would be in years gone by. Whilst you are visiting if you wish we will give you a tour of the farm, you may even be able to feed the orphan lambs in spring.

Location of the tents

The tents are beautifully sited in a field overlooking a small wood and enchanting stream, perfectly sited, when all is quiet if you are lucky you may see roe- deer, red squirrel, foxes, badgers andoccasionally you may hear a woodpecker in the woods.

Pets allowed
Dogs are welcome but they must be kept on leads around the tents, guests and other animals. We insist owners ‘poopa scoop’ please for the benefit of other guests staying on the farm.

EXTRA IN 2010

• Pre-ordered meals
In order to make your stay with us as relaxing and enjoyable as possible you can pre-order some supplies and order tasty, freshly home-cooked hot meals.

• Pre-ordered Food
Have a delicious hot meal waiting for you on your arrival night or arrange with the farmer for a meal during your stay.

• Premier Service - £ 10.00 per person
for late arrivals only (after 19.00 hrs).
The Premier Service includes: Beds made up upon arrival, Wood-burner and lanterns lit, a hot cheesy jacket potato and a hot drink (hot chocolate, tea or coffee) The Premier Service must be pre-booked and does not include stripping beds on departure.

>> Click here to make a reservation at Howbeck Lodge farm.

Places of interest

Howbeck Farm is just a short stroll to the unspoilt village of Hesket Newmarket which boasts a lovely children’s play area, a riverside walk and the very popular Old Crown Pub which is well worth a visit along with the Hesket Newmarket Brewery Cooperative. The hills of the Northern Lakes can be viewed from the rolled-up window flaps of the tents with chickens, goats, rabbits, horses and Highland cattle as your local wildlife along with the now rare red squirrels darting along nearby tree branches. Other places of interest are probably too numerous to mention but all of the beautiful lakes are within easy reach and Keswick on Derwentwater is only 12 miles. The picturesque village of Caldbeck (the birth place of the legendary John Peel) is only 2 miles away with it’s numerous gift shops and tea rooms and is well worth a visit.

Trips in the area of Howbeck Lodge


>> Click here to make a reservation at Howbeck Lodge farm.