Cottage of the week – The Old Wood Shed

August 25, 2010

Perhaps the most common misconception of holiday cottages is that they are perfectly beautiful and cosy, but don’t offer much in the way of contemporary comfort. Well our new cottage of the week, The Old Wood Shed in Argyll, should not only put that argument to bed, but let it sleep blissfully and enjoy a fantastic selection of activities when it wakes up in the morning!

Despite being an old utility building on the fantastic Glencruitten Estate in Oban, the property has been converted to offer complete comfort with a wealth of modern charm. For starters it has a polished wood floor and attractive contemporary décor throughout. There’s a state of the art kitchen with microwave, dishwasher and a range of electrical appliances throughout the house to help you relax, including a DVD player and flat-screen TV.

Lovers of scenery will be equally delighted with the region. The popular harbour town of Oban is only 2 miles away and day trips to Mull, Iona, Islay, Colonsay, Tiree and Lismore are only a short ferry ride beyond. The annual Highland Games, a staple of Scottish heritage, takes place at the Argyllshire Gathering every year, but if you fancy something a little less showy you’ll find a range of fantastic pursuits nearby including walking, fishing and cycling. The region is equally popular in winter with skiing at Fort William and Glencoe.

If you fancy taking the family to enjoy a break at the property you’ll find plenty of attractions in the surrounding area. There’s a Sea Life Centre in Oban which hosts all kind of weird and wonderful creatures. Less exotic, but no less delightful, there’s also the Rare Breeds Farm Park, which allows children to interact with baby animals and features a whole host of native wildlife.


The Old Wood Shed sleeps 8 happy holidaymakers so there’s plenty room to bring some friends, discover the many charms of the region and perhaps alter your perception of what a holiday cottage can be.

You can find more info and make a booking at the Old Wood Shed on the property’s listing within cottages4you.com.


Peak District holidays could be ideal for cyclists

August 24, 2010

A holiday in the Peak District could prove a great way to get out and about during the final weeks of summer.

According to the Daily Telegraph, the Upper Don Valley is home to one of Britain's most enjoyable water-side bike rides.

The newspaper recommended taking the route from the foothills of the South Yorkshire Pennines to Dunford Bridge, a hamlet on the outskirts of the Peak District National Park.

This trail is easy going the whole way as it follows the old Woodhead railway line, it commented, so it may be suitable for families.

Furthermore, the Peak District National Park Authority stated the area offers 58 miles of off-road cycling trails and plenty more quiet country routes, which might make it the perfect holiday choice for those wanting to enjoy the great outdoors.

Earlier this month, the body launched a Pedal Peak District campaign to encourage people to discover the joys and benefits of cycling.

Posted by David Sollberger, cottages4you
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Experience a medieval adventure on a Norfolk holiday

August 24, 2010

For those seeking to book a last-minute break for this bank holiday weekend, a stay in a cottage in Norfolk could make an excellent choice.

History enthusiasts might like to head to the Medieval Spectacular at Pensthorpe Nature Reserve and Gardens near Fakenham, where you can join in a whole host of activities based on the period 1066-1538.

Visitors can barter with merchants for souvenirs in the medieval marketplace, sip ale at the tavern and watch minstrels dancing to hornpipes and fiddles.

The event will also feature a new attraction this year – holidaymakers can watch a knight in armour practising a traditional training routine of charging and jousting.

Deb Jordan, owner of Pensthorpe Nature Reserve, said: "The Mediaeval Spectacular is a great day out for the whole family. Visitors can experience this fascinating period first hand, with so many activities for children and entertainment for adults too."

The centre arranges a number of other events throughout the year, such as guided walks, quilting and nature photography sessions.

Posted by David Sollberger, cottages4you
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Join in folk festival fun on a Herefordshire holiday?

August 24, 2010

Holidays in Herefordshire could prove popular next month as the annual Bromyard Folk Festival is back with over 75 events.

The traditional song and dance festival, held on September 10th-12th, features morris processions, workshops, children's entertainment and a craft fair.

Visitors can also join in dance classes and ceilidhs, traditional Gaelic social dances, or simply relax and watch performances by folk musicians.

This year's line-up of local, national and international artists includes the Waterson Family, Show of Hands and Whapweasel.

The festival kicks off at 21:00 BST on September 10th with a concert, a grand ceilidh, a folk club and a late night song session, while daytime activities are based around workshops and meet-the-artist sessions.

Charity Bromyard Folk Festival Limited organises the event, with the aim of promoting traditional folk activities.

And those visiting the area from September 11th-19th can also take part in Herefordshire Art Week, where local artists will run a programme of workshops and exhibitions.
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Your holiday home is your castle

August 24, 2010

The saying ‘an Englishman’s home is his castle’ has never been more appropriate then when being used to describe some of the more regal holiday properties we feature at cottages4you. From stately homes surrounding by acres of rolling greenery to fortified fortresses in the Scottish highlands, a castle holiday in the UK offers enough beauty, peace and heritage to make anyone feel like a member of the aristocracy. In fact castle breaks are so much fun that the only problem an Englishman (or anyone else) will have is thinking of a new phrase to describe their homes.

