Auld Acquaintance Cottage sits in the heart of Ellisland Farm which was built by Robert Burns in 1788 for his young wife and family. Burns, known affectionately as Rabbie, is the national poet of Scotland and is celebrated worldwide for poems and songs including Auld Lang Syne, which was written here. Whilst Ellisland Farm remains much as it was in the 18th century, Auld Acquaintance Cottage was renovated in 2023 into a beautiful holiday retreat in the modern rustic style. The large, open plan living space with its cosy wood burner and beautifully fitted kitchen is a charming room with doors opening onto a garden overlooking the River Nith. The cosy interior includes artisan and antique pieces, with artwork inspired by Burns.
Ellisland is the best place to see nature through the poet’s eyes. Follow woodland paths created by the ploughman poet himself, including where he wrote his famous epic, Tam o’ Shanter. Auld Acquaintance Cottage looks on to the farmhouse built by Burns where you can experience what life would have been like for a rural family in the 18th century. The museum includes an extensive collection of artefacts, memorabilia and manuscripts. Proceeds from Auld Acquaintance Cottage support The Robert Burns Ellisland Trust, the charity which safeguards this precious historic site and its collection.
You are perfectly placed to explore this unspoiled region. Visit the stunning Drumlanrig Castle where you can take a tour of the ’pink palace’ built by the first Duke of Queensberry, or explore miles of beautiful walks and gardens. There are numerous activities for kids, from the adventure playground to ranger-led wildlife walks. You are also just six miles outside the regional market town of Dumfries with its many attractions, including Robert Burns’ favourite establishment, The Globe Inn, now a fine dining restaurant.
The Galloway Forest Park is an amazing place to visit where you can enjoy the rolling glens with breath-taking loch and mountain views. As the UKs first Dark Sky Park, Galloway is one of the darkest places in the UK. Ellisland also has stunning night skies which inspired Burns to write Thou Lingering Star, a moving homage to his lost love, Highland Mary. Beach 19¾ miles.

Belstane Cottage is a semi-detached cottage with a large, shared garden and enjoys lovely views over the surrounding countryside. It is quietly situated next to the owner’s home on the edge of the very pretty conservation village of Straiton, voted one of the ten ‘Best Villages in Scotland’, and featured in the book ’The Most Beautiful Villages of Scotland’. The entire area is known for its gently rolling landscape, its hills dotted with sheep and traversed by the winding River Girvan, and is a hugely popular area with walkers and cyclists of all abilities.
Belstane Cottage is located on the edge of the Galloway Forest Park, Britain’s largest forest park with 300 square miles of wild beauty waiting to be explored. The park boasts tranquil valleys, rugged rock faces, forest, moorland, lochs and ancient woodland and a huge diversity of wildlife including red and roe deer, wild goats and many birds of prey. The park has also been awarded the status of one of only four Dark Sky Parks in the western world, and when the sun sets, enthusiasts come to wonder at the universe revealed above. Dalmellington is home to the Scottish Dark Observatory, and is only a short drive from the property. The seaside towns of Ayr, Prestwick and Troon are all close by with beautiful sandy beaches and stunning views towards the Isle of Arran. Day trips can be taken to Arran and Cumbrae and are well worth the effort. Glasgow, Stirling and Edinburgh are perfect for a day out, as is Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Ayrshire is home to the Ayrshire Coastal Path, a 100-mile long coastal walk with fantastic views over to the mountains of Arran. This coastline is steeped in history and teeming with wildlife, including red squirrels, deer, otters and seals, and is a haven for bird watchers.
Inland there are gardens and castles to visit, as well as riding, racing and a choice of golf courses, with the world famous Turnberry close to hand. Culzean Castle (owned by the National Trust for Scotland) is spectacular and is Ayrshire’s most popular tourist attraction, and Dumfries House is also worth a visit.
Belstane Cottage nestles in the heart of ‘Burns’ Country’, which is steeped in tradition and fans of the poet can visit Burns Cottage, The Burns Memorial Museum and the Brig O’ Doon, the bridge from the famous poem ‘Tam o’ Shanter’. Beach 14 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 100 yards.

Set in the heart of an unspoilt stretch of the Waveney Valley, Bluebell Cottage adjoins the owners’ 18th century farmhouse located on a working dairy farm. The river Waveney is only 220 yards to the south with the north side of the valley rising gently up behind the farm to give marvellous views for miles both east and west. Equidistant between the historic market towns of Bungay and Harleston, 3 miles, both offer numerous pubs, restaurants and independent shops. With other attractions such as Norwich, the Suffolk coast including Southwold and Aldeburgh, and the Broads all within easy reach, Bluebell Cottage is the perfect holiday base to explore both Norfolk and Suffolk. An ideal area for walkers, cyclists and bird watchers, there are many footpaths and bridleways easily accessible from the cottage including the well known Angles Way. Golf and fishing also available within a 10 minute drive. Shop 3 miles, pub and restaurant 1 mile.

