The cottage is surrounded by beautiful countryside to explore walking straight from the front door, taking in woodlands, hidden lakes, rivers and moors.  Leave the car behind and just follow the O.S. map.  The whole area is steeped in history from the days of the monks.

A short drive away are the monastic ruins of the National Trust Cistercian Fountains Abbey resting alongside the river Skell and set in magnificent 18th century landscaped gardens. The adjacent Studley Royal Park and lake is home to herds of deer that roam the grounds. There is both a tea room and large restaurant worth visiting to make a day of it. Or perhaps take a walk to the back entrance of the Abbey which can be reached along a quiet lane just a stone’s throw away from the cottage.

National Trust Brimham Rocks is also within walking distance offering amazing far reaching views of the surrounding countryside stretching as far as Sutton Bank in the East. Stunning in all weathers.

There are many ancient picturesque towns and villages to explore within a 10 mile radius which offer country pubs serving food and tea shops to relax and enjoy a ‘pit stop’. Pateley Bridge has picturesque river walks and a park it also boasts the “world’s oldest sweet shop”. Masham, a small market town, has a church set on the site of an Anglo-Saxon place of worship. Situated at the side of the market place it is well worth a visit. Just a couple of places worth visiting amongst many.

The City of Ripon is the nearest shopping centre less than 6 miles away and offers numerous bars, restaurants and coffee shops. The amazing Cathedral dominates the centre and is also well worth a visit.

Further afield is the historic market town of Knaresborough with the Castle overlooking the River Nidd. There are riverside cafes, boats to hire and the famous Mother Shipton’s cave to explore.

There is the bustling City of York on the River Ouse with it’s famous magnificent Minster. Nearby are the ‘Shambles’ where some of the buildings date back to the 14th Century. Visit the Castle Museum, Viking Centre or perhaps enjoy a walk along the city’s Roman walls to take in the views. Or there are relaxing boat trips along the river to the Bishop’s Palace.

North Yorkshire has something for everyone to enjoy during their visit.