Dog friendly Cottages England

Set on the owners’ non-working farm in Horbling village, this detached farmhouse, with its own swimming pool and hot tub, lies in the heart of the Fens, an ideal touring base for visiting the area’s wealth of historic attractions. Providing comfortable holiday accommodation for families, it retains many original features, including exposed woodwork, an ornate cornice in the dining room and a traditional farmhouse-style kitchen. There is a second sitting room, well-stocked library and video and DVD collection (including latest releases). There are also five family bathrooms, providing luxury towels for an added touch of comfort. Outside is a large, private, rear lawned garden with apple, pear, plum trees and gooseberries which guests are welcome to pick in season, and a large patio with garden furniture and barbecue. There is also the added bonus of a private hot tub. The fenlands make ideal walking and cycling country, an excellent way to view the landscape with its rich farmlands, huge skies and wonderful sunsets; walks can be enjoyed from the doorstep; facilities can be found nearby for golf, fishing or horse riding. Within easy driving distance are a wealth of interesting places, including the delightful old towns of Uppingham, Oakham and Stamford, full of beautiful stone buildings. On the edge of Stamford stands Burleigh House, one of England’s greatest Elizabethan houses. Nearby Spalding is an attractive, Dutch-influenced town and centre of the flower-bulb industry, where the Springfields show gardens and the annual flower festival in May are popular. Tattershall Castle (NT), Belton House and Coningsby, noted for its huge one-handed church clock, and the home of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. One of the landmarks of the Fens is the octagonal lantern tower of St Botolph’s Church in Boston. Shop and good pub with food ½ mile in Billingborough, or village pub 300 yards.

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.

The former 17th-century coaching inn, The Old Angel, sleeps 18 adults and is situated in the pretty conservation village of Winster. Adjoining another cottage, it offers a wealth of exposed oak beams and floorboards. It also enjoys access to the facilities at Harthill Hall, just 3 miles away with private use (12.30pm – 2.00pm each day) of the indoor heated swimming pool and sauna.
The village shop is almost next door and local inn just up the road.
Moreover, opposite The Old Angel is the famous Market Hall which is run by the National Trust. It makes an ideal holiday base, and is conveniently placed to visit the spa town of Buxton with its opera house. The bustling market town of Bakewell, situated on the River Wye is close by and within easy reach are Matlock and Matlock Bath (complete with Heights of Abraham cable cars), the popular market town of Ashbourne, the plague village of Eyam, Carsington Water with watersports, cycling and birdwatching. National Trust and period properties abound, including Kedleston Hall, Chatsworth House, Hardwick Hall and Haddon Hall. Excellent walking in the Peak District and marked cycle trails. Shops 10 yards.

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.

Huge splendid detached house converted from a barn on a traditional working farm Shared indoor swimming pool, games barn, play area. Farm to wander. Smart and stylish. Halwell 1 mile.

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.

A stunning eco-friendly Georgian manor house overlooking Lake Windermere. Cinema. Eco-friendly. Woodburning stove. Ambleside 10.4 miles; Bowness-on-Windermere 11 miles; Kendal 15.2 miles.