Fido Family Friendly Places

Escape the city smog, for this cool and snazzy abode sitting pretty within its own Gloucestershire farm. Go Cart Barn is totally unique, inside and out with a sprinkling of retro cool. It has been designed and renovated to a high standard and boasts the very best fixtures and fittings. The property is set within the grounds of a private farm - as you drive down the private track surrounded by pastures you get a mix of pure relaxation and excitement for what awaits. If access for the less mobile is required, please advise the owners prior to arrival.
With an open plan living/dining room this social design is great for bringing everyone together, wine dine or chill it’s all catered for. A top of the range kitchen with feature electric range, great for whipping up culinary delights during your stay, accompanied with state-of-the-art appliances throughout. After dining, retreat to the cosy sitting room area, with projector to stream the latest movie releases. Outside, guests can enjoy the six-person hot tub, barbecue, fire pit, elevated patio, large walled garden so that all the fun is contained within your own private space.
Beyond your trendy Forest of Dean bolt hole, Wye Valley and the Welsh Border Country are easily accessible, as is Cheltenham with its races. Picturesque Cotswolds towns such as Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton on the Water and Burford, and many National Trust properties are all worth a visit, as well as lovely towns and villages such as Newent, Ross, Newham and Monmouth. If exploring and adventure is on the agenda, you are spoilt for choice with the Forest of Dean, Severn and Wye Valleys, Malvern Hills and the Cotswolds all on your doorstep. Perfectly located to enjoy a trip to the ancient cathedral and historic docks of Gloucester, and approximately half an hour’s drive from Cheltenham’s festivals and regency promenade for a spot of designer shopping and fine dining. There are excellent walks and mountain biking trails directly from the farm to May Hill and the surrounding area.
The Red Lion pub is just 5 minute’s walk, The Leaf café and garden centre 3-minute walk. May Hill brewery, Longhope bakery and Harts Barn craft centre just a 5-minute drive. There’s an outstanding restaurant and wet fish counter at Severn Wye smokery, Chaxhill (10-minute drive). Also, a private chef can be arranged from Harts Barn cookery school if required. It is also close to the International Centre for birds of prey and the Three Choirs Vineyard nearby for a spot of bird watching followed by some wine tasting. Within easy reach of the picturesque Wye Valley, including Tintern Abbey and Symonds Yat. Adrenalin junkies are well catered for too, in Gloucester you have the dry ski slope for a day of boarding or tobogganing, off road cycling and treetop rope adventures to be found within the Forest of Dean. Paddle boarding is a firm favourite and available at Gloucester Docks and the picturesque Symonds Yat on the Wye River.

This stunning semi-detached barn conversion provides spacious and luxurious accommodation. Located in the quiet rural village of Stalmine, the property is ideally placed for exploring Lancashire, the Fylde Coast and beyond. Thoughtfully designed both inside and out, the barn offers luxury comforts including a beautiful and well-equipped kitchen, contemporary bathrooms, attractive comfortable bedrooms, Wi-Fi, and a wood burner which is perfect for those winter evenings.
Outside is equally impressive with a decked patio area that enjoys far reaching countryside views. The patio provides a wonderful space for hosting a barbecue, whilst the children can play games on the large lawned garden. The property boasts a private hot tub which can be enjoyed all year round, and should the great British weather take a turn for the worse, you can retreat to your ‘Cave’. This has been built by the owner as an indulgent folly and is weatherproof and with a means of heating.
Stalmine is located approximately 5 miles from the small market town of Poulton-le-Fylde which has a good selection of shops, bars, and cafés. Other places that are worth a visit along the Fylde coast include Thornton Cleveleys with its old-fashioned charm and promenade, 7 miles, Fleetwood with its Freeport Outlet Shopping Village, 10 miles, and of course Blackpool, 9 miles, whose many attractions include The Tower, Blackpool Zoo, Pleasure Beach, Sea Life Centre, and Madame Tussauds.
Apart from being accessible for the coast, Carr End Barn A is also well-placed for exploring rural Lancashire. Ribble Valley with its pretty villages is within an hour’s drive, and it’s an excellent choice for walks and country pubs. The Forest of Bowland, which is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, can also be reached within an hour’s drive. The Lake District and Yorkshire Dales are also very accessible by road and can be reached in an hour. The city of Lancaster is just 13 miles away and Preston is 19 miles. Beach 9¾ miles. Shop and pub ½ mile, and restaurant 3 miles. This property can be booked together with ref. LR8 to accommodate up to 18 guests.

