The Dairy

Surrounded by the beautiful open countryside of Coquetdale in the heart of Northumberland, The Dairy is a stylish dog-friendly cottage which effortlessly blends the old with the new. Nestled amidst the historic golden stone buildings of the Brinkburn estate, this detached cottage provides all the restorative peace Northumberland is best known for, as well as providing easy access to the estate’s riverside walks, on-site yoga classes and supper clubs which take place moments from its door.

Inside, the cottage is defined by its lofty vaulted ceilings, atmospheric socialising spaces and high-end details. Enter through the side door into the open-plan kitchen and living space where The Dairy’s original stone arches gently separate the two areas. Spacious and pared back, the kitchen features a sweeping horizontal picture window above the countertops and a ceiling window which fills the room with natural light. A farmhouse dining table with seating for eight sits beneath, perfect for gathering for meals before migrating to the sofas which sit beside exposed brick walls. Alternatively, head into the cosy living room next door, where subdued lighting and a plush corner sofa invite you to stretch out and enjoy a good book or film.

The bedrooms lie on the first floor, up the floating steps of the industrial metal staircase in the open-plan living area which was designed for the cottage by a local artisan. You’ll find a study space with an organic wooden desk on the landing, as well as a door which leads out to a large upper terrace with outdoor furniture so you can savour the sun in the warmer months. The first bedroom features a super king size bed which can also be configured as twins and is set beneath a grand vaulted ceiling with exposed wooden beams. The beautiful en suite bathroom combines the same historic touches with a luxurious Victoria & Albert freestanding egg shaped bath and separate rainforest shower.

Across the landing, the second bedroom is also fitted with a super king size bed which can be configured as twins at your request. The en suite shower room pairs pink with monochrome marbled tiles and features a skylight overhead. The final bedroom is situated in the annexe across the courtyard at the rear of the cottage. Inside, another super king size bed, or twins as you require, is tucked away beneath beams and tall eaves. The room is joined by an elegant en suite bathroom with a separate bath and shower as well as a dressing room with ample storage and hanging space.

Returning across the courtyard, you’ll find an enclosed garden which wraps around the cottage and is separated from the adjacent barns by beech hedges. A combination of patio and raised planters lies to the rear, along with a small lawned area, outdoor seating and a Weber charcoal barbecue. At the front of the cottage, a raised fire pit is encircled by benches – perfect for toasting marshmallows and stargazing after the sun has set.

Sitting under the custodianship of the same family for centuries, the Brinkburn estate is crossed by the babbling River Coquet and includes a romantic 12th-century Priory – now in the care of English Heritage, who arrange monthly tours (pre-booking essential). With rest and rejuvenation at its heart, the estate offers an array of wellness experiences to guests and visitors. Book ahead and enjoy everything from yoga retreats to tai chi and Pilates classes in its spectacular studio warmed by a crackling log burner, or outside in the grounds amidst leafy woodlands and restorative air. Evening supper clubs celebrating fresh local produce sourced from Northumberland’s heartlands are also hosted on the estate, so you can follow your restful day with a night of excellent food. Browse availability at The Dairy and book your escape now.