When a Newcastle couple spent their first weekend together in a picture postcard guesthouse on the shores of Buttermere they pledged to run it one day.

Now champagne corks are popping as a pipe dream turns to reality and, against all odds, James and Kelly Gillings have been selected from scores of hopefuls to run Dalegarth B&B and campsite.

“I can’t believe it,” said Kelly. “When we heard we’d got it, I screamed so loud, I almost deafened James. Ever since we first stayed here, running Dalegarth is all we’ve ever wanted to do. Never in a million years did we think we stood a chance.”

James, a self-employed painter and decorator with plenty of experience of historic houses, is in overdrive upgrading the unusual Swiss style chalet, nestling beneath Goat Crag.

Part of the Hassness Estate, owned by the Lake District National Park since 1954, the guesthouse had been used by Ramblers Countrywide Holidays until earlier this year.

LDNP surveyor Charlotte Kimber said there had been a huge amount of interest in the tenancy, but James and Kelly’s passion for the place shone through.

She said: “They literally fell in love with Buttermere – and each other. So much so that when they married in Cockermouth a few years later, they had their wedding blessed at Hassness House, next to Dalegarth.

“It’s an incredibly important place in their lives and we think they are the perfect couple for this idyllic location. They’ve got such diversity of experience, including running a blues and folk club!”

Kelly and James say they have plenty of plans, including widening the appeal of the nine-bedroomed property and beautiful secluded site for around 35 tents.

“As well as the obvious outdoor clientele, we want to encourage artists, writers, ornithologists and music lovers to soak up this exceptional atmosphere,” said James. “Buttermere is the pearl of the Lake District and we want Dalegarth to reflect that.”

Kelly - who previously ran a pet service business - says they are the cats that got the cream. She aims to grow her own vegetables and offer food to campers, as well as extending meals served in the guesthouse.

She added: “We want this to be a haven for all ages and interests. The place was crying out to be loved and run to its full potential. We are giving it both!”

For bookings and further information, ring Dalegarth on 017687 70233.

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