Fido Family Friendly Places

Breathtaking sea views of both the North and South Bays can be enjoyed from nearly all the rooms in this imposing, Grade II listed Georgian town house which is peacefully situated on the headland under the shadow of Scarborough’s historic castle and opposite St Mary’s church, the final resting place of Anne Brontë. Whilst retaining many original features, the house has been refurbished to an exceptional standard. The first and second floor bedrooms enjoy either North or South Bay views. The first floor bedroom has a super-kingsize bed, original tiled fireplace and a magnificent en-suite with a raised bath and separate shower. The three bedrooms on the second floor have, respectively, a kingsize oak bed, a French double bed and twin beds. In the lower-ground floor sitting room there is a living flame gas fire.
The property has a spectacular clifftop garden with 180-degree North Bay and castle views, as well as a hot tub. Positioned a 5-minute walk from the heart of the town and a 10-minute walk from the beach, this makes a perfect base for exploring Britain’s original seaside resort with its sandy, accredited North Bay beach, award-winning Sea Life Marine Sanctuary and working harbour with small fishing fleet. On the south side there are boat trips around the bay and a great choice of restaurants, bars, cafes and traditional seaside stalls. Music lovers can visit the Scarborough Spa, which stages regular concerts and is home to the UK’s only remaining professional seaside orchestra, book tickets to the Open Air Theatre (past performers include Elton John and Duran Duran) or enjoy live music or karaoke in the town’s lively pubs. The famous Stephen Joseph Theatre offers an impressive evening programme of theatre and film, including plays by Scarborough’s very own Alan Ayckbourn.
Shops and pubs are 220 yards from the house and the North Bay, Old Town and town centre attractions are within walking distance. Scarborough has superb independent shops, especially at the historic Indoor Market, and countless family-friendly attractions, such as the Alpamare water slides and the quaint North Bay Railway. For energetic visitors, there’s surfing, paddleboarding, bodyboarding, golf and outstanding walking, both by the sea and inland. Further north along the Heritage coast lie the smugglers’ coves of Robin Hood’s Bay and Staithes, and the North York Moors National Park is easily accessible with its steam railway, pretty villages and spectacular scenery.

Beautifully renovated into a boutique holiday home, Hydrangea House has been luxuriously thought out to provide every comfort you could need for a relaxing and peaceful getaway with family or friends. From Hypnos beds and fluffy bathrobes, to the complimentary toiletries, the mini fridges and tea and coffee making facilities in every bedroom, this truly exceptional holiday home offers the luxuries akin to a boutique hotel yet with the whole house to yourselves you won’t be disturbed.

Step through the pastel green front door into the light and calming interior and through to the living area. With a cosy wood burner, plush sofas and chairs, and throws that will make you want to cosy up come evening, the tastefully designed sitting room offers the perfect spot to read a book or browse a magazine, to curl up and watch a film or to enjoy a competitive board game amongst friends or family. Leading through to the heart of the home, the impressive kitchen and dining space has been ideally designed for sociable living, with tasteful and contemporary gloss units and a striking sky light flooding the area with natural light, offering the perfect place to gather whilst a meal is being prepared or simply to sit with a glass of something and look out over the decked terrace and garden.

Fall into a dreamy slumber in one of the four bedrooms, each with a sumptuous Hypno bed, plumped pillows and naturally hypoallergenic wool duvets, all provided with your complete comfort in mind. When morning comes, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of your own bed without having to leave your room, and catch up on the morning news, with tea and coffee making facilities, a mini fridge and flat screen smart TV provided in every bedroom. Each adjoining a beautifully finished and stylish shower room, with complimentary toiletries and a fluffy bathrobe at the ready to wrap up in and wander down to join friends or family for breakfast.

Outside, the luxury continues, with a decked terrace with dining area to relax with a drink and make the most of meals al fresco. Come evening, the outdoor sofas make the perfect spot to gather around the fire pit and gaze at the stars whilst talking about the days adventures.

