Howscales was originally built as a working farm during the middle of the 17th Century. All the buildings are contructed using the local red Lazonby Sandstone, both for the walls and the traditional sandstone tiled roofs.

Howscales ceased to be worked as a farm in the late 1970s. In recent years the farmhouse with its barns and byres have been painstakingly converted into self-contained cottages while retaining much of the original features. As much as possible of the interior of the original buildings have been preserved, in particular the oak beams and stone work. Where windows have been added to make the rooms light and airy and provide guests with wonderful views, as much reclaimed material as possible has been used.

There are five cosy, well equipped holiday cottages at Howscales, set around a central cobbled courtyard and surrounded by gardens, lawns and open countryside.

Howscales has been awarded the runner up prize in the 2004 Cumbria in Bloom competition, CTB Rose Bowl for self catering establishments.