Dog friendly Cottages England

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

Dating back to the 18th century, this elegant and spacious, grade II listed farmhouse stands detached, with large lawned gardens and exclusive use of an indoor heatedswimming pool with an outdoor spa tub and indoor sauna. It offers a substantial venue for large families or groups wishing to holiday together. The house boats a well-equipped kitchen, spacious bedrooms and a games room including a table tennis table and table football. It is set amongst rural countryside with a network of quiet lanes offering good walking and cycling from the door. The highly acclaimed Church Farm, Stow Bardolph Rare Breeds Centre, Denver Windmill, sailing club and pay-and-play golf course, Welney Wildfowl Trust, the award-winning Hare Arms pub and Downham Market with its Friday and Saturday markets, are all within easy reach. There is also easy access to the lovely sandy beaches, and RSPB nature and bird reserves along the North Norfolk Coast.

The market town of Downham Market (6 miles) boasts a direct rail link to Ely, Cambridge and London (1hr 20mins). It has a supermarket, shops, restaurants, inns, post office and bank. The medieval town of Kings Lynn (8 miles), complete with handsome waterfront offers an array of good shops, inns, restaurants, theatre, cinema, bowling alley and a sports centre. Both west and north Norfolk have an expanse of sandy beaches and salt marshes along the coastline, as well as nature reserves to protect the birds and plants which thrive here. The coastal road passes through many pretty rural villages, with popular tea rooms serving wonderful local food.

For those who enjoy a visit to the beach whilst on holiday, the seaside resorts of Hunstanton and Heacham boast beaches and an array of traditional seaside activities and attractions for all ages. Hunstanton (22 miles) has a pier with lively seasonal entertainment, Sea Life Centre and cliff-top golf course. Heacham (20 miles) is home to Norfolk Lavender and visitors may participate in guided tours of the expanse of lavender fields to observe the harvesting. Sandringham Estate - the Queen’s country residence, with its Jacobean-style house, museum, superb gardens and park are open to the public when the Royal Family is not in residence.

To the south lies Ely Cathedral, ‘Ship of the Fens’, standing proudly in the small city of Ely. Ely has an excellent Saturday market and a good variety of gift shops, as well as a pretty water front and boat hire. The historic city of Cambridge is easily accessible for the day and well worth a visit. One of the nicest ways to explore the city is by punt, which meanders through the city and passes many of the stunning university grounds. There are also many shops, pubs, restaurants and theatres. Norwich, famous for its cathedral, is also within easy reach, where a visit to the stunning cathedral is not to be missed, as is the famous mustard shop, with many new and old varieties can be purchased. Shops 4 miles, pub 2 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, a children’s living area and a dining room which seats up to 18. There is also an indoor swimming pool and an external games room, making it ideal for family gatherings and celebrations. The old creamery, located in a separate building, 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.

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.

With so much space, The Dower House is ideal for large families and groups of friends wishing to holiday together. It is an impressive and spacious Grade II listed, detached farmhouse with large lawned gardens and its very own hot tub. This well-appointed property offers a games room with a table tennis table and table football, and guests can also enjoy shared use of the owner’s hard tennis court.
The Dower House is set in countryside, with a network of quiet lanes offering good walking and cycling from the door. There is much of interest locally, including the highly acclaimed Church Farm Stow Bardolph Rare Breeds Centre with its petting animals, adventure playground, tea room and shop. Stow Hall Gardens provide an opportunity to walk around beautiful gardens and enjoy tea with homemade cakes, whilst Denver Windmill serves excellent beverages, homemade cakes, and light lunches. There is also a pay and play golf course and Welney Wildfowl Trust wetland paradise brimming with nature. You can also enjoy easy access to the lovely sandy beaches, and RSPB nature and bird reserves along the North Norfolk Coast. The local pub is just 100 yards away.
The market town of Downham Market, 2 miles, has Friday and Saturday markets, a supermarket, shops, bank, restaurants and boasts a direct rail link to Ely, Cambridge and London (in an hour and twenty minutes). The medieval town of Kings Lynn, 10 miles, is complete with handsome waterfront offering an array of good shops, inns, restaurants, a theatre, cinema, bowling alley and a sports centre. Both west and north Norfolk have an expanse of sandy beaches and salt marshes along the coastline, as well as nature reserves to protect the birds and plants which thrive here. The coastal road passes through many pretty rural villages, with popular tea rooms serving wonderful local food.
For those who enjoy a visit to the beach whilst on holiday, Snettisham Beach is the closest at 30 minutes’ drive. Further along the coast road are the traditional seaside resorts of Hunstanton and Heacham, which boast beaches and an array of traditional seaside activities and attractions for all ages. Hunstanton, 24 miles, has a pier with lively seasonal entertainment, a Sea Life Centre and cliff-top golf course. Heacham, 22 miles, is home to Norfolk Lavender and visitors may participate in guided tours of the expanse of lavender fields to observe the harvesting. Sandringham Estate,- the Queen’s country residence, with its Jacobean-style house, museum, superb gardens and park, are open to the public when the Royal Family is not in residence. To the south lies Ely Cathedral, known as the Ship of the Fens. This small city has an excellent Saturday market and a good variety of gift shops, as well as a pretty waterfront and boat hire.
The historic city of Cambridge is easily accessible for the day, and well worth a visit. One of the nicest ways to explore the city is by punt, which meanders through the city and passes many of the stunning university grounds. There are also many shops, pubs, restaurants, and theatres. Norwich, famous for its cathedral, is also within easy reach, and not to be missed. Don’t miss the famous mustard shop there as well, with many new and old varieties of mustard that can be purchased. We are opposie the award winning pub The Hare Arms/ this is a delightful village pub with great food and superb beer, booking is recommended for large groups to eat. Beach 21 miles. Shops 2 miles and pub 100 yards.