Originally built as an almshouse in the 19th century, this delightful, terraced, Grade II listed holiday property has been skilfully converted into a bright and welcoming cottage for three people. There is a warming multi-fuel burner in the living room, a well-fitted kitchen (no washing machine) with breakfast table, which is the hub of the cottage, two bedrooms and a shower room. Outside, you will find a table and chairs to relax with a morning coffee overlooking the shared lawned garden and the village of Ysbyty Ifan, which is largely owned by the National Trust.

There is a pub and shop in the nearby village of Pentrefoelas, whilst the pretty alpinesque village of Betws-y-Coed, just 7 miles away, offers a wide selection of eateries. Betws-y-Coed is also home to Zip World Fforest, where adrenaline junkies will love the amazing Fforest Coaster which whisks you through the trees, a miniature railway, two historic churches where you may be lucky enough to catch a local male voice choir in concert, and more outdoor equipment shops than you can shake a stick at! You can take the moorland road over to Blaenau Ffestiniog too, visiting the largest zip wire in Europe, the incredible Bounce Below or take a leisurely trip on a narrow gauge steam train on the famous Ffestiniog Railway. Shop, pub and restaurant 3 miles.

Cairn Rigg, a detached, cosy bungalow, is ideally located within walking distance of the historic and pretty small market town of Rothbury. A perfect retreat for that well deserved short break or annual holiday. Just off the centre in a slightly elevated position you can walk to the pub in ten minutes or a two-minute drive, with free parking all over Rothbury you can leave your car anywhere in the small town centre. This charming and pretty little market town has plenty of pubs, bespoke shops and places to eat in.
With a fabulous rear garden with tiered terraces Cairn Rigg is perfect for couples or up to three adults at all times of the year. Comfortably furnished inside with a Smart TV and open plan living area you can chat whilst you prepare tea in the well-equipped kitchen. To the rear is the lovely garden, the ideal place to sit out in on a sunny evening. The two bedrooms, one double and one single, are bright and airy.
Rothbury is a popular base for exploring the surrounding, stunning countryside which can be done by foot, cycle, or car. Nearby you can walk to the beautiful National Trust property Cragside, the home of Lord Armstrong, on the outskirts of the town. The less energetic may wish to take a gentle stroll along the river and try walking over the stepping stones as a reminder of childhood times.
Serious walkers can amble over to the Simonside Hills. Rothbury is known as the capital of Coquetdale and is ideally located for exploring the nearby villages. Set on the edge of the National Park it is within easy access of the Northumberland Heritage Coast, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and only 12 miles from Alnwick famed for the castle used in some Harry Potter film scenes. The National Park can be easily reached and Kielder has a host of water sports. The drive along the lake is pretty spectacular and the dark skies at night are a big visitor attraction. You may even wish to venture to the Scottish Borders only 30 miles from here and of course the friendly city of Newcastle upon Tyne is only 30 miles south where you can explore the historic buildings and take a photo by the famous Tyne Bridge.

Ideally located for exploring the delights of North Devon and Exmoor, Chaffcutters (ref. UKC1406), Wheelwrights (ref. UKC1407) and Chapel Cottage (ref. HOOM) are the perfect base for your holiday.
Chaffcutters (ref. UKC1406) and Wheelwrights (ref. UKC1407) were converted from an old stone barn, the properties still have a couple of clues to their past life. The well-appointed cottages, with their enclosed courtyard gardens are located in the hamlet of Kentisbury Ford.
Chapel Cottage (ref. HOOM) is a single storey, detached holiday cottage makes an ideal base from which to explore the beautiful North Devon countryside. The cottage has been thoughtfully converted, and the enclosed patio is an ideal suntrap from which to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
From here, you are never very far from the attractions that make north Devon a great holiday destination. Whether you are a couple with a dog or a young family, there is much to see and do in the local area. The stunning, sandy beaches at Woolacombe, Croyde and Saunton are a must during your stay where you can learn to surf or hopefully, top up your tan. There are many other coves and bays at Combe Martin, Lee Bay and Hele Bay which are ideal for rock pooling. Towards Lynton and Lynmouth there is dramatic scenery as Exmoor meets the coast, from the plunging cliffs at Countisbury Head to the beauty of the Valley of the Rocks. There is the Victoria Cliff Railway connecting Lynton to Lynmouth and also access to the Southwest Coast Path. At Ilfracombe, there is bustling harbourside and the Tunnels Beaches. The regional town of Barnstaple has a good range of shops and amenities including the must-see historic Pannier market. For some real holiday excitement, a trip to Watermouth Castle, Combe Martin Wildlife Park or the Big Sheep will certainly make somebodies holiday. There are National Trust properties at Arlington, Knightshayes and Castle Drogo and the RHS gardens at Rosemoor are certainly worth the journey. There is cycling on the Tarka Trail, golf, horse riding and fishing all available locally. Shop 500 yards, pub 1½ miles and restaurant 750 yards.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 12 guests.

These two lovingly restored terraced cottages can be found in the tranquil and historic village of Churchtown on the northern fringe of Southport. Set over one level, they’re immaculately presented and suitable for couples, friends and small families alike with or without their four legged friends. Offering guests a fantastic destination that has everything you could need within easy reach, they each boast a bathroom with walk-in shower, living room with wood burner and a well-equipped kitchen that is ideal for cooking up a storm! Externally, you’ll find an enclosed courtyard garden with sitting-out area, perfect for sitting back, relaxing and simply enjoying your break.