Below we look at some of the castles featured on cottages4you. Please click on the property pics to look at their listings on cottages4you.com.

Kinlochmoidart House, Nr. Lochailort, Inverness-shire

Property REF: SEQ

Designed by William Leiper in 1884, Kinlochmoidart House is one of the finest examples of his work. It features a superb Art Movement interior – tilings, wallpapers, paint work, panelling and many other intricate architectural features have been painstakingly restored and represented, under strict architectural guidance, to return it to its former splendour. It occupies the site of a house which was once the resting place of Prince Charles Edward Stuart during the 1745 Jacobite Revolution, so not only are you getting a splendid property to stay in, you’re also going to receive one of the world’s most fun history lessons.

Glentruim Castle  in  Newtonmore, nr. Aviemore, Inverness-shire

Property REF: SNNN

With glorious views over the nearby glens and a magnificent mountain backdrop, Glentruim Estate occupies a peaceful setting overlooking the valley of the River Spey near Newtonmore. The 53 acres of unspoilt garden and grounds offer a superb diversity of woodlands with mature trees, a mass of azaleas and colourful rhododendrons. Built around 1840 by Major Euan MacPherson, Glentruim Castle (SNNN) is ideal for larger groups, offering spacious rooms with great attention to style and detail, yet still retaining many of its original features.

Tay View  in  St Madoes, Perth

Property REF: S49

These very attractive ground and first floor holiday apartments are set within a magnificent Grade A listed baronial castle, designed by Robert Adam and built in 1784. Elegantly furnished, Tower View has a very spacious drawing room with a marble fireplace and tiny turret room leading off. Tay View boasts wonderful feature windows throughout with walnut and oak shutters, a unique tower bathroom and like Tower View has a drawing room that overlooks the River Tay.

Pavilion Lodge  in  Duns

Property REF: SDC

Superbly set in the 1,200-acre Estate surrounding magnificent Duns Castle, and just half an hour’s drive from sandy beaches, these properties are perfectly positioned to make the most of a holiday in Scotland’s Border country. Sympathetically renovated to provide warm and comfortable accommodation, they enjoy access to the extensive grounds, which include glorious woodland, hill vistas, a nature reserve and a splendid lake. At the hub of the Estate, Duns Castle is the owner’s home; a fine Gothic Revival building where visitors can enjoy dinner in the castle dining room by arrangement.

Leiper House  in  Nr. Lochailort, Inverness-shire

Property REF: SCD

Where a tree-lined glen opens out onto Loch Moidart and in countryside steeped with tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie, these fine properties stand upon the Kinlochmoidart Estate, within half a mile of the coast and 4 miles from the beach at Glenuig. The Scottish Baronial mansion of Kinlochmoidart House, occupies a marvellous position amidst some of Scotland’s most magnificent West Country scenery. It has been sensitively formed into three residences; two are careful conversions of an extensive service wing, while the main house (part of which is still the owners’ home) is a substantial property laid out over three floors and forming the middle portion of the building.

Glen View  in  Fort Augustus, Inverness-shire

Property REF: SJJW

This lovely holiday apartment is situated within the former St Benedict’s Abbey, one of the finest old buildings in the north of Scotland. Converted to a high standard, it retains many original features including the magnificent rose window. Set within 20 acres of mature grounds and surrounded on three sides by water, the abbey is located at the southern tip of Loch Ness, on the edge of the lovely village of Fort Augustus. A superb base for touring, with trips on Loch Ness or walking and biking on the Great Glen Way. Only 40 minutes’ drive from Inverness and within easy reach of the Isle of Skye and the western Highlands.

The Follies – The Old Folly  in  Hunmanby, nr. Filey, N. Yorks

Property REF: IJQ

Originally built in 1825 as a ruin, this unique Grade II listed building has been sympathetically transformed into two lovely, detached gatehouses yet retaining all the visual appearances of a ruin. Built in stone from Filey Brigg, The Follies are set in 1½ acres of natural and unspoilt grounds and visitors are welcome to wander through them, where there is an abundance of wildlife including, rabbits, owls and squirrels.
Centrally located for exploring the North Yorkshire Coast, North Yorkshire moors and wolds, the historic town of Filey is only 3 miles distant, with its wide sandy beach and all the attractions of a popular seaside resort. Scarborough and Bridlington are both easily accessible, as is the beautiful city of York.

Craster Tower-The Penthouse Apartment  in  Craster, Northumberland

Property REF: MTU

This elegant and spacious holiday apartment occupies the entire top floor of historic Craster Tower, a superbly preserved Grade II* country house dating from the 15th century, built around a 14th-century pele tower. Set above part of the owners’ home but with a separate entrance, this magnificent penthouse was refurbished in 2008 and has a Visit Britain 5 Star gold award. There are views from all sides of delightful gardens and countryside. The picturesque village of Craster is a short walk down a footpath through woods and fields or two minutes in the car.

