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The Old Reading Room

West Witton, Yorkshire Dales
Sleeps 4
Bedrooms 2
Bathrooms 2
Change Fri
No Dogs
5 star
Enclosed garden / patio
Open fire / woodburner
Hot tub
Internet access
Pub nearby
Shop nearby
Luxury
Romantic
Family friendly
Towels included
Travel cot available
Highchair available
12 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

This historic building dates back to 1860 and has undergone a complete transformation, giving the wow factor from the moment you open the door.

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 and shower, 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
  • Arrival: 16:00 onwards
  • Departure: before 10:00, unless otherwise stated in your arrival details
  • Sorry, no dogs allowed
  • Please note there is a refundable £250 security deposit for this property payable closer to the start of 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 43 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 5 starsOverall cleanliness 5 starsOverall cleanliness 5 starsOverall cleanliness 5 starsOverall cleanliness 5 stars5
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 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

Reviewed by Elizabeth 23rd September 2022

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

A stunning cottage, put together with a lot of care and attention to detail. A great location for whatever way you choose to enjoy the Dales.

Reviewed by Jennifer 9th September 2022

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

The Old Reading Room is a lovely place to stay. It has everything you need for a week away. One of the best holiday rentals we have stayed. The Dales has plenty of things to see and do. Also a number of lovely places to eat within a few miles.

Reviewed by Robert 26th August 2022

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

Reviewed by Joanna 19th August 2022

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

Fantastic property, great location and really comfortable

Reviewed by Stephen 22nd July 2022

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

This was our second visit to the old reading room, and it didnt let us down. Beautiful home, in a beautiful setting. House is spotless on arrival and everything is provided, garden and hot tub are great also Beautiful restaurant across from the house, which is a must to visit, also the local pub just 2 minutes away is great for food and drinks, madRead moree very welcome at both establishments. Local shop who do take away rolls etc , again food is brilliant and the couple who own it are so welcoming Hide

Reviewed by Hayley 8th July 2022

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

Reviewed by J A 24th June 2022

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

Wonderful cottage with everything you could possibly wish for all to a high standard exactly as described. We hope to return

Reviewed by Trevor 10th June 2022

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

We had a super holiday the property and location is just perfect for us.

Reviewed by Stephen 13th May 2022

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

My wife and I and our friend had a lovely week in the Old Reading Room. From stepping over the threshold we were able to relax in a very comfortable environment, which had everything we needed for a great holiday. The cottage is furnished and equipped to a very high standard and we would love to return in the future. We enjoyed lovely walks directlRead morey from the cottage and didnt have far to travel for other activities. We would certainly recommend this cottage for a stress free break. Hide

Reviewed by Liz 2nd May 2022

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

Excellent - a beautiful cottage : tastefully furnished and decorated , very comfy , well equipped- a wonderful place to stay . It is opposite the Wensleydale Heifer - a fantastic pub/restaurant with rooms - the food was fantastic - we ate there twice .

Reviewed by John 22nd April 2022

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

Reviewed by Stephen 18th March 2022

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

This is a lovely equipped property in a beautiful location. Plenty to see and explore and recommend the Wensleydale Heifer and Blue Lion to dine.

Reviewed by Jane 3rd March 2022

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

Fabulous cottage in a gorgeous location. The owners have furnished to a very high standard and the cottage has everything for a week away. We loved the hot tub, and made use of it every day, great after a long walk. The Wensleydale Heifer opposite the property is highly recommended for food and drink. There is so much to do in the local area, LeybuRead morern is 5 miles away. This is our second visit to this luxury cottage and we will be back for a 3rd ! Hide

Reviewed by SHINGAI 12th February 2022

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

Had an awesome time at this fantastic cottage, we found everything to be of top class and well thought through. I can honestly say this was the best home from home we have had to stay in. We will definitely be going back

Reviewed by Vicky 28th January 2022

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

Excellent property and great communication with company and owner! Good location in easy reach of towns, lots of pubs and restaurants to visit as well as local attractions Definitely recommend!

Reviewed by Gill 14th January 2022

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

Really enjoyed our stay at The Old Reading Room. A well appreciated thoughtful welcome pack on arrival - the cottage was warm and welcoming and a home from home. Everything is to the highest standard and eye for detail. The quality of the equipment was to a very high standard. The location is ideal for exploring The Dales - with plenty of excellentRead more walks on the doorstep. Also in an excellent location as local pubs again within walking distance. Would highly recommend this cottage. Hide

Reviewed by David 27th December 2021

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

Reviewed by Donna 6th December 2021

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

Reviewed by Hilary 1st November 2021

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

A beautiful luxury cottage, in a lovely area, completed by a brilliant hot tub in the garden.

Reviewed by Leanne 23rd October 2021

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

Reviewed by Emma 15th October 2021

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

This is a wonderful place to stay and you wont be disappointed. The high spec finish, the fire, the hot tub we can go on. The location was also perfect for exploring the amazing local area. Cant recommend this place enough.

Reviewed by Janet 4th October 2021

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

Beautiful cottage near to lots of places to visit would definitely go back

Reviewed by Donna 20th September 2021

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

Had a fabulous break at the cottage. The cottage was wonderful and we loved just spending time there. Everything was catered for and allowed us to have a relaxing and very enjoyable holiday.

Reviewed by Robert 10th September 2021

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

Hi high quality property in a marvellous location. Well worth it.

Reviewed by Hilary 3rd September 2021

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

Lovely location. Amenities very good Duvets too warm would suggest lower a TOG rating to accommodate warmer weather.

Reviewed by Amy 6th August 2021

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

The cottage was fantastic! Great location (particularly good right opposite the Wensleydale Heifer for delicious food and drink!) and designed to a really good standard. The owners have really thought about everything you need to make it a home from home and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay - thank you! Prior to our stay, the owners also sent throughRead more a really useful guide to local attractions and recommended places to eat, drink and shop which was really helpful. Hide

Reviewed by Lucy 30th July 2021

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

We had a wonderful week exploring the dales. The cottage was fantastic - finished to a very high standard. I especially loved the wall of quotes and upstairs chair for hiding away and reading. The bedrooms were spacious with loads of storage. We loved the garden and the hot tub.

Reviewed by John 2nd July 2021

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

Reviewed by Ian 25th June 2021

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

Excellent stay, beautiful cottage, the level of comfort and luxury was outstanding. Spoilt us in terms of future cottage rentals as we will always be comparing with the Old Reading Rooms and I dont think anything will reach the same standard. Great location convenient for exploring the stunning Yorkshire Dales by car or on walks directly from the cRead moreottage. Treat yourselves to a meal at the Wensleydale Heiffer opposite, seafood and Sunday Lunch amazing. Hide

Reviewed by Trevor 11th June 2021

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

Reviewed by J M 4th June 2021

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 an attractive house to stay in. It is modern and bright and is comfortably furnished and well equipped. Importantly it was spotlessly clean and fresh. The hamper was generous with good quality ingredients. The garden was a very pleasant place to sit and relax. We did find the road outside to be busy and noisy at times althouRead moregh it did quieten down in the evenings. The proximity of the Wensleydale Heifer was very convenient as their food was excellent. We enjoyed our stay. Hide

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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.