Cottages near to Exhilarating Estuary Walks

The Fowey Estuary, Cornwall

Whether you enjoy leisurely woodland walks or cliff top paths, the walks around the Fowey Estuary cater for all levels and abilities.

Fowey Estuary Walking

Of the many walks available in the area, the most popular along the estuary is known as the Hall Walk and offers stunning views of the estuary, harbour and out to sea. This is a four mile circular walk which follows the banks of the river and also takes in the ferries via Bodinnick, Pont Creek and Poluran or back again, depending on your route. There is also a longer walk via the beautiful St Wyllow Church from Pont and onto Pencarrow Head where walkers can join up with the coastal path for a longer walk to Poluran.

Between Easter and September, there are guided walks available with experienced guides providing a historical narrative on this beautiful area. For further information contact the Fowey Tourist Information Centre.

Just eight miles from Fowey is the beautiful 17th Century Farmhouse, one of three self-catering Aga properties on a 100 acre dairy farm. These Grade II listed properties cater for groups from 2 to 6 and may be combined for larger groups. For further information visit:

AGA Cottage House in St Austell

The Taw Estuary, near Barnstaple, North Devon

This easy but beautiful walk can be as long or as short as you like and takes in part of the South West Coast Path, providing interest all year round, whatever the season. In this area, the South West Coast Path follows the disused track of the London and South Western Railway Branch Line that ran between Barnstaple and Ilfracombe. The branch opened as a single-track line in 1874, but was so popular that it needed to be upgraded to double-track in 1889. Sadly, the line closed in 1970 when, like so many other areas, rail travel fell out of favour as more and more people owned their own cars. There’s plenty for twitchers to see with migrant waders and other waterbirds populating the salt marshes and even a rare bird of prey, the Hobby, hunting the swifts and swallows as they gather for their migration south.

For more information on this walk visit:

South West Coast Path Taw Estuary

There is a wide choice of AGA Cottages in and around the Barnstaple area, some sleep large numbers and make them ideal locations for larger family gatherings.

White Haven Retreat is a wing of a private home, which sleeps four and is in the quiet hamlet of Eastacombe, just outside Barnstaple. The AGA makes White Haven Retreat a cosy, comfortable base at any time of year, perfect for exploring the Taw Estuary and surrounds.

AGA Cottage Wing In Barnstaple

The Dee Estuary, North Wales

Beautiful North Wales has so much to see and do and is a real haven for walkers. The Wales Coastal Path was voted number one in the world in the Lonely Planet’s best in travel top ten regions in 2012 and it’s not hard to see why. There’s a particularly beautiful walk along the coastline between Flint Castle and Basingwerk Abbey, two treasured national historical monuments.
Starting at Flint Castle, or the ruins of this 13th century castle, part of a chain built by Edward I to encircle Wales, the walk starts with beautiful views of the estuary and out towards the Wirral. Following the coastline, the walk takes in the natural habitats of many species of birds and finally meanders half a mile inland to the 12th century Basingwerk Abbey. The substantial remains of this once Cistercian Abbey form a stunning backdrop although be warned, you may not be here in this peaceful location on your own. Many local people report strange phenomenon and goings on around the Abbey including a colourful ghost seen hovering near where the second floor once would have been and the noise and smoky smell of a train in the woods in Holywell. Whatever you believe, there’s no denying the beauty of the area.

Visit Flintshire Wales Coast Path

Many of our Welsh Aga cottages are within driving distance of stunning locations for walks. Kingslow Cottage is a mid terrace period property sleeping six in the centre of the village of Newborough. Whether you want to explore to the west and take in Anglesey and Conwy or travel slightly further afield to Flintshire in the east, this cosy, welcoming cottage is the perfect base.

For further information visit:

AGA Cottage – Cottage in Bangor

The Tay Estuary, Scotland

The Fife Coastal Path runs from the Forth Estuary in the south to the Tay Estuary in the north and stretches some 117 miles. Once again there is something for everyone on this path from the gentle stroll to the vertiginous (almost!) ascent. Depending on your taste, one stretch starting at the old pier in Newport-on-Tay, starts gently enough passing through Wormit, largely on tarmacadam but then becomes a grassy path and ascends to the coastal path. Whether you walk the three steep miles up the coastal path, stop and enjoy the views across to Dundee and down the estuary taking in the bridges or whether you carry on to Newburgh, you’re sure to enjoy all the Scottish coastline has to offer.

For further details visit:

Fife Coastal Walks

Perched right on the banks of the River Tay in Newport with unimpeded views of the water is the delightful Tay House. For those so inclined, the house also has its own slipway and mooring but non-boaty types will feel just at home in this comfortable and cosy house. With the cosmopolitan cities of Dundee and St Andrews a car journey away there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.

