This family-friendly cottage is an idyllic base for a break to North Yorkshire. Retaining much of its original charm with exposed beams and characterful features, the interiors have been seamlessly blended with modern updates for an enjoyable stay. South of the village of Sheriff Hutton is the city of York (11 miles) where fascinating architecture, history and heritage charm all who visit.
At the heart of the home is the cosy living room, furnished with two soft sofas and a warming wood burner, perfect for the winter months. Neutral tones create a calming atmosphere here and encourage you to take the weight off your feet and fully unwind at the end of each day.
The kitchen is bright and full of light, with a charming country-cottage style which is sure to set your creative juices flowing whilst preparing a feast for the family. Located by the patio door, a Scandi-style dining table ensures space for four to gather and share stories over a hearty meal.
Upstairs, there are two bedrooms including a room furnished with an elegant king-size bed and panelled walls. Pastel colours fill the space helping you to sink into a slumber after a day of adventure. The second bedroom is a tasteful twin, decorated in earthy tones reflecting the countryside location of the holiday home. Completing the property is a modern shower room.
When the sun is shining, you can head out into the garden to enjoy your morning coffee or an evening meal, surrounded by mature plants which offer privacy and dappled share for your pleasure.
To the North of Sheriff Hutton, you’ll find the Howardian Hills AONB (4 miles) where the walking routes are truly beautiful. Passing through pretty villages and ancient parkland, you’ll find a number of long-distance and short, more leisurely trails to trek whilst staying nearby. Myth, legend and mystical woodland can be found at North Riding Forest Park on the southern slopes of the North York Moors offering perfectly picturesque picnic spots where you can immerse yourself in nature for a day.
The jewel in North Yorkshire's crown, we think York (11 miles) is one of the best short break destinations in England and is a favourite amongst even the most seasoned of travellers. This ancient walled city has been the north's spiritual capital for 2,000 years, but that's not to say it is stuck in the past; York's affluent population and its influx of tourist pounds have helped to create a cultural and commercial oasis. History seeps out of every cobbled street, but the crooked old buildings house a fantastic range of contemporary designer shops, cafes, restaurants and bars.
Everywhere in York is easily reachable by foot as this small but perfectly formed city houses most of its main attractions within the city walls. Middle Ages town planning means it can take quite some time to get your bearings but finding your way around the labyrinth of warped streets is part of the fun. Make sure you take in York Minster, The Shambles, the Railway Museum and Betty's tea room whilst you're there.
If you are looking for outside space in which to relax, you have the choice of a number of parks and gardens, including Dean's Park next to the Minster, the Yorkshire Museum Gardens next to the River Ouse and, slightly further afield, Rowntree Park with its children's playground, tennis courts and bowling green.
And, what's more, it really is a year-round location. Summer days can be spent lounging in one of the gorgeous parks and, in the autumn, York comes alive with shop windows sparkling in the dusky light. Its central location also makes a great base from which to explore the rest of glorious Yorkshire, with the Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors and Yorkshire coastline all within easy reach for beautiful walks and adventurous days out.
If walking or cycling is your thing, there are lots of beautiful paths and routes in the area. If you fancy serious hiking, the North York Moors landscape offers some of the best trails in the country. Take a trip up to the top of the high moorlands around Blakey Ridge (25 miles) and breathe in that clear Yorkshire air.
The beautiful market town of Helmsley (24.5 miles) is within easy driving distance and is well worth a visit. Head 18 miles east to find Malton, another gorgeous market town offering lots of lovely independent shops and cafes to indulge in, or the charming market town of Easingwold is a great option at 13 miles from the city.