Swallow Dean - Self-catering cottage in Northumberland

This gorgeous country-chic bolthole originally housed the farm's working horses and is wrapped in green Northumbrian scenery. It's a generous sort of place: arrive to a hamper of local treats and well-stocked cupboards in the neat kitchen, sleep under Egyptian linens, and stay toasty with underfloor heating.

All on one level, a clever mix of original art, traditional charm and modern design gives plenty for the eyes to feast on, while a wood-burner with limitless logs from the estate makes your evenings snug. French windows let in plenty of light and open to a shared courtyard for morning coffee or sunny breakfasts.

Stroll a couple of miles to the nearest village pub; the coast's a bit further. Alnwick, Alnmouth and Bamburgh are all within easy reach. Check the tide times and drive over to Holy Island or get a ferry from Seahouses to the Farne Isles for puffin watching in season. Return for deep sleeps in a super king bed and wake to Beadnell Bay views from your bedroom window.