The best endorsement of Stonecrop we can offer is that we have just enjoyed our 8th stay there. We have stayed at Stonecrop in every season, experienced every weather condition and have always had the most wonderful time. This is a magical spot, nestled in stunning countryside. There is lots to do in the wider local area but most of all we love enjoying the beautiful garden, gorgeous walks, runs and rides around the hamlet alongside cosy times spent playing games, cooking and being together. Our children are now 8 and 6 and love their holidays at Stonecrop as much and more than trips further afield; there is so much for them to do and explore: river swimming, biking, swinging, digging, animal spotting, tree climbing, stone-skimming, camp- making, star-gazing- to name just a few of their favourite Stonecrop activities! The cottage itself is cosy, comfortable and very well equipped and Richard and Emma are excellent, thoughtful hosts. We already have our next stay booked and can't recommend it enough.

We spent Christmas at Stonecrop with our mum, daughter and her boyfriend. The house catered for us all perfectly. We live locally but our home is being renovated so it was perfect for us to chill out and relax in a warm, inviting place. Cooked a lovely Christmas dinner in the kitchen which had everything we needed. Thanks to Richard for being so flexible with our dates and dogs.

This cottage really lived up to our hopes and expectations fully - it was tastefully decorated and fully equipped with everything you could possibly need, warm and comfortable. The wood burning stove worked a treat, the bed (front bedroom) was one of the most comfortable I've slept on... the established garden with herbs and fruitful orchard was a bonus, and the setting was idyllic. Access was easy, and there full instructions from the helpful owner. There was no downside - ok, the sun didn't shine every day, but I really didn't care. So much to explore in the countryside around, and just down the lane, the most magical woodland glade I've ever seen.

We've stayed in many self-catering places over the past 35 years and this was the lovliest by a long shot! Built in 1763, quaint, walls as thick as a fortress, roses up the walls, low doors, squeaky stairs, the works. There were wonderful rambling walks from the front door and Richard the owner was a delight to deal with. The only downside was that we couldn't stay and make it our permanent home!

Stayed at the beginning of August. The cottage was beautiful. Excellent facilities and lovely enclosed garden. Booked for next year as soon as we came back. Surrounding area is wonderful for long country walks or cycling the old Tyndale railway between Haltwhistle and Alston. Best cottage we have stayed in and we've been doing it for 25 years.

We spent a very happy time at Stonecrop and adored our surroundings inside and out. Pretty furnishings, comfy bedding, plenty of warmth and character as well as all the mod cons you want on a family holiday. Our three kids enjoyed exploring the river and watching the sheep and horses and we all loved walks along the old drove roads and further afield the sites along Hadrian's wall. The night stars were fantastic! Stonecrop's a very special place, I'd highly recommend it for a totally relaxing and re-energising break in a hidden away part of the country.

This cottage is situated in a valley, a stone's through from a river, plenty of country walks, and fresh air. We travelled with 8 month old twins, and so were not venturing very far, but with back packs to carry them in, we found delightful walks near by. The cottage has been beautifully finished, and has traditional style throughout, is excellently equipped, with everything you need for a week/weekend away. The garden is equally very nice, and we thoroughly enjoyed the daffodils in March. This would suit couples, families, friends. We had a fabulous long weekend here, and will definately return!

What a wonderfully special place Stonecrop is! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and most definitely want to return again soon. The visitors book is full of appreciative comments and return guests but it seems we're the first to be posting a TA review. Breaking new ground.... and very happy to rate it with Top Marks! We arrived in the dark and were delighted by the experience of discovering each room... its a quaint, quirky and surprisingly spacious property. We entered by the back door, into the kitchen which has a real country cottage feel. Its obviously recently installed, turned out to be very well equipped and.....we were pleased to find some modern comforts (including wonderful underfloor heating and a dishwasher) to enhance the rural idyll. In daylight its a lovely bright room with windows on 3 sides. The spacious lounge felt in the heart of the old cottage with antique furniture and a real log fire (most impressive log store outside!). Throughout the house you can see family pictures and other signs that its a "very much loved holiday home" for the owner's family as they've said in their description. Bedrooms were also quaint and very tastefully furnished. Oh - and great water pressure in the shower - another bonus point! It was a treat the next morning to open the curtains and look out to the garden and the lovely open country setting. Unfortunately we didn't have much time to explore due to v wet weather and being busy with family & friends visiting for pre-Christmas socialising. A perfect place for us all to relax & enjoy a true sense of happiness and appreciation for the simple and best things of life - love / friendship / nature (and some good food & wine too!). We're looking forward to returning to explore the surrounding countryside some more.