The location is around a 30-minute walk from Southport beach, and is close to the village’s specialist shops and charming cafes and pubs. For further amenities in Southport town centre you’ll find the renowned Lord Street - a wide Victorian street with a fantastic variety of shops, pubs and restaurants. There really is something for everyone; golf at the prestigious Royal Birkdale, bird watching along the coast, and the very rare red squirrels at Formby. Southport itself boasts a theatre, lovely parks and Splash World, as well as playing host to a wide selection of events ranging from the National Fireworks Display, and an air show together with jazz, food and drink festivals. Liverpool can be reached in approximately an hour by car and Chester, Manchester and Preston are all within driving distance also. The Lake District and Lancashire’s beautiful Ribble Valley can be reached in around an hour.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 6 guests.

Church View is centrally positioned within the village of Probus, an ideal location for exploring Cornwall. The cul-de-sac position provides a quiet corner with parking for two cars. The side shallow ramp leads to the main entrance and hallway, whilst the living/dining room is bright and welcoming with comfy sofas, gas fire, Smart TV and the all-important Wi-Fi. Adjacent to this room is the kitchen, well equipped with appliances, including an electric oven and induction hob, dishwasher, microwave, fridge/freezer, a Quooker tap and Tassimo coffee machine.

Set to the rear of the property looking over the garden, is a large bedroom with an electric split rising king-size bed and there is also a wall mounted Smart TV. Next to the bedroom is a further room which has a sofa bed, perhaps for an extra guest to use if required. This room can be used as a study and provides access to the conservatory, which has some seating. There is a wide doorway out to the decking and garden. Across the hall is a spacious walk-in wet room with rain shower, ideal wheelchair access or for guests with restricted mobility.

The enclosed rear garden is a particular feature to the property, with a large sunny decking area, level to the lawn, great to enjoy breakfast, a barbeque or an evening glass of wine. There is also plenty of room on the lawn to spread out, or for the dog to enjoy. The property has wide doorways, ideal for a wheelchair set over a level surface.

The rural village of Probus nestles between the city of Truro and town of St Austell making it a great location to visit the many beaches, fishing villages and the popular Roseland across the east & south coasts. A short drive will also take you across to the north coast toward Newquay. The village has a 16th century church and wide main street lined with elegant Georgian houses. The church tower is over 120’ high. Keen gardeners would appreciate the Probus Gardens, designed in the 1970’s to inspire people to make the most of Cornwall’s clement climate. There is a local pub along with takeaway options within walking distance from the property.

Formerly part of the Hutton Court Estate, dating back to the Domesday Book, this holiday property is set in an AONB near to the owner’s home on the edge of the village. There are lovely rural views with woodland walks and wildlife, and the property is only 3 miles from the nearest beach at Weston-super-Mare. The Cider Barn (16608) enjoys its own built-in wine chiller.
Furnished, decorated and equipped to a very good standard and cleaned using only environmentally friendly products it an ideal base, with attractions at Weston-super-Mare and Brean, Wookey Hole, Cheddar with its famous caves and gorge, the beautiful cathedral city of Wells, Glastonbury and Bath. Golf nearby. Local Pub & Chinese Takeaway 3 mins walk away.

You are only a 10-minute stroll downhill to the harbour and the heart of the town, making this an ideal choice for guests who wish to explore the many delights of this coastal destination. At the front of the house you have a designated parking bay as well as the secure artificial lawned front garden where you can sit outside in the sunshine.
Stepping inside you are welcomed into the hallway with a spacious open plan lounge and dining room at the front of the house. The kitchen is modern and well equipped, so that you can create all your favourite meals. Upstairs on the first floor you have a kingsize bedroom as well as a twin room with zip and link beds, along with the main bathroom.
On the third floor the attic has been converted to a third bedroom with zip and link beds to allow flexibilty and a bathroom with toilet and basin. This property has been completely renovated throughout in 2023 and is finished to a high specification ensuring you have a stay to remember.
Whitby is a proud seafaring town; you can find out more at the museums or even first hand up at the abbey ruins. Walk through the whale bone archway on the West Cliff or visit the shipwreck on Saltwick Bay and look up into the cliffs to spot the smugglers’ tunnels. For those who wish to experience the wonders of this inspiring area, why not take a long, lazy walk amid the scenic beauty of the North York Moors National Park, which can be accessed by the heritage steam train winding its way through the rolling hills of heather? You can also explore quaint coastal villages such as Robin Hood’s Bay, Staithes or Runswick Bay. Take in the sights along the seafront at Filey, Scarborough or Saltburn. And if you’re a history buff, take a trip into York to soak up the culture brought by both the Romans and the Vikings. Closer to home, the town of Whitby has the long golden stretch of sandy beach, the 199 steps up to the St Mary’s Church perched on the cliff top, the boat trips and the freshly caught fish and seafood. Beach ¾ mile.
Cleveland House can be booked together with Cleveland Apartment (UK41641) accommodating up to 8/10 guests, with a lockable connecting door between the two.