Self-Catering Accommodation

Caldew House
Sebergham
Near Carlisle
Cumbria
CA5 7HR

Why Stay at
Caldew House?
Built in1848 by the famous builder Sir James Laing, Caldew's stones come from the nearby River Caldew and Dalston Quarry. The stones were brought up the hill by Sir James' wife Ann and their small children, and the house still bears the inscription JAL (James & Ann Laing). From 1921 -1974 the house was owned by a Miss Burrows, who added the pretty extension in 1954.

In 1974 the Laings Group bought the property back, as the company felt that it was an important part of their history, and in 1987 after substantial refurbishment, the Salvation Army became stewards of the house, with a remit to make the house available as a retreat for families and small groups.

The secluded private grounds surrounding the house affords beautiful views of the Cumbrian countryside. There is ample room for picnicking under the shade of the well-established trees, and a short stroll down the hill reveals the banks of the fast flowing River Caldew. From here there are several bridle paths worth exploring, including one to Caldbeck. Caldew House is steeped in history and is a truly beautiful place to leave your troubles behind and relax.

Why visit Cumbria?
Cumbria boasts some of England's most picturesque and unspoilt landscapes, brimming with rural charm and romantic history. Substantial cities like Carlisle, with its castle and cathedral (see below), offer a lively variety of entertainment and shopping. While smaller towns like Penrith and the local villages provide a quiet backdrop for an afternoon tea or a hunt through the shelves of an old book shop. And then there are the incomparable Lakes and National Parks.

Ramblers and cyclists will be thrilled by the challenges presented by the North Lakes Fells, which rise up from Bassenthwaite, Ullswater and Derwentwater lakes, which include such famous mountain peaks as Skiddaw and Blencathra. These provide infinite opportunities to connect with the natural world on foot or two wheels.

For historians, Hadrian's Wall; the most important monument built by the Romans in Britain, is less than an hours drive away, and is a must see for anyone visiting the North of England.

Although we advise the use of a car, there is an excellent network of buses and boats starting from key tourist areas, which will carry you through the mountains and over the lakes, Nor should you miss the opportunity to get afloat on one of Ulleswater's old mail steamers, which even offers a winter service.

For National Trust members, a visit to Aira Force waterfall at Watermillock is unmissable, and the gardens and waterfall at Acorn Bank Garden makes a lovely outing.

Important Details about the House - Capacity
The house contains 2 twin bedded rooms and one double bedded room. Therefore the house sleeps a maximum number of 6 people comfortably. It is possible to book the house for larger groups prepared to sleep in the public rooms. Please stipulate at the booking stage the number in the group to ascertain the need for any additional sleeping requirements. The maximum number is about 12 people, providing there is a mixture of adults and children. In this way Caldew is able to host retreats for youth groups and workshops, using the dining room for meetings.

Ground Floor
The key feature of the ground floor is the large dining room overlooking the garden, which can seat up to 12 people. There is also a small reception lounge and a twin bedroom. The recently refurbished bathroom, kitchen and laundry are also sited on this level. The kitchen is well-fitted with an electric cooker, refrigerator, and microwave oven. There is a washing machine and dryer in a separate laundry/utility area - a place for your walking boots!

First Floor
The lounge has been situated on this level to take advantage of the panoramic views overlooking the tended lawn and hills beyond, from the several sash windows, and to maximize the sunlight they provide. Within there is a comfortable Parker Knoll lounge suite, and colour TV, making it a cosy place to read and relax. There are two bedrooms on this level; one twin and one double

General Information
The nearest shop is 7 miles away and the nearest supermarkets are in Penrith or Carlisle, so it is a good idea to make sure you bring sufficient provisions for the first couple of days. In cold weather the key holder will turn on the central heating prior to your arrival to ensure you have a warm welcome!

How do I get there?
By Train
Dalston Station is about a one mile drive from Caldew House, and First North Western Trains run the 10 minute journey from Carlisle Station every hour. Virgin Trains run an express to Carlisle Station about every 2 hours from London Euston. While it is possible to get to Caldew by train, you will probably find it more convenient to hire or drive your own car.

By Road
Leave the M6 Motorway at junction 41, and at the roundabout take the B5305 towards Wigton. Then follow road for approximately 10 miles. Sebergham is clearly signposted. Look for the village hall on the left, facing the right hand turn marked 'Churchtown'. Proceed slowly down the hill, and Caldew house is just before the right hand turn on the bend. There is parking on the left-hand side of the road opposite Caldew House. If you miss this by accident, don't worry; just carry on down the hill and over the river bridge where there is a turning area on the right.
Use the AA Route Planner to get specific directions from your house.

Tariff & Booking Conditions
Follow this Tariff and Booking Conditions link for our current price list and terms.

How to Make a Booking
After you have read and understood our booking terms, please use the Caldew House Booking Enquiry Form to email reservations your requirements.