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The Old Reading Room

West Witton, Yorkshire Dales
holidaycottages.co.uk logo

This property is managed by holidaycottages.co.uk info_outline

Sleeps 4
Bedrooms 2
Bathrooms 2
Change Fri
No Dogs
5 star
Enclosed garden / patio
Open fire / wood burner
Hot tub
Internet access
Pub nearby
Shop nearby
Luxury
Romantic
Family friendly
Parking on site / nearby
Decorated for Christmas
Towels included
Travel cot available
Highchair available
14 more

At a glance

  • Luxury holiday cottage set in the heart of Wensleydale
  • Beautiful garden with hot tub accessed via folding doors
  • Just across the road from one of Yorkshire's finest restaurants
  • Refurbished to an exceptionally high standard
  • Close to pretty villages such as West Witton and Middleham
  • Welcome hamper filled with locally sourced produce on arrival
Property code: G0152

Introducing a truly fabulous luxury holiday cottage set in the heart of a pretty village in Wensleydale. This gorgeous property has the wow factor from the moment you open the door, and with one of Yorkshire's finest restaurants in the area, the location is pretty amazing too. But it's when you spot the hot tub and beautiful garden through the huge folding doors that you know you've found somewhere very special. This historic old building was originally built in the 1860's as a reading room for the men of the village to come and read books and newspapers, woman were not allowed. It was open plan, is it is today, but with no stairs and a fire either end. More can be read from a book about the village on the bookcase.

The ground floor is one large open-plan space boasting warm wooden floors (heated of course) and a striking two-way wood burner. There's a cosy snug on one side, perfect for that post-dinner glass of red, and a spacious lounge area on the other.

The kitchen/dining area sits at the far end, a perfectly formed space featuring a bespoke kitchen with all the latest mod cons. Besides the sleek grey and black marble worktops, you'll find a Nespresso coffee machine, dishwasher, induction hob, eye-level oven/microwave and glassware cabinet - everything you could need to rustle up something delicious on holiday. There's also a handy separate utility area which houses a washing machine and dryer, with plenty of room for muddy boots if you have been out walking. The downstairs cloakroom resides here too. Heading back over to the lounge, there's a large comfortable sofa waiting for you to curl up on and a separate comfy chair. Plenty to keep you entertained each evening with a TV, DVD player and Wi-Fi included. Light up the wood burner and indulge yourself with a movie day or settle down to that box set everyone's been talking about.

And so to bed? Make your way up the stunning glass staircase to discover two very generous en-suite bedrooms. The master bedroom is a bright and spacious room with bags of light pouring in from the skylights and window, looking out over the garden. The super king-size bed can be set up as two singles if required giving you total flexibility. The en-suite bathroom offers a boutique hotel-style feel and has a bath ready for that long evening soak. The second bedroom has a king-size bed and looks out towards the village and village green beside the cottage. The luxurious en-suite wet room has a monsoon shower, slate tiles and oak flooring to enjoy.

When you can drag yourself away from the beautiful interiors, throw open those folding doors and take in the garden. This beautifully landscaped and private space boasts a charming sheltered patio area leading up to a lawned elevated garden with Penhill sitting in the background. The hot tub sits waiting to be discovered, a pleasure whatever the time of year, and chic outdoor furniture provides that perfect excuse for dinner alfresco in the warmer months. A wonderful way to end the day at this unique Yorkshire retreat.

This property includes ample off-road parking.

  • 2 bedrooms – 1 super king-size that can be made up as two singles on request, 1 king-size
  • 3 bathrooms – 1 en-suite with bath, 1 en-suite wet room with monsoon shower, 1 cloakroom with WC
  • Nespresso coffee machine, electric oven and hob, dishwasher, microwave
  • Utility room with washing machine and tumble dryer
  • Wood burner - logs and kindling are provided
  • Underfloor heating
  • Ample off-road parking for 2 cars
  • Wi-Fi included
  • Welcome hamper on arrival
  • Shop and pub within 2 miles
  • LCD TV, DVD player, MP3 docking station
  • Hot tub - bath robes, slippers and towels provided
  • BBQ - please bring your own charcoal
  • Please note when booking - Changeover days are only Monday & Friday
  • This property will be decorated for Christmas
  • Arrival: 16:00 onwards
  • Departure: before 10:00, unless otherwise stated in your arrival details
  • Sorry, no dogs allowed
  • There is an Accidental Damage Deposit of £250 when booking at this property, however this may be waived for £25. We’ll provide more details about this when booking your holiday.

The property is set in the heart of West Witton, one of Wensleydale's prettiest villages. Just across the road is the famous Wensleydale Heifer, repeatedly recognised as one of Yorkshire's finest restaurants. So if you don't fancy cooking one evening, just mosey over for dinner. The village also has a good pub, a charming little village store, tea rooms and post office, all under half a mile from your door. Next to the cottage is the village green and pond, a peaceful spot and rather a nice area for a picnic. Across the dale, you can see Bolton Castle on the horizon, which makes a fantastic day out for all ages.

