Sitting on a working farm just outside Lealholm in the North York Moors National Park, this beautiful single-storey cottage is surrounded by gorgeous countryside. Sleeping four people over two bedrooms and welcoming one faithful friend, it’s the perfect rural hideaway for small families or groups of friends who want to spend their days discovering the wild beauty of the Yorkshire Moors, and their evenings warming their toes by the wood burner-effect electric fire in the cottage’s cosy lounge.
Step inside and go through the utility room and you’ll find yourself in a welcoming kitchen/lounge/dining room. Take a moment to make yourself at home before heading to the chic kitchen area to rustle up some dinner for your loved ones. Get everyone together at the dining table to eat, or head out the French doors to the patio and dine alfresco. After dinner, put your feet up in front of the wood burner-effect electric fire and watch your favourite movie. When it’s time for bed, you have two lovely bedrooms to choose from.
Lealholm is a peaceful village on a crossing point of the River Esk. Hop aboard the Esk Valley Railway at Lealholm Station (2.5 miles) and enjoy a beautiful 10-mile journey through the magnificent landscape along the River Esk to Whitby. Dogs are welcome. While you’re there, let your pup run free on the small, sheltered beach at Tate Hill Sands – it’s dog-friendly all year round – or climb the famous 199 steps to reach the ruins of Whitby Abbey. Alternatively, make your way to Robin Hood’s Bay (16.5 miles), where there are no dog restrictions at any time of year on the beach. This beach is a big hit with fossil hunters, so while you’re walking the dog, keep your eyes peeled for ammonites and footprints from the Cretaceous and Jurassic periods.