Fido Family Friendly Places

Situated on the most accessible of the west coast islands and straddling the Highland Line, this spacious, detached, country house with large deck and its own hot tub, boasts stunning views over the open water and lies in a rural location, just a few yards from the shoreline. Most rooms enjoy sea views, the 6 bedrooms each have a TV, and some have a DVD player. Chandlers is full of elegance and charm and enjoys a cosy snug area with comfy sofas and a bar, which can be stocked to your requirements. The music room has a grand piano, guitars and amps for budding musicians, while the impressive dining room can easily seat 20.
A popular destination for fishing, the inland lochs are popular with anglers for coarse and game fishing. Loch Fad offers the opportunity to fish for rainbow trout, and is only 3 miles away. Relax as you explore the gently, undulating hills, catch glimpses of the wildlife and marvel at the vistas. For such a compact island, Bute offers varied landscapes from the lush, fertile and rolling hills of the island’s heart to the craggy, heather-covered moorlands of the north and the delightful sandy beaches around the coastline. A haven for walkers, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, Bute has a wealth of wildlife to spot including feral goats, buzzards and roe deer. Scalpsie Bay which is set against the magnificent backdrop of Arran, is the home of a large colony of seals.
There are many historical sites to visit including the standing stones at Ettrick Bay, the ancient chapel of St Blane, and the vitrified Iron Age Fort at Dunagoil. Visit the Victorian Gothic mansion of Mount Stuart, the ancestral home of the Marquesses of Bute, and is open to the public along with its beautiful gardens, Bute Museum, Rothesay Castle and the fabulous gardens of Ascog Hall and Ardencraig.
There are many events throughout the year, including the famous annual Jazz Festival, the spectacular Highland Games, traditional agricultural shows, concerts and art festivals; whatever your interest it can be found on the Isle of Bute.
Catch the ferry for the 5-minute trip to Colintraive on the Cowal Peninsula and explore Argyll’s Secret Coast where you have easy access to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, or head north to Inverary and beyond. Take the ferry from Portavadie over to Jura and Islay, and Tarbert where you can explore Kintyre. The house is licensed for weddings and many extras can be arranged such as catering, prior to arrival direct with the owner. Beach 40 yards. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.There is also a loch/sea just 40 yards from the property.

Surrounded by farmland and enjoying lovely views over the countryside, adjacent to a working arable farm Redroofs Barn is in a rural position set in the heart of the beautiful county of Nottinghamshire near to Sherwood Forest, the home of Robin Hood, yet close to the A1 making it an ideal base from which to explore the area and beyond. This delightful barn conversion provides comfortable, well-appointed, and equipped accommodation with contemporary furniture and all the facilities you would expect from a luxury holiday cottage. It’s been lovingly built by the owners to provide a comfortable and unique holiday home large enough for 6 guests yet cosy enough for a couple or solo travellers. On the ground floor the entrance porch leads into the dining room with a large oak table with Eames style chairs and patio doors lead to the gravel garden. There’s a well-equipped kitchen so cooking won’t feel like a chore and the living room has picture windows looking onto open farmland, squashy sofas and occasional chairs, an old farm pine trunk acts as a coffee table, games cupboard, Smart TV, and ornamental wood burner.
On the first floor is a small reading area which makes a great place to chill out, located off the reading area you will find two lovely bedrooms. Both have windows with views over the surrounding countryside.
Redroofs Barn is located on the outskirts of the village of Weston; the nearest pub, shop and takeaway are about a mile away. There are several good pubs serving food within a few miles of the property, many of which welcome dogs. There is walking and beautiful scenery from the door along with wonderful places to visit within easy driving distance.
Newark is only a 10-minute drive, its showground is home to a calendar of events including international antique fairs and dog shows. Newark’s history with the English Civil War is displayed in the Civil War Museum and Castle, and has a variety of shops, eateries, bars, and restaurant. Sherwood Forest is only 20 minutes’ drive, home to Robin Hood and the Major Oak, and the wonderful Robin Hood Festival held each August. For the more energetic, try Sherwood Pines for biking and Go Ape, Adrenalin Jungle Activity Centre climbing adventures are both well worth a visit.
Southwell is a 20 minutes’ drive and is arguably one of the prettiest towns in Nottinghamshire. The Minster is only a stone’s throw from the narrow high street with its beautiful shops and pubs. The town is also renowned for its Bramley Apple heritage and the National Trust’s Workhouse.
The cathedral city of Lincoln is also a 20-minute drive and is home to the Magna Carta Centre, Victorian prison and castle, and is host to a wonderful Christmas market, as well as its own showground which is home to the Lincolnshire County Show each June. Nottingham city is 50 minutes’ drive and has many sporting and theatre venues, and a range of shopping choices.
There are a host of great activities for all the family and will find many places to visit and explore including Sundown Adventureland, Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Wheelgate Park and White Post Farm. Redroofs Barn is also just over an hour from the Lincolnshire coast.
The barn is perfect for nature lovers to relax in the countryside. For pampering then there are day spas within a short drive, and wonderful wedding venues in the area. This is an excellent location for cyclists and walkers and there are a number of 18-hole golf courses within 15 minutes’ drive; horse riding and both river and lake fishing within a 10 minutes’ drive. The A1 is only 3 miles away giving easy access to the surrounding area, and there are main rail links from Newark Northgate or Retford both 10 minutes’ drive. East Midlands Airport and Hull ferry terminal are approximately an hour’s drive. Shop, pub, restaurant and takeaways 1 mile.

