With fabulous views over a beautiful part of the Northumberland coast and of irresistible Holy Island, The Ducket is an amazing 65 feet high tower standing in its own grounds. The 18th century Grade II listed former dovecote - hence 'Ducket' - now has 21st century mod cons such as ground-source heating and Wi-Fi, and offers unique self-catering holiday cottage accommodation (some holiday cottage!) for a couple.
* Tourist Board Five stars *
* Historic associations * Panoramic views *
* Grade II listed * Sandy beaches nearby *
* Single property * Castles (inc Lindisfarne) nearby *
* Romantic ambiance * Ample parking *
Say the publishers of The Good Holiday Cottage Guide, 'The Ducket is one of the dozen or so most extraordinary holiday properties we've seen in 28 years. To say that tender-loving-care has been lavished on it is an understatement. It's a historic monument that visitors can connect with in the best way possible - by actually staying in it. It's an overworked word, but it really IS unique.'
Writes one recent visitor: 'Beat this! On the top floor - that is, the fifth floor! - is a cosy library with comfy seating and panoramic views of Lindisfarne Castle. Extraordinary.'
The accommodation:
Spread over five floors, a series of mostly circular rooms is reached by a hand-crafted, wrought-iron, curved staircase.
On the ground floor is a washer/tumble-drier and a bathroom with bath and large walk-in shower. On the first floor is a double bedroom with a king-size bed and Freeview TV. On the second floor is a kitchen with microwave, double-oven, dishwasher, fridge, freezer and television. On the third floor is a sitting room with Freeview TV and DVD player. Free Wi-Fi - just bring your own laptop.
On the top floor is a library with comfortable seating and panoramic views of Lindisfarne Castle (see comments above), of the Northumberland coastline and the Cheviot Hills. There is easy parking and a paved terrace at the base of the tower.
The location is surely among the most sought after in the whole of northern England. Apart from Holy Island, a delight to reach via a causeway when the tide is low, places to visit include Bamburgh Castle, Seahouses (seal watching), Craster (kippers) and Dunstanburgh Castle, Alnwick, the Cheviot Hills/Scottish border. Price range £470 to £900.