If walking is your thing, the Yorkshire Dales are something of a walker's paradise. And there are plenty of options for cycling too in this Tour De France country. You can strike out literally from the doorstep up over Penhill and beyond, or take one of the other many walking routes in Wensleydale including making your way down past the stunning Jervaulx Abbey, 8 miles from the property.

Middleham, one of Yorkshire's loveliest villages is just 5 miles away. Famous for its castle (once home to Richard III) it's also home to several racehorse trainers; you will see and hear the horses being led through the village up to the gallops every day. And to top it off there is a lovely collection of pubs, cafes, restaurants and shops. Just 3 miles out of the village is the fantastic attraction The Forbidden Corner. Regularly voted the best family attraction in Yorkshire, it's also well worth a look even if there are no children in your party.

Within 5 miles, you'll find the charming market town of Leyburn. Leyburn is an archetypical slice of Dales market town life. You'll find traditional shops, pubs and cafes all gathered around the handsome town square, which hosts a busy market every Friday. Leyburn is also home to the biggest auction centre outside of London if you fancy picking up a bargain. The nearby historic town of Richmond is similar in many ways and has a lovely setting along the River Swale.

There are lots of other pretty villages and stunning natural sights all within close range. Aysgarth Falls (5 miles) and Bolton Castle (8 miles) and the gorgeous villages of West Burton (4 miles) and Askrigg (10 miles) are within easy driving distance, so there’s lots of choice for things to do if you want to get out and about.

Rupert Spiers

This property is personally managed by Rupert.

Reviews

From guests that have stayed at the property.

Based on 38 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 stars4.9
Overall equipment
Overall equipment 4.9 starsOverall equipment 4.9 starsOverall equipment 4.9 starsOverall equipment 4.9 starsOverall equipment 4.9 stars4.9
Overall comfort
Overall comfort 5 starsOverall comfort 5 starsOverall comfort 5 starsOverall comfort 5 starsOverall comfort 5 stars5
Overall location
Overall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 stars4.9

Reviewed by Robert 11th October 2024

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

Reviewed by Hilary 20th September 2024

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

Smashing holiday, but then it always is in this cottage.

Reviewed by William 30th August 2024

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

Fantastically well presented and comfortable. Ideally located for exploring the Yorkshire Dales. Highly recommend.

Reviewed by Hannah 26th July 2024

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

As a family of four we enjoyed a wonderful holiday here in West Witton at the Reading Rooms. The cottage was as described, very comfortable, spacious and full of home comforts. Within easy reach of walks, castles and waterfalls. Leyburn is 10 minutes down the road and has very convenient shops as well as being a very characterful town. Would definiRead moretely love to come back. Hide

Reviewed by Louise 19th July 2024

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

Reviewed by David 12th July 2024

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

The Old Reading Room is a fantastic property. There are cheaper options available but not of the quality of this superb house. The effort that the owners have put into the design and decoration is obvious. There is lots of information about what to do in this part of Yorkshire. Everything from the welcome hamper to the coffee machine to the wood buRead morerner to the hot tub is a treat ( it goes on!) A great week. Hide

Reviewed by Janet 28th June 2024

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

A beautiful well equipped cottage, tastefully furnished with high quality furniture and soft furnishings. A really luxurious place to stay even down to the Noble Isle toiletries. Huge comfortable beds and lots of fluffy towels for both the bathrooms and hot tub. The parking for two cars is a real bonus. Faultless.

Reviewed by Rachael 21st June 2024

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

Stunning property in a stunning location! Great position for visiting local area. Lovely walks within easy distance of the property. The Wensleydale Heifer is a must and the food was amazing. We did a round walk circling Castle Bolton which was so lovely, even though it was the hottest day of the year so far (June 2024). It would have been nice to Read morehave 2 x shower rooms, but the bedrooms were lovely, clean and beds dreamy. Hide

Reviewed by John 31st May 2024

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

Very nice and relaxing

Reviewed by Paul 10th May 2024

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

Lovely cottage in a good location for exploring the Yorkshire dales. We enjoyed local walks and visited villages nearby. We also visited Bettys Tearoom in Harrogate and the Himalayan Gardens and the Jervaulx Abbey.

Reviewed by Angela 3rd May 2024

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

Excellent property. Equipped and maintained to a very high standard. Extremely cosy and very comfortable both for lounging, reading a book or sitting in the lovely garden area (with hot tub) The beds are super comfortable with very good quality quilts, pillows and linens We would highly recommend and most definitely stay again in the future.

Reviewed by Peter 12th April 2024

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

Lovely, well situated cottage, well-equipped and convenient for all parts of the Yorkshire Dales.

Reviewed by Natalie 22nd March 2024

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

Excellent property - the owners have thought furnished to a high specification and pretty much every eventuality is provided for making for a very comfortable stay. Would highly recommend.

Reviewed by Diane 15th March 2024

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

Fabulous luxury cottage , renovated to a very high standard. The owners have thought of everything. Thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would certainly recommend.

