Fido Family Friendly Places

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.

This superb, detached, seven-bedroom, English thatched country cottage is a delightful holiday home which offers many original architectural features in keeping with the character of a period house, such as beams, leaded windows, original inglenook fireplace and thatched roof. Offering spacious, tastefully styled accommodation, this wonderful thatched country home makes an ideal base for families or couples wishing to stay in the New Forest National Park and close to the sea.

With no close neighbours and surrounded by fields on all sides, the property has 4 acres of gardens, with the outdoor heated swimming pool (heated June, July and August) being the focal point of the rear garden, easily reached through two sets of large French doors from the spacious kitchen. There is also a large area for playing ball games, two other large lawns, a double barbecue and outdoor furniture. The owners have a separate annexe adjacent to the property.

The property is located just 3 miles from Lymington and within the New Forest National Park itself, which is a haven for wildlife, with many roaming ponies across the heathland, extensive walking, cycling and riding routes. There is plenty to do in the area for all ages, all year round. The popular sailing town of Lymington is only a 5-minute drive, with its pretty harbour, cobbled pedestrianised streets, boutiques, eateries, pubs and day trips to Isle of Wight by ferry. Other places of interest include Beaulieu Motor Museum, Bucklers Hard, Marwell Zoo, Peppa Pig at Paultons Park, New Forest Owl and Otter Park and Southampton, to name but a few. The property is also within easy reach of many beaches, including Mudeford, Sandbanks, Poole and Bournemouth, the nearest beach being less than two miles away. There is a local convenience shop a 2-minute drive away (800 yards) and a local pub and restaurant within walking distance (600 yards).

The owners have an annex in the grounds where they often stay, one end of which is just a few yards away from Silverland’s back door, but they have their own entrance, drive, car park and garden, all separate to Silverland. All the windows and doors of the annex are double glazed, kept closed and have blackout blinds and curtains drawn to ensure your privacy. Unless you need the owner’s assistance for anything, you will not see them from arrival to departure, but they are happy to help if necessary - the choice is yours.

A grand seven-bedroom cottage resting in Northiam near Peasmarsh, East Sussex. Private paddock. Indoor heated swimming pool. Pet-friendly. Within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Close to amenities. Rye 8.1 miles; Hastings 12.9 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.

Wash Farm Holiday Barns are situated in a wonderful peaceful location, having shared use of the welcoming indoor heated swimming pool. They are nestled beside the award winning Banham Zoo, a 50 acre zoo, renowned for its excellence in animal care and conservation.

There are many prescribed footpaths from the doorstep, so be sure to bring your walking boots to explore and admire the Norfolk countryside. In the adjoining paddocks there are several iconic East Anglian Suffolk Punch heavy horses to be found, the oldest and rarest of the UK breeds. Please do ask if you wish to meet them. Within the grounds is the indoor heated swimming pool and is freely available for use by our guests. Please remember to bring your swimming pool towels. The water is maintained at a very comfortable temperature and is heated by an environmentally friendly ground source heat pump.

Granary Barn (UKC5405) is a delightful, romantic haven for a couple’s getaway and offers charm and character with a high standard of comfort. The living room has oak floors and opens onto its private south facing terrace, ideal for al fresco breakfasts and intimate evening repasts, and overlooking the mature gardens. The bedroom with en-suite facilities is reached via a spiral staircase, has a high pitched ceiling and a glazed gable wall with French doors and Juliette balcony, which provides elevated views of the garden and paddocks beyond.

The original hay barn has been re-built to create Cedar Barn (ref UKC5406). It has the added advantage of a mezzanine bedroom above, overlooking the extensive well-furnished living area. An open-plan kitchen adjoins the living area with high ceiling and exposed beams. The hallway leads to a well-appointed shower room. Ideal for two, Cedar Barn also lends itself to accommodate a young family making use of the additional sofa bed in the living area. This is a dog-friendly holiday barn accommodating up to two dogs.

New Buckenham has approximately 98 acres of common under the custodianship of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, providing a network of countryside walks. Bustling Wymondham offers lots of great places where you can eat and shop. Visit picturesque Wymondham Abbey, a magnificent Norman church established in 1107 as part of a monastic foundation. Shopaholics will delight with the medieval city of Norwich, 35 minutes’ drive, with two indoor shopping malls, boutiques, a market square, the finest standing example of a Norman castle in the UK, a magnificent Norman cathedral, museums, theatres, art galleries and plenty of eateries.

