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.
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.
