Fido Family Friendly Places

The property is designed with modern living in mind, yet with the cosy comforts you would hope for of a countryside retreat. The beautifully cladded larch exterior opens up to an impressive open plan space, with an interior combining polished concrete and plywood, textured fabrics and pops of muted colour, mixed with a warming wood burner and sumptuous sofa to curl up on after a day of exploring the picturesque North Downs.
Come sundown, retreat to the comfort of the master bedroom, with a kingsize bed, and mezzanine children’s twin tucked away on the first floor, with white cotton bed linen to wrap yourself up in and sink into a deep slumber. Then wake up to a breakfast of fresh eggs from your welcome pack laid by the resident hens.
Beautifully landscaped, shared gardens wait to be explored or simply gazed over whilst having a meal alfresco on your private dining terrace. Tucked away out of sight, the private hot tub awaits, immerse yourself in the bubbles and unwind. Open from May-September (from August during 2022) the beautifully dubbed ’secret garden’ awaits, take a dip in the large shared swimming pool with solar heated cover, fully relax on one of the loungers or on the outdoor sofas with a bar area for keeping your drinks cool, and pool table for a competitive game or two.
A true haven for those who wish to explore on foot, with miles of beautiful countryside surrounding you, the North Downs Way can be reached via footpaths from the door and a choice of locally renowned gastro pubs 2 miles away. Nestled between the historic city of Canterbury, and the coastal towns of Hythe and Folkestone, the coast, countryside and city can easily be explored.
The ideal hideaway for couples, friends or family, with the neighbouring The Old Piggery (M555071) bookable for larger groups to accommodate up to 8 guests.

This is a very special place! Set on the edge of the Suffolk heritage coastline near the ‘secret’ beach of Covehithe, this detached house is surrounded by blue skies, views of fields, woodlands, and nature reserves. The perfect retreat for larger families and groups looking for relaxation, fun and adventures. It is also close to Southwold and has easy access out into the surrounding towns and villages of Suffolk. Within walking distance is the village of Wrentham, with a village shop, pubs and superb café/deli, ideal for getting breakfast.
This country house has spacious accommodation with every care taken to present an exceptional holiday experience. It has large sociable areas, a warm snug with a wood burner for winter cosiness and some downstairs accommodation for those with mobility restrictions. It also has a huge swim-spa and beautiful gardens to enjoy. There is a porch with useful storage leading to the open plan living room, dining area and kitchen. The living area has comfortable seating here for everyone as well as benefitting from a Smart TV and huge bi-fold doors that lead out to the garden and spa. The dining area is complete with dining table and chairs for eleven guests, and the kitchen is equipped with everything you may need to rustle up a homely meal. Downstairs is a snug which can be used as a bedroom (includes mattress topper. wardrobe and blackout curtains) with a Smart TV, and there is also a downstairs bathroom with a big Jacuzzi bath and large rainfall shower. Upstairs are four bedrooms all with wonderful field and woodland views. Outside, make use of the bubbling swim pool/spa with seated jacuzzi area, jets and swim against ’pool’ area, there is a dry ’dome’ to dry off in with towel dryer and warm towels.
When you book will be in touch to help you organise any special requirements such as cocktail mixer to visit, catering including private chef, graze boards, afternoon teas or breakfasts delivered, party decorations or flowers, and bike hire.
Country walks are available all around, and the sea is only a walk or short bike ride away. The Suffolk heritage coastline has fabulous beaches to enjoy. Explore Southwold, a fantastic seaside town with pier, historic lighthouse and high street lined with independent shops and boutiques. RSPB Minsmere and Dunwich heath, offering opportunities for spotting birds and connecting with wildlife, with excellent walks available. For great days out visit Snape Maltings, Framlingham Castle, Halesworth Museum, Yoxford Antiques Centre and Gardens and Easton Farm Park. Vibrant market town of Beccles boasts independent boutiques and chain shops, with an excellent collection of eateries, including fine dining to many cafés serving home-made cakes and savouries to delight many palates. The weekly market is excellent for all things local, and there is an open air heated outdoor swimming pool, popular with many local swimmers and gateway to the Famous Norfolk Broads National Park. Beach 1½ mile. Pub and restaurant ¼ 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.

