Fido Family Friendly Places

Situated on a working cattle farm, this pair of detached cottages are in the ideal location to explore Dumfries and Galloway, from the Galloway Hills and the Galloway Forest Dark Skies Park, with many hidden lochs, burns and waterfalls, to the beautiful coastline with sandy beaches, rocky coves and picturesque villages. You may even be lucky and spot seals and minke whales, and will most certainly see a host of seabirds.

The area is steeped in history and the landscape diverse, a haven for artists, birdwatchers and walkers. The Mull of Galloway, with its lighthouse and grass topped visitor centre, is Scotland’s most southerly point with amazing views of Ireland, England, the Isle of Man and Scotland! Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve is the largest local reserve in the UK. It has internationally recognised, significant numbers of pink-footed geese, greylag geese, many species of duck and wading birds, visiting in autumn and winter.

Horse riding, golf, sailing, diving and numerous walks are available in the area and with its famously mild climate and the balmy influence of the Gulf Stream, Galloway is home to some of the most beautiful and exotic gardens. Beach 3 miles. Shop 1 mile, pub and restaurant 3 miles.

Mid Bishopton Cottage (ref UK10910) can be booked together with Cotters Cottage (ref UK10922) to accommodate up to 8 guests.

Situated on the family farm, this detached cottage lies close to Bempton Cliffs. Its spacious living room is open plan and has a cosy multi-fuel burner for cooler evenings. To the rear of the property is a secluded, enclosed garden which has both a lawned and terraced area, and where a bubbling hot tub awaits.
Situated on a family-run sheep farm, this property is within easy reach of Bempton Cliffs where you’ll find a wonderful RSPB bird sanctuary. Here you’ll find thousands of migrating sea birds perched on the chalk cliffs overlooking the North Sea, including puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes, as well as many other rare sightings that bird watchers travel miles to see. Between the cliffs and the cottage is an expanse of open farmland with abundant wildlife where deer can be spotted grazing early in the morning, and foxes and barn owls at night.
The bustling seaside town of Bridlington is just a short drive from the cottage, and has a busy working harbour and a large sandy beach for children to enjoy. To the north of the property lies Filey and Scarborough, both very popular seaside resorts with excellent beaches as well as plenty of shops, bars and restaurants. Both Scarborough and Bridlington have leisure complexes with pools and slides, and plus there’s the ever popular Sea Life centre on Scarborough seafront. Granary Cottage is a great base for visiting the East Coast and the North York Moors National Park. Beach 4 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

Kingates Farm nestles between the beautiful villages of Whitwell and Niton, on the southern point of the Isle of Wight. This wonderful holiday cottage includes many facilities to enable you to explore, unwind and indulge yourself in stunning surroundings. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the location offers guests amazing panoramic views of rolling hills, nearby white cliffs and the coastline. This self catering holiday property have been converted from original farm buildings and offer spacious accommodation, enclosed gardens and paddocks with direct access to foot and cycle paths.
The Stables is a perfect romantic break for two. This detached, single-storey property has vaulted ceilings, a well-equipped kitchen and a cosy wood burner. You can enjoy a peaceful nights’ sleep in the super kingsize bed, and the en-suite boasts a roll-top bath and large walk-in shower. Step out of the large patio doors to a private seating area with a barbecue and enclosed garden with far-reaching views to watch the abundant wildlife.
A welcome hamper will be waiting for you on arrival with fresh milk, butter, eggs, homemade bread and local produce (extra supplies and/or dietary alternatives available on request). All produce is locally sourced where possible and you are welcome to seasonal fruit or vegetables from the main garden.
Friendly, sociable adult dogs (over 12 months old) are welcome on holiday too but NOT left alone unless totally happy/settled in and agreed with owner in advance, while making use of the pool. They have their very own pet hamper with a microfibre mattress, towels, natural shampoo, toys, treats and pet ID tag.
There are further gardens, walking paddocks and a central outside hot and cold water hose for muddy dogs, boots or bikes. The owners, who live on-site along with their dogs and animals, are available should you need any help. You are welcome to join them for a walk or cycle to the nearby St Catherine’s Oratory or ‘Pepperpot’, as its known locally, with many options to venture further afield should you wish.
Outdoor pursuits on the island are well catered for and include horse riding, fishing, cycling, paragliding, water sports and golf. There are numerous attractions to discover for all ages. Pay a visit to Queen Victoria’s favourite holiday residence, Osborne House and its gardens, Blackgang Chine, the oldest themed attraction in the UK, the famous Needles, Ventnor Botanical Gardens, Tapnell Farm Park, Carisbrooke Castle or the sailing towns of Yarmouth and Cowes. There is plenty to discover and keep you entertained. There are local takeaway options if you fancy dining alfresco and making the most of the wide valley sunset glow. Beach 4 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant ¾ mile.
The Stables can be booked together with Farm Cottage (ref UK11246) to accommodate up to 6 guests.