Posted by Ben Webster, cottages4you.


Dine at the Horseshoe Inn on a Scotland holiday?

August 24, 2010

For those of you planning a holiday in Scotland, the Horseshoe Inn at Eddleston, near Edinburgh, could be well worth a visit.

The establishment has been invited to join the exclusive club of the Great Inns of Britain and is only the second Scottish and 24th British property to do so.

With a seasonal menu that combines local Scottish produce with European flavours and influence, the inn's restaurant offers both a fine dining and informal bistro option.

Sir Thomas Ingilby, chair and co-founder of the Great Inns of Britain, said: "Each new member brings its own unique offer and characteristics, but all share the essential qualities of the Great Inns – historical charm, first class food and hospitality, coupled with excellent wines and real ales."

And with an AA Restaurant of the Year Award and an EatScotland Gold Award already under its belt, the Horseshoe Inn's Bardoulet's restaurant could make the perfect holiday meal.

Moreover, those heading to Scotland over the next few weeks can take their pick of the cultural events on offer, as the Edinburgh International Festival is taking place until September 5th.

Posted by Toby Lawrence, cottages4you
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Devon holidays to explore the coast?

August 24, 2010

Those thinking of renting a cottage in Devon should head to the south coast, it has been suggested.

The Lonely Planet has proposed holidaymakers take a walk along the South West Coast Path National Trail, which spans 630 miles.

One circular walk recommended by the trail's website is from Salcombe to Bolt Head, which it claims is "guaranteed to lift the spirits" due to its inspiring views.

And visitors might also like to take a trip to Hallsands, the Lonely Planet suggested, where you can marvel at the ruins of a fishing village that was abandoned after a storm in 1917.

The guide also advocates heading to the National Trust properties of Coleton Fishacre in Kingswear and Agatha Christie's former home Greenway, near Brixham.

It was recently stated by Sarah Streeter, marketing manager for Visit South Devon, that the region offers a combination of tranquillity and dramatic scenery, with activities for all ages and budgets.

Posted by Matt Smith, cottages4you
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Northumberland holidays to explore the great outdoors?

August 23, 2010

A holiday cottage in Northumberland could make the perfect break for activity lovers this autumn.

The first Outdoors Northumberland Festival will be hitting the county from September 25th to October 17th, bringing with it a range of outdoor events, according to Visit Northumberland's blog.

A mass-participation cycle challenge named the H100 will kick off the festival fun, taking riders over 100 hills around Haltwhistle.

And for those of you who are a bit out of practice or with young children, there will be a less demanding cycle ride taking place at the same time.

Other activities on offer include walking, horse riding, water sports and wildlife watching, so there should be something to please everyone!

It was recently suggested by the Guardian a holiday in Northumberland is ideal for families, with plenty of options for great days out.

For instance, you could visit Alnwick Castle, which is best-known as the setting for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films, or take a boat trip to the Farne islands.

Posted by Matt Smith, cottages4you
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Discover moorland on a Yorkshire holiday

August 23, 2010

Those staying in a Yorkshire cottage this weekend can find out all about the heather moorland of the North York Moors.

Visitors are invited to join the National Park Authority for talks, displays and walking events to celebrate the rare habitat.

On August 20th, nature lovers can see birds of prey and learn about bee keeping, mountain rescue and some of the rare species that live on the moors.

There will also be plenty of events to keep the children entertained, such as a birds of prey trail and a craft session, while guided walks will be held over the weekend.

Sally Ann Smith, events and exhibitions coordinator at the North York Moors National Park Authority, said: "At this time of year, the moorland in the North York Moors can literally stop people in their tracks as they cast their eye over this seemingly never-ending sea of purple heather."

And those yet to book their holiday in Yorkshire might like to coincide their visit with the York Food and Drink Festival taking place on September 17th-26th.
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Peak District holidays to explore Bollington Tree Trail?

August 23, 2010

People taking a holiday in the Peak District might want to try out the region's latest family attraction – the Bollington Tree Trail.

This community project, financed by the Peak District's Sustainable Development Fund, is set to be launched on September 5th.

Ann Mayer, coordinator at the Bridgend Community Centre, which developed the project with the help of over 100 schoolchildren, said: "The tree trail will help us promote healthy exercise in the fresh air and get people enthused about the countryside."

Visitors can learn about woodlands, wildlife and climate change as they explore the track, which will cover 12 miles when the final section is opened in June 2011.

And those lucky enough to be visiting the region on September 5th can join in a guided walk along the trail, complete with a picnic and children's activities.

It was recently suggested by David James, chief executive of Visit Peak District and Derbyshire, that the region is ideal for those who wish to see the real England.

Posted by Toby Lawrence, cottages4you
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