Reviewed by Angela 8th March 2024

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

A well equipped and comfortable and clean place to stay, the location is ideal ( opposite a great restaurant) and a pub in walking distance is great! Excellent walking from the door with lovely Dales countryside on the doorstep. There are plenty of holiday cottages that are ok and then there are holiday cottages that are exceptional, this is truly Read moreexceptional! Hide

Reviewed by David 29th December 2023

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

Reviewed by Louise 1st December 2023

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

What a treat it was to stay in this beautiful, spacious well appointed cottage. It was so warm and cosy with a very generous supply of logs for the stove. We visited with friends to celebrate my 50th birthday and I wouldn't have wanted to spend it anywhere else. The hot tub was a lovely addition. We enjoyed some lovely walks in the area and had a fRead moreabulous meal in The Wensleydale Heifer. Hide

Reviewed by Toby 24th November 2023

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

Lovely stay, gorgeous place that's been lovingly and tastefully done up.

Reviewed by Jane 10th November 2023

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

A lovely cottage, comfortable and homely with everything you need to make your stay very enjoyable. A really good location to explore the local area and attractions, of which there are many and several really good eating places on the doorstep.

Reviewed by Sheila 6th October 2023

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

This is a first class cottage with all your needs catered for. The Old Reading Room has been renovated to a very high standard and it was a joy to stay there. Would recommend unreservedly!

Reviewed by Robert 22nd September 2023

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

Reviewed by Elaine 1st September 2023

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

Fabulous Cottage & Everything Provided in a Amazing Part of the Country

Reviewed by Ann 25th August 2023

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

Reviewed by William 4th August 2023

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

A beautiful luxury holiday home in a lovely location. Enjoyed every minute of our stay, would thoroughly recommend.

Reviewed by Paul 30th June 2023

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

We really enjoyed our stay in the Old Reading Room. It is very well equipped and very comfortable. An ideal location in the village, just a short drive to the many attractions in Wensleydale.

Reviewed by Karen 16th June 2023

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

Reviewed by Hayley 29th May 2023

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

The cottage is beautiful as is the garden. We can recommend the walks around the footpaths behind the cottage and also the pub opposite was amazing x

Reviewed by June 21st May 2023

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

Reviewed by Paul 12th May 2023

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

The cottage was very easy to find off the main road. Inside it was extremely well equipped, all the fixtures and fittings had a quality feel. The bedrooms were a nice size, with plenty of storage and hanging space. It was warm with a generous supply of wood for the wood burner. The rear garden was well laid out with the hot tub overlooking. Great lRead moreocation for walks and plenty of nearby attractions. Pub and wenslydale heifer both worth a visit. Would recommend. Thank you. Hide

Reviewed by Hilary 21st April 2023

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

Great cottage, in smashing friendly village. We have tried many holiday cottages but none come even close to this one. Its a luxury cottage, hence the price, but worth every penny.

Reviewed by Angela 14th April 2023

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

We use holiday cottage ALOT and this is, by far, the best cottage we have had the pleasure to stay in, we have stayed in other really good cottages but this one is on a different level. The location is great, with a fabulous restaurant and a pub in the village, the quality of the cottage with its decor, cleanliness and being fabulously well equippeRead mored along with the secluded garden( which is lovely) is a fantastic package. Not cheap but is extremely good value for money, will definitely return! Hide

Reviewed by Ken 24th March 2023

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

A great cottage. It was easy to make yourself at home in. Having both a bath and shower was good after a hard day on the fells. Lots of logs for the fire.

Reviewed by Alison 20th March 2023

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

This cottage was by far the best I have stayed in and although it was more expensive it was worth it. The little luxuries around the cottage make it feel like you could be in a hotel. The kitchen was well stocked with everything you could possibly need. The bedding and towels were also really good quality. Loved the hot tub - only wish it had had tRead morehe jets - gorgeous sitting in the hot tub watching the sun set. The village location is also good with good walking available. Thoroughly enjoyable. Hide

Reviewed by Hayley 23rd February 2023

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

We just had the most amazingly relaxing girls weekend away here and it was a perfect luxury cottage to relax in. The hot tub was lovely, the log fire was a great and everything was just beautiful. Its well stocked with essentials including gorgeous mini shower gels and the like. The welcome hamper was a lovely touch too. We will be back! Thank you

Reviewed by Paul 13th January 2023

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

Great example of what is a Luxury Cottage 5*, Well looked after and presented to a very high standard, Staying in January was a Great escape for a week, The under floor heating etc was on and the house was always warm What a great base to explore the area from .

Reviewed by Suzanne 18th November 2022

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

This is a stunning home in a superb location. The owner has added many little extra touches that make it a truly special stay.

Reviewed by Hilary 11th November 2022

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

Great cottage, great location , no other cottage comes anywhere near as good. Lovely welcoming hamper, all in all , a really luxurious place to stay.

Reviewed by Robert 4th November 2022

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

36 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.