Immerse yourself in the magnificence of this stunning former farmhouse of Fountain Hill Farm which is set on its own in the ‘picture-postcard’ Pembrokeshire countryside. It has fabulous views of the Preseli Hills, while a tributary of the River Nevern meanders at the bottom of the orchard. This grand farmhouse is teeming with character and offers a very high level of comfort throughout, with solid oak floors, beams and an original inglenook fireplace, which really do complement this property. A natural stone porch opens into a large reception area which features a wood burner set in a Welsh stone inglenook fireplace with a slate hearth, and oak stairs to the first floor. A dining room adds to the character and charm, with exposed stonework and a bespoke dining table. Here you can enjoy formal dining with family and friends, or maybe enjoy a barbecue al fresco on the patio, where there are uninterrupted views over the beautiful Preseli Hills, or just relax in your private hot tub. In the evening, you can retire to one of the two living rooms complete with a cosy wood burner - this property really does offer everything for that perfect getaway. The large master suite offers fantastic views, with even your very own observatory making the most of the magnificent views here at Fountain Hill.
Positioned at the foothills of the Preseli Hills, it lies close to the quaint hamlet of Eglwyswrw, and is conveniently on the doorstep of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, which offers fantastic walks through the hills and on the coastal paths, as well as horse riding, fishing on the Rivers Teifi and Nevern, and even sea fishing and wildlife spotting. There is also golf within 8 miles, as well as kayaking nearby. The historic market town of Cardigan is only a 15-minute drive away, and nearby are a host of beautiful beaches such as Poppit and Newport Sands or Cwm-Yr-Eglwys and Pwllgwaelod. This rugged and sublime Pembrokeshire coastline really is worth a visit. The historic market town of Cardigan has a bustling high street featuring the famous Cardigan Castle, many antique and craft shops, together with an abundance of restaurants and cafés. Travelling south, you can discover the famous walled town of Tenby with its award-winning beach, or take a trip to Caldey Island or Oakwood (Wales’ largest theme park) or the award-winning Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo, all of which will make the perfect day out. Beach 9 miles. Shop 2 miles, pub and restaurant 3½ miles.

Tucked away on the edge of the picture postcard village of Coldingham, Garden Cottage has lovely light, spacious living areas and a great bathroom with both a shower cubicle and a bath. This property is perfect for guests with younger children, as there is a cot and highchair available. There are gardens to both front and rear, and it is just a few minutes’ walk into the village where there is a priory, as well as local shops and a couple of cosy pubs serving food. You can also enjoy circular walks round the village. Sandy, sheltered Coldingham Bay, popular with surfers and divers, is 20 minutes’ walk, and Coldingham Loch offers fly fishing. St Abbs is a fishing harbour with a café/restaurant, and St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve is a coastal headland with breathtaking panoramic views and awesome cliffs where thousands of seabirds nest in the spring. You can enjoy amazing coastal walks, including a 30-mile route from Berwick-upon-Tweed to Cockburnspath, or take a boat trips from Seahouses to the Farne Islands, or from Berwick-upon-Tweed on the River Tweed out into the North Sea. Edinburgh is under an hour by train from Berwick, a fascinating Elizabethan walled town. There is a working harbour and golf in Eyemouth, historic houses and castles galore, fishing nearby, and plenty of crafts and galleries. Beach 1¼ miles. Shop, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

Set in the owners’ 7-acres of grounds and surrounded by farmland, these two detached barn conversions stand adjacent to one another. The Old Stables has its own enclosed garden, and its own private hot tub, with delightful open countryside views and has been well-furnished to provide a perfect holiday home at any time of year. Burfields Barn has en-suite bathrooms to all bedrooms, a wealth of exposed beams and the wood burner in the open-plan living/dining room/kitchen ensures a warm welcome all year round. Burfields Barn also benefits from a private indoor heated pool and games room. Outside, there is a large enclosed courtyard for al fresco dining and shared use of 7-acres of grounds for guests to enjoy. Catering is also available by prior arrangement with the owner.