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.

24 Steed Close is a comfortable and well-proportioned three bedroom house set in a quiet, residential area of Paignton.

The property is elegantly furnished and is set over two floors, offering spacious accommodation for up to six guests. Externally, the property offers a private furnished garden with a built-in barbecue that’s perfect for al fresco dining.

Paignton town centre is just a short drive away where you will find a myriad of facilities including a large selection of restaurants, cafés, bars and shops, the multiplex cinema, Splashdown Quaywest Waterpark and Torbay Leisure Centre. Other local attractions include Pitch & Putt, Paignton Zoo, boat trips, fishing trips and of course the beach and pier.

The popular seaside town of Torquay is also within easy reach, where you can explore many attractions including Living Coasts Coastal Zoo and the famous Babbacombe Model Village.

These beautifully renovated detached Welsh barns, Bryntowy (ref W43063), Ty Llo (ref W43266) and Coal House (ref W43267), stand a few yards apart, and a small terraced row of three (300 yards from the barns), comprising Wyth-y-Nant (ref W42214) and Hawton (ref W41830), both end terraced properties. All welcome children, and provide a travel cot and highchair; Bryntowy also supplies as baby bath on request. They are all situated on Carmarthen Bay in the coastal setting between Ferryside and Kidwelly. Tastefully decorated throughout, each bursts with character including original stone walls and beams.
Close to the historic castle at Kidwelly and just a short drive to Carmarthen. Beaches at Ferryside, Pembrey and Llanstephan are all within easy driving distance. Enjoy a day at Fos Las racecourse, only a 15-minute drive. The holiday cottages provide an ideal location from which to enjoy the sandy beaches of Pembrokeshire and the Gower, the latter renowned for being Britain’s first AONB. Spend your days exploring the historic town of Laugharne, famously known for the iconic boathouse of Welsh poet Dylan Thomas, and visit the castle and traditional Welsh pubs where fresh fish is always on the menu. Don’t miss a visit to the National Botanical Garden of Wales and Aberglasney Gardens. Golf, riding, fishing and water sports nearby. Shop 2 miles, pub and restaurant ¾ mile.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 32 guests.

Lapwing Rise has four double bedrooms, all en-suite, sleeping eight guest. You also have a fabulous hot tub to relax in. Enjoying wonderful views across the Caledonian Canal to Ben Nevis, the Aonach Mor ski range and Glen Nevis, this bright and spacious detached bungalow is situated on a working croft in one of the most spectacular parts of the Highlands. There is a wealth of activities in the area, including skiing, climbing, hill walking, mountain biking, sailing, fishing and golf. Although rural the property is not isolated; the local shop is 0.75 miles and pub and restaurant are a very short walk away. During the summer the West Highland steam train, as seen in Harry Potter Films, passes close by en route to Mallaig, where ferries depart for Skye and the small isles. Fort William, ‘the outdoor capital of the Highlands’ is just 4 miles away. It boasts a variety of excellent facilities, including swimming pool, and restaurants. The property makes an ideal base for touring the numerous places of interest in the region, including Glencoe, Loch Ness and the beautiful unspoilt Ardnamurchan Peninsula. Shop 0.75 miles, pub and restaurant 500 yards.
Lapwing Rise can be booked together with UK33901 Stepps Cottage (sleeps 8) which is next door.

