The Maple

The Maple is a new, dog-friendly addition to the Kidlandlee estate, deep inside the Northumberland National Park — and what an addition.

By virtue of being located at the eco-conscious estate’s highest point, it offers jaw-dropping views down Upper Coquetdale’s bumpy green flanks towards the Simonside Hills. You can relish those vistas from every room and, most luxuriously, from an outdoor, six-foot copper bathtub, positioned to provide complete privacy.

Called Shaanti, a Sanskrit word for calmness, this bath supports Kidlandlee’s aim of providing holistic breaks. Its hope is that the hills, abundant nature and quiet rural setting help you to relax and gradually recharge. A spa treatment cabin elsewhere on the site also supports that goal.

Clad in newly-planted wood, The Maple is suitably spacious for families or friends. Inside, it centres on a bright, open-plan living space complete with impressive leather sofas opposite a modern-log burning stove. To one side, the kitchen has lots of high-quality amenities, and on the other, large, bi-fold doors capitalise on those glorious valley views, as do the patio and enclosed garden beyond.

On the same floor are both bedrooms. Each has a king-sized bed — but while one of these can convert into twins, the other is a cool, contemporary four-poster job — and doors to the patio. From the shared bathroom, another door opens to that memorable bathtub. Consider a soak in there at night; this is, after all, Europe’s largest designated dark sky park.

Lots of memorable extras enhance your stay: Penhaligon’s of London toiletries; underfloor heating throughout; and a complimentary hamper full of local goodies plus Berry Bros. & Rudd sparkling wine.

The estate has long been a remarkable place. Set some 1,400ft above sea level, it once housed England’s “highest mansion”: the Kidland shooting lodge, whose owner Christopher John Leyland established a lake and croquet lawn, both still in use today.

Numerous walking and cycling routes are available, with some passing right by. The nearest village, Harbottle, has a shop, while it’s a dozen miles to Thropton’s highly-regarded Three Wheat Heads fine-dining inn and the riverside town of Rothbury, a little further on, has independent stores to rummage. Many guests will simply stay put, however: drawing, daydreaming or watching for red squirrels.

The Maple sits next door to The Willow - another two-bedroom retreat. Located further down the hill, The Elm and The Oak both sleep two guests. All four properties are cleverly positioned to ensure peace, privacy and pretty panoramas, yet are handily close by for groups holidaying together.

THE SPA CABIN

Take some time to fully relax and rejuvenate and book a treatment or package with a fully qualified Glo Pamper Therapist at The Spa Cabin or from the comfort of The Maple. The rustic cabin on the estate, heated with wind felled logs, is a warm and inviting space where guests can enjoy spa treatments. There are various treatments available, such as a holistic facial and head massage, soothing aromatherapy massage, a hot stone massage, a facial, reflexology or a manicure or pedicure to name a few. Further details will be sent to you before your arrival. Booking in advance is required, subject to availability. Please contact us for further information.

STARGAZING KITS

Experience a midnight picnic under the stars! As an optional extra, Stargazing kits are available to hire at this property. Take your basket down to the garden, set up your midnight picnic and have fun stargazing. Due to its rural location within a dark skies area, the property is ideally placed to experience the full magnificence of the night sky. Set up your telescope to look for galaxies and planets or see which constellations you can spot using the handy guide. The basket will include: A flask for two, Choc Affair hot chocolate, Choc Affair chocolate bar, Northumberland Bakery cookies, two hot water bottles, Stargazing for Beginners guide, Annual Guide to the Night Skies, a practical guide to the key constellations, 10x50 Binoculars, travel telescope, large picnic rug, and two fleece blankets. Stargazing kits can be booked for use during your stay.

ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATION

For guests looking to holiday together, this cottage can be booked alongside seven other properties at Kidlandlee. Leyland Barn (sleeping 4), The Old Barn (sleeping 4), Tutor's Lodge (sleeping 4), The School House (sleeping 4) and Chaffinch Cottage (sleeping 4), which adjoins Dipper Cottage (sleeping 6), The Hemmel (sleeping 2), The Willow (sleeping 4), The Elm (sleeping 2), The Oak (sleeping 2).