North Cottage - Helperby

Get set for a restorative escape in a beautifully decorated cottage where lovely period features are complemented by all kinds of modern comforts. Simply perfect for solo travellers or couples looking for a special getaway, this charming and cosy property is located in a friendly village close to both the cosmopolitan city of York and the natural beauty of two national parks.

Natural colours and rustic textures combine to make this a calm and restful bolthole for one or two people and their beloved furry friend. You’ll step straight into the atmospheric lounge/diner, in which the focal point is very much the open fire, set within what was once the traditional oven. In the winter, the flickering flames will create a cosy glow, perfect for a romantic evening in, snuggled up on the comfortable sofa with your hound by your feet. Add a favourite movie on the Smart TV and it’s escapist perfection.

For rustling up hearty breakfasts, picnics and evening meals, the sweet kitchen (one step up from the lounge) has all mod cons, including a slimline dishwasher to help you clean up, and the dining table by the window in the lounge creates an intimate setting.

Cottage-style stairs lead you up to the land of nod – in this case, a delightful king-size bedroom decorated in soft tones for a restful ambience. A contemporary shower room completes the inside space.

Outside, the terraced garden includes a raised patio where you enjoy an al fresco drink or meal, or perhaps just a cup of coffee with a good book while you sit back and breathe in the fresh Yorkshire air.

• 1 king-size bedroom (sleeps 2 +1)
• 1 shower room with WC
• Electric oven and hob, fridge/freezer, slim dishwasher, washing machine and microwave
• Smart TV
• Open fire stove (first basket of logs supplied)
• Enclosed garden with raised patio with outdoor seating
• Owner open to two small dogs
• Off-street parking for 1 car
• Pub within walking distance, shop 6 miles
• Please note the stairs in the property are steep
• Arrival: 16:00 onwards
• Departure: before 10:00, unless otherwise stated in your arrival details
• 1 dog allowed. Dogs are charged at £20 each per full or part week
• There is an Accidental Damage Deposit of £150 when booking at this property, however this may be waived for £20. We’ll provide more details about this when booking your holiday.

A peaceful escape from everyday stress, the welcoming village of Helperby is an ideal base for getting out and about in the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. Within the village itself, history buffs won’t want to miss the impressive medieval church with its gorgeous stained-glass windows, while nature lovers will enjoy strolling along the scenic banks of the River Swale. Finish your day with a drink or a meal in the traditional village pub.

Just 16 miles away, the city of York is renowned as the jewel in North Yorkshire's crown. 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 has 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 Bettys tearoom 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, York really is a year-round place to visit. 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.

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 (32.5 miles) and breathe in that clear Yorkshire air.

The beautiful market town of Helmsley (17 miles) is well worth a visit, or head 24.5 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 only 6.5 miles from your holiday home.