"Devon’s best kept secret... Just inland from some of Devon’s loveliest and most natural beaches lies the village of Tuckenhay set along Bow Creek on the River Dart...."


In a setting of stunning natural beauty, Mill Bank (ref UK33902) is the latest addition to a superb choice of cottages at Tuckenhay Mill. An extremely spacious two-person cottage having a living, dining, kitchen area on the higher level with two south-facing balconies overlooking the stream towards the Mill. The master bedroom and en-suite shower room are on the lower level, together with the riverside day room. Your own footpath leads from the garden via a footbridge to the facilities at the Mill.
Tuckenhay Mill is the centrepiece of a cluster of country homes and cottages with superb leisure facilities including two indoor and one outdoor pools.
The Mill which once produced some of the finest paper in the land, nestles in the green and shady Bow Creek, a languid inlet of the River Dart where private yachts have replaced the old tall-masted ships and barges. Around the mill are all the buildings which once went to make up a small bustling village port. These listed buildings have been sympathetically restored and converted to a delightful range of holiday properties to suit larger family parties. Awards have been won for the conversion of buildings and the conservation of the area. With so much to do, many holidaymakers return year after year. There is golf nearby and a pub within 1 mile.



South Devon awaits you
Tuckenhay is only a 20-minute drive from the superb award-winning beach at Blackpool Sands and about 30 minutes from a surfing beach at Bantham, as well as some of the best natural beaches to be found anywhere in the UK.
There is also extensive access to the coastal footpath for walking and the wilderness that is Dartmoor for walking, climbing and riding.
This is a mecca for ramblers, bird-watchers, swimmers, surfers, horse riders, golfers and those interested in fishing, boating, sailing and windsurfing.
In addition, there are many historic NT houses to visit including Agatha Christies’s Greenway as well as a local vineyard.
Tuckenhay is only 5 miles inland from Dartmouth and 3 from the market town of Totnes. Village shop 3½ miles. Riverside inn and restaurant within walking distance.



A superb choice of cottages
Great care has been taken to retain the feel of the original buildings. Most have garden, terrace or patio. Many cottages have more than one bathroom and some have an en-suite bathroom to every bedroom. Kitchens are comprehensively equipped: most have dishwashers and all have microwave cookers.
Couples and honeymooners will feel snug and comfortable in the cottages: Mill Leat, Mill Stream, Mill Spring and now Mill Bank. Families can spread out in Papermaker’s or Turbine Cottages, while Mill Lodge, Edgecombe Barn and Tuckenhay Mill House will sleep larger parties in comfort. Of course, combinations of cottages can accommodate bigger gatherings of family or friends.

Tucked away on the site of the Mid Suffolk Light Railway track bed, close to the Mid-Suffolk Light Railway Museum, these delightful and unique holiday properties are based on the railway theme: one a station building plus 5 converted railway carriages, enjoying panoramic views across rolling countryside.

The Station House (ref E5336) is a comfortable detached, three-bedroom station building, typical of the Mid-Suffolk Light Railway. With one double and two twin bedrooms, it can house up to six adults.

Railway Carriage One (ref E5337) is a compact but airy carriage with a living room and kitchen area and sleeps four in comfort. There is a double bedroom and a second sleeping area with two short bunk beds suitable for children.

Railway Carriage Two (ref E5601) is a well-appointed and spacious carriage with two bedrooms, one double, one with two bunk beds, and a further sofa bed in the living area to sleep two. The open plan living area, and an adjoining kitchen, allows families or friends to spread out, relax and enjoy their holiday together.

The Guard’s Van (E5639) offers two comfortable bedrooms for four people, with a double and two single beds. It has a delightful living and dining room with comfortable, upholstered bench seats which retain the original feel of the carriage.

