Tutors Lodge

High above a valley, surrounded by pine forests, and in a remote corner of a national park, Tutor's Lodge gives guests total immersion in nature while they enjoy all the modern-day luxuries required for a truly relaxing break. The lodge is situated in the remote hamlet of Kirdlandlee in the Northumberland countryside. This historic cottage once housed the tutor who would have taught in the nearby schoolhouse but it has been rescued from disrepair and transformed into a welcoming, stylish and cosy cottage.

Days can be spent cycling or hiking the many trails that lead from the front door. Or just relax and enjoy the views from the comfort of the cottage. Enjoy reflective moments outside on the patio, which has a wooden picnic table and benches, listening to the birdsong and maybe spotting a red squirrel or wild deer. During summer months, there is a barbecue for late suppers making the most of the breathtaking sunsets. And, in cooler times, hunker down in the charming living room. A leather suite invites guests to kick back in front of the wood burner which is set into the original fireplace with a stone surround. A basket of logs keeps the fire fuelled into the night, as games are played, drinks poured and memories created.

The kitchen is modern and well-equipped with an Aga adding warmth and character. A welcome hamper waits for new arrivals and is filled with goodies including a bottle of Berry Bros fizz. At bedtime, choose from a king sized double or a twin, which can be converted into a king-sized too. Woollen blankets and warm duvets keep visitors cosy all night, and they are treated to stunning views when the sun rises in the morning. Blackout blinds keep the sunlight out for much needed lie-ins.

The family bathroom has a large tub waiting to be filled with hot water and bubbles, and the cottage comes with a supply of complimentary Penhaligon's toiletries. After days exploring the forests and rivers nearby, guests can soak muscles in the tub before wrapping up in large fluffy towels and getting ready for an evening at one of the lovely local pubs, many of which serve excellent food.

Favourites include the highly regarded 300 year-old Three Wheat Heads which is 12 miles away and has a cosy atmosphere and offers fine dining. The Star Inn is the popular local (just four miles away) serving good food which is available to take away. Nearby Rothbury is a pretty town, take a look at the art gallery and a stroll along the riverside followed by coffee and cake at Tully's delicatessen and tea room where visitors will find plenty of treats to take home.

The slower pace of life and vibrant energy of the hills soothes the mind, body and soul during your stay. With this in mind, the owners along with Nichola Lawson from Harmony Spa have designed a new dedicated Holistic Healing Cabin offering a wide range of treatments from aromatherapy massage to angel reiki for you to enjoy during your stay. This charming, rrustic, wooden cabin is heated using wind felled logs, which creates a warm and inviting space in-keeping with the ‘green’ ethos and enhancing a sense of well-being whilst at Kidlandlee.