Happyfaceinfrance
July 2022
Without doubt the main attraction of this property is the large attractive gardens which every Review praises. The cottage itself lacks a downstairs toilet and the kitchen is far too small at 7ft x 7ft. The pots and pans are well past their sell by date (we bought a wok and frying pan from Tesco’s in Northallerton)
The upstairs is delightful with two bathrooms and very spacious bedrooms
The gravel patio is a sun trap but has never been tidied up. Upon arrival, the first thing you notice is an old barbeque and grills left strewn about in the corner. This gave the impression of neglect.
However, once you have arrived on holiday, you must make the best of it!
Birkby is well placed to enjoy North Yorkshire and we Visited Leyburn, Hawes, Durham, Yarm, and Harrogate easily.
We used Manor cottage as a base from which we travelled every day, so we did not spend the days in the cottage or gardens. It should be noted that the East Coast Mainline Railway tracks are close enough to hear the trains going by on their way to and from the North to the South. The Station guard at Northallerton told us that there are approximately twenty-two trains per hour! This was not mentioned on the website. To be fair this did not spoil our stay.
The Pub at East Cowton “ The Beeswing” is good for food and drink.
The cottage is picturesque but rests on its Laurels. It is very tired. I would not choose to stay there again.