Visitors Comments - Taken from our Visitors Books
We have visitors books in all of our properties and they are invaluable, not only for providing welcome feedback to us on how our guests' found their accommodation, but for providing recommendations to future guests on places to visit, places to eat and handy tips to make the holiday even better. Thank you to all our guests who have taken the time to write of their holiday experience.
Here are a few entries from recent visitors books:
"Beautiful location and a very comfortable, well-appointed house. Despite an icy start to the week, we have had a fantastic holiday and enjoyed the beach (somewhat windswept!), castles (Alnwick was a real treat, especially for the children) and coastal scenery. We would love to come back some time soon. Thank you for a lovely stay." Sam, Phil and family stayed at Tall Trees in April 2008.
"Great holiday, agree with the definition of "Luxury", very comfortable and relaxing. Archie the dog enjoyed his welcome at the Masons Arms! Fountains at Alnwick Gardens great, Alnmouth beach lovely, Warkworth lovely as well. 12yr old son loved the touch sensitive lamps and 10 yr old daughter loved all the mirrors!" The Carr family stayed at Tall Trees in February 2008.
"Delightful! Murphy loved the dog chews on arrival. An excellent base for this part of Northumberland. We will definitely come back for a more extended visit." Paul, Pauline and Murphy the dog stayed at Tall Trees in March 2008.
"Perfect February weather - bright and clear. Great bike rides and days out. Beautiful house. Thank you!" The Leicester family stayed at Waterside in February 2008.
"We have never been up to this part of the world before and all of us have fallen in love with it! The cottage is delightful, lots of lovely towels and bedding!! Our boys and young dog Bella needless to say took us to the beach every day. We are all very windswept and tired! The house is a credit to you and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Definitely will be back soon!" The Downes family stayed at Tall Trees in February 2008.
"Fantastic long weekend in a beautiful place - a group of 40 somethings have cavorted around on the Northumbrian beaches like a group of 20 somethings - now we're all walking like a group of 80 somethings! Thanks for all your help Julie, you have thought of everything and your whole operation is very impressive and classy. Like the governer of California, "I'll be back"". The Taylor family stayed at Magdalene House in February 2008.
"A lovely place to spend New Year. Great walks on the beach. All the thoughful extras in the house made us feel very welcome. Thank you." The Gerrard family stayed at Waterside in December 2007.
"What a wonderful cottage! From the moment we stepped through the door we felt at home. The twinkling Chrismas Tree, scrumptious cake, crackers and champagne in the fridge - we knew Christmas would be great and it was. All that was missing was snow!! We'll be back - thank you for everything Julie". The Tighe family stayed at Tall Trees at Christmas 2007.
"Thank you for making a birthday surprise so relaxing. What a fantastic cottage and beautiful surroundings." Nicki, David and Jasper the dog stayed at Tall Treesin December 2007.
"Lovely house and location. We had a super weeks holiday and will be back!". Sheila and David from Wetherby stayed at Waterside in November 2007.
"What a wonderful place to spend our 10th wedding anniversary (without children!). Although I think we might be back with them!" Richard and Kate of North Yorkshire stayed at Waterside in November 2007.
" The house and its location far exceeded our expectations, and those were high based on what we find on the website. A perfect weekend and surely Warkworth Castle is a hidden gem and an excellent place to explore. Thank you." Carol and Chris from Derbyshire stayed at Waterside in November 2007.
"A wonderful few days, wish it had been longer. Really wonderful to find such good accommodation which accepts dogs" . Suzanne, Nigel and Sasha the dog stayed at Tall Trees in November 2007.
"Magdalene House is the perfect holiday home. It is the most comfortable accommodation we have ever stayed in. Truly a home from home. Thank you for all the finishing touches. We will be back in 2008" Carol and Gary Suter stayed at Magdalene House in November 2007.
" This is a beautiful area with lots to see and do. The house is lovely - the kids want to live here - thanks!" The Gordon-Rigby family from Scotland stayed at Waterside in October 2007.
"Breakfast on the patio in warm sunshine was unexpected. a great location and lovely beach walks. Good to explore a new area." Liz and Dave from Cheshire stayed at Waterside in October 2007.