The Italian Carriage (UKC3492) offers accommodation for up to four people. At one end you will find a bunk room, sleeping two people and the other a double bed in the master room. In the centre of the carriage is an open plan seating and kitchen area. The carriage enjoys its own patio and seating area.

Wilby Halt (ref UKC712) is a quirky and unusual property is split over two restored railway carriages. Linked by a railway platform, the first carriage houses the living space including kitchen and comfortable living room. The second carriage is the sleeping carriage where you will find the double bedroom and further room with bunk bed and single bed. This really is a unique experience and perfect for families.

It is surrounded by country lanes and farmland, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy cycling, walking and just relaxing and getting away from it all. It is centrally located, so it is also a great destination for those who want to sample what Suffolk has to offer. The owner’s own swimming pool, ¾ mile away, is available and is heated all year. There is also a hot tub and sauna.
Local amenities can be found in the pretty village of Debenham only 4 miles away, which has some lovely shops, pubs and cafés, as well as a local supermarket and leisure centre. The beautiful village of Mendlesham, 1½ miles, has a pub, post office, local store and bakery. It is within a short walk of the Mid-Suffolk Railway Museum, with steam trains at weekends in summer. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.

These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 29 guests.

Serendipity is a delightful static home and is ideally set on the Goosewood Holiday Park just outside the historic city of York. With its stylish and quirky decoration and furnishing, Serendipity offers families and couples a perfect holiday retreat whilst being ideally located to explore all that beautiful surrounding areas have to offer.
You enter the property into the open plan living area, which is a perfect place to kick back and relax in. The kitchen/dining area has everything you would need which is well presented and fully equipped with plenty of space for food preparation along with a dining table which seats four people giving a great area to have a family meal. There are two bedrooms, the master bedroom offers a plush double and the second with twins both with luxury linen guaranteeing a perfect night’s sleep. The bathroom presents a shower cubicle, heated towel rail, sink and toilet. Outside you have a gorgeous wrap around decking which offers a stunning hot tub, seating area and fantastic views of the spectacular countryside giving you a great place to sit out and relax in the summer months whilst enjoying a glass of fizz. With Serendipity located on the holiday park, you have instant access to the free indoor swimming pool which is open from March - December, fishing lake and a bar and bistro, meaning you don’t even have to leave the site to have a fun filled day.
If you want to go further afield, Goosewood Holiday Park is situated only 9 miles from York city centre, where you can enjoy the many activities York has to offer including York Dungeon, Jorvic Viking Centre, York Railway Museum, Castle Museum, York Minster and of course “The Shambles” to name but a few. Staying at Serendipity enables you to explore the Yorkshire area whether it be fish and chips in Whitby, the traditional seaside town of Scarborough, Flamingo Land theme park or the spa town of Harrogate there is plenty to see and do.

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.

