Fido Family Friendly Places

This impressive, detached house stands proudly in two acres of land, which is divided into formal garden and woodland. Furnished to a very good standard by its owner, it creates a relaxing and stylish environment, and with its indoor heated swimming pool, hot tub and sauna, it is a perfect holiday location for family celebrations or a get together, whatever the season. Sandalls Marsh is ideally situated for exploring Norfolk and Suffolk. The historical market towns of Diss, Loddon and Wymondham are well worth a visit, as is the unspoilt North Norfolk Coast, with its pretty coastal villages and glorious beaches. Alternatively, spend a day enjoying the famous Norfolk Broads. Children will love BeWILDerwood, the treetop adventure park. The Suffolk Heritage Coast and the popular seaside towns of Southwold and Lowestoft are less than 30 miles away. The historical city of Norwich is just 6 miles away, with its cathedrals, museums, theatre, excellent shopping and cosmopolitan cafés. Thetford Forest is only 10 miles for adventure walking and cycle routes. Golf and walking are available locally. Beach 25 miles. Shop 3 miles, pub ¼ mile.

Set in the owners’ 7-acres of grounds and surrounded by farmland, these two detached barn conversions stand adjacent to one another. The Old Stables has its own enclosed garden, and its own private hot tub, with delightful open countryside views and has been well-furnished to provide a perfect holiday home at any time of year. Burfields Barn has en-suite bathrooms to all bedrooms, a wealth of exposed beams and the wood burner in the open-plan living/dining room/kitchen ensures a warm welcome all year round. Burfields Barn also benefits from a private indoor heated pool and games room. Outside, there is a large enclosed courtyard for al fresco dining and shared use of 7-acres of grounds for guests to enjoy. Catering is also available by prior arrangement with the owner.

The properties provide an excellent base for walking, cycling or bird watching, but are conveniently situated to explore the delightful market towns and villages of Suffolk. Stowmarket, 10 miles, is home to the Museum of East Anglian Life, has a wide range of shops and restaurants and direct train links to London Liverpool Street Station. Bury St Edmunds with its cathedral, abbey grounds and Georgian theatre, the market town of Diss and the county towns of Ipswich, Norwich and Colchester are all within easy reach. Slightly further afield are the unspoilt delights of the Suffolk Heritage Coast, including Aldeburgh, Dunwich, Walberswick, Southwold and the ancient burial ground at Sutton Hoo (National Trust). Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles. Burfields Barn (ref 29880) and The Old Stables (ref W44247) can be booked together to accommodate up to 15 guests. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.

Alexander House is striking. It’s a large property set in a prominent position overlooking Gleneagles and the Perthshire Hills. The house is split into two wings for self-catering holidays. The East Wing is the larger of the two halves of the house and offers a very high standard of accommodation. It’s luxurious throughout and presents a truly special holiday opportunity. It is very comfortable for eight people but caters for up to thirteen. The East Wing is split over three floors, with six bedrooms and five bathrooms.
You enter the East Wing on the ground floor and arrive at the magnificent dining hall which hosts a beautiful circular table ideal for special occasions. The staircase to the first floor leads up from the dining hall, but first, you’re drawn through to more of the ground floor. The inviting drawing room lures you in with its muted reds and green velvets. It’s a spacious room with a large open fire. It also has a cards table and a games cupboard. It’s a space you will want to spend a lot of time in.
Beyond the drawing room is another fantastic space, a huge double-aspect open-plan kitchen, living and dining room. For more relaxed meals it’s here you’ll want to eat because there’s a huge scrubbed pine table. The living space is very comfortable and where the 50” TV is found. The kitchen has everything you’ll want to cook up a storm for relaxed fare or special suppers. The truly special element of this room though is the light coming in from the south-facing courtyard on one side and the expansive views to the north on the other. The design of the room is sublime.
Back to the staircase and up to the first floor you go. This floor is dedicated to sleeping quarters. There are four en-suite bedrooms. A huge kingsize master suite with a lovely large bathroom hosting a freestanding bath. Another kingsize double room with a sleigh bed. And two zip-and-link twin/double rooms. Up again to the second floor and there are two further bedrooms. A twin room and a triple room. There’s also a family bathroom as well as an extra seating area on the landing with a TV. Back down to the ground floor, access to the courtyard from the drawing room and open-plan kitchen, living and dining room. The courtyard is a special space because it’s very sheltered, surprisingly warm and has a heated swimming pool and a hot tub. The rest of the grounds are shared with those in the West Wing which makes up the other half of the spectacular Alexander House.
It’s a spectacular property albeit with a slightly characterful layout. It offers luxury throughout and would make an ideal base for a family exploring this historic part of Scotland. It will also be a fine choice for those looking to golf at nearby Gleneagles and other quality courses in the area. There are also several estates in the area that offer field sports. And for those that simply like to go for a walk or ride their bicycles, you’ll be spoilt for choice of routes.
Located close to the popular town of Aucterarder, minutes from the world-famous Gleneagles, and the charming town of Crieff all nestled in the heart of Scotland’s stunning countryside, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and luxurious amenities. Aucterarder, often affectionately called "Auchter," is a picturesque town brimming with character. Its historic high street is lined with quaint shops, cafes, and traditional Scottish architecture.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 28 guests.

