A THRIVING hotel in the heart of the tourism honeypot village of Grasmere is on the market.

Heidi’s Grasmere Lodge, which triumphed in the 2017 Experts’ Choice Award, is for sale on a freehold basis at £1.25m.

The six-bedroom adult-only hotel, which is the prime trading location of Red Lion Square, Grasmere, has been restored over the past few years using traditional materials and local craftsmen. Today, the 200-year-old building remains full of character with exposed stone and slate walls and low beams.

A number of rooms offer floor-to-ceiling sash windows, outdoor patios and roof terraces which provide fantastic views of the surrounding fells.

There is also a cafe and deli occupying the ground floor with the accommodation situated across the first and second floors.

Heidi’s Grasmere lodge has been owned by Martyn and Heidi Parkinson for the past 10 years. Heidi said: "Grasmere is one of the most picturesque villages in the UK and we instantly fell in love with the beautiful Cumbrian building from where we operate.

“We often talked about how great it would be to bring up our two sons in Cumbria, allowing them to experience all the amazing sites and experiences this area has to offer, and we couldn't believe our luck when we had the chance to buy this business.

“The 10 years have gone in a flash and we have met and made good friends with people from all over the world, some of whom return several times every year. Everyone visiting the area is on holiday and extremely interested in the famous walks and mountains – I have never talked to as many people!

“Our sons are now going off to university, having enjoyed an amazing education in Cumbria, so it feels the right moment for us to take some time out for ourselves and perhaps enjoy some of the many walks we still haven't crossed off our list. We are planning to stay in the area as we now consider this home.”

Tom O’Malley, business agent at Christie and Co, which is handling the sale, added: “This is a fantastic opportunity to acquire a thriving business in a prominent trading position in Grasmere.

“It benefits from the dual revenue streams from both the cafe and the letting rooms and would suit a first-time or experienced operator.”