Nightfold Cottage is a single-storey barn conversion on the edge of Alnwick, Northumberland, with a mezzanine bedroom tucked above the main space. Original wooden beams and a vaulted ceiling run through the beamed lounge and an electric wood-burning-effect fire keeps things cosy. The property sits in a quiet hamlet cluster close to the A1, giving easy access without the noise.

Alnwick itself has independent shops, restaurants and pubs, all within walking distance of the cottage. Head south a short drive and you reach the coast: Alnmouth with its arty boutiques, Warkworth with its beach and castle and Amble with its harbour and pod village of local sellers. It is a solid base for exploring Northumberland without needing the car every day.

The cottage sleeps two across a king-size main bedroom and a double in the second room, with the mezzanine bedroom adding flexible sleeping space. There's one family shower room with WC. The kitchen/diner comes with a table and chairs plus an oven, ceramic hob, microwave, fridge and dishwasher. Outside, the south-east-facing enclosed garden has sun loungers for evening sun. Parking is available on-site for up to two cars.

Alnwick Castle is within walking distance, as is The Alnwick Garden and its treehouse. Amble's harbour and marina sit a short drive south. Warkworth Castle and its beach make a good half-day out. Alnmouth's boutiques and pubs are worth the short trip too.

Couples wanting a quiet, well-equipped Northumberland base will find it here. One reviewer said the shower and bathroom were the cleanest they'd seen in self-catering and another called it one of the best places they'd stayed. Nightfold Cottage delivers on comfort and location alike. Check your dates today for a break near Alnwick.