Bonny Bits Cottage | Alston | Dodbury | The Lake District And Cumbria

4.9★

4 Guests
2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Pets No
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Features

Off road parking
Open fire
Garden / Patio
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

27 Customer Review(s)

Peter
October 2024

“My wife and I loved the cottage.”

It was beautiful inside, very tastefully decorated, clean, modern and full of nice touches. Very thoughtful of the owners to leave wine and some flapjacks. The owner's guide to the cottage, and recommendations for walks and where to eat, was witty and thorough. I would thoroughly recommend this cottage. In addition to the living room/kitchen area, the bedrooms, batrhrooms and showers were all a pleasure to behold. Given their embracement of the feedback from holidaymakers, and their own ...

It was beautiful inside, very tastefully decorated, clean, modern and full of nice touches. Very thoughtful of the owners to leave wine and some flapjacks. The owner's guide to the cottage, and recommendations for walks and where to eat, was witty and thorough. I would thoroughly recommend this cottage. In addition to the living room/kitchen area, the bedrooms, batrhrooms and showers were all a pleasure to behold. Given their embracement of the feedback from holidaymakers, and their own classy input, there seems to be little that the owners haven't considered. The village of Garrigill is pretty, as is the whole area, and the re-opening of the George and Dragon pub in 2025 is a welcome one. We spent our time on a number of walks and on visiting Alston, Penrith, Hexham, Carlisle and the Lake District. Plenty to see and do but one of the highlights was just to watch the birds in the cottage garden. It's teaming with them. We'll be back!

- Peter, October 2024

Thank you for such a lovely review. We couldn't sum up the place any better. Lots of things to go and do and see, but equally good to stay right here. So glad you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner
Andrew August 2024

“Absolutely fabulous, Quiet little cottage, Well maintained and fully furnished had a luxurious feel and a comfortable environment for relaxing.”

Great for walkers and wild life. Didn’t see any red squirrels

- Andrew, August 2024

Thank you. So glad you enjoyed your stay. Hope you had a good time rock hunting. Property Owner
David August 2024

“This was a wonderful property, loved the character and the setting.”

..great place to get away from everything. Lots of lovely personal touches, with the design and really appreciated the quality of everything throughout the cottage!

- David, August 2024

Thank you. Indeed it is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle. So glad that you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner
Jo July 2024

“I've stayed in lots of holiday cottages and this is quite simply the best!”

Fabulous decor, every single detail is so eclectic and stylish. Beautiful garden and village. I'll be booking for next year

- Jo, July 2024

Thank you for your outstanding review. So glad you enjoyed everything. And the village pub should be open for next year too. See you next year! Property Owner
Damaris April 2024

“Absolutely gorgeous cottage, both stylish and incredibly comfortable in a lovely part of the world.”

Would highly recommend a stay in Bonny Bits cottage - it’s so lovely you don’t want to go outside but the surrounding area is wonderful walking country with gorgeous riverside walks, splendid waterfalls and majestic fells nearby. Well worth a visit!

- Damaris, April 2024

Thank you for your lovely review. Couldn't have described it better myself. So glad you managed to get the first breaks in the weather, and the first of the new born lambs too. Property Owner
Sharon September 2023

“Lovely, comfortable, well maintained property.”

Everything you need for your stay and it is really pretty. Brilliant location for visiting the sights. Fab bottle of wine

- Sharon, September 2023

We are so glad that you enjoyed the week. Thank you so much for your review. Do really appreciate it. You definitely got the best type of weather for the waterfalls. Property Owner
Karen September 2023

“Absolutely lovely little place!”

I've stayed in a lot of nice places over the years, but this is top of the list. I've never felt so immediately welcome in a strange place, despite arriving in the dark and having a moment of idiocy in not writing down what the key code was (and not having internet signal outside the door!). Once I read the directions properly, it was super easy to find...! Cheeky birds tapping on the window for breakfast was hilarious, the cottage was clean, homely and had everything we needed. Only the weather let us down, so I guess that just means we'll need to go back to see it in summer!

- Karen, September 2023

Thank you for a top review. So glad you got the welcoming feeling. The place certainly gives us the chilled and at peace vibe - we thought it was just us. You are as close to nature as you can possibly get, almost Snow White! June and into July are the prettiest months. The lanes are awash with wild flowers in full bloom. See you in the summer! Property Owner
Jonathan June 2023

“Bonny bits Cottage is a cosy beautifully styled retreat.”