"Had a fantastic long weekend, visited Cragside 'Wonderful'! Had a great day at Alnwick Gardens on Sunday - very spooky! House was great, could live here all year round, hope to be back soon. Thanks!" The Parton family stayed at Tall Trees in October 2007.
"What a wonderful few days we've had. The house is first class, a lot better than we expected. It has everything we like around Warkworth, sea and river, Jack the black lab enjoyed that bit. We did not have a drop of rain, it has been great, didn't want to go home. Hope to come back sometime. We would like to thank Julie for her help and advice, she runs things very well indeed." The Holian family including Jack the dog and Ant the guinea pig stayed at Tall Trees in October 2007.
"Had a lovely week - such a delightful place. Enjoyed every day - the cottage is lovely! Thank you for the flowers and welcome pack - it was a lovely touch and much appreciated. Thank you again." Tom and Liz shaw stayed at Lane End Cottage in October 2007.
"Back again for another week in this beautiful cottage - it is my fix for the rest of the year. Thank you for the 'goodies', especially the cake, it was a happy surprise. We will be back next year God willing. PS: thanks for the Tour de France DVD - made my week!" Mr and Mrs Lightowler stayed in Lane End Cottage in October 2007.
"Thank you for a wonderful week. You've made hospitality an art-form and have truly given us a home from home. We definitely will be back for another great week in the future!" Natasha and Jon stayed at Lane End Cottage in October 2007
"Tall Trees is by far the best self-catering holiday accommodation we have stayed in. The house is beautiful and in a very pleasant location, it is everything we want for our holiday - quality accommodation, rural location, pretty village and a fantastic beach. We celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary here with our dogs and agree with the previous guests "who needs to go abroad?". Warkworth beach is particularly lovely early morning and early evening. We also enjoyed the beaches at Seahouses and Bamburgh. Alnwick and Alnmouth are also nice places to visit. Can't wait to return next year!" Rita and John with Hettie and Jemma stayed at Tall Trees in October 2007.
"A very warm welcome from Julie. Lovely accommodation. This is a real gem of an area. Favourite places: Warkworth and Bamburgh beaches, Warkworth House Hotel for food, fish and chips at Newtons in Seahouses." Cathy, Tony and Cerys stayed at Tall Trees in September 2007.
"Lovely house in a fantastic location, made even better by all the nice little extras. Loads to see and do in the surrounding areas with fantastic scenery and food." The Carr's from York stayed at Waterside in September 2007.
"Had a great holiday in a delightful house and area. The highlights have been waking up to the sound of the curlew, bird watching, breakfast on the patio and walking on miles of empty beaches. We really enjoyed our stay in such a thoughtfully equipped home". Mr and Mrs Knowles stayed at Waterside in September 2007.
"Fantastic accommodation. Lots of personal touches, very friendly manager (Julie). Great location for days out - can't believe how many places we got to, including the Metro Centre! So close to the river - Danny's heaven (although didn't catch a salmon!) 1 week was not long enough, we are hoping to pursuade grandparents to join us up here next Summer. Thank goodness for good old 'Google', otherwise we would have missed out on this beautiful part of the world. Who needs to go abroad for a special honeymoon. This place is perfect!!" Jude, Danny and Jake Flint stayed at Magdalene House and Tall Trees in September 2007.
"A long weekend was not enough time to enjoy this lovely cottage and it's beautiful country surroundings! Everything you could possibly want to see and do is just on your doorstep and unfortunately we only to to sample a little of it! You are made to feel very welcome. I was even left a birthday gift and card by Julie which was much appreciated. We will definitely recommend the cottage to others and will no doubt be returning ourselves. PS: Jim really enjoyed the fishing, which is always a bonus (it was free!)" The Kidd and Reed families stayed at Tall Trees in September 2007.
"Had a fab time at Tall Trees, love the house, really comfortable with everything you could possibly need. The surrounding area is truly beautiful, we've had some great days out, weather has helped of course! Hope to come back one day. Alfie (the shih tzu) wants to stay forever and walk on the beach every day!" Karen, George and Alfie stayed at Tall Trees in September 2007.
"Lovely house, lots of books/games which the children really enjoyed. Beautiful area. We enjoyed cycling, the beach, the Farne Islands and the children particularly enjoyed the medieval tournament at Warkworth Castle." The Patterson family stayed at Waterside in August 2007.
