Guests say
1 The Stables in Alston is a well-received holiday cottage, praised for its cleanliness, spaciousness, and homely feel. Guests appreciate the picturesque village location, with easy access to walks and local attractions. The property is described as comfortable and well-equipped, though some guests noted issues with low sofas and noise from upstairs. Thoughtful touches like welcome packs added to the positive experience, despite minor maintenance points raised.
The cottage generally receives high marks for cleanliness, with most guests finding it spotless. One guest mentioned a dirty tissue after mopping, but this seems an isolated incident against the backdrop of overall cleanliness.
The location is highly regarded for its picturesque setting and proximity to local amenities and walks. Some guests found the property tricky to locate initially, and one review mentioned a preference for a closer proximity to the Lakes, which suggests the location may not be ideal for everyone.
Comfort is generally well-rated, with mentions of a comfortable bed and welcoming atmosphere. However, several guests noted issues with low sofas and noise from occupants above, which suggests room for improvement in this category.
Facilities are considered good, with the property described as well-equipped. Some maintenance issues were noted, such as dodgy toilet flush, windows needing attention, and fluctuating shower temperature, which slightly lowers the score.
Guests often mention thoughtful touches like welcome packs, which include items such as prosecco. While these are appreciated, it's important to note that such gifts are subject to change and may not be guaranteed for every stay.
About this property
This inviting, ground-floor apartment sits close the town centre of Alston, the highest market town in England, amongst the picturesque landscapes of the North Pennines. Offering a deceptively spacious interior, 1 The Stables is a romantic bolthole for couples eager to break away from everyday life. A huge benefit of this property is the sought-after off-road parking space, but with plenty of amenities in walking distance, you’ll hardly need the car! Step into the open-plan living space, where you can take to the kitchen and impress with a home-cooked meal, before settling at the dining table and toasting to a much-needed break with your partner.
After a big indulgence, curl up beside the electric fire and catch up on your favourite shows. When the weather’s nice, take the evening outside to the enclosed courtyard, ideal for a gin and tonic after a long day. Enjoy a refreshing shower in the bathroom, before popping on your pyjamas and snuggling up in the bedroom, which comes with ample storage for your personal belongings. The charming market town of Alston has plenty on offer; browse a wealth of independent businesses for a quirky gift, explore the Heritage & Transport Museum and discover a wide range of historical transport displays, before refuelling at a local pub with a hearty meal and crisp pint.
Walkers will be in awe of the surrounding area, offering heaps of incredible scenery that credit the AONB status, plus the Pennine Way passes through the village, which is a great route for walkers and cyclists. For a different way of exploring the area, hop on board the heritage South Tynedale Railway, and why not a delicious treat in their Crossing café before climbing on board? Penrith, a renowned tourist destination, is within driving distance and is well worth a visit for its range of services, gorgeous buildings, and natural beauty. However you choose to spend your time here, 1 The Stables is a wonderful base for a holiday, all year round.
Alston is England's highest market town, located in the North Pennines in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty surrounded by a distinctive scenery of moorland, hills, rivers, and waterfalls. This beautiful town, with its cobblestone alleys and odd nooks and crannies, was the setting for ITV's Jane Eyre and Oliver Twist plays. Alston and the North Pennines have long inspired artists and writers; W H Auden, the poet and writer, adored the area, and it continues to inspire the craftspeople who live and work there today. The town has a variety of unique shops, including fine crafts and galleries. Take a ride on the South Tynedale Railway, which runs from Alston to Slaggyford, on one of the carefully restored steam and diesel engines through the lovely countryside of the South Tyne valley. The River Tyne is also known as one of England's best salmon rivers, with day-ticket fishing accessible in the area. The Killhope Lead Mining Museum in the North Pennines used to be one of Europe's wealthiest lead mining centres, and it's a terrific family day out with interactive exhibitions. The A686 is rated as one of the best drives in the world by the Automobile Association, and northern Cumbria, County Durham, and Northumberland are all within easy driving distance.
Accommodation
Ground-floor apartment.
One double bed.
Bathroom with walk in shower, basin and WC.
Open-plan living area with kitchen, dining and sitting area with electric fire
Gas central heating with electric fire.
Electric oven and gas hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine.
TV, WiFi.
Fuel and power included In rent.
Bed linen and towels included In rent.
Off-road parking for 1 small car (additional parking just a short walk to the town centre).
Enclosed courtyard.
One well-behaved dog welcome at £10 per week.
Sorry, no smoking.
Shop and pub 0.1 miles
Nearby points of interest
- South Tynedale Railway
- Hub Heritage & Transport Museum
- Epiacum Roman Fort
Reviews (27)
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Jo
Only a minute away from the town and yet a minute away from beautiful country walks - just perfect.
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James
The cottage was clean, comfortable and spacious and having a parking spot is a bonus. All the snow came down whilst stopping and the owners kept in contact to ensure we were okay and give advice about the roads etc.. Alston itself has everything you need and there's plenty of exploring to do. I would recommend this cottage. I would like to come back (without the snow) to further explore the area.
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Kathy
It was spacious, comfortable, spotlessly clean and very well equipped. Small touches such as a welcome pack and Christmas Tree/Decorations (we visited in December) were a welcome surprise. Alston is a lovely old town, well situated for touring a variety of destinations in East Cumbria, South Northumberland and North West Durham. We visit Alston most years and would not hesitate to book again.