The clocks have sprung forward and it has us thinking of holiday homes – pretty pads, made for sunny weekend breaks. Seaside away-from-it-all spots really do it for us this time of year – there’s nothing quite like a morning blustery stroll before the sun comes up and gallons of sea air to blow away the cobwebs – and so we’re always on the hunt for cool coastal cottages that bring the wow-factor. Self-catering stunners that provide the perfect base from which to explore our breezy surroundings, but also that offer a cosy ‘welcome back’ feeling when the day is done.
Pepperclose Cottage is one of those. Sat within two minutes of Bamburgh beach – one of the dreamiest in Northumberland – it’s a stone-built, 18th century cottage, fully-restored with five-star good looks and furnishings to boot. It sits across the cricket field below Bamburgh Castle, which can be seen through the cottage windows to the east and south, only a minute’s walk from the centre of Bamburgh.
Inside, discover a light and airy living area, with a large dining area for families and friends to gather around at the beginning – and the end – of each day. Snug seating, masses of books, pictures and prints and a log fire bring the hygge factor, while the flat-screen TVs with Freeview telly, DVD player and stereo and Wi-Fi, keep you entertained and connected. We love the weathered oak furniture and quality pictures and prints – they add a real sense of style and a ‘home from home’ feel.
If the cooking’s your job, you’ll also be pleased to find a fully-equipped kitchen, complete with sleek granite worktops, electric oven and hob, microwave and all the utensils you need to whip up brekkie, lunch and dinner.
A short corridor from the sitting room leads to a large double bedroom and adjoining bathroom, with a separate bath and cabinet shower. The bedroom has a sumptuous king-size bed, flat-screen television, radio and a fabulous walk-in wardrobe. Expect plenty of crisp linen and fluffy towels for added luxury.
Through the front hall is the second bedroom, which can be made up with either twin beds or a super-king-size double (state your preference when booking). A fitted wardrobe, a dressing table with views across to the castle and an en-suite shower room make this an ideal hideaway for either two adults or two kids.
Venture outdoors and you’ll see that Pepperclose faces south and offers with a gorgeous private terrace with table and chairs by the front door. The door from the kitchen opens on to a large paved terrace with a dining table and barbecue, perfect for a little alfresco dining, lush plants, flowers and herbs, and one hell of a view to the coast. The garden gate opens on to a grassy path running down to the dunes and beach. Bliss…