"We've had such a great holiday in Warkworth. This was our son's first seaside holiday and he's enjoyed every minute - especially waking up to see the ducks and swans and sheep over the river, The cottage was lovely, very cosy and homely. Thank you for the wine, flowers, biscuits, milk, etc., that was a lovely surprise. We can't wait to come back to Warkworth and Lane End Cottage!" The Matthews family stayed at Lane End Cottage in August 2007.
"We've had an absolutely lovely week, the weather's been mostly dry would you believe! Spoilt for choice for things to do - love Northumberland and Warkworth is delightful! Really enjoyed the beach in the morning before everyone else gets there! I think that's the most comfortable bed I've ever slept in!" The Hinsley family stayed in Tall Trees in August 2007.
"Very impressive cottage. Lovely furnishings and very well equipped. Great location. We really enjoyed our stay. Would recommend Cragside, Lindisfarne and Bamburgh. Though Alnwick Castle was overpriced. Great beaches. We found the one at Warkworth convenient and lovely, especially early evening. Morrisons at Alnwick for basics, Waitrose at Hexham better! Thanks for providing a lovely place to stay!" The Bonds stayed at Hotspur Cottage in August 2007.
"Superb cottage, you feel like you're stepping into your own little piece of luxury when you arrive! Thanks for the cake, wine and luxury touches." Natalie, Dave and Ennolina Rose stayed at Hotspur Cottage in August 2007.
"Delightful cottage, thanks for the wine, biscuits and flowers, all very much appreciated. A lovely part of the world to visit, we have enjoyed it all. Good place to each in the village is 'Topsy Turvey's' - excellent. It is our first visit, but I'm sure it won't be the last! Weather has been fantastic too. Thanks so much. Joyce and Luke stayed at Hotspur Cottage in August 2007.
"First visit to Hotspur - won't be the last - property better than expected and a great base for the holiday. Well done to Julie and Mark, the conversion of this cottage is 1st Class" Ann and John stayed at Hotspur Cottage in July 2007.
"It's a great feeling to know you're going back to Hotspur Cottage, where you are assured a warm welcome and so many thoughtful touches. We shall return for a 3rd time soon to enjoy your high quality accommodation and the many attractions of Northumberland. Thank you." Trish and Graham stayed at Hotspur Cottage in July 2007.
"Our first visit to the area. A beautiful cottage in a beautiful village. We have thoroughly enjoyed our time here. Thoughtful touches in a cottage that made us feel at home. We would like to return again. So much to see and do - we are exhausted, but very happy! Many thanks for providing such lovely accommodation". Paul and Chris stayed at Hotspur Cottage in August 2007.
"A superb holiday, the weather over the last few days has been more like August than April. We have really enjoyed the coastal walking, especially north of Craster through to Low Newton (good pub!). The house is extremely comfortable and well equipped, which is a real treat. Normally holiday places seem to have a comfortable bed or a good shower or a nice sofa - whereas this has got them all!" Rod, Lesley, Hannah and Bethany from Hampshire stayed at Ceolwulph Cottage in April 2007.
"We have had a fantastic visit! It was home from home for us. Our little girls loved all the toys (Sophie declaring "it's much better playing with other people's toys!"). All very well equipped - great selection of music and videos. The tree was lovely and the Christmas decorations all lovely and tasteful. There has been a lot of thought and effort put into making this a great holiday "home" and it was very much appreciated! Hope to be back soon!" The Valentine family from Hampshire stayed in Ceolwulph Cottage at New Year 2006/07.
"What a wonderful cottage. When we drove up and saw the Christmas tree there were lots of ooh's and ahh's and when we got inside it got even better. We have absolutely loved our holiday here and can honestly say that we don't want to leave! Warkworth House Hotel has got to be the best place to eat in the village, morning and afternoon coffees are great there too. A huge thank you again and when we come back we'll definitely give you a call!" The Lamb Family from Sydney Australia stayed in Ceolwulph Cottage Christmas 2006.
"We've had such a fabulous week here, the cottage is beautiful and had everything we could have wanted. We had 2 beautiful days of walking on the beach, a fabulous stormy day walking the ramparts at Berwick and a day walking in the Cheviots. The "Treehouse" at Alnwick Gardens serves great food and on a Thursday they have a little jazz. A lovely way to spend our last evening here. We're heading up to Edinburgh for a couple of days before going home but dearly wish we were staying here! Hope to be back very soon". Lisa and Shane stayed at Ceolwulph Cottage in November 2006.