A picturesque and quaint coastal town, Hythe has all you could need for an escape to the coast. A beautiful stretch of pebble beach, a 5 minute walk away, that stretches as far as the coastal towns of Sandgate and Folkestone, spend the day relaxing on the pebbles, dip your toes in the Channel or stretch your legs with a walk or a cycle along the esplanade with stops at the locally renowned Boat House on Sandgate beach for a well-earned drink or at Griggs of Hythe to sample a seafood delight whilst gazing out to sea. A stone’s throw from the Royal Military canal, where you can explore by water, with rowing boats and kayaks to hire. Wander down the cobbled and historic high street dotted with independent shops, quaint tea rooms and cafés, and a great choice of restaurants to explore, just a few minutes’ walk from Hydrangea House, you couldn’t be in a better position to explore all that Hythe has to offer.

Situated in a picturesque, coastal position with spectacular views over Carmarthen Bay, this large, detached barn has been sympathetically converted to retain its original charm and character, making it an unforgettable experience for a family or groups looking to explore West Wales. This holiday property, adjacent to the owner’s home, is bursting with original character including original stone walls and beams, whilst lots of welcoming touches have been added for that homely feel throughout. For children and family entertainment, the barn boasts a spacious games room equipped with a pool and football table, a great distraction during inclement weather. Outside, guests can enjoy their large, lawned garden with a patio area, where they can sit, relax and unwind whilst watching the sun set over the idyllic bay. Carmarthenshire itself has lots on offer, including fantastic walks along the Millennium Coastal Path, which leads through scenic Pembrey Country Park, which is renowned for its dry ski slope, horse riding trails and 7 miles of beaches. For sports enthusiasts, visitors can enjoy a round of golf at the Jack Nicklaus course or watch live sport at the Llanelli Scartlets Rugby stadium and nearby Ffos Las racecourse. Away from the coast, the Carmarthenshire countryside is just as promising with its array of charming market towns and medieval castles including Kidwelly and Laugharne, or guests can visit the National Botanical Garden of Wales. Just a 60-minute drive away is the popular tourist resort of Tenby, with its cobbled streets, traditional Welsh pubs and thrilling leisure parks which are waiting to be explored. Beach ½ mile. Shop and pub 1 mile.

The Cottage has commanding, stunning views across the English Channel. This attractive, spacious, family home for all seasons is the ideal property for a relaxing holiday with both friends or relatives.

There is a private hot tub at The Cottage, and the property offers 2 games rooms, 1 in the house with children’s toys, a library, games and 2 table football tables. There is a large, second games room in the garage next to the house which offers a number of activities including: table tennis, pool table, darts, bows and arrows, basketball (outside the garage). These games rooms also feature a kitchenette with a fridge, and seating area with a large sofa, ideal for all ages. Please note this games room is not heated.
A decked terrace runs the length of the property, an ideal spot for soaking up the sun or relax after a brisk winter walk in front of a glowing log burner in the cosy living room, overlooking the frothing waves. Four of the six bedrooms have sea views and the other two have attractive garden views.
The white chalk cliff above St Margaret’s Bay is said to be the first place the sun reaches each morning on mainland Britain! The beach is famous for being the closest point to France and is the spot where Channel swimmers begin their marathon 21 mile swim.
The village itself offers good pubs, restaurants and local shop within walking distance. The coastal path leads to the famous White Cliffs of Dover, gateway to England and now one of the UK’s protected Heritage coasts offering some of the best cliff coastal walking in the country. The lighthouse is the place where Marconi transmitted his first radio broadcast to France. Closer to France than London, bring a passport, catch a ferry from Dover and visit the French markets in Calais and Boulogne for the day.
Visit Dover, Deal and Walmer Castle, Pines Garden and Metropole Galleries Folkestone. Canterbury 17 miles. Golf, sailing, cycling, horse riding locally. Shops and pubs 500 yards.

Degnish Farmhouse sits proudly alone within a 1100-acre working hill farm at the western end of Loch Melfort and has spectacular panoramic sea and adjacent island views. Surrounded by abundant wildlife, including otters, seals and birdlife and with easy access to golf, horse riding, sea kayaking, fishing and sailing, this comfortable south-facing detached holiday property offers a perfect retreat in a glorious setting.
The house has been lovingly re-built to a very good standard, with underfloor heating, double glazing and an emphasis on the wonderful views.
Ideally based for exploring the west coast, there are plenty of ferry trips nearby to Mull, Arran, Gigha, Islay, Colonsay or Tiree. The bustling harbour town of Oban, known as the ‘Gateway to the Isles’, is a scenic drive north and is home to an array of shops and restaurants. Inveraray Castle, historic Kilmartin Glen, and the Crinan Canal make for wonderful days out. Ardmaddy Castle and Gardens are 3½ miles over the hill, and can be accessed on foot, by 4-wheel drive or via the road to Seil Island. Guests enjoy free access to the gardens and are also welcome to use the estate’s tennis court. Small motor boats can be hired at Ardmaddy. Free fishing can also be arranged on the estate’s well-stocked hill loch.
There are plenty of hill and forest trails for mountain biking and leisurely walks, or visit one of the magnificent local gardens. Whilst there is the farm and miles of coastline to explore, there is also an enclosed garden and covered outdoor BBQ area ensuring the safety of younger children whilst allowing the grown-ups to enjoy an al-fresco lunch. Shop and pub 5 miles.

