We wanted a big property that would allow loads of family, including kids from 3 to 11, and a couple of well-behaved dogs. The Lodge was just what the doctor ordered.
The property is very easy to find, especially when the owner texts you a confirmation and some information which tells how the sat navy will send you a short distance away from the property! The keys were exactly where we told they would be. First impressions? Wow, how big the place is; huge kitchen with a central island which seats about eight, massive fridge and massive amounts of good quality crockery and cookware. Two big lounges for relaxing in, a separate dining room and an instant access to wi-fi, essential for electronic savvy kids and adults.
Upstairs, huge and clean bathroom, airy and spacious bedrooms with good linen. The upper floors are quieter the further up and away from the main road you get. First bedroom on the landing is light and bright, but noisy due to passing traffic, which doesn't quieten until ate evening and begins before six, as it's the main road into York.
The garden is huge! Most of it is very well maintained and was used by the kids for cricket and the like. The more wild area, which was described accurately in the house file, was more unkempt, but proved popular as an adventure playground. The hot tub was very clean, spacious and we had trouble keeping both kids and adults out of it. It adds another dimension to the property and was most welcome.
I only have a couple of minor niggles. The kitchen would benefit from a couple of items being added to the inventory. Good knives benefit from being kept sharp, but I couldn't find a steel or other sharpener. I had to resort to an age-old method of using the edge of a plant pot, until a relative arrived with a steel later in the week. Similarly there was no whisk, which makes mixing eggs for twelve-person scrambled eggs an issue
On the upper floors most of the windows were closed and covered by a sheet of Perspex, this meant they could not be opened. Given the warm weather this prevented us creating a flow of air through the rooms, making them somewhat stuffy.
All in all these were minor concerns.
We loved the location, close to tourist areas in North Yorkshire, and the ease of getting around. The property meant we spent loads of time in the kitchen, the soul of this house, and a great family holiday ensued. Would we book again, without a doubt