Belford Folly

• Sleeps: 2
• Bedroom: 1
• Bathroom: 1
• Minimum stay: 1 night

Lovingly restored and expertly converted, it’s the perfect place to cosy up together and rekindle the romance!

Belford Folly is found on the estate of Middleton Hall – a lavish home dating back to 1871.  Spanning three storeys, the Folly oozes character and charm, beautifully blending original features with modern design.  Set alone with its own stunning Italian-style garden to enjoy, you can relax back in privacy and feel the outside world ebb away.

On first seeing the Folly, you’ll be struck by its uniqueness; the stone Victorian tower – complete with its original clock – now features modern, timber-clad extensions to the side and the rear.  The sloping, slate roof has been expertly extended to create a sense of unity between the new and the old, altogether giving the Folly its remarkable (and oh-so-memorable) appearance.

The ground floor comprises the main living areas, elegantly finished throughout.  The living room comes complete with an inviting leather armchair and sofa – perfect for cuddling up together in front of the flat-screen TV and DVD player.  Wooden ceiling beams add a touch of rustic charm in this light, yet cosy, space.

Leading through from the living room is the open-plan kitchen and dining area.  Here, cream units and wooden worktops create a ‘country kitchen’ feel, while every modern convenience is incorporated for your comfort – including a microwave and dishwasher.  Cook a romantic meal together and enjoy it at the table for two, overlooking the garden through the glass-panelled door.

When the sun’s shining, the Italian garden is the ideal spot for relaxing back with a coffee and soaking up these stunning grounds.  Listen to the water feature as it trickles away in the large pond, and keep an eye out for the many woodland creatures that make the Middleton Hall estate their home.

The first floor of Belford Folly is where you’ll find the beautiful bedroom, furnished with romantic, French-inspired bedroom furniture.  Curl up under the soft, white duvet and cutesy, patchwork quilt, and drift off together in the peace and quiet that surrounds you.  When the morning comes, enjoy the sun spilling through the arched, glass door, and take that first breath of fresh air out on your picture-perfect balcony.

At a glance

• Luxurious Victorian folly in Northumberland, set in the grounds of Middleton Hall
• Sleeps 2 – the perfect romantic retreat
• Private Italian-style garden and first-floor balcony with outdoor furniture
• Explore the estate, complete with woodland, lakes and countryside
• Ideally located for Northumberland’s attractions, including Alnwick Castle and Bamburgh Castle
• 45 mins north of Newcastle; Edinburgh is also in easy reach

More information

At the top of the Folly is the luxurious bathroom, complete with a roll-top slipper bath and a separate shower.  You’ll also find original features in spades, including the arched window and the inner mechanics of the clock, protected in a glass case.  Surely there’s nothing more lavish than whiling away the hours in a hot, steamy bubble bath at the top of your tower!

Once you’re ready to venture beyond the dreamy haven of the Folly, explore the gorgeous grounds of Middleton Hall, featuring woodland, lakes, and heavenly countryside.  You may even be lucky enough to spot the family of otters that live here too…

You’re also perfectly placed for the treasures of Northumberland, including Bamburgh Castle and Alnwick Castle – easily recognisable from the likes of the Harry Potter films and Downton Abbey.  Walkers will be in their element with a variety of routes to explore, suitable for all abilities.  Take a boat trip from nearby Seahouses to the idyllic Farne Islands, or relax with a spot of golf at one of the many courses in the area.

If you’re tempted by a faster pace of life, Belford Folly is just 45 minutes north of Newcastle, brimming with fantastic shops, restaurants and nightlife.  The bustle of Edinburgh is also in easy reach, whether you’re traveling by road or rail.

To treat that special someone to a break you’ll both love, Belford Folly has it all.  An idyllic blend of new and old, a stunning countryside location with superb cities close by, and luxurious touches throughout?  Romantic retreats don’t get much better than this.

Things to note

No dogs are permitted to stay, minimum stay 3 nights at weekends and 4 nights midweek.