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.

Town Mills is a historic, Grade II listed former Mill and Manor House situated on the banks of the River Torridge on the outskirts of Great Torrington in North Devon. Built by Lord Rolle in 1823 and made famous as ‘Tarka’s Mill’ in Henry Williamson’s book ‘Tarka The Otter’, Town Mills started life as a Grain Mill and a Saw Mill, both mills being powered by waterwheels. Now, almost 200 years later, Town Mills has been sympathetically converted into seven well-appointed holiday cottages all with their own charm and personality.
From a cosy holiday cottage that sleeps three people, to a larger six-bedroom holiday cottage that sleeps twelve, every cottage benefits from character and charm combined with modern convenience. Located in the beautiful North Devon countryside, Town Mills is ideally situated for visiting the North Devon Coast, Exmoor, travelling The Tarka Trail, or visiting our next-door neighbour, the RHS Gardens at Rosemoor.
Tarka is our largest three-storey cottage which sleeps 12. It was originally the Grain Mill at Town Mills and has the Waterwheel on the side. You enter Tarka from the main garden side of Town Mills, entering into a large open plan living/dining area complete with large Smart TV. The well-equipped kitchen, including a double toaster, an extra small fridge for drinks and high quality cooking pans/knives/utentsils is also on the ground floor, and windows to the rear of the cottage look out over the riverside garden/play area and across the river to the fields beyond. On each of the first and second floors is a double bedroom with en-suite shower room. There are also two twin rooms and a separate bathroom with toilet and wash basin. Please note the ceiling height is low on the second floor.
On-site, there is a indoor shared swimming pool which is kept warm between 31-32 degrees, so is suitable for even the smallest guests. The owners offer the opportunity to reserve the pool for your exclusive use, allowing you the chance for a session of family fun, or a quiet moment to relax. There is a games room with a free pool table and a classic table football, along with a dart board and fruit machine. Located by the riverside, but securely fenced, the children’s play area offers picnic bench seating with swings, slide and climbing frame, as well as an elevated playhouse, its the ideal spot to spend a lazy afternoon with a picnic whilst trying to spot an otter or some of the other many local wildlife visitors. For younger guests, there is a kids hideaway where they can escape to. On the opposite side of the Mill there is a garden where you can enjoy a few moments, maybe have a picnic or watch the peacocks as they wander around.
The countryside around Town Mills is dotted with sleepy villages nestled among the hills, while extensive woodlands, traversed by many footpaths, offer the chance to experience the area’s natural beauty. Local attractions include the renowned RHS gardens at Rosemoor (adjacent) and Dartington Crystal, offering a factory tour and visitor centre. Great Torrington is only a mile away with good shopping and amenities, and there is golf at nearby Hartland. Town Mills adjoins Torrington Common which extends to 365 acres, incorporating 20 miles of footpaths. The common is a haven for wildlife. The ‘Big Sheep’ and ‘Milky Way’ theme parks are each less than 10 miles away.
The River Torridge runs downstream to the ancient port of Bideford, still with a working quay offering boat trips to Lundy Island. Just around the corner is the attractive little town of Appledore with its colourful houses and narrow streets. To either side lies Devon’s most spectacular stretch of coastal scenery – a chain of magnificent cliffs and rocky promontories, interspersed here and there by long flat sandy beaches, where the Atlantic breakers roll in to create ideal surfing conditions. There are splendid beaches at Instow and Westward Ho!, the latter bordered by the Royal North Devon Golf Club, and the Northam Nature Reserve. Further west is the supremely picturesque Clovelly, with narrow, cobbled main street descending at a dizzying gradient to the little harbour below. The cathedral city of Exeter can be reached via a delightful drive through lush river valleys.
Town Mills offers very attractive accommodation set in 3 acres of beautiful gardens with streams, waterfalls and the water wheel which is still operational. This superb location makes a wonderful holiday base, especially for families, with sandy beaches on the North Devon coast only 10 miles away. Shop ½ mile.