The surrounding countryside provides endless opportunities for cycling and walking. For a change of pace, head to Thetford Forest and High Lodge recreational site with walks, cycle trails, more challenging mountain bike trails and Go Ape treetop adventures. In just 40 minutes is Wroxham, known as the capital of the Norfolk Broads. Charter a day boat, a kayak or a paddle board, or simply join an organised river tour. Southwold is 35 miles away for a day at the seaside, with a Victorian pier, or even a spot of crabbing at Walberswick. The North Norfolk coast is an hour’s drive to explore many marvellous sandy beaches, the RSPB nature reserves and marshes. Visit seaside towns of Sheringham, Cromer and Great Yarmouth, offering traditional family attractions and glorious beaches. In the surrounding area are several National Trust properties, excellent museums, birdwatching activities, golf and fishing. Shop and pub ½ mile. These properties can be booked together to accommodate upto 6 guests.

Scarning Dale House is an elegant property occupying a peaceful and relaxing setting set amidst 25 acres of landscaped gardens with waterfall and pond, meadow and woodland with lake. Each of the holiday cottages is separately set within the grounds, although Lodge Cottage (B6008) is an annexe attached to The Lodge (B4013). Each has its own garden and seating area, ideal for couples and families alike. The grounds are abundant with nature and wildlife, with designated trails and pathways leading through meadow and woodland, offering excellent walking and bird watching opportunities direct from doorstep. Guests can enjoy a swim in the indoor heated swimming pool (by arrangement), table tennis and snooker room. Within easy reach of the magnificent North Norfolk coastline for wealth of sandy beaches, nature and RSPB reserves. The famous Norfolk Broads are within 40 minutes drive, with riverside restaurants, cafes, shops, daily boat hire and river trips available to explore the expanse of waterways abundant with bird and wildlife, with many picnic opportunities along waterside. Market town of East Dereham, 2½ miles, has weekly street market, shops, restaurants, cinema, swimming pool and golf course. Gressenhall Rural Life Museum and Union Farm, 3 miles, offers an interesting day out. Thetford Forrest Park with miles of walking and cycle trails to explore and ’Go-Ape’ adventure playground and assault course, 20 miles. Many places of interest and historical houses and sites surround the area, Houghton and Holkham Hall, the Royal Sandringham Estate and museum, Walsingham Shrine and Abbey ruins and Castle Acre and Priory ruins. Traditional seaside resort of Hunstanton, Wells Next The Sea, Sheringham and Cromer offer an array of attractions for all ages. Coastal Path and Peddars Way offer excellent walking and cycling opportunities. Great Witchingham Wildlife Park and Falconry and Dinosaur Park at Lenwade, approximately 12 miles.

Fabulously appointed over three floors, with a bathroom, 3 double bedrooms on the ground floor. The master bedroom suite has en-suite facilities, great for long soaks in the tub. Two of the bedrooms also have direct access to the lower terrace on the water’s edge, wonderfully relaxing at sunrise with a silky Nespresso. On the first floor you will find the utility room and the open plan social hub of the house. Bright, fresh, and inviting, it features impressive high ceilings and floor to ceiling windows that flood light throughout. The kitchen is well kitted out with everything you need, including an air fryer, for those days when you would rather kick back and relax with friends and family. The kids will love writing up the menu on the two giant chalk boards, and drawing pictures of the wildlife outside! When it’s time to dine, grab a bottle or two from your wine fridge and dine with the backdrop of the lakes. Should you want to make the most of your time with friends and family, why not call in the culinary help of a personal chef (at cost) from the Ballyhoo restaurant, to create a menu and serve you tastylicious plates whilst your pop the bubbles, chink the glasses and get competitive with the board games. Magnificent doors lead onto a raised terrace complete with rattan furniture. Be sure to grab the binoculars for a spot of lakeside wildlife spotting. On the third floor you will find a mezzanine bedroom, which is the ultimate den and sleeping space. All sleeping quarters offer guests fluffy bath towels, quality Egyptian linens and comfy beds.

In addition to the house facilities, guests can experience and enjoy the estate’s ArtSpa. Revive and indulge with indoor and outdoor heated pools, eco-pool, sauna, steam room, gym and treatments by arrangement. On the estate is a tennis court, nature trails, cycle tracks, playground, lake equipment hire and restaurant with farm shop for stocking up yummy produce. On-site are a pub and restaurant, and a shop for essentials (seasonal). A firm favourite with old and young is paddling across the lagoon to spot nocturnal beavers and otters on the Sunset Adventure Safari, rounded off with toasting marshmallows on the fire, total bliss!