Tucked away in their own picturesque valley, this imposing stone farmhouse and three Grade II listed properties Kildale Barn, Ingleby Barn and Westerdale Barn lie on the site of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey in an idyllic setting, where endless footpaths radiate from the door. Accessed by a 2-mile drive, they are set on a working farm where sheep and cattle graze (farm machinery – children must be supervised) within the glorious North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Baysdale Abbey has been furnished and equipped to a very good standard. All rooms are spacious, light and airy with wonderful views of the surrounding countryside. Original wooden floors on the ground level blend with shuttered windows, cornices add decorative touches and open fires in the reception rooms provide a welcoming atmosphere. A large natural garden surrounds the house and is edged by a fenced beck, providing a good habitat for an array of wildlife. Dating back to the 1800s, the other three holiday properties offer character accommodation in a tranquil and idyllic location. Vaulted beamed ceilings and wood-burning stoves add to the charm and character providing a welcoming atmosphere. Offering 3 miles of sandy beaches is the historic port of Whitby with its picturesque harbour and cobbled streets. Here you can board the North Yorkshire Moors Steam Train (Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films) and take a memorable journey through the stunning Esk Valley. Castle Howard, Nunnington Hall, Duncombe Park and Rievaulx Abbey are just a few of the treasures awaiting discovery. The coastal villages of Staithes, Runswick Bay and Sandsend all lie within 23 miles. This is an ideal holiday location at any time of the year. Shop 3 miles, pub 6 miles and restaurant 8 miles.
Westerdale Barn (27944) can be booked together with Baysdale Abbey (27943), Kildale Barn (27945) and Ingleby Barn (27946) to accommodate up to 31 guests.

Welcome to a world of refined elegance and opulent relaxation at the enchanting Grade II listed ten-bedroom manor house near Awre near Newnham-on-Severn in the Royal Forest of Dean. This majestic holiday retreat offers an unparalleled experience, combining historic charm with modern luxury, and spanning across 7-acres of pristine grounds. Approaching the estate, you’ll be captivated by the grandeur of the manor, a testament to timeless architecture and meticulous craftsmanship. The property is embraced by lush gardens, stately trees, and the serene backdrop of the Gloucestershire countryside, inviting you to immerse yourself in nature’s embrace.
Step inside, and you’ll find a haven of sophistication and comfort that caters to your every desire. The manor boasts a spectacular kitchen, equipped with top-of-the-line appliances and ample space for both gourmet creations and casual meals. The dining areas, drenched in natural light, set the stage for lavish feasts and shared memories. Indulgence knows no bounds with not one, but two lavishly appointed lounges. The first, a refined space featuring exquisite furnishings and a fireplace, is an oasis of tranquillity. The second lounge embraces a more casual and convivial ambience, perfect for laughter-filled gatherings and leisurely evenings. For those who appreciate the finer things in life, the bar area beckons, inviting you to toast to special moments and enjoy each other’s company in style.
As you explore the estate, you’ll discover a private heated pool and hot tub, a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Immerse yourself in the soothing waters, basking in the serene atmosphere and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Beyond the manor’s walls, an external kitchen offers an outdoor culinary haven. Fire up the grill, prepare alfresco meals, and dine under the open sky as the sun sets over the sprawling grounds. The majesty of the estate is further revealed in the beautiful grounds that stretch across 7-acres. Stroll through the lawns, meander along pathways, and find solace in quiet corners where you can appreciate the beauty of nature in its purest form.
Awre and Newnham-on-Severn offer a glimpse into local life, while the wider region presents opportunities for outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Whilst staying at The Manor House, why not take advantage of The Manor’s Fine Dining Experience? The grounds’ private chef will create hearty seasonal menus to tantalise the taste buds. For those extra special celebrations, opt for the bespoke al-a-carte menu to wow your party guests and make it an occasion to remember. Please speak directly with your hosts to discuss your requirements and they will be happy to help you. Please note: all caterers must be booked directly through White Birch Events. No external caterers are permitted at the property. With all this, you may never wish to leave the property but if you do then the location is excellent.
The River Severn is a 10-15 minute walk from the property whilst the Forest of Dean offers plenty for the adventurous including mountain biking, zip wires, Go Ape, kayaking and horse riding. There is an abundance of cycle tracks and valley walks where you may even encounter the native wild boar. Alternatively, just relax and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of this rural retreat.