Forge Gardens

Forge Gardens works well for couples or families of four wanting their own space in the heart of Thornton Le Dale. The entire property is yours alone—two bedrooms (one with a super king, the other a zip-and-link that splits into singles), two bathrooms, and a ground-floor layout that means no stairs. The living room has a woodburner and smart TV; the kitchen comes equipped with a full range of appliances including a dishwasher. Essentials like heating, electricity, bed linen, towels and wifi are covered, and the woodburner's initial logs are included.

The real draw is the garden, which stretches down to a stream that runs alongside the property, separated by a low fence. There's a patio and furniture for sitting out. A small stone bridge leads to the drive and private parking for one car; a village parking permit for a second vehicle is also provided. One dog stays free.

Thornton Le Dale itself has independent cafés, shops and pubs within reach, plus a chocolate factory nearby. The village sits between York and the Yorkshire coast, with walking and cycle routes threading through the surrounding countryside. No smoking in the property.