"Our third visit to this lovely cottage. Weather has been beautiful as usual. Our favourite haunts remain the "Red Lion" in Alnmouth and the "Cook and Barker" at Newton-on-the-Moor. Thanks as usual for the lovely welcome, wine, flowers, etc." Alan and Fran, Angie and Des and Kelli the dog stayed at Ceolwulph Cottage in November 2006.
"What an amazing place, found the cottage on the internet and it ticked all our boxes. When we walked through the door it lived up to our expectations and beyond, the little touches such as fresh flowers, wine, welcome tray, etc. were very much appreciated. Great week - loved it here!" The Wood family stayed in Ceolwulph Cottage in October 2006.
"We've had a glorious week here. Having explored the "Lakes" extensively, this is our first holiday in Northumberland - we'll be back! Ceolwulph Cottage has been a pleasure to enjoy. Everything is of the highest quality and a great base from which to explore. Craster to Dunstanburgh is a great walk and not too difficult. Humbleton Hill from Wooler is spectacular but a bit more difficult. We had a great couple of hours at Swarland Show and the Alnwick Round Table Tournament was great, in a beautiful setting beneath the castle. Warkworth beach at sunset was also stunning." The Curley family with Copper the dog stayed at Ceolwulph Cottage in August 2006.
"The cottage is a real treasure and everything has been thought of. You really feel at home. We have had some lovely days out. Particularly walking from Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle. A visit to Warkworth beach for a walk is a must. We shall definitely be back." Jon and Natasha from Scarborough stayed in Hotspur Cottage August 2006.
"Two weeks of being able to do the truly important things in life. Walk along beaches in the sunshine searching for that perfect pebble or shell. Watching the terns dive and wheel and argue. Evening walks along the riverbank at Warworth and seeing foxes on the opposite bank and once, a badger. Watching the herons take up their allocated positions along the river and occasionally disputing with their neighbours. The girls searching for the perfect gift shop - losing count of the times the lady who served them in "Present Time" (in the village) said "Thank-you" when they bought something. Having time to talk, read and relax and be at peace. And at the end of each day home to Ceolwulph. Perfect. A terrific fortnight." Elaine, Derek, Rachel, Sophie and Jessie the cairn terrier stayed at Ceolwulph Cottage in August 2006.
"We have had a superb holiday here, lovely, well equipped cottage, good weather, easy access to so many attractions in the area. We hope to be back soon. Many thanks". Trish and Gray from Sheffield stayed in Hotspur Cottage August 2006.
"Thank you for such a high standard of accommodation. Lovely cottage, delightful location - a real home from home. The extra touches were much appreciated. As the weather has been superb, we have made good use of the garden and conservatory. We've had a fantastic holiday in a beautiful part of the country, made more enjoyable by the excellent accommodation. I'm sure we'll be back at some point in the future." The Knowles family stayed in Ceolwulph Cottage in July 2006.
"This is our 2nd holiday in this fabulous cottage and our memories of it haven't deceived us - it is still a magical place. The weather has been wonderful - we couldn't have booked it to be this good, we are going back to Nottingham with suntans like being abroad! Recommend a trip to Holy Island - everyone should go there, the views are breathtaking. Every day we have been somewhere different but it's great to come back here in the afternoon then walk around the shops in Warkworth or along the river and up to the castle. Perfect. We'll be back next year - in fact we booked in on Wednesday!" Ida, Bill, Danny, Tracey and Jessie the dog stayed at Ceolwulph Cottage in July 2006.
"Wonderful cottage in a perfect location. Weather was good too. Excellent!!!". Bill and Sheila from West Yorks stayed in Hotspur Cottage June 2006.
"Once again thank you for your warm welcome. We love this place and we think Warkworth is a gem. We have walked on the beach every day except one and have "re-charged our batteries" ready for the next time"". Jane and Roy from Leicestershire stayed in Hotspur Cottage May 2006.
