Quietly situated between the southern fringe of the Lake District National Park and the sweeping northern coastline of Morecambe Bay, Allithwaite is a tranquil place to buy a home and put down roots. With local amenities close by and easy access to larger towns, it’s the perfect spot for people who love rural village life but enjoy feeling connected to the wider area.

There’s a strong sense of community here. You’ll find a thriving local pub, post office and shop, as well as a well-regarded Church of England primary school (with nursery unit) situated next door to a pretty, nineteenth-century church. A children’s playground, sports field and community centre offer opportunities for a variety of recreational and social events, while a community orchard and meadow means that everyone can share nature’s bounty. Properties for sale in Allithwaite include traditional cottages, bungalows and new build developments.

A broader selection of amenities – including supermarkets, library and doctor’s surgery – can be found 1.2 miles away in neighbouring Grange-over-Sands, which also boasts an elegant promenade, ornamental gardens and a choice of golf courses. Grange is especially renowned for its independent shops offering a broad selection of food, fashion and furnishings as well as quaint cafes and restaurants plus tempting local delicacies like artisan chocolates and deli products.

A mile or so to the north of Allithwaite lies the picturesque village of Cartmel. Its pretty period buildings cluster around the market square and along the narrow streets that twist through its heart. The historic Priory Church of St Mary and St Michael is more than eight centuries old and is accessed via an impressive medieval gatehouse that fronts on to the square. Horse racing has been held on the village racecourse since 1865. Today, though, Cartmel is perhaps more famous for its foodie credentials – including the Michelin-starred restaurant l’Enclume.

For outdoor-lovers the area is full of possibilities. The vantage point at Humphrey Head, just a couple of miles south of the village, provides a breathtaking panorama across the bay, while nearby Holker Hall and Gardens offers more cultivated vistas and is an impressive location for seasonal events including the popular annual garden festival.

Allithwaite also has excellent road and rail links to the South Lakes and beyond: Kent’s Bank railway station is less than a mile distant yet provides a regular service that connects with the west coast main line at Lancaster. A 35-minute journey will transport you into the centre of historic Lancaster or into the heart of Manchester in less than two hours. The railway also offers direct access to the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and Morecambe Bay. It’s just 20 minutes by car to Junction 36 of the M6.