Set in the heart of the picture postcard harbour village pf Craster and perched on the edge of this stunning coastline with outstanding sea views, Water’s Edge offers excellent holiday accommodation for families or groups of friends. With spectacular views towards Dunstanburgh Castle to the north and the beaches as far as Amble and Coquet Island to the south and panoramic views out to the sea, this detached property offers a sunken sheltered area of garden, making a perfect area for family barbecues whilst listening to the waves crashing below. A stone wall is all that separates the lawn from the yawning and rocky beach. French doors from the two living areas lead straight out to the well maintained gardens should you wish to relax and unwind. Craster village lies halfway along the Heritage Coastal route in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is still famous today for its smoked kippers and seafood. The walk along to Dunstanburgh Castle has featured in the top ten walks in Britain and can be started from your door. Golf available nearby. A fabulous base from which to explore this magnificent county peppered with castles and friendly villages. Shop, pub and restaurant 90 yards.

Set in a quiet residential street, just 200 yards from the beautiful, sandy beach, this detached bungalow enjoys a great position within the sought after village of Mundesley. The property has the benefit of both a conservatory and sun room with doors leading to the patio.
With a great beach, lots of local amenities and great places to eat and drink, you may be tempted to park up and stay within the village, but those looking to explore a little further afield will be spoilt for choice. Nearby Cromer also offers a lovely beach, along with an Edwardian seafront and promenade, a world famous pier offering end of pier shows, a zoo, cinema and a host of other seaside attractions. In fact, coast lovers could travel east or west to discover lots of differing coastal habitats. Head east to Great Yarmouth and all the fun of the fair, or head west to Wells-next-the-Sea and explore the much photographed quay and narrow gauge railway.

Also within easy reach lies the gateway to the famous Norfolk Broads, where you can hire a day launch or join an organised cruise and drift along these peaceful waterways. How lovely to return to Sea La Vie each evening to dream of the next day’s adventures, perhaps in the large gardens or by the wood burner. Beach 200 yards. Shop, pub and restaurant 200 yards.

The Coach House and Coachman’s Cottage are two stunning luxury properties located on a private estate in Sandwich Bay, Kent. The normal admission charge for visitors will be waived for all guests staying here, so you can enjoy the rural beach for as long as you wish. Surrounded by beautiful countryside these properties are adjacent to the owner’s home, on a working farm, which makes them a perfect countryside retreat. Next door is the Sandwich Bay Bird Observatory which can be used to spot many species of birds throughout the year. The Coach House (ref UKC2772) is a large barn conversion which can accommodate up to eight guests; it features Wi-Fi, a wood burner, and a large open plan living area. The spacious enclosed garden is perfect for the summer with seating and a gas barbecue. Coachman’s Cottage (ref UKC2773) is a quaint countryside cottage, accommodating four guests this property also offers Wi-Fi and open plan living, with a small enclosed courtyard with seating and barbecue for the summer months.
Nearby attractions include three championship golf courses, and includes Royal St George’s which will be hosting The Open in 2020. Sandwich Bay boasts a beautiful beach which is within walking distance. Fishing is also available locally. The nearby quiet medieval town of Sandwich has a delightful range of local shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs. The railway station in Sandwich offers a high speed service into London, plus the opportunity to visit France from either Dover or Folkestone with the Eurostar or ferry. These properties are great for family and friends to enjoy a countryside holiday with excellent attractions nearby. Beach ¾ mile. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.
The properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 12 guests.

The Coach House is a superbly equipped barn conversion situated on the edge of the delightful market town of Brampton. This quirky semi-detached property has an upside down layout with the spacious living/kitchen/dining area on the first floor. Everything has been thought of to ensure you have a relaxing stay, from the sumptuous beds with M&S feather pillows and duvet, and luxurious toiletries, to the cosy gas fire and large TV with over 200 DVDs in the sitting room, home from home in every sense of the word. The dining area has a 6-seater oak table as well as a selection of books. In 2018 the property was given a VisitEngland award of excellence. The awards celebrate the very best in English tourism, championing excellence in best practice and customer service. The property is decorated with a Christmas theme during the festive season, and also boasts convenient off road private parking for 2 cars on the drive in front of the barn gate.

Take a stroll into the centre of town and sample the many good restaurants and pubs. A must is a trip to Talkin Tarn Country Park, 2 miles from Brampton with its 65-acre lake set amidst 120 acres of farmland and woodland. The Tarn is an ideal place for recreation or a quiet stroll through the mature woodlands. No stay in Cumbria is complete without visiting Hadrian’s Wall, the most important monument built by the Romans in Britain. It stretches 73 miles from Wallsend, Newcastle across the neck of England to the Solway in north west Cumbria. Within Cumbria are Banks Turret, near Brampton and Birdoswald Roman Fort a few miles away. The Coach House is also an ideal base to explore Carlisle, The Lake District, Northumbria and the Scottish Borders. Shop, pub and restaurant 800 yards.