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St Aidans

Helmsley, North Yorkshire
holidaycottages.co.uk logo

This property is managed by holidaycottages.co.uk info_outline

Sleeps 4
Bedrooms 2
Bathrooms 2
Change Fri
Dogs welcome 2
4 star
Downstairs bedroom
Downstairs bathroom
Enclosed garden / patio
Open fire / wood burner
Internet access
Pub nearby
Shop nearby
Luxury
Romantic
Family friendly
Quirky
Rustic
Parking on site / nearby
Towels included
Travel cot available
15 more

At a glance

  • A unique holiday home comprising a converted church and an extension
  • Ideally situated for discovering Helmsley and Pickering
  • Explore the wonderful North York Moors
  • A fantastic base for exploring the North Yorkshire countryside
  • Head south to discover the Howardian Hills
  • Visit Rievaulx Abbey and Castle Howard
Property code: G0131

Converted from a Grade II listed church, this captivating Yorkshire cottage is a truly unique place to stay. Set 2 miles from the market town of Helmsley, this sympathetically updated property has a dashing contemporary extension, and offers a really interesting holiday experience. Built by one of the Gothic Revival's greatest architects, Temple Lushington Moore, the property dates back originally to 1882.

The accommodation is split between the historic building and the stylish new extension. In the listed church space, there is a lounge and dining area decorated in the rich colours of the Gothic Revival. A beautiful hand-painted ceiling arches high above while the building itself benefits from warm central heating, a wood burner and large sofas to sink into, make this a relaxing and comfortable space. And if you momentarily tire of admiring this handsome building, a Smart TV with Netflix is available, as is a Bluetooth speaker and high-speed Wi-Fi.

The main bedroom is housed in the church and is an atmospheric and peaceful space to rest. There is a king-size double bed which can be made up as two singles if required. Walking into the new extension, you are immediately struck with the juxtaposing styles. Old meets new with pleasing contrast as the contemporary kitchen sparkles with colour and light. It's the perfect spot for breakfast or lunch and gives a particularly good view into the church itself through the opening in the wall. A bright and airy corridor covered with glass leads down towards the family bathroom with bath, separate wet room and second sitting room. There is a double sofa bed in this room sleeping an additional two people comfortably. The slate flooring on the extension is heated throughout, so lovely and cool in the summer and toasty in the colder months.

Step outside and admire the private garden of this luxury cottage in Helmsley. It comes complete with terrace, outdoor furniture and heather-garden: a nod to the stunning North York Moors landscape all around. When the sun is shining, it's a heavenly spot for dining alfresco, with only the sound of birds for company.

  • 2 bedrooms – 1 king-size and1 double sofa bed in the second lounge
  • 1 bathroom with shower over bath and WC
  • 1 wet room
  • Kitchen with oven, hob, dishwasher, washer/dryer, microwave and fridge with small freezer compartment
  • Smart TV
  • Bluetooth speaker,
  • Wood burner
  • Garden with BBQ and furniture
  • Travel Cot
  • Pub and shops -  Helmsley 1.5 miles
  • Please note:- there is a step to the front door, and small step up to the chancel bedroom and the alter is raised. Property is accessed via a grass verge and external paths are gravel
  • Arrival: 15:00 onwards
  • Departure: before 10:00, unless otherwise stated in your arrival details
  • 2 dogs allowed. Dogs are charged at £20 each per full or part week
  • There is an Accidental Damage Deposit of £200 when booking at this property, however this may be waived for £25. We’ll provide more details about this when booking your holiday.

The cottage is set in a quiet little hamlet just under 2 miles from the market town of Helmsley, possibly one of the prettiest towns in Yorkshire. Nestled perfectly at the foot of the North York Moors, yet only 24 miles north of York, its timeless elegance is a magnet to the Yorkshire elite.

