This charming cottage in the quiet village of Long Marston is the perfect base from which to explore nearby York and its surrounding countryside. Inside, the place is bursting with character. Modern renovations cleverly incorporate the building’s original features and an eclectic selection of colour and texture adds extra intrigue throughout. We particularly loved the eye-catching orange sofa and French antique bed in the second bedroom. Begin your mornings with a bite to eat in the light-filled living space or spill out into the garden for breakfast alfresco if the weather is on your side. For those who like to like to get out into nature, a ramble through the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is in order – it’ll take you around an hour to get there by car. Culture buffs should make the twenty-minute drive into historic York for its ancient Minster and medieval Shambles. Finish the afternoon with a well-earned gin and tonic beside the pretty River Ouse.