Mark Close Farmhouse, which accommodates 20, is within a 15-20 minute walk from beautiful Alston, with its great pubs, cafés and shops. The town is central in the North Pennines and lies on the borders of Northumberland, Durham and Cumbria, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, referred to as ’England’s last wilderness’, and is also said to be the ’Highest Market Town in England’. The house occupies a fantastic position, central to the Lakes, Yorkshire Dales, Hadrian’s Wall, the Scottish borders and Northumberland’s coast and castles.
The property is set in a large garden bordered by mature trees with panoramic views over green fields and wild fells. In the paddock next door to the Farmhouse, there are five very friendly Alpacas. The area remains unspoiled by large traffic queues or intrusive tourism. The town has a beautiful cobbled street with public houses, mini markets, petrol stations, butchers and bakers.
There is additional accommodation for two adjacent to the Farmhouse - a small fully equipped one bedroom cottage called Mark Close Milking Parlour (ref 25137). Ideal for a couple who would prefer peace and quiet, the Milking Parlour also has a small hot tub suitable for four people at once.
Go for a ride on Alston’s narrow-gauge railway, follow Isaac’s Tea Trail or browse in the excellent gift shops. There’s fishing, riding and golf nearby, as well as Killhope and Nenthead Mining Centres. Follow some of the local ramblers on the Pennine Way. Walk over Crossfell (the highest point in the Pennines) or search for the sources of the four great rivers to which the North Pennines gives rise, the Tyne, the Wear, the Tees and the Eden.
The glorious coast and countryside of Northumberland are within travelling distance as are the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, Hadrian’s Wall and the Scottish Borders. There are water sports at Talkin and Keilder Water. Or perhaps some retail therapy in the Metro Centre Gateshead, which is only an hour away, one of Europe’s largest shopping centres with restaurants, multi-screen cinemas, playland and bowling alley. Alternatively, just stay at home and relax in front of the fire and eat together with family or friends in the farmhouse kitchen

This bungalow has a large surrounding garden area set back from the road. It has superb views of Ingleborough and is centrally situated for the Three Peaks Walk. Comfortably furnished, it has the benefit of an open fire in the living room, making it suitable for year-round holidays. An excellent location for touring, the Dales, Lake District, Morecambe Bay and the small market town of Ingleton with waterfalls and caves are all within an easy drive. Shop 3½ miles, pub 1½ miles.

Last Barn is a beautiful conversion of a traditional Welsh barn, tucked away in rolling countryside within the Pembrokeshire National Park. This detached, secluded property is nestled at the end of a quiet country lane and was once part of Valast Hill Farm which dates to the early 19th century. Last Barn has been carefully restored to a high standard, retaining much of its original character.

Wonderful walks through Bosherton Lily Ponds and to the beaches of Barafundle and Broad Haven (part of the National Trust Stackpole Estate) are a few minutes’ drive away. A mile down a quiet country lane takes you to a permissive pathway across Castlemartin range and on to the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. Here is a stunning section of coastline featuring St Govan’s Chapel (a medieval church built into the cliff face) and, further on, the famous Green Bridge of Wales. Other nearby beaches include Freshwater West, which featured in several films, including Harry Potter, and West Angle Bay. The nearest, award-winning pub is only 2 miles. The historic walled town of Pembroke is 3 miles away and features a magnificent Norman castle, famous as the birthplace of Henry VII. The bustling coastal resort of Tenby is within easy reach and is renowned for its picturesque harbour, narrow cobbled streets and pastel painted Georgian houses. It has a variety of boutique gift shops, traditional pubs, highly acclaimed restaurants, the Oakwood Theme Park and Manor House Wildlife Park (as featured on TV). Or take a boat trip to the historic Caldey Island with its Cistercian monastery and resident monks.

Away from the coast, explore the rolling hills of Preseli and discover its ancient sites dotted along the rugged terrain, or visit the market town of Narbeth, with its antique shops, art galleries and numerous cafés.

On entering Last Barn, two slate steps lead to a farmhouse-style kitchen with a large beamed and vaulted ceiling where you can enjoy dining with the whole family. Glass doors lead to a south facing, private patio and garden where you can relax and enjoy al fresco dining. There is a cosy living room with a traditional wood burner and inglenook fireplace. On the ground floor there is a bunk bedroom, double on the bottom and single on the top, next to a shower room with toilet, refurbished in 2019. There are two wings to the property with separate stairs leading to bedrooms. One half with a kingsize room and the other with another kingsize bedroom next to a twin bedroom above a bathroom with toilet, refurbished in 2019. Making this the perfect property for two families or friends to stay. All rooms with beams and oak wooden floor. There is a secure front and back lawned garden with well-maintained and interesting plants, making it the perfect play area for children and dogs. An outside barn contains a washing machine, table tennis table and darts board. Shops 3 miles, award winning pub/restaurant 1½ miles.

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 three bedroom bungalow is situated within the village of Walkhampton on the western side of Dartmoor, in the county of Devon, an ideal base to explore.
This delightful bungalow is all on one floor with a lovely, enclosed garden which is ideal for children to play and for your four-legged friends.
Located within the Dartmoor National Park, within easy reach of the Tamar Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and just 4 miles from the Drakes Trail cycle path which links Plymouth to Tavistock, this stunning area is ideally suited for visitors who enjoy cycling and walking. The ancient stannary and market town of Tavistock is 6¾ miles away with it’s famous pannier market and an array of independent shops. Beach 17¼ miles. Shop 1¼ miles, pub and restaurant 150 yards.

Nestled down a no through road, this fabulous, detached, five bedroom property has open views of the countryside, and also boasts fishing rights on the river a short walk from the property. Laze on the south facing patio in the private hot tub and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. If you fancy getting away from it all then take a visit to the cinema room with a large sofa, 60" TV, surround sound, an access point for a Playstation 3, DVD player and a convenient drinks fridge. For those looking for some peace and tranquillity, make the most of the Arctic cabin in the garden and toast marshmallows over the fire pit. If you can tear yourself away, then the surrounding area is full of things to do, and lovers of the great outdoors will be spoilt for choice with the rugged Brecon Beacons within easy reach as well as Snowdonia National Park and the Shropshire Hills close by. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.

This very spacious, detached property is the ultimate getaway, with both a games room and an outdoor play area for children. It also has superb living, kitchen and dining areas for the rest of the family. Meadow View is perfect for families coming together, or for large groups needing somewhere to meet as a base and enjoy fun and time together. With the Roanhead Beach just over 3 miles away, and only a short drive into the South Lakes, this is superbly positioned accommodation for any occasion. Equally, you could just remain on site for a relaxing time away, parked behind the electric gates, and enjoy the on-site gymnasium, hot tub and games areas without the need to drive anywhere else. For those bringing infants and toddlers, the property provides ample equipment such as a baby bath with a seat insert for the main bath too, bottle maker, bottle warmer, steriliser, baby bouncer, electronic swing chair, a few toys, highchair, travel cot and a wooden cot which can be placed in any room. Beach 3½ miles. Shop 1 mile, pub ¾ mile and restaurant 1½ miles.