For more information see:

AGA Cottages House in Newport on Tay

The Aln Estuary, Northumbria

The picture postcard perfect village of Alnmouth, with its red roofed cottages is the perfect starting point for a coastal walk that takes in the Aln estuary and ends up at the medieval Warkworth Castle. The track crosses Buston Links, covered in wild flowers in spring time and follows a beautifully wild stretch of beach where Artic Terns dive for fish, best visited when the tide is out and the golden sands stretch for miles.

To find out more, please visit:

Your Northumberland – Alnmouth

In nearby Eglingham, just outside Alnwick, is Sunflower Cottage, a wonderful old stone built cottage with views over open countryside. Sleeping six, this inviting Aga cottage is also within easy driving distance of Alnwick and Dunstanburgh Castles as well as the Farne Islands and Lindisfarne.

For more information please visit:

AGA Cottages – Cottage in Alnwick

Article written by Rebecca Russell
Image: Copyright: Ian Wool / 123RF Stock Photo

anchor seatown dorset

5 Fabulous Walks with Great Views and Great Food

Seatown in West Dorset

This almost perfectly named Seatown is a picturesque coastal hamlet near the village of Chideock. Blink and you’ll miss the turn off the A35, which, rather than a ‘town’, ends with just a few cottages, an upmarket holiday park and a pub sitting almost on the beach. Noted for fishing and smuggling in the not far distant past, Seatown is now a peaceful nook between high cliffs, with Golden Cap, the highest sea cliff on the south coast to the west. The walk from Symondsbury to Golden Cap was featured as one of Julia Bradbury’s Best Walks with a View. You can also walk from Seatown to Golden Cap along the south west coast path, a walk of just over a mile if you’re feeling less energetic. The Anchor Inn at Seatown has a tantalising menu focussing on local Dorset produce and the terrace has stunning views out to sea, perfect for a lazy, hazy summer lunch.

For further information visit:

Great Walk with a View – Golden Cap

Great Food – The Anchor at Seatown

A mere 15 minute country lane stroll from Seatown is the beautiful Chideock Cottage. Ideal for singles, couples or small families, this cosy and tastefully restored cottage is fully equipped for a comfortable stay whatever the weather. With Bridport, Burton Bradstock and Lyme Regis all within easy reach, Chideock Cottage is a perfect holiday home for a Dorset break.

Please visit:

Great Cottage – Chideock Cottage


Mabelthorpe, Lincolnshire

There is currently no official Lincolnshire Coast Path although Natural England have committed to having something in place as part of the English Coast Path by 2020. There are, however, plenty of walks, circular and linear in this area. The walk from Mablethorpe to Saltfleetby Dunes is a circular half-day walk which as well as great views takes in a nature reserve which is famous for being one of the few places in the UK where you can see natterjack toads. There’s always the option to turn back and make this a linear walk and head for Sutton-on-Sea and the Sea Breeze Restaurant, a few yards from the beach.

For more details visit:

Great Walk with a View – Saltfleetby Dunes

Great Food – Sea Breeze Restaurant

Set on a private road in Sandilands, near Sutton-on-Sea, is Sea Links Cottage, a tastefully furnished contemporary-style home, perfectly situated to explore the Lincolnshire coast and Wolds. Skegness with attractions including the Natureland Seal Sanctuary and Fantasy Island is within easy reach. Slightly further afield is the beautiful Cathedral city of Lincoln with its castle and cobbled streets lined with independent shops.

For further information see:

Great Cottage – Sea Links Cottage


Ventnor, Isle of Wight

Ventnor is a Victorian seaside town situated on the south coast of the Isle of Wight, surrounded by the Undercliff, an area of outstanding natural beauty. Sheltered from the north by the national trust owned St Boniface Downs, Ventnor benefits from its own micro climate and as such is home to many usually Mediterranean species of plants amongst its natural habitat.

To the west, Steephill Cove is a tiny fishing village, accessible only on foot and is an idyllic spot to get a drink or an ice cream after an up and down walk skirting low cliffs from Ventnor. The paths alongside the cove also provide access to Ventnor’s famous botanical gardens.

Once in Steephill Cove, you may be tempted by The Crab Shed, which serves produce caught that morning from the sea in front of the terrace. Famous for it’s crab sandwiches and lobsters, there is also a delicious hot crab pasty on the menu.

