Waitby School

An historic and luxurious holiday cottage set in the Yorkshire Dales National Park amid some of England's most stunning countryside, Waitby School - which is rated as five-star gold by visit Britain - is the perfect getaway for all seasons

Built in 1680, Grade II listed Waitby and Smardale school is now stylish and elegant boutique-style holiday accommodation that sleeps six to seven people in complete comfort.

Standing alone on a breathtaking fell near Kirkby Stephen in the Eden Valley, Waitby School enjoys glorious uninterrupted views of the surrounding countryside. This cottage is perfect for unwinding in complete luxury, set in absolute tranquillity, but close enough to Kirkby Stephen for guests not to feel isolated.

There is a raft of attractions nearby - castles and historic houses, waterfalls and rivers, spectacular fells and beautiful nature reserves, ancient towns steeped in the past, old country pubs and award-winning restaurants, the Settle-Carlisle Railway and, of course, the natural magnificence of the Cumbrian lakes and the Yorkshire Dales.

Many of Waitby School's original features have been retained, but 21st Century luxuries have been incorporated artfully into the building's fabric.

Waitby School now has under-floor heating, a spa and luxury hand-made kitchen. These are complemented by quality oak and slate flooring, a wood burning stove and hand crafted Buttermere slate surfaces in the kitchen and bathrooms. A flat screen entertainment and Bose sound system with Sky package, a comprehensive DVD and CD collection - for both adults and children - along with a carefully selected library of books, are all designed to help guests relax and ease away the pressures of modern life.

Gift during your stay : Handmade local chocolates