A teeny-tiny jail is probably the last place you’d imagine spending a romantic getaway for Valentine’s Day. Yet you can book a stay at the old “lock-up” in the village of Cartmel in Cumbria - and it’s surprisingly chic and cosy inside.
The stone-built building - complete with bars on the door window - offers guests a “micro retreat” in the heart of the village. Originally it would have been used as a temporary place to house criminals before they could be brought before a magistrate.
Dating from around the 18th or 19th century, the building was equipped with a fire grate, earth closet and bars at the upper window. It fell out of use during the second half of the 19th century and was awarded listed status in 1970. In 2018 it was transformed into holiday accommodation thanks to the addition of an upper-storey.
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Cartmel Jail sleeps two guests and although there isn’t a living room or kitchen, there are plenty of places to eat and drink right on its doorstep. As you enter the lock-up there’s a small area with tea and coffee making facilities, a welcome hamper, a mini fridge and a built-in wardrobe for storage.
There’s also a wet room downstairs which has underfloor heating, a luxury touch which is a world away from the jail’s previous life. A narrow staircase leads you up to the bedroom which has a contemporary four poster bed and a wall-mounted smart TV - as well as some old-fashioned jail keys hanging on the wall.
If the weather’s nice then you can enjoy a seat on the patio in the courtyard outside. A wall heater means you won't get too chilly either, while extra blankets which can be found in the downstairs wardrobe.
As it’s on the small side the jail is best for short stays - it’s a bit like staying in a standalone hotel room in the middle of a village. But there’s lots to see and do nearby so you won’t miss the living space.
The mediaeval village grew around the 12th-century Cartmel Priory and the streets are lined with pretty cottages. There are several pubs, cafes and restaurants nearby - including L’Enclume, which has three Michelin stars.
Cartmel is around a 90 minute drive from Manchester. You can book a two night stay at Cartmel Jail for £267. For more details, click here.
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