It was a pleasure to come back to after walking in the surrounding area. The owners have put a lot of effort into making it a fantastic holiday experience which we greatly appreciated. We will be returning!

- Jonathan, June 2023

Glad you enjoyed your stay. Not sure if it was yourselves that brought whole sunflower seeds for the birds. Glad someone did, as they are attracting greenfinches into the garden for the first time in years. Property Owner
Helen May 2023

“Bonny bits cottage had been on our to do list for a while and our visit exceeded our expectations.”

The cottage has been refurbished to a very high standard. The fixtures and fittings are high quality and we had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. The upper floor bathroom is particularly stunning with wonderful views from the bath! The owners have compiled a very comprehensive visitors folder with information about the cottage and local area. We really appreciated this and enjoyed the walks from the cottage.The village is very quiet (don't expect amenities on your doorstep) we were aware of this and the payoff is peace and tranquility. It was like stepping back in time! Alston is just a short drive away for your nearest shops. If you are looking to get away from it all then Bonny bits is the perfect place to be. I'm sure we'll be back again!

- Helen, May 2023

You've summed up the area beautifully. It is a special little village. Glad you enjoyed the bath. Property Owner
Rebecca April 2023

“Lovely stay!”

Perfect spot if you want to get away from it all.

- Rebecca, April 2023
Jenny March 2023

“We were very impressed by Bonny Bits and enjoyed our stay.”

Clearly a great deal of care has been taken in the modernisation, decoration and furnishing of the cottage. It was spotlessly clean, warm and comfortable. The kitchen was well equipped. Garrigill is an interesting and friendly place to stay. We were made to feel very welcome by the local people.

- Jenny, March 2023

Thank you. We like our food and know a good kitchen is a bonus. Yes, the people really make the place special. Glad you felt so welcome. Property Owner
Joy February 2023

“A delightfully quirky cottage, which lived up to our expectations following a recommendation.”

- Joy, February 2023

Thank you for your review. Glad you liked our quirk. Property Owner
Kate December 2022

“Bonny Bits is the perfect home away from home, we had a lovely stay over New Year.”

Neil was also a very accommodating host, we were in touch both before and after our stay and he was more than helpful throughout.

- Kate, December 2022
Sian November 2022

“Gorgeous cottage in the perfect location for a quiet getaway.”

Well equipped, so cosy and nice little touches such as board games, food for the birds and cook books. We did not want to leave the cottage during our stay as we loved it so much but we did venture out on a few walks from the cottage which were lovely. We will definitely be back!

- Sian, November 2022
Tom October 2022

“Perfect in every way!”

- Tom, October 2022

Glad you had a perfect stay. Thank you for your review. Property Owner
David September 2022

“Admired the way it is furnished and the quality of fittings etc.”

Appreciated very much the welcome package and the abilty to feed and watch the birds from the window feeder Minor points: A Kitchen hand towel would be useful. The directions given could be improved, e.g. coming from Penrith/Alton or Castle Barnard. FYI The cupborad to the right of the fridge is damp, the salt was quite wet.

- David, September 2022

Glad that you had a lovely time and saw all the wildlife and enjoyed the cottage. In response to your minor points. Our directions include coming from the M6 south via Penrith /Alston; from the M6 north via Carlisle; from the south from the A1(M) via Barnard Castle, and from the North East via Nenthead. We've purposely given very detailed routes from all directions as the internet can be a bit sketchy on the moor. I do know there was the diversion in place due to a burst water main, which you had to follow. Thank you for letting us know about the salt. Checked the cupboard and luckily there is no damp. We are in a temperate climate here, we can even grow Himalayan blue poppy (Monty Don would be jealous) so it was inevitable at some point. Salt replaced. Thank you. Property Owner
Paul August 2022

“Bonny Bits cottage was exactly how we imagined.”

Cozy, comfortable and picturesque. The morning visits from the birds in the garden, lovely interior and exterior furnishings, log burning stove and great kitchen appliances/equipment. Wonderful property. Jacob

- Paul, August 2022

Glad you found everything cozy and comfortable. We like our food and enjoy cooking, so you'll find everything that you could possibly need in the kitchen. Thank you. Property Owner
Jim August 2022

“Had a long overdue 14 day break in a lovely part of the country, which the cottage reflected beautifully.”

Full of character and wonderfully presented, Bonny Bits Cottage delivered the relaxing hassle free break we hoped for.