Beyond your trendy retreat and within easy reach are many villages and towns such as Cirencester, Bath, Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water, Broadway and Cheltenham. The Cotswold Water Park just along the lane also offers a host of activities including water skiing, cable skiing, archery, shooting, paintballing, golf, aerial adventure, angling, horse riding, sailing, canoeing and rally driving. Cycle tracks, nature trails and fishing are all available locally. However you choose to spend your time at your stylish abode, whether it is kayaking the lake, jumping in and making a splash, relaxing with a good book, or simply spending that all important quality time making memories with friends and family Firecrest will certainly not disappoint.

Awarded the 2023 Customer Choice Award.2018 European Holiday Home of the Year Finalist.
Moorecroft is a spacious, open-plan, contemporary property with a large indoor swimming pool, a 7ft cinema screen with Sky Sports, and a games room. The property is decorated and furnished to a high standard with many quirky features. It is powered by OVO green energy. Cavendish Golf Club is 5 minutes’ walk from the house, and a walk from the front door into the hills or a stroll into the heart of Buxton takes less than 10 minutes. Buxton has much to offer including its spectacular Pavilion Gardens, the amazing Devonshire Dome with its Victorian spa, the opera house, as well as unique shops and restaurants to cater for all tastes. Guests may like to arrange a visit to coincide with a show at the Buxton Opera House which is a fantastic venue for all sorts of shows. Comedians such as Alan Carr, Shaun Lock and John Richardson have all made appearances, as well as music from Russell Watson, The Buzzcocks, Bellowhead and Heaven 17. Tribute bands to Pink Floyd, Abba and Queen have also featured, as well as many plays, operas and children’s shows. There is an abundance of places to visit from stately homes such as Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall, together with many great villages to visit. The adventure park of Alton Towers is worth a visit, or enjoy visiting caverns, cycling along trails, golf at Buxton or stride out on one of the numerous walks. Shop and pubs 440 yards and restaurant 110 yards.

Newly decorated for 2024, New Inn House has been furnished with very good quality fitted bathrooms and high pressure showers with underfloor heating, and occupies a quiet, rural location. This spacious holiday property commands uninterrupted views over the surrounding countryside towards the Cotswolds Hills and stands adjoining the owners’ home in grounds of nearly 5 acres. Comfortable, it is well equipped with grounds comprising extensive terracing, south-facing sitting-out areas, and exclusive use of an all-weather hard tennis court and an outdoor heated swimming pool, as well as a full-size pool table and children’s play area with 14ft trampoline, swings and a slide.
Perfectly placed for exploring the Cotswolds and its many delights and family attractions, it is within easy reach of Stratford-upon-Avon. A town brimming with half-timbered buildings, there are many interesting sights associated with Shakespeare to be seen; the Holy Trinity Church, and the Bard’s last resting place, Guild Chapel, Hall’s Croft and New Place all make for interesting visits, as does Royal Shakespeare Theatre and the adjoining Swan Theatre. New Inn House is also ideal for visiting Broadway, Cheltenham, and the Gustav Holst Museum, Evesham – reputedly Lady Godiva’s site of burial, and Tewkesbury.
In addition to the many historic Cotswold villages and towns, the surrounding countryside is excellent terrain for walking; a climb to the summit of the Worcestershire Beacons affords marvellous views of lush green Hereford and the flat expanses of the Severn Valley. Golf 4 miles. Superb fishing in Evesham. Two pubs within walking distance. Shop ½ mile.

This fabulous house is located in a development of stunning, contemporary homes, situated in a private 450-acre natural reserve. The gated and managed estate comprises woodland and meadows crossed by three rivers and surrounded by serene lakes. The property boasts a decked garden with regular sightings of coots, moorhens and swans. Guests can also enjoy the facilities at the estate’s ArtSpa (free use with ArtSpa passes), comprising indoor and outdoor heated pools (66ft 7in), eco-pool, sauna, steam room, gym, hard tennis court, nature trails, cycle tracks and treatments by arrangement. The Cotswolds Water Park offers a host of other activities and is part of an internationally famous nature reserve where a large variety of wildlife can be observed in total tranquillity. Other areas cater for water sports including sailing, jet skiing and fishing. The wonderful countryside of the Cotswolds surrounds the water park, and attractions such as Bath, Oxford, Cirencester and Cheltenham are all within easy reach. Shop, pub and restaurant ½ mile.