"Our first visit to Northumbria and it certainly won't be our last. What a beautiful county which has been enhanced by a week of beautiful weather. There is so much to do and see we have difficulty deciding on what were priorities. The highlights for us, however, were our visits to Bamburgh Castle and the fantastic expanse of sandy beach, Chillingham Castle and its rare herd of white cows and Newton-by-the-Sea - wonderful beach and rock pools (great for crabbing). The cottage is superb, more like a "home" than a holiday let and thank you for all your thoughtful touches, flowers, wine, milk and childrens toys, books and videos - such a bonus for mums at 6:30am! We just don't want to go home, everyone is so friendly here. Thank you for a very lovely and memorable holiday!" The Dowling and Woods Family stayed at Ceolwulph Cottage in May 2006.
"We've had a great week in such a lovely cottage, which lacked nothing! The spa bath was a hot favourite after a long day walking." Angela, Malcolm, Martyn, Rachel and Henry the labrador stayed in Ceolwulph Cottage in May 2006.
"A holiday cottage of very high standard. The efforts which you have gone to are much appreciated. On finding toys and videos, my 6 year old declared he was in "Paradise". The Mooney Family stayed in Ceolwulph Cottage in April 2006.
"This cottage is superb - a home from home, from the fluffy white towels to the efficient heating arrangements". The Stoddart family stayed in Ceolwulph Cottage in April 2006.
"We've had a wonderful few days. Christmas was hectic and we just wanted to "chill" which we certainly did! We were very impressed with the cottage and the champagne". Pat and Jim from Sunderland stayed in Hotspur Cottage January 2006.
"We love your cottage! So cosy to come back to each day. You have thought of every comfort! Our highlight - the walk from Craster to Embleton - wild and windy but absolutely stunning. We will be back. PS. thank you so much for the wine and flowers." Julia and Barry from Manchester stayed in Hotspur Cottage December 2006.
"Had a wonderful time, The cottage is very comfortable - could have moved in!! Warkworth is so pretty and the people very friendly. Have done some lovely walks, the beaches are very pretty. My only regret - didn't book the whole week!! Hope to be back." Alison from Bolton, stayed in Hotspur Cottage Easter 2006
"Many thanks for the wine and biscuits, a lovely welcome. We have been so warm and comfortable here and apart from one rainy day, the weather has been kind to us. Toby the Doberman has enjoyed his usual walks on the beach at Alnmouth and is now a regular visitor to Barter Books in Alnwick, where he enjoys all the fussing over him. We have stayed at 2 of your other cottages and appreciate the thought and effort put into making these properties so pleasant and convenient. Once again, our thanks for an enjoyable stay" Irene and Norman from Manchester, stayed in Hotspur Cottage November 2005
"Our first visit to this part of the country - very impressed. Warkworth is an idyllic village and the cottage an absolute delight. We have had a very enjoyable week and the weather has been superb - an unexpected bonus. The Masons Arms has catered very well for our evening meals. We have done the "main attractions" but would love to return to explore the less well known sites - and bring our golf clubs. Thank you so much for the warm welcome , a lovely start to our break." Jane and Roy from Leicestershire, stayed in Hotspur Cottage in September 2005.
"Perfect cottage, extremely comfortable with everything you could need fr a relaxing holiday. Loads of great walks and views, brilliant beaches and rivers, all enjoyed by the dog. Warkworth is lovely - what a well kept secret!" Andy and Sandra stayed in Hotspur Cottage September 2005.
"Lovely, well-presented holiday cottage. The village is great for eating out and is so pretty and well kept. Really enjoyed our week's break in this scenic part of the country." Pat and Val stayed in Hotspur Cottage September 2005.
"Excellent accommodation - everything has been thought of. Good village pubs - also good food at the Coach Inn at Lesbury and Widdrrington Inn at Widdrington Village. River walks really beautiful and grealy appreciated by our dog Moly." Cynthia and Bas stayed in Hotspur Cottage September 2005.
"A superb holiday in a superb cottage in a superb location. We appreciated all the personal little touches that were provided and (more than anything) the very comfortable beds that gave us such excellent nights of blissfull s-l-e-e-p. The whirly bath was fun and the constant hot water was appreciated. We firmly agree that we cannot wait to return to "Ceolwulph" for another smashing holiday". The Perrett family with "Wispa" the chocolate labrador stayed in Ceolwulph Cottage in September 2005.