- Jim, August 2022

So glad that you had a good break. Yes, it probably is the ideal place to relax. Glad we were able to deliver. (And deliver your shoes back to you.) Property Owner
Natalie June 2022

“We had an excellent time and thoroughly enjoyed our comfy stay at the cottage in tranquil and beautiful surroundings.”

Decor and furnishings tastefully done to a high standard. Bottle of wine and yummy eats a special and welcoming touch on our arrival. All and all a fabulous time and we are well pleased !

- Natalie, June 2022

So pleased that you had an excellent time. Yes we thought our treats and wine might go down well. Thank you for your response. Property Owner
Lynne May 2022

“The cottage was outstanding - every detail was considered even down to leaving food for the birds!”

The cottage was warm and very comfortable. We enjoyed having breakfast outside in the garden. The wildlife attracted to the garden was lovely to watch. The walks from the cottage were stunning all provided in the book. Thankyou too for the OS map which was very useful.

- Lynne, May 2022

Thank you for review. We do a lot of walking and enjoy sharing our best walks and maps. And yes we really are in the middle of all the wildlife. Glad you made the most of the garden. Property Owner
Elena April 2022

“There is only one word I can use to describe Bonny Bits, 'WOW'!”

You really have created a wonderful sanctuary to escape from the city. The interior design is outstanding, as is the tranquil garden. The furnishings and decor are luxurious and perfectly encapsulate the character of the cottage. The location is simply idyllic. It is clear that you have spent a lot of time transforming this beautiful cottage, whilst enhancing the character and history of the building. I really do take my hat off you to for doing such an amazing job! The little treats were very appreciated, as were the print outs of local walks. I think the bed was probably the most comfiest I have ever slept in. We were taken aback by how much wildlife you get in your garden. We were lucky enough to see a red squirrel having a wash in the garden right next to us whilst enjoying our tea. All of the little touches made our stay perfect. You really have thought of everything. We travel alot and I can honestly say that Bonny Bits is without a doubt the nicest place we have had the pleasure of staying in. We will definately be back.

- Elena, April 2022

Thank you for your feedback. Really pleased that you were blessed with a visit from one of the red squirrels. So glad you enjoyed all of the little touches. See you again (and the village pub will be reopened!) Property Owner
David April 2022

“A very much loved cottage Well designed and attention to detail Just a delight”

- David, April 2022

Thank you. Glad you felt the love. It is indeed a much loved cottage. Property Owner
Elizabeth March 2022

“Every aspect of the cottage has been well thought out with everything you could need whilst away.”

The attention to detail and decorating style makes it really unique and stand out from other places we have stayed. The village is nice and quiet with the town a short drive away. We spent the week doing some things locally but also not too far to visit Penrith and Keswick for the day. I would advise someone who has low mobility to not stay at this cottage as the stairs are quite steep and the bannisters are rope, so would be a struggle getting up and down. Not a negative point for the cottage though as this is expected, from the age of the building and from the listing and photos. The owners are very nice and provide all information and contact details you may need.

- Elizabeth, March 2022

Thank you for your feedback. Really glad that your enjoyed all the details and decor in the cottage. We really enjoyed putting them together. Property Owner
Gillian February 2022

“We have stayed in many rental holiday homes over the years but this has got to be the most beautifully decorated and charming.”

It’s just another level, so much thought has gone in to the decor, furnishings and equipment provided. And so delightfully quirky! Absolutely loved our stay and was actually glad it was typical rainy February weather as it was a joy to stay in. Lovely surroundings too, you can venture out on nice walks in picturesque countryside from the door. Alston is pretty with some great shops to explore. Loved the drive to nearby Penrith via the Hartside pass through the clouds. Would love to return and would thoroughly recommend. The only downside is that it will spoil you for any other cottages you stay in afterwards!!

- Gillian, February 2022

Thank you for your review. Really pleased that you appreciated all the details we've put into the cottage. We wanted to put some thought into choosing relevant pictures and decor and unique furniture, rather than generic items. We aimed to achieve something that would make guests feel special, so glad that it's had that affect on you. Property Owner
David December 2021

“Fantastic cottage, comfortable beds, immaculate.”

As it was Christmas time we really appreciated the Xmas lights, tree and foliage decorations. Can’t find a negative.

- David, December 2021

Thank you for your review. So glad that you had a great Christmas and appreciated the tree and fresh bay branches. Property Owner
Craig October 2021

“The property owners of Bobby Bits Cottage have restored and decorated this property to an exceptional standard and it's the first time we have had a holiday and upon arrival and entering it was even better than the pictures.”