The properties provide an excellent base for walking, cycling or bird watching, but are conveniently situated to explore the delightful market towns and villages of Suffolk. Stowmarket, 10 miles, is home to the Museum of East Anglian Life, has a wide range of shops and restaurants and direct train links to London Liverpool Street Station. Bury St Edmunds with its cathedral, abbey grounds and Georgian theatre, the market town of Diss and the county towns of Ipswich, Norwich and Colchester are all within easy reach. Slightly further afield are the unspoilt delights of the Suffolk Heritage Coast, including Aldeburgh, Dunwich, Walberswick, Southwold and the ancient burial ground at Sutton Hoo (National Trust). Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles. Burfields Barn (ref 29880) and The Old Stables (ref W44247) can be booked together to accommodate up to 15 guests. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.

The Old Roundhouse is a unique escape in sumptuous accommodation, the perfect holiday retreat in genuine peace and tranquillity. This stunning, spacious, detached barn conversion with original roundhouse enjoys total seclusion within its own large gardens on the edge of the owner’s farm, with no near neighbours. Nestling in this designated AONB, uninterrupted and magnificent views of the surrounding countryside abound and lovely walks can be enjoyed from the property. A 10-minute walk over the owner’s fields and woods leads to Hartland village with shops, three pubs and a lovely coffee shop. Sandy Spekes beach is just over a mile walk. A fabulous, picturesque, hidden treasure, great for rockpooling and surfing. The owners have maintained many original features - exposed internal stone walls, beams and wonderful slate floors with underfloor heating throughout. Everything has been thought of to ensure an incredible holiday to please everyone. The Old Roundhouse is a really special holiday home and a warm welcome awaits with complimentary chilled beer and wine, cream teas, fresh flowers and toiletries - all ingredients for a well earned break. The stunning World Heritage coastline abounds with family activities, from pretty beaches to hidden coves, once the haunt of smugglers. Hartland Abbey is worth a visit, as is the famous Clovelly. Bude and Bideford are within easy reach with their shops, attractions and leisure pursuits. Shops ½ mile.

Dating back to the 1600s, The Old Dairy justifies its name. However, it has been beautifully renovated to a high specification with modern and luxurious touches throughout, and is now a wonderful self-catering cottage for two in the heart of the West Sussex countryside.
The kitchen has been cleverly designed with a large hatch overlooking the sitting room area, the perfect way to both show off your culinary skills and enjoy the warmth of the wood burner roaring away in the corner. The conservatory provides a lovely sunny room to dine or doze in on a warm summer’s day, with gorgeous views over the paddocks. After dinner you can curl up, open a book or simply enjoy each other’s company in this relaxed country retreat. If you would like use of a freestanding fridge/freezer please advise before you arrive so access to it can be organised.
Why not bring your horses? This cottage benefits from its own stabling on site and, what’s more, the conservatory looks out over the paddocks where your horses can graze. Equestrian facilities are on offer for up to three horses (by prior arrangement at an additional cost): DIY livery including stabling, grazing paddocks, a lockable tack room and large lorry/horsebox parking on site. Centrally located for all things equestrian: hunts, several competition centres such as Coombelands,Hickstead, Goodwoord, polo clubs (Cowdray, Knepp and Hurtwood), flat racing, point to points at Parham or just hacks (including on the beach). You can explore the countryside on horseback as well as walking and/or cycling in the area.
Why not head out in the morning and return for an invigorating shower in the stunning white-tiled wet room, or take a picnic and wander into the evening skies to watch the sunset with a cold bottle of bubbles. Either way, a wonderful holiday experience in this quiet part of rural Sussex.

