The Secret Garden

Discover a unique escape into nature with a stay in this charming shepherd’s hut, enveloped by a beautifully landscaped lawn. Set near the leafy village of Stamford Bridge, this romantic bolthole is perfect for couples seeking a restorative retreat with their waggy-tailed third wheel. Pack up a picnic and inhale the fresh country air as you trek through the lush landscape of the Howardian Hills (within 13 miles). While away balmy afternoon stretched on the wooden garden recliners with chilled drinks and indulgent snacks aplenty.

Situated in Aldby Gardens, this bespoke pod boasts a characterful country interior with traditional tongue and groove panelling, checked soft fabrics, and earthy red hues. Crunch along the gravel pathway and ascend the steps to the wooden porch. Ease off muddy boots and towel off soggy pups before throwing open the patio doors and stepping inside the perfectly proportioned studio space.

Kick up weary feet as you unwind on the sofa with a film or simply gaze out at the blissful views beyond. Raid the cabinets for a selection of locally sourced nibbles then cook up dinner in the farmhouse-style kitchenette. Settle in for an intimate evening meal at the dining table or graze through a hearty breakfast spread. When night falls, climb into the woodland-themed sleeping nook with a squishy double bed and a wrought-iron frame.

Escape to the spacious Vinery, a separate property hosting a large kitchen and inviting social space. Outdoors, bask in the heart on this tranquil retreat. Dine al fresco on the raised deck, stroll across the bridge to perch on the garden bench with a coffee or relax on the sun loungers with a book.

• Sleeping area with 1 double bed (accessed from both sides)
• 1 shower room with walk in shower and WC
• Small kitchen area for breakfast in the hut. Kitchen area with oven, hob, egg cooker, microwave and fridge in the separate Vinery.
• Utility and boot room
• Electric wood-burner
• Under-floor heating in the hut
• TV in bedroom and lounge
• Welcome pack
• Separate outbuilding, the Vinery, for entertainment and relaxing, with electric wood burner-effect stove and kitchen
• Private enclosed garden
• Private parking for 1 car
• Shops and pubs (2.7mls)
• Regret no children
• Please note: smoking only permitted in designated area
• 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.

This blissful retreat is set 10 miles from York. The jewel in North Yorkshire's crown, we think York 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 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, 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 (31 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, 13 miles from the city.