Grieve’s Cottage is a delightful traditional stone cottage situated in its own generous garden grounds with a state-of-the-art hot tub for visitors’ sole use. Situated amidst open countryside, with stunning uninterrupted views in all directions, the cottage is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy its very good quality facilities and accommodation.
This single-storey end terraced farm cottage (whose name derives from the Scottish for farm foreman) has been extensively renovated and refurbished whilst retaining its original charm, including exposed stone walls and dry stone walling. It is set at the end of a quiet private lane on the owner’s working farm. Whilst the main living area is open plan, a sense of luxury is created with deep leather sofa suites and attractive lighting. The kitchen is accessed through an original exposed stone wall. Large canvases of the surrounding area add to the unique charm of this superbly presented cottage. Outside, a gravelled path leads out to the hot tub area, enclosed by fencing and original stone walls, it is private and secluded. A charming summer house overlooking the hot tub has comfortable outdoor dining chairs and there is a table for alfresco dining by the tub.
The charming and historic seaside village of Portmahomack has a good selection of amenities, including a shop, pub, café and two restaurants and is just 1 mile away and less than a mile from the cottage you will find Portmahomack Tarbat Golf Club. With its horseshoe shaped sandy bay and superb mountain backdrop, it is a wonderful place to walk, picnic, swim or kayak. The harbour and pier are ideal for small boats, a spot of crabbing or fishing. The region is noted for its archaeological sites and at the nearby Tarbat Discovery Centre there is a fascinating display of Pict, Norse and Medieval artefacts. There are lovely walks direct from the cottage. A trip out to the local lighthouse further along the lane is a must, with the opportunity to spot seals, dolphins and numerous seabirds. The nearby town of Tain has further excellent facilities, including restaurants, supermarkets and bars. Grieve’s Cottage is ideally located for exploring the whole of the Highland region and will provide a memorable and indulgent pampering break for all. Beach 1 mile. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.
Grieve’s Cottage can be booked together with The Paddock (ref UK5049) and Sheaf Dale (ref UK5470) to accommodate up to 15 guests.

The Soup Kitchen has played an important role in village life and the local community of Borgue over the last 150 years or so. You won’t find soup served in The Soup Kitchen today but you will find a stunning holiday home to call yours for the week.
This upside down house sits on the edge of the village and enjoys superb views. One particular feature is the spacious living room with floor to ceiling windows and patio doors opening onto a covered veranda, which makes the most of the views and is perfect for sitting enjoying the morning sun over breakfast. From the living room there is a kitchen, again allowing you to enjoy the views and a lovely dining room which overlooks the village. Venture outside and you will not be disappointed, a hot tub is situated in a purpose built cabin so you can enjoy the bubbles in rain, sleet or snow.
Starting life as a house, then a Free Church and a school, it then became apparent that there was no need for two schools in such a small community so it became a store. On the 5th of December 1844 the idea came about to ensure every child in the community had the opportunity to have a hot meal during the months of October to March, hence the name “The Soup Kitchen”.
Borgue is a charming little village with a local pub serving food so no need to cook, allowing you to really relax and enjoy the area. The village is close to many beautiful beaches, coastal walks and stunning rolling countryside. A short drive away will take you to Kirkcudbright, a lovely town on the estuary which still has a bustling harbour. Stroll through the town and visit Broughton House, once home to the famed Scottish painter E. A. Hornel. Kirkcudbright is known as “the artists’ town”, having hosted generations of painters, craft-makers and artisans, a culture that is still thriving today. The town attracts visitors throughout the year, drawn in by the harbour, the historic high street and the diverse range of annual events and visitor attractions. The popular programme of summer festivities culminates with the spectacular Tattoo, an event not to be missed. The area has numerous walks available, from scenic coastal strolls to forest trails. With sailing, swimming, riding, fishing, golf, boat trips and water sports all close by there is sure to be something for everyone. Warmed by the gulf stream there are many beautiful gardens to visit, including National Trust Threave Gardens. Close to the Galloway Forest Park, the first Dark Sky Park in the UK, and central to 5 of the 7Stanes, it is a popular location for cyclists and mountain bikers. Beach 3 miles. Shop 5 miles, pub and restaurant 50 yards.

