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Says Bryn Frank editor of The Good Holiday Cottage Guide, 'The Northumberland coast is amazing. But while there are places of character there's a shortage of high-end properties. This remarkable portfolio of holiday cottages fills the gap.'
In exceptional sought-after coastal locations around Beadnell, Seahouses, Bamburgh and Tughall Steads, near charming Newton-by-the-Sea, Coastal Retreats is a privately-owned Five Star-graded collection of about 40 luxury self catering holiday cottages with boutique style contemporary interiors. They could be classified as 'coastal chic', and child and baby friendly to boot. The contemporary collection features a penthouse apartment with huge vaulted ceiling overlooking Budle Bay, restored fisherman's cottage in Craster, an art deco annexe of a country house, a harbourside upside down, architect- designed house with stunning sea views and a range of barn and grain store conversions
Among so many memorable features, common to all or most properties, are log fires, sea views, professionally designed interiors, gardens, IPod docks, free wifi access, coffee machines, barbeques, breadmakers, dishwashers, phones, squashy sofas and comfy king size beds. There's well chosen children's play equipment, toys and dressing up boxes. Crèche days at a local nursery, babysitting, frozen meal delivery service, gourmet dinners in your cottage, wine tasting, photography courses, kite surfing lessons, organic vegetable hampers and freshly prepared meals can all be arranged for you in advance.
Membership to the nearby private leisure club and spa included with its 20m pool, jacuzzi, gym and steam room. Non smoking. Mainly pet free but there are a couple of dog friendly properties. Friday and Monday changeovers.
We know Northumberland well, but think this description of the county by the people behind Coastal Retreats sums up its charms exceptionally well:
There are Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty among the North Pennines and Northumberland coast including a 40-mile stretch of Heritage Coast between Berwick and Amble, and the rolling Cheviot Hills. Cast yourself away on Holy Island (the tide cuts it off twice a day from the mainland) and explore the castle, priory and Heritage Centre. In the latter, you can ‘turn the pages’ (via a computer screen) of the brilliantly illuminated 7th century Lindisfarne Gospels, which have been described as the most beautiful illuminated manuscript in the world. Or go puffin and seal spotting around the Farne Islands.
Nearby attractions include Alnwick Gardens, Dunstanburgh Castle, Chillingham Castle, Paxton House and Howick Gardens. For a truly inspirational mix of peace and fresh air, you can’t beat the beaches of Beadnell, Embleton and Bamburgh.
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