Upper Oakwood is a second-floor apartment set in a period building right in the centre of Alnwick, Northumberland. Original features include ornamental fireplaces and original wooden flooring, plus beautiful sash windows with shutters. The living room is light and airy with large windows and one reviewer called it very spacious. Note there are lots of stairs, so it won't suit guests with mobility issues.

Alnwick's narrow streets have barely changed since stagecoach days and the Market Place with its stone cross still hosts a weekly Saturday market. You're a short walk from independent shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs. The Northumberland coast with its golden sandy beaches is a short drive away and Warkworth Castle and Dunstanburgh Castle both sit within easy reach for a day out.

The apartment sleeps four across a double bedroom with en-suite walk-in shower and a twin bedroom. There's a separate bathroom with bath and heated towel rail. The kitchen/diner has an electric oven, gas hob, dishwasher and washing machine and there's a dining table for meals in. A living/dining room gives extra space to relax.

Alnwick Castle, home to the Duke of Northumberland and the setting for Hogwarts School in the Harry Potter films, is just 0.1 miles from the door. Alnwick Garden, with Europe's largest cascading water feature and a large treehouse, sits right alongside it. Barter Books, a well-known book shop and café, is a short stroll away and Alnmouth beach is 4 miles (10 minutes) by car. Bamburgh is 15 miles away (25 minutes).

This is a great pick for couples or families wanting a period base right in the heart of Alnwick, with castles, gardens and coastline all close by. One well-behaved pet is welcome too. Book Upper Oakwood today for your Northumberland break.