Thoughtfully designed and beautifully furnished, this romantic bolthole is the ideal base from which to explore. Spread your wings and venture further afield along the coast before returning to the comforts of this cosy detached barn, where pampered pooches are welcome too. This splendid retreat is the ideal space for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Accessed by a rough track, this private and quiet location is away from the hustle and bustle, yet still be within easy access to Gorleston-on-Sea, 2 miles, with its glorious beach.

In the property you will find an open plan living space with comfortable, modern furnishings and the owners have created a quiet sanctuary that all ages can enjoy. The living area is furnished with a double sofa bed and large armchair centred around the wood burner and widescreen TV, making it the ideal place to retire to after a busy day out and about exploring Norfolk and Suffolk. There is also a hidden well leading to a wine cellar. A dining table for four people sits between the kitchen and the living area, and is also placed perfectly for days when you are able to open the French doors to the enclosed back garden. A wonderful spot to enjoy a paper and a coffee on a fine spring morning. Featuring a fully fitted kitchen with everything that you need to master up culinary delights, from an integrated gas and electric range oven to a Lavazza coffee machine, plus a Bose sound speaker to entertain whilst you’ve got your bake on! There is a sumptuous bathroom with wall to wall sand stone tiles, sunken shower, roll-top bath, fluffy robes and slippers. The bedroom is galleried and you will find a gorgeous comfy double bed. Head outside to your very own enclosed decking area, with seating and gas barbecue. Sit back, relax and watch the stars whilst you take a bubbly dip in the private hot tub...bliss! Adjacent to the property is a large paddock for you to use for dog walking, games or just simply enjoy the sounds of nature

If you can drag yourself away from your hideaway, you will find plenty to explore in the area. Take a 2 mile walk to Gorleston beach, where you’ll find beautiful golden sand and grassy cliff top walks overlooking the lower Esplanade. The Barn is situated 5 miles from the popular seaside town of Great Yarmouth, where you’ll find endless amounts of traditional seaside entertainment, from arcades to shows and a Sea Life Centre to explore. The charming, market town of Beccles, with market square and winding streets, nestled by the River Waveney, is just a 20-minute drive away. Beach 2 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.

Hewas Water House is perfect for family gatherings, nestled in a relaxing and tranquil setting. This delightful detached and spacious house has a modern design and comfortably sleeps up to ten guests. Perfect for relaxing around the pool or exploring the south coast of Cornwall and all it has to offer.
The town of St Austell is just an 8-minute drive away where you will find local shops, cinema and a choice of restaurants and pubs. The cathedral city of Truro is just a 20-minute drive away, offering a wider selection of amenities. Mevagissey is an ancient fishing village that offers local galleries, craft shops and fresh seafood restaurants. There are many beautiful gardens including the Lost Gardens of Heligan, the world-famous Eden Project and Caerhays Castle and Garden, all nearby. The historic port of Charlestown, one of the settings of TV’s drama ’Poldark’, is nearby as is the Roseland Peninsula. Porthpean and Pentewan Sands are the closest beaches, however there are beaches galore along the south coast. Also available at the village of Pentewan is an off-road cycle and walking trail that leads to the town centre of St Austell. Horse riding, canoeing, boat trips and walking are all catered for locally. There really is no shortage of things to do in this impressive part of Cornwall. Beach 5½ miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1¼ miles.

