Curlew

• A converted barn in the North Yorkshire countryside

• Walk to Fountains Abbey, where you'll have out-of-hours access to the grounds to watch the sun set over the abbey ruins

• It's only a short drive to Harrogate, full of boutique shops, famous tea rooms and independent restaurants

This cottage was originally a threshing barn and horse engine room, and is bursting with original features. It's perfect for a multi-generational family holiday, with an open-plan living space and a large bedroom with en-suite on the ground floor, plus bedrooms and a bathroom upstairs.

Curlew is just a mile away from Fountains Abbey, a World Heritage Site. You'll have free entry here and to other National Trust places during your stay – there's even a special key for the West Gate entrance for out-of-hours access to the grounds. Explore the largest abbey ruins in the country, which are almost 900 years old and make a unique backdrop for a picnic. There are miles of trails around the abbey, through the deer park and alongside the ornamental lakes and temples of Studley Royal garden, one of the best surviving examples of a Georgian water garden in England. 

The giant rock formations and panoramic views at Brimham Rocks are a 15-minute drive away, on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Or you can take the Monk's walk trail, a 7.5 mile route from Fountains Abbey's West Gate. 

The spa town of Harrogate is only nine miles away. It’s full of places to eat and drink, and you can book a relaxing treatment at the historic Turkish Baths. York city and its minster, ancient city walls and medieval shopping streets are also within driving distance.

Curlew is the largest of five holiday cottages at How Hill. There's also Swallow (sleeps six), Lapwing (sleeps six), Lark (sleeps four) and Wren (sleeps two). Multiple cottages can be booked together for a group stay.