With the North Pennies to the east, the Lake District to the west and the Yorkshire Dales to the south, it's no surprise that the idyllic Lyvennet Valley is teeming with hiking trails, cycling routes and gorgeous scenery. If you're looking for somewhere that embraces slow country living yet still promises plenty of fun in the great outdoors, this 1600s converted barn in the tiny hamlet of Kings Meaburn is just the ticket. Here, days start with long walks through the rolling countryside and end with a pint at the local pub – luckily, it's only a five-minute walk away, so you won't have to travel far. The hosts have lovingly renovated every inch of this home, and you can appreciate their attention to detail whether you're sipping sundowners on the patio, relaxing in the stone wall enclosed garden surrounded by fruit trees, nibbling on fresh Westmorland apples from the orchard in autumn, or unwinding with a soak in the bathtub. Head up the winding staircase to the living area, where original oak beams and traditional exposed stone harmonise with clean-lined contemporary furniture. A crackling Scandinavian wood-burner invites you to settle down with a glass of wine, while home chefs rustle up a delicious dinner on the Smeg range cooker to share around the dining table. Netflix on the TV, a Roberts Radio and a collection of board games has entertainment covered – although we'd be just as happy to curl up with a book in front of the fire before sinking into the luxury Harrison Spinks mattresses in one of the dreamy bedrooms.