The Garden Cottage stands detached in the beautiful grounds of Thorpe Hall. Built around 1790, part of the building used to be the old apple store, where the apples from the orchards on the estate would be collected by the gardeners and stored here. Lovingly restored, the owners have kept lots of the original features, and the dining room has limed oak furniture. It is a perfect ’chocolate box’ cottage. Downstairs has been designed with full disabled access throughout the ground floor - there is a twin bedroom with an en-suite wet room for the less mobile (with emergency alert). This is a perfect property for holidaymakers having a family mix of all ages: there are three bedrooms on the ground floor and two on the first floor. There is also disabled access to the garden. All the rooms are spacious and light, and with the extra living room, it is ideal for families to have their own space. The cottages are set amongst the beautiful country estate of Thorpe Hall, a magnificent retreat in the Yorkshire Wolds and situated in Rudston, near Bridlington. The Hall is a Grade II building which was built in the early 1700s and is still very much a working estate, and it forms an important part of the local community. The local village of Rudston is less than a mile away, where the churchyard contains the monolith from which the village gets its name (Rood Stane). The cottage is situated a mile from the village, where you will find a small shop along the way.
The nearest town is Bridlington just over 4 miles away, and from there you have access along the east coast from Whitby, Scarborough and Filey, right down to the resort of Hornsea. The area has lots of stately homes to visit, including Sewerby Hall, which is only a few minutes drive away, a fine example of an early Georgian residence and renowned for its gardens and a zoo. Castle Howard and Burton Agnes Hall are also just a short drive away. Flamborough Head and RSPB Bempton Cliffs are 15 minutes by car, and boast fantastic opportunities to observe puffins, gannets, dolphins and seals in their natural habitat. Along the coast at Scarborough, you have the Stephen Joseph Theatre which is known for its premieres of almost all of Alan Ayckbourn’s plays. It also boasts the largest open air theatre in Europe. During your stay, why not try some real country pursuits, such as coarse fishing or trying out some of the many bridleways across the estate; you are very close to Fraisthorpe where you can ride along the beach. Guests can have free livery and grazing for their horses, just bring the food and bedding! There’s so much to see and do at Thorpe Hall and it’s all within easy reach, and from February 2018 you can rent a hot tub for your stay (contact the owner direct for details). The owner is very proud to offer a tour and history of the grounds to all guests (subject to availability). Beach 4 miles. Shop 1½ miles, pub 3 miles, restaurant 1 mile.
The Garden Cottage (UK2094), Stable Cottage 1 (CC253023) and Laundry Cottage (CC253025) can be booked together to accommodate up to 22 guests.

Situated in a quiet glen within the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, this spacious, semi-detached cottage has been renovated to a very good standard, and has stunning views over the hills and glens with numerous walks available direct from the door. The large garden is home to a hot tub, which enjoys open views, and the garden has access to the riverbank.


The Ranch is a fantastic property, a safe place to relax and escape from the trials of everyday life. With the owners living nearby, it’s also in a great location for getting out and exploring the spectacular scenery and history of the area. The deep glens and narrow sea lochs are typical of the west coast, and you can find a huge selection of native Scottish wildlife nearby, such as red deer, roe deer, buzzards and golden eagles to name but a few. The area is also rich in history; standing stones, burial cairns and rock carvings abound.


The town of Dunoon is within easy reach, with its selection of shops, pubs and restaurants. Take a steamer cruise and explore the hills and lochs of the Cowal Peninsula. An abundance of outdoor activities are on offer, with sailing, sea fishing, windsurfing, fast speed RIB boat tours, quad bikes, clay shooting and more. Nearby, the magnificent woodland gardens at Benmore Botanic Gardens are well worth a visit.


Located within the Loch Lomond National Park, the area is ideal for walkers and cyclists of all abilities. The region boasts a magnificent diversity of scenery with dramatic peaks, waterfalls, hidden caves and mysterious, forest-covered slopes. Beach 2 miles. Shop and restaurant 1 mile, pub 2 miles.

Airyhemming Dairy is a detached former Dairyman’s Cottage situated on a working dairy farm yet set away from the buzz of the farm, in peaceful countryside, with views over farmland to the rolling Galloway Hills. Enjoy this restored cottage, whether it be sitting in front of the cosy wood burner, enjoying a game of pool in the games room or star gazing from your very own hot tub. The cottage also boasts its own stretch of water for brown trout fishing. The charming village of Glenluce has local shops and pubs. This area of Dumfries and Galloway boasts rugged coastlines and secluded sandy beaches which benefit from the warmth of the passing Gulf Stream and is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, offering an ideal base from which to explore the Machars Peninsula and the Galloway Hills. There are many beautiful gardens to explore, including the world renowned Logan Botanical Gardens. The area boasts many pretty little ports like Sandhead, Portpatrick and the RSPB Scotland Mull of Galloway Nature Reserve where thousands of seabirds nest on the cliff face during the spring and summer. Walking is a delight, whether cliff top, beaches, hills or forests and the Southern Upland Way passes close by. It is a cyclist’s paradise with the world famous 7Stanes within easy reach. If you prefer shooting or golf, there are many facilities nearby including the County Course, just 2 miles away. The town of Stranraer, which is only 8 miles away, offers a wider range of shops, pubs and restaurants. Nearby Cairnryan is home to the Stena Line ferry making a day trip to Ireland a great day out. Beach 2 miles. Shop and pub 2 miles, restaurant 3 miles.
Airyhemming Dairy can be booked together with Airyhemming Farm (CC537213) and Kelbrook (UK5737) to accommodate up to 22 guests.