Guests say
The Orchards is highly praised for its comfort, peacefulness, and ideal location for exploring Northumberland. Guests appreciate the well-equipped facilities, comfortable beds, and the property's spaciousness. The garden and conservatory are particular highlights, offering relaxation and privacy. The local pub adds to the charm, providing good food within walking distance. While some minor maintenance issues and a lack of consumables were noted, the owner's responsiveness and the property's overall appeal have left a lasting positive impression on visitors.
Reviews generally indicate good cleanliness, with guests satisfied with the state of the property upon arrival. There are minor mentions of dust in some areas, but these do not detract significantly from the overall positive feedback.
The location is consistently lauded for its beauty, tranquillity, and convenience for local walks and visiting nearby attractions. The proximity to a friendly local pub and the ease of accessing the coast and historical sites contribute to its high rating.
Guests frequently mention the comfort of the property, particularly highlighting the beds and pillows. The spaciousness and homely feel of the cottage also contribute to a sense of comfort and relaxation.
The property is well-equipped with a variety of amenities that guests find satisfactory. Some minor maintenance issues, such as light bulbs and extractor fans needing attention, have been noted. The owner's proactive approach to resolving problems, such as the boiler issue, is appreciated.
While guests have expressed appreciation for the property's amenities and the owner's helpfulness, there is no specific mention of gifts or special thoughtful touches that would warrant a score in this category.
About this property
Tucked away in the rural village of Harbottle, amidst the tranquil Northumberland countryside, is this delightful little retreat, The Orchards. Beautifully presented throughout, The Orchards makes a great escape for families groups of
up to eight looking to break away from everyday life and see what this Northumberland location has to offer. The front door leads into the hallway, with the sitting room on your left, housing ample seating for all to kick back beside the woodburning stove, or during the summer months throw open the French doors for a light and airy feel. Turning right from the hallway there are four bedrooms, including a three king-size rooms, one of which benefits from an en-suite shower room, while there is also a lovely bunk room for children. Discover the family bathroom, complete with bath and walk-in shower so you can decide how to prepare for the day. Progress through to the kitchen/diner, boasting oak units and a granite worktop, along with a Stanley range cooker, induction hob and double electric oven, ensuring you have all the essentials for home-cooking. The garden room can be accessed externally or through the dining room, providing a lovely spot for some quiet time away from the group, or relax at the patio furniture with a cold beverage as your canine companion roams the lawn. Walkers will be delighted to know there is a scenic route right from the doorstep, taking you to the Drakestone, a massive sandstone block which rests high on a hill above Harbottle, before refuelling with some grub and a pint at the Star Inn, the local village pub which also serves as a community hub with a small shop and an excellent wood fired pizzeria in the courtyard. Another favourite walk in the area is the River Alwin route, which starts in Alwinton, or stay in the village and explore the surrounding rolling hills and fantastic horse riding routes in the Coquet Valley. For a bit of sightseeing, visit Alnwick Castle and Gardens, boasting 12 acres of meandering and magnificent gardens that are home to a grand cascade of water jets and the world’s largest Tai Haku Cherry Orchard, or venture over to the National Trust owned Craigside Hall near Rothbury, and the World Heritage Site that is Hadrian’s Wall. The Orchards is a fantastic base for a relaxing retreat, whatever time of year.
The village of Harbottle is nestled in Alwinton Parish, around 9 miles from Rothbury and 3 miles from the Scottish Border. Harbottle, which is made up of just a single street, is one of the most picture-postcard villages in the Coquet Valley. Many of the buildings are finished in a quaint, sandstone colours and within the centre lies the Star Inn pub, which not only serves food and drinks, but also houses a local village store selling cupboard essentials. The village is overlooked by the ruins of a 12th century castle, which acts as a gateaway to a beautiful walk up to Drake Stone.
Accommodation
Single storey.
Four bedrooms: 1 x king-size (zip/link, can be twin on request), 1 x king-size with en-suite shower, basin, heated towel rail and WC, 1 x king-size, 1 x bunk.
Bathroom with bath, walk-in shower, basin and WC.
Cloakroom with basin and WC.
Kitchen/diner.
Utility.
Dining room.
Sitting room with woodburning stove.
Garden room.
Games room/ garage with table tennis
Oil central heating with woodburning stove.
Range, electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, tumble dryer.
TV with Netflix and Amazon Prime, WiFi.
Fuel, power and starter pack for stove included in rent.
Additional bags of logs available for £5 on an honesty box basis.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Telephone provided on an honesty box basis.
Private driveway parking for four cars.
Front garden with lawn and patio.
Enclosed rear garden with lawn, patio and furniture.
One well-behaved pet welcome.
Sorry, no smoking.
Shop 8.5 miles, pub 0.1 miles.
Note: The games room is in the external double garage.
Note: The table tennis table is in the garage but can be moved outside
Reviews (27)
-
Gillian
Gardens are very pleasant and large and would be lovely on warm summer days. The area is quiet and scenic with a super little pub and shop in the village.
-
Charmaine
The accommodation is comfortable and well equipped and the beds are the comfiest we have slept in. Just some minor feedback - the showers need a good clean to remove the mildew, with it being end of peak season. The owner was extremely helpful and contactable during our stay. The pub down the lane is an added bonus!
-
Michael
It provided a relaxing and peaceful break in an idyllic location. The Orchards was was well equipped and spacious. Friendly local pub and lovely walks along the river and to Drake stone. We were fortunate with the weather but would consider returning in the Summer when it would be possible to enjoy bbqs in the garden. Thumbs up from the whole family. Thank you.