Sherrill Farm Holiday Cottages is a complex of 13 delightful self catering cottages (refs UKC1427 to UKC1439), converted from the original 300 year old barns and farmhouse set within 16 acres of Devon farmland. Clustered around the central courtyard, the properties retain many original features and are charmingly furnished and decorated, with well-equipped kitchens. (Some properties are adjoining, whilst others occupy either the ground floor or the first floor of the same cottage). Located near Dartmoor and midway between Tavistock and Launceston on the Devon/Cornwall border, in wonderful rolling countryside.

Approached by its own private driveway, Sherrill Farm is a perfect spot to relax and unwind or to use as a base for exploring north and south Devon, and Cornwall.

This farm complex is a superb place for the entire family, and all guests have use of the large indoor heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, gymnasium, bowling alley and games room. This leisure complex is open daily until 9pm. After an energetic swim you can step out onto the surrounding sun terrace and enjoy the stunning south-facing views, whilst the children keep themselves entertained in their own play area. There is also an all-weather tennis court available and rackets can be hired on site; a picnic area and a summerhouse along the banks of the ponds. This really is a beautiful area offering perfect family accommodation, peace and tranquillity.

There are three ponds within the grounds, one has been especially created to encourage wildlife and is set in beautiful surroundings. The other 2 ponds have been stocked with fish for those wishing to try their hand at this relaxing pastime (rods can be hired on site). Many bird species can be seen in the area as it is so quiet here and foxes and badgers are often seen on a summer’s evening.

A short drive away is the beautiful Tamar Valley dividing Devon and Cornwall, with picturesque and historical riverside villages including Morewellham. Within minutes you can be venturing out onto the Dartmoor National Park with over 250,000 acres of wild rugged open moorland, a haven for hikers or dog walkers. There are many exciting places to visit including Morwellham Quay and the National Trust properties of Cotehele, Buckland Abbey and Lydford Gorge with its White Lady Waterfall.

The historic market town of Tavistock is just 6 miles away and is a popular town with indoor pannier market and local shops selling locally produced foods. Horse riding is also available locally, as is trout fishing. Why not try canoeing on the River Tamar, or perhaps cycling on the Plym Valley track? The north and south coasts of both Devon and Cornwall are within easy reach by car and offer an amazing choice of splendid sandy beaches, a variety of water sports, cliff top walks, swimming, surfing and other seaside activities. The owners can also recommend local caterers, and guests can contact Lifton Farm Shop to organise a hog roast. Beach 20 miles. Shop 4½ miles, pub 1 mile and restaurant 1¼ miles.