It is perfectly placed for a base for you to explore Cumbria and come back stick the log fire on and relax in this gorgeous cottage. We again for the first time ever will be booking again, if we can get booked after this feedback. Well done guys, me Vic and the boys had a wonderful time and Thank you it is BEAUTIFUL.

- Craig, October 2021

Thank you for your review. As a new cottage, we are really grateful for the feedback. So glad that you will be returning. Property Owner
Fionnuala September 2021

“The weather wasn't great but we didn't mind as we just loved being in the cottage listening to the waterfall and watching the birds.”

Blissful. Marked facilities down slightly because in the rain there is really limited space to put wet coats, wet boots and socks and wet rucksacks. A small lean-to outside or access to the shed opposite would have been helpful. But a lovely relaxing holiday in a beautifully furnished, comfortable cottage.

- Fionnuala, September 2021

So glad that you found the cottage blissful. Just regarding the small point on facilities. We have four coat hooks and a boot rack - both next to a radiator, and the ornamental ladders above a radiator for hanging clothes. There was also the clothes horse in the cleaners cupboard for you to use. We feel that this is ample inside in the warm. The shed outside would not be suitable for drying wet items. Really pleased that you had a lovely, relaxing holiday. Property Owner

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Summary

Over three floors
First floor; 1x king-size
Shower room with walk-in shower, basin and WC
Second floor; 1x king-size with en-suite bath, walk-in shower, basin and WC
Ground floor; open plan living space with kitchen, dining area and living area with wood-burning stove
Oil central heating with woodburning stove
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine and dishwasher
Smart TV with Freesat, WiFi
Fuel, power and starter pack for woodburning stove inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Off-road parking for 2 car
Enclosed garden with patio and furniture
Sorry, no pets and no smoking
Shop 0.4 miles, pub 3.3 miles
Note: Not suitable for children under 5 due to exposed stonework, steep stairs, and no fire guard on woodburning stove
Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping Bond of £250
Note:Minimum of 2 night stay.

The property

Alston 3.3 miles.

Settled in the quaint village of Garrigill near Alston, in the wonderful county of Cumbria, is this three-storey, white-washed property, Bonny Bits Cottage.

This old lead miners cottage dates back to the 1790's and is named after the crystals of fluorspar, quartz and calcite that the miners would bring out of the mines.

The charming cottage boasts a characterful interior, with exposed stone walls, a woodburning stove and atmospheric lighting all around; this dwelling is the perfect stay for a group of four nature-lovers looking to explore the rural area.

There are public footpaths from the foot of the door, where you walk directly to Ashgill Waterfall, Bentyfield Lead Mine or the source of the South Tyne River.

After parking in one of the property's off-road spaces, take in the idyllic landscape before making your way inside this welcoming abode.

Enter the stunning open-plan living space, with a velvet blue sofa to unwind on whilst you catch up on your favourite series with a refreshing glass of wine at hand.

The delightful kitchen area sits at the rear of the property; here you can prepare mouth-watering dishes on the solid oak worktops and take advantage of the plethora of utilities in the fitted cupboards.

When dinner is ready, gather around the dining table, a great socialising space for your group, to tuck into a tasty meal.

As the day draws to a close, venture upstairs to the first floor to discover a contemporary shower room, with a feature sink to add to the charm of the space, as well as a thoughtfully laid-out king-size bedroom to snuggle up in.

Travel up to the second floor for the fantastic master bedroom, boasting a king-size bed, historic artifacts from lead mining, as well as a fabulous en-suite bathroom; the bath with claw feet to complete the elegance of the room.

In the morning, enjoy a cup of tea in the garden to soak in the tranquillity of Garrigill; the area is a haven for wildlife, with red squirrels living in the trees opposite and regular visitors in the garden, along with hedgehogs, rabbits, voles and over thirty species of birds, plus hares and even weasels in the surrounding fields!

Take a step back in time with a visit to the a traditional village shop and Post Office resting just a stone's throw away, here you can stock up on your essentials and treats to take on your excursions.

Golf enthusiasts will be pleased to discover Alston Moor Golf Course, which is less than two miles away from your home-from-home and offers a peaceful afternoon with 18 holes and impressive scenery encompassing the course.

