Sitting on the southern edge of the North York Moors National Park and with beautiful sandy beaches an easy drive away, East Ayton has honey-coloured cottages and views across the River Derwent to ancient castle ruins, plus pubs and shops. There are walks to suit all abilities to enjoy from your doorstep, including Forge Valley Woods Nature Reserve, home to a variety of wildlife. Venture further afield to RSPB Bempton Cliffs where you can spot seabird colonies whilst enjoying walks along the spectacular cliffs. Busy seaside resorts Scarborough (5 miles) and Filey (10 miles) have a traditional, family-friendly appeal that has attracted generations of visitors. For coastal contrast, stroll through the traffic-free, twisting streets of Robin Hood’s Bay (18 miles), where independent stores, inns, eateries and quaint cottages spill down from the cliff-top to a sandy foreshore. Inland, the vibrant market town of Pickering, 13 miles away, is the starting point for the North York Moors Railway, while Dalby Forest (8.5 miles) is full of natural delight, its 8,000 wildlife-rich acres criss-crossed by walking, running and cycling trails.
A pretty cottage garden sets the scene for romance – park the car then stroll through it towards the porch, pausing to admire the pastoral scenes close-by. Once inside, a hallway leads into a cream-and-white kitchen/diner with plenty of cabinet space plus a country-style table and chairs. A washer/dryer and freezer space are to be found in the outbuildings close by. Everything you need for effortless self-catering is in the kitchen, alongside a utility cupboard and another with space to stow outside gear. In the lounge, an exposed stone wall, ceiling beams, traditional Yorkshire light windows and a deep window seat have timeless appeal. Stretch out on the sofa and unwind with the smart TV, a book or board game for entertainment; a wood burner-effect gas fire adds a warming glow after dark. Stairs from the entrance hallway lead to two dreamy bedrooms. The first – a king-size – has a feature fireplace and old-fashioned washstand, rocking chair and a TV. There’s a TV in the second bedroom too, which has a single bed. Both bedrooms share use of a bright, fully tiled family bathroom.
Artfully planted in a cottage style, the garden is a glorious combination of lawn, flower borders and fruit trees, with gravel pathways, stone walls and countryside views all adding to its romantic charm. Enjoy drinks and nibbles at the outdoor table or take a book to the secluded summerhouse; you don’t have to go far to feel a million miles from the everyday!