Relax in this handsome 18th century Georgian townhouse which is set in the heart of Middleham, one of Yorkshire's prettiest villages. This beautiful Grade II listed three-storey property has four generous bedrooms and four bathrooms, three of which are en-suite. It's the perfect choice for families and groups of friends looking to explore this gorgeous corner of the Dales.
Some parts of this stunning property date right back to the 1600s; over the course of its life, the building has been a private residence (once home to a colourful and controversial 19th-century jockey), a shop and even a pub. Today, its current owners have transformed it into a generous and welcoming holiday home, with every modern comfort provided. All the true character of the building remains, with a host of original features like fireplaces, sash windows and wooden beams having been lovingly restored.
Step inside to find an entrance lobby which still has the original bell pull used to summon attention. Make your way into the spacious lounge boasting oak floorboards, an original bay window and a large open fire resting under an inglenook fireplace. Light it up and settle down in front of the warm glow; time to switch off and re-charge. Take your pick from two comfy sofas or two handsome armchairs to curl up on, plenty of room for the whole family.
Your evening entertainment is provided on the Smart TV with DVD, perfect if you enjoy snuggling up together for a family movie. A base sound amplifier gives that home cinema effect and Wi-Fi is also available.
The cottage boasts a second lounge on the top floor of the house, ideal for giving everyone their own space. This room has a large L-shaped sofa to stretch out on and another Smart TV. There's also a DVD player with DVDs for all ages, a table football machine, lots of board games and a large library of books to keep the whole family entertained.
Let's make our way back down to discover the gorgeous kitchen, an elegant mix of clean units, granite worktops and a sleek slate floor. You'll find all the usual mod cons including a hob, two electric ovens, full-size fridge/freezer and a dishwasher. The cupboards are well stocked with all the crockery, pots, pans and utensils you'll need to rustle up a hearty family dinner. We're particularly fond of the chunky farmhouse table, just the spot for a morning coffee or late-night chat over wine and cheese. A selection of cookbooks allows you to try something different this holiday. A separate utility room is home to a washing machine and dryer, very handy for storing and cleaning muddy walking clothes. Downstairs is also home to a handy WC.
In addition to the farmhouse table, there's a large formal dining room, a lovely room with its own large open inglenook fireplace. Original hooks hanging from the ceiling hark back to when this old building was once a pub. Settle down to eat at the bespoke dining table handmade in Yorkshire from reclaimed wood and metal. Comfy chairs gather round seating eight people comfortably. A French cupboard houses that all-important champagne, wine, beer and whisky glasses.
All of the bedrooms in the cottage are on the first or second floor. On the first floor is bedroom one, home to a fabulous king-size French bed. A period fireplace lends character whilst a TV provides 21st century entertainment. This room also boasts a walk-in wardrobe/dressing area and a beautiful en-suite shower room. Bedroom two is set to the rear of the building and also offers a king-size French bed, original fireplace, TV and en-suite shower room.
The final bedroom on this floor is a lovely twin room with two full-size single beds. The beds can be zipped together to offer one super king-size bed if requested. It also has a TV so guests can chill out in their pyjamas over morning telly. The house bathroom is just next door. Offering a bath with shower overhead, it's perfect for washing little ones or indulging in a long hot soak yourself.
Bedroom four is set at the top of the house, a generous room with a zip-and-link bed offering a twin or king-size set-up. It will be configured as a super-king as standard so please ask if you would prefer two singles. A further TV is provided, and it also has an en-suite shower room. So, every bedroom effectively has access to its own facilities.
The property is set in the heart of beautiful Middleham so outside space is limited to an attractive rear patio garden which is a couple of steps down. Home to various outdoor furniture and a pear tree, this is a pleasant space in which to while away an afternoon over a tipple. And if you're looking for space to stretch the legs, the stunning Wensleydale countryside with miles of public footpaths and cycle routes are all around.