Hemmel Retreat @ Westfield Steading is a two-storey stone cottage converted from a 19th-century barn, set a mile outside Seahouses in Northumberland. The lounge has a tiled floor, exposed wooden beams and a wood burner, plus a countryside view stretching to the Farne Islands. It sleeps four across two bedrooms and works well for a small family or two couples travelling together.

This stretch of coast sits within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the sea is within easy reach on foot. Fishing, golf, horse riding and cycling are all close by and scuba divers can explore clear waters with close-up views of several wrecks. Surfers will find good breaks nearby too. Seahouses itself has shops and a pub for basics without a long drive.

Both bedrooms have super-king-size beds under pitched ceilings with exposed beams and a skylight overhead. One bedroom can be arranged as a twin on request. The first bedroom has its own en-suite shower room, while the second uses a large bathroom with a bath, a separate shower and sea views from the tub. A separate WC sits on the ground floor and a laundry room adds extra storage. The farmhouse-style kitchen has an electric range oven, ceramic hob, dishwasher, fridge and freezer, plus a round dining table for meals in.

The Farne Islands lie just offshore, one of Europe's most important bird sanctuaries and boat trips run out to see puffins and seals. Bamburgh Castle is 3 miles away, a coastal fortress with sweeping sea views from its walls. Newton-by-the-Sea offers a 14-mile return coastal walk with a pub stop halfway. Alnwick Castle, 14 miles away, is the second-largest inhabited castle in the country and featured in the Harry Potter films.

Book Hemmel Retreat @ Westfield Steading for a coastal break with genuine sea views, castle history on the doorstep and a proper wood burner to come home to. Check your dates today for a stay near Seahouses and the Farne Islands.