Get the whole gang together at this picture-perfect historic stone manor house sitting on the village green in the heart of Bainbridge – just 4 miles from the market town of Hawes. Sleeping eight people across four bedrooms, it’s ideal for large families or groups who are in search of a characterful retreat to call home while they explore the Yorkshire Dales together. Set off for Aysgarth Falls (6 miles), where the River Ure tumbles over three flights of cascades, and follow the path through the nature reserve of Freeholders’ Wood. Alternatively, head to Hardraw Force (5.5 miles) to see England’s highest single-drop waterfall. Further afield, make a beeline for the Ribblehead Viaduct (14 miles), where 24 stone arches carry the Settle-Carlisle Railway high above the moor in the shadow of the Three Peaks.
Step inside through the stone porch, where benches make it easy to kick off your walking boots. Follow the stone-flagged hallway leading to the main rooms to the farmhouse-style kitchen. Gather everyone around the long table in the dining room, where beams stretch overhead and flagstones lie underfoot, for an elegant dinner. Afterwards, spread out between the lounge, with its beamed ceiling and wooden floors, and the snug, where oak panelling lines the walls and the wood burner crackles in the inglenook. When the day is done, head upstairs and you’ll find four beautiful bedrooms: two king-size rooms (one with a roll-top bath, the other with an open en-suite shower room), a double and a handy twin. A sleek main bathroom with a freestanding bath and walk-in shower, and a ground-floor shower room, complete the layout.
Outside you’ll discover a lawned front garden behind a traditional drystone wall, with a bench for soaking up the views across the village green to the fells. At the back, the enclosed courtyard with seating makes a sheltered spot for a fun al fresco supper. Cyclists can stow their bikes in the secure outhouse. Off-road parking is available on the village green in front of the house.