Embark on an adventure to Killhope Lead Mining Museum, where you can learn the riveting facts about 19th century lead mining and for more history venture to Epiacum Roman Fort to see the remains of the ancient landscape.

Energetic types can also enjoy a wealth of quiet roads and cycling paths, including a coast-to-coast path, right on the doorstep; be sure to bring your bikes along for a fantastic cycling experience in the countryside!

The historic market town of Alston hosts the popular South Tyne Steam Railway, making for a fun and fascinating day out at any age.

Also within the town, you will find plenty more amenities including a good selection of shops, pubs, cafés and takeaways to fuel your adventures.

The market town of Penrith is just a short drive away, hosting Penrith and Eden Museum for an engrossing trip into the past and the spectacular Grade I building, Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens, with a river streaming along the property for a quaint stroll.

Slightly further afield is the picturesque village of Stanhope, home to a famed fossil tree, which is 320 million years old, as well as the River Wear, which is popular due to its glorious backdrop.

For an enchanting escape with your favourite people, stay at Bonny Bits Cottage.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £250.

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About the location

ALSTON

Melmerby 8 miles; Penrith 18 miles; Stanhope 20 miles; Hexham 23 miles; Carlisle 29 miles; Barnard Castle 30 miles.

Alston is set in the North Pennines in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, surrounded by a unique landscape of moorland, hills, rivers and waterfalls, and is England's highest market town. This intriguing town, with its cobbled streets and fascinating nooks and crannies, was the location for ITV's productions of Jane Eyre and Oliver Twist. Alston and the North Pennines have long inspired artists and writers; the poet and writer W H Auden loved the area and today Alston is an inspiration to the craftspeople who live and work there. There is a host of unusual shops in the town including quality crafts and galleries. Take a ride on one of the lovingly-restored steam and diesel engines through the beautiful scenery of the South Tyne valley on the South Tynedale Railway which runs from Alston through to Slaggyford. The River Tyne is also noted as one of the finest salmon rivers in England and day-ticket fishing is available locally. The North Pennines used to be one of the wealthiest lead mining centres in Europe, and the Killhope Lead Mining Museum offers a great family day out with interactive exhibitions. With the drive along the A686 recognised by the AA as one of the world's best drives, and northern Cumbria, County Durham and Northumberland, all within easy reach, this makes a superb base.

Note:Minimum of 2 night stay.

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Last minute
Christmas

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“My wife and I loved the cottage.”

“Absolutely fabulous, Quiet little cottage, Well maintained and fully furnished had a luxurious feel and a comfortable environment for relaxing.”

“This was a wonderful property, loved the character and the setting.”

“I've stayed in lots of holiday cottages and this is quite simply the best!”

“Absolutely gorgeous cottage, both stylish and incredibly comfortable in a lovely part of the world.”

“Lovely, comfortable, well maintained property.”

“Absolutely lovely little place!”

“Bonny bits Cottage is a cosy beautifully styled retreat.”

“Bonny bits cottage had been on our to do list for a while and our visit exceeded our expectations.”

“Lovely stay!”

“We were very impressed by Bonny Bits and enjoyed our stay.”

“A delightfully quirky cottage, which lived up to our expectations following a recommendation.”

“Bonny Bits is the perfect home away from home, we had a lovely stay over New Year.”

“Gorgeous cottage in the perfect location for a quiet getaway.”

“Perfect in every way!”

“Admired the way it is furnished and the quality of fittings etc.”

“Bonny Bits cottage was exactly how we imagined.”

“Had a long overdue 14 day break in a lovely part of the country, which the cottage reflected beautifully.”

“We had an excellent time and thoroughly enjoyed our comfy stay at the cottage in tranquil and beautiful surroundings.”

“The cottage was outstanding - every detail was considered even down to leaving food for the birds!”

“There is only one word I can use to describe Bonny Bits, 'WOW'!”

“A very much loved cottage Well designed and attention to detail Just a delight”

“Every aspect of the cottage has been well thought out with everything you could need whilst away.”

“We have stayed in many rental holiday homes over the years but this has got to be the most beautifully decorated and charming.”

“Fantastic cottage, comfortable beds, immaculate.”

“The property owners of Bobby Bits Cottage have restored and decorated this property to an exceptional standard and it's the first time we have had a holiday and upon arrival and entering it was even better than the pictures.”

“The weather wasn't great but we didn't mind as we just loved being in the cottage listening to the waterfall and watching the birds.”

Summary

The property

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About the location

ALSTON