"We are glad to count ourselves part of the Hotspur Cottage Fan Club. Very nice touches. It seems very remote from London. Of all the walks, gardens and castles, seascapes and fellsides, it would be unfair to pick a favourite. We were lucky though to be able to visit the Flower Show though." Rachel and Jeremy from London stayed in Hotspur Cottage August 2005.
"Excellent Cottage with lots of home comforts and thought put in. Really enjoyed the river walk and rowing boats worth a go. Pubs lively and New Barns farm shop really good meat. Great walk then views from Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle. Fish Smokery at Craster very good. You can go to Alnmout and part by the sea and have a great day, even if it pours (don't tell anyone though!) Warkworth a lovely village, talk and walk along the river, past the old bridge and over the road then up to the castle for great views of Amble and the marina. A delightful week, we will be back!!" Kevin and Gill from Milton Keynes stayed in Hotspur Cottage August 2005.
"Thanks for granting us another week in your beautiful cottage. The village is wonderful. What a surprise to walk into a typical-looking self-catering cottage and find a kitchen, bathroom and furnishings straight from a New York City Park Avenue apartment. VERY comfortable!" Mary and Tom from Texas, USA stayed in Hotspur Cottage July 2005.
"A very happy week in Warkworth and your lovely cottage. Thank you so much for all the extra touches - we felt very welcome. It was good to have such a comfortable and attractive base. Special memories: first seeing Alnmouth from the Warkworth to Alnmouth road, seeing seals from the riverside walk to Amble and round Holy Island, reading your books on a sunny day in Dunstanburgh Castle, picnics on the riverside watching a heron and coming back to a comfy bed" Phil and Sylvia stayed in Hotspur Cottage July 2005.
"This is our first time having a self-catering holiday. What a high standard you have set for anyone else to come close to (if they could). The extra touches such as the games and videos, DVD's, etc. kept everyone happy aged from 13yrs to 8 mths old. Thank you so much for going that extra mile to ensure every age is catered for." Suzanne, Brian and Family stayed in Ceolwulph Cottage in March 2005.
"Thank you for letting us stay in your beautiful cottage. This is our first visit to Northumberland and this cottage was on a shortlist of 3 - as soon as we arrived we knew we had made the best choice, it is by far the best cottage we have ever stayed in and we have been all over England, Scotland and Wales! The weather has been fantastic, some days on the beaches have been like being abroad. We have visited many places including Alnwick, Alnmouth, Morpeth, Rothbury, Amble, Seahouses and Bamburgh. Our favourite town has to be Alnwick. Each day we have come back to the cottage and walked around Warkworth - the river walk from here to the castle is out of this world. Wish we could stay longer. Every day we have found a beach to walk our dog - she has loved every one. We are very sorry to be leaving, but the plan is to come back next summer so keep this week free for us - we'll book asap! We will keep this part of England our little secret, we aren't very good at sharing!" Ida, Bill, Danny, Tracey and Jessie the dog stayed at Ceolwulph Cottage in July 2005.
"Couldn't leave without taking the time to express how much we enjoyed our Christmas break here and how much we appreciated what Ceolwulph Cottage has to offer. On our arrival, we were overwhelmed by the immaculate presentation of the house and its setting; from the exceptional quality of the housekeeping and the beautiful decor and fittings, to the thoughtful provision of Christmas tree and decorations and the lovely Welcome Hamper. All of this made us feel immediately at home and set us up for a very enjoyable and relaxing week. It goes without saying that the surrounding area is one of particular natural beauty and we very much look forward to visiting the area again. We will definitely recommend the cottage to our friends." Claire, John and Alex with "Nanny Maggie" and "Nanny Jean" stayed in Ceolwulph Cottage Christmas 2004.
"We came to Warkworth and Sunny Cottage by chance needing a Friday to Friday booking in the area, but we soon discovered we had found something very special. Warkworth is beautiful with interesting shops and nice places to eat. The beach is stunning! We have stayed in many cottages throughout Britain but Sunny Cottage beats them all by far - it is perfect in every way, thank you." Lorna and Mick Carr from Cambridgeshire "I think you should film people's reactions as they walk through the door. It would be hilarious to watch everyone looking like goldfish! Thank you ever so much, I don't want to go home!" Natalie, aged 11, stayed in Ceolwulph Cottage in October 2004.