’Spacious, fully refurbished throughout, well-equipped cottages...with an idyllic rural setting amidst a chorus of wildlife’

Conveniently located for Longleat, Bath and the Mendip Hills and Gorges, Moorleaze nestles on the border of Somerset with Dorset and Wiltshire. Enjoying a tranquil setting with stunning views all around, it provides the perfect retreat at any time of year. Built from local stone and boasting every modern convenience, the cottages offer spacious and superbly fitted accommodation, presented to 5 Star standards. The 40-acre grounds include farmland, woodland, orchard and two lakes, whilst the glorious views encompass fields and gently wooded hills. A haven for wildlife, deer and hares abound, often coming within yards of the cottages. Buzzards, kestrels, tawny and barn owls, pheasants, swallows and many other species nest here. The lower lake is stocked with carp, tame enough to feed from guests’ hands - so no fishing! The idyllic village of Witham Friary, complete with an unspoiled pub and children’s playground is a few minutes’ stroll and found fame as the setting for the TV series Building the Dream.
Benefiting from its countryside setting, Moorleaze also affords easy access all year round and is within a short driving distance of many famous locations. Longleat is close by, as are Wookey Hole and the Yeovilton Aircraft and Haynes Motor Museums. Bath, designated a World Heritage Site, boasts many delights including the Roman Baths. Nearby Frome has even more listed buildings than Bath and hosts a renowned arts and music festival in early July. Salisbury, Wells, Glastonbury, Stonehenge and Avebury are also popular places to visit from Moorleaze. NT properties include the incomparable Stourhead, just minutes away. Walkers are spoilt for choice, from the local countryside to the splendour of the Mendips, including Cheddar Gorge. With its magnificent indoor pool, games room, tennis court, climbing frame and idyllic setting, The Sunday Times described Moorleaze as
’a sure-fire child pleaser’, and it’s just as popular with adults, an ideal break at any time of the year. The village pub is within walking distance. Shops 6 miles.

Hewas Water House is perfect for family gatherings, nestled in a relaxing and tranquil setting. This delightful detached and spacious house has a modern design and comfortably sleeps up to ten guests. Perfect for relaxing around the pool or exploring the south coast of Cornwall and all it has to offer.
The town of St Austell is just an 8-minute drive away where you will find local shops, cinema and a choice of restaurants and pubs. The cathedral city of Truro is just a 20-minute drive away, offering a wider selection of amenities. Mevagissey is an ancient fishing village that offers local galleries, craft shops and fresh seafood restaurants. There are many beautiful gardens including the Lost Gardens of Heligan, the world-famous Eden Project and Caerhays Castle and Garden, all nearby. The historic port of Charlestown, one of the settings of TV’s drama ’Poldark’, is nearby as is the Roseland Peninsula. Porthpean and Pentewan Sands are the closest beaches, however there are beaches galore along the south coast. Also available at the village of Pentewan is an off-road cycle and walking trail that leads to the town centre of St Austell. Horse riding, canoeing, boat trips and walking are all catered for locally. There really is no shortage of things to do in this impressive part of Cornwall. Beach 5½ miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1¼ miles.

Bowlees Holiday Cottages are nestled on a hillside in the heart of County Durham, located a mile from the idyllic conservation village of Wolsingham in the Durham Dales. Raby Cottage (ref 27764), Durham Cottage (ref 27765) and Heartwell Cottage (ref UKC1473) are delightful, semi-detached properties. The Farmhouse (ref UKC3218) is detached and boasts everything a large party could ask for. Furnished to a very good standard, The Farmhouse is spacious, light and has ample facilities for up to 16 guests. There is a family suite on the ground floor which has curved walls and a high ceiling, and was previously a gin gang. There is a further suite on the first floor which has a galleried en-suite boasting a huge bath and equally impressive shower area. With a private hot tub, large lawned garden and views across the owner’s unspoilt grounds, which cover nearly 60 acres, guests may never want to leave. These holiday properties are absolutely perfect for families, walkers, cyclists and groups of friends wanting to enjoy a super holiday together. Additionally there is an on-site facility (open 9am-9pm) with games room with full-size snooker table, a heated indoor swimming pool and a shared hot tub. There is also a fishing lake that can be used by guests. Whether you choose to take in the scenic countryside that County Durham has to offer, or are looking for a quieter retreat, this is an ideal holiday base.