This comfortable and welcoming, thatched, detached former farmhouse dates back to 1750, and has many features such as beams, low lintels and sloping floors. The main house has two living rooms and a dining room which seats up to 18. There is also an indoor swimming pool and a games room, making it ideal for family gatherings and celebrations. The old creamery, located in a separate building next to the main house, has been converted into an annexe with an additional two en-suite bedrooms, and still has the exposed stone walls and floors! From the farmhouse gardens there are far-reaching views over countryside and rolling hills and it is conveniently located for trips to Lyme Regis, West Bay and Bridport. There is a local bus service for those wishing to explore the area without using the car. Park Farmhouse is located on the coast road in the heart of the charming historic village of Chideock with a pub and restaurant a couple of doors away. Julia Bradbury’s ‘Best Walks With A View’ includes a walk which encircles Park Farmhouse. A popular farm shop is about a mile away with outside seating with glorious views over the National Trust land and the famous Golden Cap which is the highest point on the south coast!

Steeped in history, Chideock was recorded in the Domesday Book as Cidihoc. In 1379-80, John de Chideock, a manorial lord, built Chideock Castle, just north of the village. During the Middle Ages, ownership passed to the Catholic Arundell family, who used it to provide refuge for priests and loyal followers during subsequent persecution. In 1802 the Arundells were succeeded by the Weld family of Lulworth Castle who in 1810, built Chideock Manor. Park Farmhouse once served the occupants of the manor for many years with cream from the creamery.

The stunning and dramatic Jurassic Coast is a World Heritage Site covering 96 miles of coastline and is less than a mile away at Seatown. It is also known for its fossil hunting. The beaches of West Bay and Lyme Regis have a traditional feel with gift shops, tea rooms, inns and restaurants. Lyme Regis with The Cobb and harbour was the setting for the filming of The French Lieutenant’s Woman. More recently, Jane Austen’s ‘Persuasion’ and Thomas Hardy’s ‘Far from The Madding Crowd’ were both filmed here. Renowned TV chef Mark Hix has an Oyster and Fish House in Lyme Regis. There are other pretty villages such as Beer and Branscombe within easy reach or you may wish to visit the numerous stately homes and gardens in the area. You can also discover Dorset’s sandy bays, rugged hill top walks and tiny coves. Fishing is available locally. Beach ¾ mile. Shop 240 yards, pub and restaurant 50 yards.

