Markington is ideally situated for exploring all of Yorkshire's splendid countryside. Lying between Harrogate and Ripon, this location is an ideal base to explore the Yorkshire Dales to the west and the North York Moors and Yorkshire Coast to the east. The fascinating, historic cathedral cities of Ripon and York are close by, as are the great stately homes of Castle Howard and Harewood House, the Cistercian abbeys of Fountains, Rievaulx and Jervaulx, and the castles of Middleham, Bolton and Richmond. The village itself offers a small store and two pubs. Local attractions include Ripley Castle, Mother Shiptons Cave and the amazing rock formations of Brimham Rocks. You could explore Knaresborough Castle and Almscliffe Crag, or visit Pateley Bridge, home of England s oldest sweet shop and the fascinating Nidderdale Museum. Cross the stone paved courtyard to this impressive house where the steps lead into a beautiful entrance hall. You'll be immediately drawn into a huge kitchen and dining room space, ideal for socialising and celebratory suppers. The kitchen is generously proportioned with plenty of space for more than one chef and can cope with the most demanding of feasts. The handcrafted kitchen is well equipped with an American style fridge/freezer, an electric range style cooker, two electric ovens, a dishwasher and a microwave. Pull up a chair at the large dining table after returning from nearby market towns armed with mouth watering produce and whip up a fabulous lunch. After a long day walking in the fresh air, you have a choice of seating areas within the spacious lounge in which to relax. Stretch out on one of the comfy sofas or armchairs, with two wood burners as the focal point. The lounge is divided into two areas, both with matching interiors but suited for different age groups. The soothing decor sets the scene for those cosy nights snuggled up on the lounge sofas with a good film on the Smart TV and a glass of wine in hand. There is a downstairs WC just off the hallway. Climb the stairs from the hallway and choose from five glorious bedrooms: four are arranged on the first floor, including two super king size zip and link (can be twins on request), both with en suite shower rooms and WC, one super king size with en suite bathroom with freestanding bath, a walk in shower and WC, and one king size with en suite bathroom with shower over bath and WC. Up the next staircase is a delightful suite split into two areas, ideal for a family. There is a large shower room with a shower and WC, dressing area/space for cots, connected to a fabulous large bedroom with a super king size zip and link (can be twins on request), boasting the best view of the house overlooking the well maintained garden below. You will also discover a utility room on the first floor with a washing machine and tumble dryer. Throw open the doors from the lounge and kitchen to your private patio for an al fresco experience, stepping outside into the garden for breakfast, brunch or dinner. A vast expanse of landscaped gardens and ponds stretch beyond the sunny patio area. Pour a summer cocktail and admire the fields and pastures in the distance. There is ample off road parking. Please check group bookings, including potential stag and hen dos, as these may not be allowed unless special arrangements(including the possible requirements for a safety deposit) are made with the owner.