This quaint stone cottage makes a fabulous base for a small family, one couple – or two – to visit North Yorkshire and discover the wild wonders of the North York Moors National Park. Ideal for the great outdoors, this charming property ticks every box – even allowing canine chums to join you, making it a holiday to remember. Helmsley itself is a stunning town offering eateries and shops. It’s popular with visitors, thanks to its historic stone buildings including the medieval castle ruins (0.5 miles). Perfect for a leisurely mooch.
The entrance to this cute bolthole is up one step from the street level. Once inside, the sleek, calm interiors will instantly help you unwind. The lounge is a welcoming space with comfortable furnishings and a cosy wood burner for the cooler months. The well-equipped kitchen/diner is tucked away behind a wall, complete with a breakfast bar easily seating four. The elegant bedrooms are upstairs, along with a sleek shower room. Outside, you can relax in the hot tub that’s set in the bijou terraced garden, which is small but very private.
For keen walkers, this place is heavenly, with multiple footpaths all around. Both the 110-mile Cleveland Way and 70-mile Ebor Way commence in Helmsley. Take a dip in the Helmsley Open Air Pool, nestling outdoors surrounded by verdant countryside. Stroll the 1 mile from this cottage to Duncombe Park, dating from the 1700s. While the striking house isn’t open, the 450-acre gardens and parkland are. This makes a great option if you have dogs in tow. If stately homes appeal, Castle Howard (13 miles) is a stunner, boasting the Baroque house, extensive grounds and even an arboretum – all open to visitors. For a change of pace, York is 24.5 miles away with its myriad sights and history.