The main house is a unique, Grade II listed, Georgian manor house nestled in 25 acres of Wiltshire countryside. This beautiful detached property features a games room in the basement, a ’secret’ walled garden and well-equipped accommodation for families, friends or couples who enjoy holidaying together, and with 9 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms, this makes the ideal choice. Set in private grounds, this charming house has a modern, eclectic, English country decor theme throughout. For those who prefer ground floor accommodation, there is a double bed in the library, which has an en-suite, with a shower and toilet. This shower room has also been designed as a place for washing down your four-legged friends after country walks. The kitchen centres around an Aga, and has a farmhouse-style table, along with all the facilities needed to enjoy a self-catering holiday. On the first floor, known as the Georgian Wing, there are 5 bedrooms, all with a private bathroom. Two of these have super kingsize, timber beds, two have zip and link super kingsize beds, and the other has 2 single beds with matching trundle beds, sleeping up to 4. This room has use of the bathroom just across the landing, while the other 4 bedrooms have en-suites. The Victorian Wing was originally designed as a nursery and servant’s quarters, which has now been made into a further 4 bedrooms, each with their own en-suite. Each of these rooms consist of a super kingsize zip and link beds, two of which are typically set up as twin beds and two as super kings. Guests can enjoy exclusive use of the grounds, which include a walled ’secret’ garden next to the house. There is also a large lawned area for outdoor dining, sunbathing, reading and relaxing. For those who enjoy a walk, there is a 1.5km woodland path behind the house. To the front of the house, an additional large lawned area can be used for games with the children. For those who may be celebrating a special occasion, or perhaps looking to treat yourself, a private chef can be arranged to cook some or all meals during your stay (by arrangement with owner, at cost). There is also a 1-bedroom annexe called The Nook which is also available on the Henge Estate and can be booked under a separate listing.
If you fancy venturing out, Stonehenge is just over 5 minutes’ away, and Salisbury is just over 20 minutes’. The local village is half a mile away and has a convenience store, a pub serving local ales and a restaurant. There are many places to visit within easy reach including Bath, Marlborough, Winchester, Southampton and Shaftesbury. For those who enjoy history, visit Stonehenge, Woodhenge, Durrington Walls, Avebury Henge and stone circles, Alexander Keiller Museum, Andover Iron Age Museum, and many castles dotted around the area. Longleat Safari and Adventure Park, Paultons Park and Peppa Pig World and Finkley Down Farm are within reach, and for those who enjoy outdoor activity, they can book horse riding, fishing, art, golf, festivals and markets, there is plenty within a short drive. Shop ¾ mile, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

This delightful cottage can be found on the edge of the Peak District in the picturesque village of Cutthorpe, down a private country lane on the owner’s non-working farm of 2 acres. Green Farm is surrounded by fields, woodland, footpaths and bridleways with direct access to the Linacre Reservoirs and Holmebrook Country Park. Tawny Owl Barn is a beautifully converted stone barn, situated over two floors, retaining many original features. The ground floor lays claim to a cosy living room complete with a warming wood burner, leather sofas, exposed stone walls and wooden beams. There is also a fully-equipped kitchen/dining room, a great social space with a large dining table so you can have a home cooked meal with all the family, as well as a single bedroom with an oak sliding barn door. Head upstairs where you will find two en-suite bedrooms with varnished, natural wooden floors, one with a double bed and one with twin beds. Double glazed and centrally heated throughout, this barn is perfect for families and groups all year round.
Outside, there is a fully enclosed private garden with a patio table and chairs, a barbeque and views over open countryside. There is a gate giving access to the fully enclosed hot tub (which is available all year for an additional charge, payable locally). This also includes the supply of additional towels and dressing gowns. We have a one acre paddock to exercise your dog in. Up to two well behaved dogs.
Cutthorpe has two pubs within walking distance that are dog friendly and serve food. It has a pretty village green and benefits from panoramic views over Chesterfield with its famous crooked spire. The village is located on the edge of the Peak District National Park, yet is only 3 miles from The popular market town of Chesterfield. Its perfect location allows you to explore historic houses, walking, cycling and visiting the tourist towns of Bakewell, Matlock, Castleton, Buxton, Eyam and Hathersage. If its stately homes, castles and gardens you would like to visit, the magnificent Chatsworth House is only 10 minutes drive away; the grounds and house will provide a full day out. Within 30 minutes you can also visit Packwood house, Bolsover castle, Renishaw hall, Haddon hall and Hardwick hall.

For those that are more active, there are numerous options varying from local walks from your door, to more adventurous walks in the Peak District. Cyclists are also well catered for with a variety of road and off road tracks and trails. Additionally there is shooting, canoeing, horse riding, go ape, abseiling, climbing, fishing and golf all available nearby. Alternatively you can just relax and enjoy the tranquillity that Green Farm offers. The nearest shop is 2 miles, café 1½ miles, post office, doctors are all available locally.
Tawny Owl Barn (ref 18220) can be booked together with the Old Cow Shed (ref UKC2608) and The Pig Sty (ref W44184) to accommodate up to 11 guests.