Kennel Cottage Alwinton

Kennel Cottage is in Alwinton, right on the edge of the Northumberland National Park. It's a detached cottage, so you're on your own. Sleeps two, one bedroom. It's got an en-suite shower room and a second bathroom downstairs.

It's a 4 Star place. That means it's comfortable and well-equipped. The sunroom at the back is a good spot. You can sit there and watch the garden. There's a small stream running through it, so you get a lot of wildlife. Roe deer, badgers, sometimes an otter. Red squirrels are about too, they come into the garden.

It's very quiet. Sheep in the fields around you. The nearest pub is in Harbottle, about two miles away. It's dog-friendly and does decent food. There's a little shop there as well.

You're well placed for walking straight from the door. The National Park is on your doorstep. Because there's so little light, the stars at night are incredible. It's a proper Dark Sky area.

For a day out, Rothbury is half an hour's drive. It has shops, cafes, and Cragside House is there, which is worth a visit. Alnwick with its castle and gardens is about 20 miles. The coast at Alnmouth or Craster is roughly 45 minutes.

Facilities: everything's there. Washing machine, dishwasher, WiFi, TV, parking. Bedding and towels are included. One well-behaved dog is welcome.

Useful links: Northumberland National Park and Northumberland Dark Skies.