For guests who enjoy exploring the local area on foot or by bike, there are numerous established public footpaths and cycle paths that lead directly from the owner’s grounds. These paths go through some of the most scenic woodland and unspoilt countryside in the county. Just minutes away are Tunstall Reservoir and Hamsterley Forest, with bike riding, horse riding and many other activities available. Kilhope Lead Mining Centre and Beamish Museum are close by, as is a real snow ski lift.

Located around 30 minutes from the historic city of Durham with its World Heritage site status, cathedral and castle, guests really must take a day trip there to explore and enjoy all of the historic attractions, as well as indulging in a spot of well-earned retail therapy in one of the many boutiques. Alternatively, visitors can treat themselves to afternoon tea in one of the numerous cafés, restaurants and bistros. The National Railway Museum at Shildon, High Force Waterfall, the Metro Centre, Newcastle Airport, Durham Tees Valley Airport, Diggerland and Newcastle city centre, with its cultural attractions, are all within easy reach. Visit Hadrian’s Wall, Lake District National Park and the beautiful north east coastline. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles. These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 43 guests.

Bowlees Holiday Cottages are nestled on a hillside in the heart of County Durham, located a mile from the idyllic conservation village of Wolsingham in the Durham Dales. Raby Cottage (ref 27764), Durham Cottage (ref 27765) and Heartwell Cottage (ref UKC1473) are delightful, semi-detached properties. The Farmhouse (ref UKC3218) is detached and boasts everything a large party could ask for. Furnished to a very good standard, The Farmhouse is spacious, light and has ample facilities for up to 16 guests. There is a family suite on the ground floor which has curved walls and a high ceiling, and was previously a gin gang. There is a further suite on the first floor which has a galleried en-suite boasting a huge bath and equally impressive shower area. With a private hot tub, large lawned garden and views across the owner’s unspoilt grounds, which cover nearly 60 acres, guests may never want to leave. These holiday properties are absolutely perfect for families, walkers, cyclists and groups of friends wanting to enjoy a super holiday together. Additionally there is an on-site facility (open 9am-9pm) with games room with full-size snooker table, a heated indoor swimming pool and a shared hot tub. There is also a fishing lake that can be used by guests. Whether you choose to take in the scenic countryside that County Durham has to offer, or are looking for a quieter retreat, this is an ideal holiday base.

For guests who enjoy exploring the local area on foot or by bike, there are numerous established public footpaths and cycle paths that lead directly from the owner’s grounds. These paths go through some of the most scenic woodland and unspoilt countryside in the county. Just minutes away are Tunstall Reservoir and Hamsterley Forest, with bike riding, horse riding and many other activities available. Kilhope Lead Mining Centre and Beamish Museum are close by, as is a real snow ski lift.

Located around 30 minutes from the historic city of Durham with its World Heritage site status, cathedral and castle, guests really must take a day trip there to explore and enjoy all of the historic attractions, as well as indulging in a spot of well-earned retail therapy in one of the many boutiques. Alternatively, visitors can treat themselves to afternoon tea in one of the numerous cafés, restaurants and bistros. The National Railway Museum at Shildon, High Force Waterfall, the Metro Centre, Newcastle Airport, Durham Tees Valley Airport, Diggerland and Newcastle city centre, with its cultural attractions, are all within easy reach. Visit Hadrian’s Wall, Lake District National Park and the beautiful north east coastline. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles. These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 43 guests.