This spacious home is ideal for family and friends wishing to share a wonderful holiday or special occasion. Relax in the hot tub or try an invigorating swim in the Rapid River spa, also enjoy the large enclosed garden with swings, a sunken patio, fountain and waterfall. Have fun using the barbecue and lunch alfresco, and make use of the wine fridge in the kitchen. Play the grand piano in the living room with its open fire or take a walk in the 90-acre community woodland. Visit the village park with facilities for all ages. Experience the excellent local activities, golf, salmon and trout fishing, horse racing, riding and ice skating. The Southern Upland Way and St Cuthbert’s Way provide wonderful walking/riding, or explore the spectacular Berwickshire and Northumberland coast. Nearby, Kelso has cobbled streets and interesting local shops, restaurants and pubs. The ancient abbey, gracious town square and beautiful views along the River Tweed may be explored by following the town trail. Ideal for visiting the historic towns of Melrose, Jedburgh and Coldstream, while Edinburgh is only an hour by car. Home made meals, celebration dinners and housekeeping by arrangement. Shop ½ mile, pub 3 miles.

Set deep in the beautiful Cornish countryside, this Grade II listed, detached barn conversion is a real escape from the crowds, whilst being less than 3 miles to some of the county’s best beaches - most notably Crantock, Holywell Bay and the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty of the Gannel estuary in Newquay.
The area is full of tourist attractions, both man-made and natural. Amongst the best are Crealy Adventure Park, Lapps Valley Steam Railway, Dairyland, Newquay Zoo, National Trust owned Trerice House and Gardens, through to the beautiful beaches of Newquay (of which there are over 8), the dunes at Holywell Bay and Perranporth and the tranquil Gannel Estuary. The Gannel is a firm favourite with birdwatchers, kayakers and windsurfers and a perfect place for a walk with the dogs and a picnic.
Newquay with its surfing culture is within 4 miles and guests can enjoy discounted surf hire and lessons. Try your hand at this exhilarating sport with local surf coaches. Horse riding, deep sea fishing trips, kayaking and sightseeing trips are all available in and around Newquay. The famous Fistral Beach provides everything you need for that quintessential ingredient of any beach holiday, crabbing and rock pooling, followed by a beach barbecue as the sun sets out to sea. Just a few miles up the coast you will find Watergate Bay, home to a watersports centre, plus a mile of golden sand backed by dramatic cliffs that make this area so unique.
Further along the coast road will bring you to Padstow, home to the gastronomic empire of Rick Stein including his fish and chip shop, where you have to get there early to avoid the queues. Padstow, with its quaint working harbour and narrow cobbled streets that all gravitate back the harbour, are awash with craft and gift shops, galleries and cafés and a real must for all that visit the area. The Camel Trail starts here and bike hire is plentiful at the start. The Eden project, The Lost Gardens of Heligan, St Ives, Port Isaac, home to TV’s ’Doc Martin’, Fowey, and Truro, the county capital are all easily reached from Trescowthick and are all a must to enjoy the diverse aspects of this historic county. Beach 3 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.

Take a step back from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy a traditional tranquil Cornish seaside holiday. Overlooking a beautiful 15th-century church, Church View is a five bedroomed house set in the picturesque village of Jacobstow. The house is built in the grounds of a former rectory with easy access to the Atlantic Highway enabling you to explore the many delights of Cornwall. This superb, spacious holiday house provides the perfect setting for family and friends to enjoy a celebration or just to escape and recharge your batteries. The large dining room/kitchen/sunroom is the heart of the property, the perfect spot for an evening meal or lazy breakfast. The living room with its cosy woodburner has glorious views and children will love the study with its games and games console to keep them occupied. There is also storage for bicycles. Widemouth Bay with its wide sandy beach and rolling breakers is no more than a ten minute drive; alternatively, even closer, try Crackington Haven complete with beach café, local pub and restaurant with stunning views overlooking the delightful sheltered beach. There are plenty of things to do and places of interest to visit. Take a trip to Port Isaac or Padstow which is half an hour’s drive, where you can cycle along the Camel Trail from Wadebridge. Further afield you can experience art and culture with the Minack Theatre or Tate Gallery or visit the Eden Project. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.