We call it our Gnome Home ...

GARDENER Christine Newton, 51, lives in Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, with her retired businessman husband, Cliff, 70. They have three grown-up children, Scott, and twins Sophie and Oliver, and three grandchildren Ben, 14, rio, ten, and Beatrix, four.

WHEN Cliff retired two years ago he suggested we celebrate with a cruise, but I knew what I wanted: my very own barbecue cabin. I’d seen one at a country show and knew it would be perfect.

We’re lucky enough to live in the Lake District.

Instead of traipsing off on holiday I wanted to get the most out of living in one of the most beautiful parts of Britain.

The only thing holding us back was the unpredictable weather. Now, with our little hut — which we’ve called the Gnome Home and positioned so it has the most sensational view of Lake Windermere — we honestly don’t care whether it rains or not.

It’s 10 sq m with an added extension where I can sit and read or do craft work. It cost £8,000 from Cumbria based Carr Bank Garden Centre and easily fits 14 people. The grandchildren were beside themselves with excitement when they first saw our hut.

Now, the second they arrive, whatever the weather, they ask if we can BBQ in the Gnome Home.