The Velveteen Bath House

An easy sentiment flows throughout this exquisite country abode. Situated in the heart of picturesque Helmsley, this luxurious retreat is a wonderful base for a family escape or a gathering with close friends plus up to two canine companions. Stroll light-dappled woodland trails and admire the classical temple architecture of Duncombe Park (1 mile), then indulge in a blissful soak in the Japanese-style wooden Ofuro hot tub with a drink in hand.

Adorned with an array of sophisticated designer touches, this graceful property is a true hidden gem. Step inside to discover earthy sage and terracotta tones, bold patterned wallpaper and artfully styled social spaces. Slip off shoes and pad along the traditional parquet flooring into the kitchen/diner. Foodies will be in their element pottering in the bespoke farmhouse kitchen with gold fixtures and a stream of natural light from the large patio doors. Perch at the spacious island with a round of pre-dinner drinks or gather in the corner booth for a more formal affair.

After dinner, grab a dessert and bask in the wonderfully cosy atmosphere on the lounge with an original bay window and framed oil prints. Throw a log on the open fire and sink onto the plump upholstered seating. Escape to the Scandi-style cinema room to get competitive on the Nintendo Switch.

Ascend the staircase to scope out two tastefully appointed bedrooms. Slip into the sheets of the tranquil en-suite king-size with soft designer fabrics and scatter pillows. Nestled to the rear of the property is an elegant twin with tongue and groove wall panelling. Keen readers can while away afternoons curled on the window day bed with views across to Helmsley Castle.

Slide open the patio doors leading from the kitchen and enjoy a morning breakfast spread on the patio. Step along the Belgium clay-paved path to sweat it out in the Swedish outdoor sauna or enjoy a soak in the hot tub.

• 2 bedrooms - 1 king-size, 1 twin
• 3 bathrooms - 1 en-suite with shower and WC, 1 en-suite with shower over bath and WC, 1 downstairs walk-in shower and WC (400TC Egyptian cotton)
• Electric range cooker with gas hob, fridge/freezer, microwave, dishwasher, Nespresso coffee machine, boiling water tap(says boiling tap)
• Utility cupboard with washing machine and tumble dryer
• 3 Smart TVs all with Sky/Netflix, Nintendo Switch with games, Sonos speaker, record player with records
• Open fire in lounge (first basket of logs provided)
• Extras for families - travel cot, high-chair, stairgates, baby monitor, baby bath, toddler toilet seat, potty, children's crockery, play equipment, board games/books, children's channels on SKY.
• Extras for dogs - dog towels, dog bowls, poo-bags, hose and dog treats.
• Enclosed south-facing spa garden with Swedish sauna and Japanese-style Ofuro hot tub
• Few hundred yards to Helmsley's market square
• Off-road parking for 2 cars
• Arrival: 16:00 onwards
• Departure: before 10:00, unless otherwise stated in your arrival details
• 2 dogs allowed. Dogs are charged at £20 each per full or part week
• There is an Accidental Damage Deposit of £200 when booking at this property, however this may be waived for £25. We’ll provide more details about this when booking your holiday.

This cottage is set in the historic market town of Helmsley which boasts an abundance of cultural activities and breathtaking outdoor spaces. Overseen by the imposing castle ruins, this quaint town is sure to be a hit with any history-buffs of the group. Delve into a guided audio tour to learn of the castle’s evolution from a medieval fort to striking Victorian remains. On warmer days, roll out a rug and graze through a summer picnic spread before discovering the ice cream stand. Back in the heart of Helmsley, scope out the cosy coffee nooks, tea rooms and independent delis offering up an array of goodies.

For the budding horticulturalist, peruse the apple orchards and fragrant wildflower beds of the community-led Helmsley Walled Garden. Stroll beneath laburnum arches, embark on a mindful amble through the labyrinth, or refuel with a selection of fresh bakes and pastries at The Vine House Cafe. Little adventurers and big kids alike can explore the delights of the National Centre for Birds of Prey nestled within the leafy grounds of Duncombe Park Estate. Traverse the wooden parkland awash with lush oak trees then observe a flying demonstration with the magnificent resident hawks, owls and eagles.

Further afield, don’t miss a visit to the towering temples of Rievaulx Abbey (3 miles) steeped in Georgian style with grand painted ceilings – a wonderful backdrop for your annual group photo. For nature lovers, escape into the undulating landscape of the North York Moors National Park (within 15 miles). Trek through limestone valleys or be captivated by the vivid daffodil display in spring.