Sunnybrook Cottage, Bentham

Positioned just west of the Yorkshire Dales, on the northern fringes of the Forest of Bowland, this lovely town is split into High Bentham and Low Bentham, with the babbling River Wenning running between the two. The town boasts an annual agricultural show, with handicraft, horticulture and livestock competitions, which dates back to the 19th century. In addition to this is the annual Carnival and funfair, entertaining a thriving community with workshops, music and many fundraising events. High Bentham has an array of public houses and eateries to choose from, and the railway station sits on the Leeds to Morecambe line. For walking enthusiasts, there are colour coded circular trails of different lengths and capabilities, right on the doorstep. The neighbouring village of Ingleton offers some wonderful caves and tumbling waterwalls, along with a year-round climbing wall and a good range of shops, pubs and places to eat. Enjoy a trip out to Morecambe Bay with your bucket and spade, where you can fly your kites, build sandcastles or simply take a stroll along the promenade. For more independent shops and restaurants, the town of Kirkby Lonsdale is only a short drive away, with access to Ruskin’s View. Take the footpath from the churchyard at St. Mary’s Church and follow the trail high about the River Lune, where you can marvel at a panorama of the Lune Valley and Underley Hall. A wonderful location for exploring National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the North West coastline.