Tom's Cottage Alnwick sits right in the heart of this Northumberland market town. It's a traditional stone cottage with three bedrooms, so it works well for two families sharing or a larger group. You can walk to the cobbled streets and shops in minutes rather than driving in each day.

Alnwick itself has welcoming pubs and restaurants alongside the cobbled streets and independent shops. Fancy a browse? The town has a second-hand bookshop set in the old railway station, said to be the largest of its kind in the UK. Fit and healthy guests find the walk into the centre easy, though a bus or car works too if you'd rather not walk.

The cottage sleeps six across three bedrooms: a super-king master with its own smart TV, a double and a twin. There's one bathroom with both a bath and separate shower, plus a separate downstairs WC. The lounge has a large sofa, flame-effect electric fire and Sky TV, while the kitchen has a bistro table and breakfast bar. Outside you'll find an enclosed patio garden with stone walls, good for al fresco meals. Two dogs are welcome too.

Alnwick Castle, with its Harry Potter connections, is close by, as are the Alnwick Gardens. Amble, a harbour town and Craster, where a coastal path leads to Dunstanburgh Castle, both sit within easy reach. Bamburgh Castle and the sandy beaches at Alnmouth make good day trips further afield. One guest even mentioned being given a parking permit, handy for exploring the wider area.

This is a solid pick for families or dog owners wanting a central base in Alnwick without sacrificing space. Guests praise the location and the small thoughtful touches inside. Book Tom's Cottage Alnwick today for a break packed with castles, coastline and cobbled streets.