ONCE a popular pub frequented by Arthur Ransome, of Swallows and Amazons fame, this four-bedroom semi-detached house at Haverthwaite has character in abundance.

Beautiful wood panelling, ceiling beams and slate-flagged floors are among the original features behind Melody House's pretty blue door.

The lovely back gardens offer open countryside views, and there is plenty of off-road parking.

The house is on the market with Corrie & Co for £450,000.

A wood-burner set in an inglenook with slate hearth and stone surround gives a warm welcome in the lounge/dine,r with its slate-flagged floor.

The snug/lounge is cosy with cornflower-blue decor, a beamed ceiling and multi-fuel burner on a slate hearth.

Wood-panelled walls, beams and solid wood flooring are found in the study, which would lend itself to other uses.

The country-style, slate-floored kitchen offers Shaker-style pine units, Burlington slate surfaces and terracotta-and-green mosaic tiles. Decorated in buttery cream, the beamed kitchen has a double Belfast sink, four-ring electric hob, double oven and extractor, and space for a table and chairs.

Also on the ground floor is a shower room and a utility room.

A spindled staircase leads to four good-sized bedrooms on the first floor, including a spacious master room with ceiling beams. There is also a versatile space with potential to create an en-suite or fifth bedroom.

The family bathroom has a traditional three-piece suite, and completing the property are two attics with Velux windows on the second floor.

www.corrieandco.co.uk; tel 01229-525333.