 

At the heart of the town square is a statue of Lord Feversham, a distant ancestor of the current Lord who resides in Duncombe Park. This stunning baroque mansion sits on the outskirts of town and is a good choice for an afternoon's sightseeing. If you want to indulge some more architectural desires, the equally grand Nunnington Hall (7 miles) is another grand abode worth a peek. Helmsley is a foodie’s paradise, packed with exquisite tearooms, cafes and organic delis. It's also surrounded by some of the best gastro pubs in the UK. Tucked alongside these culinary delights are lots of unique shops, galleries and antique dealers, easily enough to build up an appetite for lunch.

 

The neighbouring town of Pickering (14.5 miles) hosts a delightful set of shops, cafes and restaurants, and 4 miles further on, takes you to Thornton-Le-Dale, a chocolate-box North York Moors village with thatched houses and a sleepy little brook. Stop for some ice cream here and remind yourself how refreshing life in the slow lane feels.

 

With the North York Moors on your doorstep, you can be heading for a jaunt over the hills in no time. This glorious expanse of the heather-clad countryside is simply stunning, and it's well worth taking some time to explore it properly. Somewhat smaller than the Yorkshire Dales, the North Yorkshire Moors still covers an area of almost 600 square miles. You're also close to Castle Howard (14.5 miles), York (26 miles) and the Yorkshire coast, for fun days out.

 

There is off road parking for 2 cars

 

Rachel Stowe

This property is personally managed by Rachel.

Reviews

From guests that have stayed at the property.

Based on 31 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 4.7 starsOverall cleanliness 4.7 starsOverall cleanliness 4.7 starsOverall cleanliness 4.7 starsOverall cleanliness 4.7 stars4.7
Overall equipment
Overall equipment 4.7 starsOverall equipment 4.7 starsOverall equipment 4.7 starsOverall equipment 4.7 starsOverall equipment 4.7 stars4.7
Overall comfort
Overall comfort 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 stars4.6
Overall location
Overall location 5 starsOverall location 5 starsOverall location 5 starsOverall location 5 starsOverall location 5 stars5

Reviewed by Peter 30th May 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

St Aidans is beautifully converted, sympathetic to both its origins and as a modern home. So many beautiful places are within easy distance, and the views, only a short distance away are amazing. Very much recommended!

Reviewed by Liam 23rd May 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

An amazing, unique and remarkable place to stay. Really well designed in terms of the extension to the church and the church itself retains all its characters whilst being a homely place to stay. A beautiful location with walks on the doorstep. A most relaxing holiday setting !

Reviewed by Jenny 9th May 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Beautifully and sensitively restored church, which was clean warm and apart from a lack of tupperware to allow cooking in the microwave was otherwise very well equipped. In a lovely location with the added bonus of nesting housemartins.

Reviewed by Robert 4th April 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Wonderful location, beautiful surroundings, the extension is very modern and the Church itself still very much retains its original character, especially the stained glass windows. The first night we found the Cockerell at the farm next door noisy but got used to it quickly, thanks for the ear plugs! I highly recommend to those wanting a mindful anRead mored restive retreat. Hide

Reviewed by Rachel 1st March 2025

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

As above

Reviewed by Brian 17th February 2025

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

A lovely and well equipped property, and of course totally unique.

Reviewed by Lisa 3rd January 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Amazing holiday home. So quirky. Immaculate throughout with everything you need for a comfortable stay. Cant recommend enough and cant wait to book again. Location is fantastic for walks with the dogs & for nearby Helmsley.

Reviewed by Nikki 20th November 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Our stay at St Aidens was all we hoped for and more. The photos don't do justice of how beautiful the building is. It was impeccably clean and there was thought put into our stay; a free basket of fire wood, milk and water in the fridge, everything you would need in the kitchen, handmade chocolates for us and a small welcome hamper for our dogs. WeRead more will definately stay again! Hide

Reviewed by Martin 11th November 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Reviewed by Alison 7th November 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The shower in the toilet was great for dogs after a muddy walk - we enjoyed our stay and have no problems at all- perfect - cosy - and a memorable weekend

Reviewed by Don 4th October 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Excellent location & property for the walker & dog owner

Reviewed by Pamela 27th September 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Reviewed by Tracy 20th September 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

St Aidens is in a fabulous location, its warm, clean and very comfortable. The building is beautiful and the restoration inspired. The kitchen is well equipped and has everything you would need - we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would happily return!