The Gresham Hall Estate is simply breathtaking and guests choosing to book one of the apartments in the wing or even Gresham Hall will not be disappointed! The entire property has been refurbished and refurnished to a superb standard in 2019 and all four properties can be booked together to accommodate 20 guests, making this the perfect choice for family celebrations. A welcome pack of milk, bread, butter, jam, marmalade and honey is provided for all properties
As you make your way down the impressive, winding, private driveway which leads to Gresham Hall, you will feel the weight of the world leave your shoulders. Set within the beautiful country estate, whether you choose to stay at one of the apartments, or book the hall and become Lord of the Manor for the duration of your holiday, you are sure to be delighted by your tastefully presented and stylish accommodation. For guests staying at Gresham Hall (ref UK10641), there is a bedroom and a shower room across the hallway on the ground floor for less mobile guests. And less mobile couples who would still like to experience this estate will find ground floor accommodation in Ground Wing (ref UK10638).
Gresham Hall was built by Colonel Batt (hence the bat over the front door), between October 1907 and April 1908 using wooden scaffolding, labour and materials from the Gresham Estate, and the bricks were baked in a local kiln. Colonel Batt was very innovative, and after the war he generated his own electricity which served the property for many years, now having been replaced by a more eco-friendly pellet boiler to provide lots of hot water and cosy heating. The present owner bought the property in the 1980s and the family grew up there, enjoying the beautiful estate to the full. The current renovations were carried out between 2017 and 2019, giving the properties their contemporary feel and all the modern conveniences required by discerning guests for a lovely holiday.
If you can tear yourself away from your sumptuous surroundings, you will find yourself within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and also within the heart of the beautiful North Norfolk coastline. The lovely market towns of Sheringham and Holt are just minutes away and offer lots of great places to eat, drink and shop with Sheringham also offering a wide, sandy beach. Cromer, with its famous pier, is also close by. In fact, head east or west from here and explore lots of pretty seaside towns and villages, each offering unique coastal habitats including sandy or shingle beaches, marshes and pretty quays.
Those visiting Norfolk for the first time should also visit the Norfolk Broads, not least of all because Wroxham, considered by many as the ’Gateway to the Norfolk Broads’, is under 40 minutes away. History buffs will enjoy the Blickling Estate, Holkham Hall, the Muckleburgh Military Collection, Thursford Steam Collection and a host of other attractions too including Cromer Zoo, Langham Glass and the Sheringham to Holt Steam Railway. And of course there are cycle routes, walks and wildlife opportunities galore, all waiting for you to explore. Then return each evening to the Gresham Estate for a good night’s sleep and to dream of adventures yet to come. What a joy! Beach 3 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.

Set in a quiet location with just a handful of other properties nearby, Pipistrelle Barn has been lovingly converted into a high end holiday accommodation for discerning guests who are really looking for something special. Boasting lots of original features, which have been carefully coupled with a light and airy contemporary feel, it boasts four bathrooms, three of which are en-suite, a stylish multi-fuel burner and a private hot tub. With a floating landing that sees you walk through the high ceilings on the first floor, this barn really is unique. And, at under 5 miles from the stunning North Norfolk Coast and just 10 miles from the Norfolk Broads, it is also in a great location to explore all that the area has to offer.

Head to the pretty seaside village of Mundesley with its wide sandy beach and unspoilt charm. Then, head west from there and find yourself in Cromer with its famous pier, Edwardian seafront, Amazonia Zoo and cinema. A little further is the bustling market town of Sheringham, popular with holidaymakers and locals alike. Head east to experience all the fun of the fair and explore the golden mile of Great Yarmouth. In fact, all along the coast in both directions you will find a string of coastal villages with various beach habitats, including grassy sand dunes, shingle and sand beaches, and marshes and quays.

History buffs will find much to see and do including The Blickling Estate and the Thursford and Muckleburgh Collections. Wildlife and nature fans can explore the Broads, Sheringham Park and Cley Marshes. For those wishing to explore on foot, you will find the nearby market town of North Walsham offers lots of places to eat and drink, and the woods offer picturesque walks. In fact, there is so much to see and do you will be pleased to head back to Pipistrelle Barn after a busy day to relax and unwind in the private hot tub. Beach 4 miles. Shop 300 yards, pub and restaurant 100 yards.

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.

This delightful holiday home, adjoining the owner’s home, provides, rural, romantic accommodation in the heart of the North York Moors National Park. The layout is set out over the ground floor, with a first floor bedroom. Guests are greeted with a modern kitchen on entering through the front door. This is a well-equipped space that is ideal for preparing meals when on your escape. Through the inner hallway that offers storage and access to the bathroom, you will reach the cosy living/dining room, which is a welcome haven after a hard day’s walking or exploring the east coast. The French doors in the living room open out on the patio, perfect to sit and enjoy a glass of wine. The bedroom is on the first floor and offers a Velux window suitable to enjoy the views from. Outside you will also have private use of a hot tub to relax in, and the owner has thoughtfully provided bath robes and slippers for the hot tub, and complementary toiletries. With a wood burner in the living area, you are sure to stay warm and cosy.
Situated on the edge of a working farm, the cottage is surrounded by excellent footpaths, along with a private rhododendron lined drive leading to a hotel where you may enjoy lunch, afternoon tea and evening meals. Nearby Staithes, a short drive away, boasts cobbled streets, and is an ideal place to visit and enjoy the pretty east coastline. Beach 4 miles. Shops and pub 1½ miles, restaurant 400 yards.