For further information visit:

Great Walk with a View – Steephill Cove

Great Food – The Crab Shed

Nimrod is a beautifully restored Victorian cliff top villa in Ventnor which sleeps up to eight people over three floors. The main lounge is on the first floor to capitalise on its location and stunning sea views. A short walk from Ventnor’s blue flag beach, the house is located near several other excellent restaurants and if you prefer, you even have the option of hiring a private chef!

Please visit:

Great Cottage – Nimrod


Andreas, Isle of Man>

With rugged cliffs, picturesque glens and hidden coves, the Isle of Man is a walkers dream. The walk all around the island is only 100 miles so easily achievable in a holiday. For those who prefer a mix of activities, there are pretty villages to visit, cycle paths galore and a host of water based activities on the island.

The Millennium Way is a 28 mile path between Ramsey and Castletown which you can dip into easily depending on time and ability. The Isle of Man has a number of guided walks and an annual walking festival each May with walks for all abilities and interests. All festival walks are guided by knowledgeable walk leaders who will accompany you through the Manx landscape, taking in the Island’s wildlife and illustrating its dramatic past.

There are a number of excellent eateries in Ramsey including Jean-Pierre’s Bistro, which serves a mixture of French and Italian dishes alongside more tradition British fare.

For further information please see:

Great Walk with a View – Peel Castle along The Millennium Way

Great Food – Jean-Pierre’s Bistro

A cluster of farm cottages near Kirk Andreas sleep from four to thirteen and share an Aga in a separate laundry/utility room. Guests who are Aga devotees can use the Aga and its equipment for cooking at any time. A local company also runs an Aga cookery demonstration if you need to further hone your skills. Ballacamaish Farm Cottages have been beautifully restored in a contemporary style and make a welcoming home from home for a small or large family gathering.

For further information please visit:

Great Cottages – Ballacamaish Farm Cottages


Cromer, Norfolk

The Norfolk Coast Path used to end at Cromer, but as at December 2014 now comes to an end at Sea Palling. The Cromer Lighthouse circular walk is a fantastic beach, cliff and heathland walk with breath-taking views over the beautiful North Norfolk Coast. This is largely a level-ish walk apart from a climb of 236 wooden steps at the top of which you are rewarded with the most stunning views.

Cromer is packed with pubs and restaurants including the ever popular Rocket House Cafe, a fabulously located café featuring a balcony, ideal for lunch with a view. The café serves a wide range of local dishes featuring, unsurprisingly, the famous Cromer crab and lobster.

For more details please see:

Great Walk with a View – Cromer Lighthouse

Great Food – Rocket House Cafe

White Cottage in Cromer is delightfully situated just 300metres from the beach. The tastefully decorated cottage sleeps up to eleven and is ideal for families wishing to explore this part of the Norfolk coast and beyond.

For more information see:

Great Cottage – White Cottage


snowdonia national park

Fabulous Walks in UK National Parks – Snowdonia

The Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia in northwest wales is a beautiful area to explore with mountain walks and a coastal path within easy reach. Snowdonia is a draw for walking enthusiasts from all over the world but there are plenty of easy trails as well as more challenging walks catering for walkers of all ages and abilities.

Bron Dirion is a former Gentleman’s Victorian Residence near Caernarfon with beautiful views of Snowdonia and Anglesea from the property and is an ideal base for exploring north Wales.

Bron Dirion

A short drive from Caernarfon is the village of Llanberis at the foot of Snowdon. One of a number of established routes up the mountain, the Llanberis path is also known as the tourist path as it’s thought to be one of the easiest routes up the mountain. It also runs near to the train which carries passengers up the mountain so if some of your party prefer, they can meet you at one of the stations on the route.

For further information visit:

Snowdonia Tourism

or

Llanberis, Snowden


Copyright Image: davidmartyn / 123RF Stock Photo

peak district

Fabulous Walks in UK National Parks – The Peak District

The Peak District National Park

Spanning parts of several counties in the heart of England, the Peak District is home to market towns, pretty villages and historic houses as well as famous attractions and traditional country events.

Daisy Bank Cottage near Buxton is in an outstanding location, surrounded by beautiful scenery and walks galore for all ages and abilities.

Daisy Bank Cottage

A visit to Poole’s Cavern and the surrounding Buxton Country Park to the south west of Buxton Centre below Grin Low and Grin Low Woods will provide a day full of activities for all the family. Poole’s Cavern is a 2 million year old natural phenomenon formed by the action of the river Wye on the limestone. The cavern is named for ‘The Robber Poole’ who is thought to have sheltered in the caves. During Roman times, the cave was used by a bronze craftsman who made brooches and other items there.
The surrounding area has plenty of walks along woodland trails and also a walk up to Solomon’s Tower, a brick, folly-esque tower re-built in 1896. On a clear day from the summit you can see the Mam Tor and Kinderscout, the highest point in the Peak District.