Reviewed by Robert 13th September 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

A gem of a holiday home in a beautiful converted church which retains many original features. The sunlight coming through the stained glass windows is wonderful to see. In a quiet location of a hamlet just outside of Helmsley which has many eateries etc. Did not use the eye masks or ear plugs provided, you soon get used to the poultry in the farm nRead moreext door! Even had a few interlopers in the garden which was nice to watch. Hide

Reviewed by Simon 17th August 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

A super property in a lovely rural location on the edge of the moors and close to Helmsley for food and shopping. Well appointed and clean. A relaxing place to stay

Reviewed by Jason 9th August 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Reviewed by Alena 12th July 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We really enjoyed our stay in this unique property and in this part of Yorkshire. There is plenty to do in the vicinity and it was great to have walking trails from the property. The chapel has been sensitively and imaginatively converted and extended and the owners have made every effort to ensure the comfort of guests - both human and four leggedRead more. We have stayed in many pet friendly cottages but never in one where we and the dog were so warmly welcomed. Thank you for a wonderful holiday. Hide

Reviewed by Bertram 28th June 2024

Guest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 stars

wonderful property and the best location you could wish for.

Reviewed by Ian 31st May 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Reviewed by Amanda 24th May 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Super accommodation and location. We found it so easy to relax and enjoy the unique experience of staying at St.Aidans Church. Just a short drive away from Helmsley where you can walk around the castle or meander through the gardens.

Reviewed by Beverley 5th April 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Reviewed by Sari 29th March 2024

Guest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 stars

Reviewed by Elaine 22nd March 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

At Aidans is a beautiful renovated church in stunning peaceful surroundings. Everything you need is catered for kitchen is fully equipped. We slept so well bed super comfy. The walks from St Aidans to Helmsley is lovely and well worth doing.

Reviewed by Patricia 18th February 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The cottage a converted church has a charm of its own . Not much natural light in longe area but plenty of lighting available. There are 2 levels up to bedroom and another level at the side of the bed . These need careful navigation at night .

Reviewed by Mark 26th January 2024

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Good Location, clean and tidy

Reviewed by Tracy 22nd January 2024

Guest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 stars

Reviewed by Lesley 22nd December 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We had a magical Christmas 2023 at St Aidens, near Helmsley. Location was perfect - Carlton is a small, quiet village of stone cottages and farms with doorstep access to multiple walking routes including into Helmsley, which is a 3 mile walk or 2 miles by car and is probably the loveliest North Yorkshire town. This is a generous property in terms oRead moref equipment and thoughtfulness by the owners and has been lovingly restored. We felt lucky to be able to stay at St Aidens, with its history and charm Hide

Reviewed by Pat 27th November 2023

Guest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 stars

Reviewed by Andrew 17th November 2023

Guest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 stars

Reviewed by Elaine 27th October 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Fabulous place. Comfortable and quirky.

Reviewed by Leah 29th September 2023

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Super comfy cottage that literally had everything you could think of. Lovely bed and cosy living space. Relaxed environment for our dogs. Convenient for Helmsley and makes great base to explore from. Very dog friendly area.

29 more
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Location

Map
Note: As the postcode is used to identify the general area of the property, it may not always reflect its precise location, therefore please only use this map as a guide.
The Travel Chapter Limited trading as Gorgeous Cottages is an appointed representative of ITC Compliance Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (their registration number is 313486) and which is permitted to advise on and arrange general insurance contracts as an intermediary.
The Travel Chapter Limited trading as Gorgeous Cottages | The Travel Chapter Limited is registered in England and Wales. | Registered office Travel Chapter House Gammaton Road Bideford EX39 4DF Company No. 02431506 | VAT reg: 143053210.