Folly Cottage is a stone-built cottage in Alnwick, Northumberland, one of a pair given a complete refurbishment in 2018. It sleeps two, with one bedroom and one bathroom, making it a proper hideaway for couples rather than a family base. An open fire sits in the ground floor living space and the whole place is immaculately presented throughout.

Alnwick is a historic market town and this cottage sits tucked behind the market square, reached via an arch and a walk up the old Correction House Lane. Steep drops and kerbs mark the approach, so it's worth knowing before you arrive with heavy bags. A public car park sits 200 yards away and is free of charge. There's a pub within a mile too, handy for an evening pint without needing the car.

Downstairs is open plan, with a kitchen, dining space and living area sharing one room. The kitchen has an electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, dishwasher and washer dryer. Upstairs holds one double bedroom with a 4ft 6in bed, plus a contemporary bathroom with a bath and shower over. Outside there's a private enclosed courtyard garden with furniture, good for morning coffee.

Alnwick Castle sits a short walk from the cottage, well within 10 minutes on foot. Alnwick Garden, with its famous cascading fountain, is also close by, around a 10-minute walk. The Northumberland coast, including Alnmouth beach, lies within 5 miles (10 minutes by car). Barter Books, one of England's largest secondhand bookshops, is a 5-minute walk from the door.

This is a smart pick for couples wanting a romantic base in the middle of Alnwick, close to the castle, the garden and the coast. Folly Cottage can also be booked alongside neighbouring Cobbler's Cottage for a group of up to six. Check your dates for a well-placed break in Alnwick today.