For more information visit:

Get Active Walking in the Peak District
or
Poole’s Cavern


Copyright: davidmartyn / 123RF Stock Photo

Fabulous Walks in UK National Parks – The Lake District

The Lake District National Park

The Lake District is famous for its often-changing weather, beautiful villages, glacial ribbon lakes and rugged fells. It has more historic literary associations than pretty much anywhere else in the United Kingdom and market towns such as Kendal, Keswick and Ambleside are ideal bases for exploring the area.

Stone Leys Cottage, just two miles south of Coniston, is the quintessential Lakes cottage. This double fronted slate property was built over two hundred years ago for the wheelwright at Coniston Hall and is ideally situated for exploring the lakes. There are easy walks through the fields to Coniston and to Torver along the lake through fields and ancient woodland.

Stone Leys Cottage

The Old Man or the Old Man of Coniston, is a fell in the Furness Fells and has a number of well-marked paths to the summit. The remains of abandoned slate mines are a feature of some aspects of the fell and there are plenty of inquisitive sheep around who make take the opportunity to rifle through your food bags! The extensive view from the summit on a clear day includes much of the southern Lake District, Morecambe Bay, Blackpool Tower,Winter Hill in the Pennines, the Lancashire coast and even the Isle of Man.

For more information visit:

Visit the Lake District

or

Lake District Walk

visitdarmoor.co.uk

Fabulous Walks in UK National Parks – Dartmoor

Dartmoor National Park

Dartmoor in the south west of England is a stunning landscape which provides amazing views, awe inspiring granite tors, deep wooded valleys with fast flowing rivers, and rugged, wide open spaces. The park has a huge array of gentle walks and more challenging trails depending on your level of fitness and inclination.
Dove Cottage near Yelverton is a cosy, mid-nineteenth century cottage in the peaceful village of Buckland Monachorum, perfectly situated for exploring all that Dartmoor has to offer.

Dove Cottage

There’s a mid-length circular walk starting and finishing in Yelverton which takes in part of the West Devon Way. The five and a half mile walk walk should take around two and a half hours at a leisurely pace and incorporates opportunities for lunch or liquid refreshment either in Yelverton itself or in Clearbrook roughly half way round. There is also an option for a slightly shorter walk from here if the ground is too muddy. Highlights of the walk include Hoo Meavy Bridge, a granite bridge over the river Meavy, originally built in the 1700s and the Plymouth or Drake’s Leat, a watercourse constructed in the late 16th century to draw water from the River Meavy to supply Plymouth with water and was one of the first municipal water supplies in the country.

For more information visit:

Visit Dartmoor

or

Drakes Dartmoor

cairngorms.co.uk

Fabulous Walks in UK National Parks – The Cairngorms

According to the Ramblers Association, walking has numerous benefits, namely health, social and community, economic and environmental. So, get your walking boots on and, in the next five days we will be discovering 5 fabulous walks in UK National Parks, all with an inviting Aga Cottage nearby.

The Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park is as packed with riveting history as it is walking trails. Nearly all the villages in the park have their own community paths leaflets available which show the local trails and detail points of interest. There are also a number of longer routes including the Speyside and Deeside Ways. The park is laced with trails used by cut throat cattle rustlers and whisky smugglers and coffin carriers, transporting bodies from isolated homes in the hills for burial in villages like Chapeltown.

Beagle Cottage is a bright and welcoming home in the popular Badenoch and Strathspey village of Newtonmore, near Aviemore. There are an abundance of walks from the doorstop, including the Wild Cat Trail, among mature woodlands, open hills or beside the Spey River.

Beagle Cottage

A little further afield is the enchanting Loch an Eilein, or ‘Loch of the Island’, hidden in the forest of Rothiemurchus, this beautiful spot was once voted Britain’s best picnic spot and remains one of the most loved places in the UK. Here you can step back in time and retrace the steps of the Highland Cattle rustlers whilst taking in the views of the hauntingly beautiful Highland Castle. There are many opportunities for spotting rare wildlife such as the Red Squirrel and Scottish Crossbill. There are three self-guided walks around the estate which take between one and a half and three hours. The path around the loch is suitable for motorised wheelchairs and off road buggies and is part of a wider network of paths that constitute the 50km Rothiemurchus Way. And don’t worry if you haven’t had time to prepare a picnic, the Druie Café restaurant provides a varied menu of local produce from 9.30am to 5pm.

For more information regarding the Cairngorms visit:

Walking Trails in the Cairngorms

or

Discover Rothiemurchus

Look out tomorrow for Day 2 of our walking adventures in UK National Parks