Blacksmith's Cottage

Formerly the smithy which served Howick Hall – the ancestral home of the Earls Grey, of eponymous tea fame – today Blacksmith’s Cottage is a characterful dog-friendly retreat which is ideal for relaxed country gatherings. Set between the charming fishing village of Craster and the historic market town of Alnwick, the cottage enjoys an enviable position on the Northumbrian coastline and is the perfect base for a holiday spent exploring this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Encompassed by trees and tucked away beyond a gravel drive, the cottage is laid out entirely on the ground floor. Enter through the side door into a hall leading to the open-plan kitchen and dining area which formed the heart of the original forge, with a handy cloakroom and WC lying next door. The vaulted ceiling with original beams contributes to the airy sense of space in this room, while the wooden dining table below is accompanied by six spindle chairs and a warming log burner in the inglenook fireplace. The kitchen itself is beautifully designed with an induction hob, smart white countertops and deep forest green cabinets.

The vaulted ceiling continues in the living room which lies through double doors, bathed in sunlight through large windows and featuring doors which lead directly out into the garden. With plush blue velvet sofas and an ultra–HD Smart TV on the wall, it’s also an equally inviting place to cosy up in the evening.

The first of the three bedrooms can be found through a door in the inner hall and is home to twin beds, which can also be configured as a super king size double. This bedroom is served by a family bathroom which lies down a step into an inner hallway, fitted with a separate bath and rainforest shower. The second bedroom is situated next door and is home to a king size bed and an ensuite bathroom with a rainforest shower, as is the master bedroom which can be found at the end of the hall, with a super king size bed which can also be configured as twins. The sensitive restoration of the smithy’s original features is evident in the exposed stone wall which boasts a beautiful arched coach window, allowing immediate access out to the garden and patio.

The large lawned garden flanks the side and rear of the cottage and is enclosed by a wooden fence, providing plenty of safe space for dogs and children to play. The outdoor seating on the patio creates an idyllic spot to enjoy a quiet coffee in the morning, while the summerhouse is a useful place to store bikes and outdoor gear – as well as providing several garden games for you to enjoy. For days out, a short drive will take you to the grand rooms, gardens, and arboretum at the neighbouring Howick Hall, to which guests can enjoy complimentary access, while the equally stunning Alnwick Gardens and Castle and the dramatic beaches and ruins along the coast are also at your fingertips.

ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATION

If you are looking for a property in a similar style, Littlehoughton Hall, sleeping 6, Littlehoughton Farm Cottage, sleeping 4, The Pele Tower, sleeping 6, sit under the same ownership as Blacksmith's Cottage and are positioned approximately 1.2 miles away from the property.