Barbican View, luxury Grade II listed apartment opposite Alnwick Castle

Barbican View is a beautifully refurbished, luxury, Grade II listed self-catering holiday apartment in the Alnwick conservation area. It takes its name from the absolutely stunning view of the grand Barbican entrance to Alnwick Castle seen from its windows. Barbican View is the ultimate place to stay in Alnwick, especially for those who wish to experience this magical historic castle at close proximity. The family home of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland, this medieval castle dates from the 11th century and is the second largest occupied castle in England. It is the setting for many famous films and TV programmes such as Blackadder, Robin Hood, Downton Abbey and, of course, Harry Potter. Occupying the full ground-floor of a town house, with a pretty enclosed courtyard garden, Barbican View provides a superb base for exploring the town, as well as all the other Northumberland attractions, including Bamburgh Castle and beach, Holy Island (Lindisfarne), Alnmouth, Newton-by-the-Sea, Dunstanburgh Castle, Cragside and Hadrian’s Wall, which are all just a short drive away. The apartment is close to the many walks and meadows (including Hume Park) surrounding the castle, but is also less than a five-minute walk from the centre of town, where there are many local shops, gift shops, cafes and tearooms, pubs and restaurants. There is also a market in the town square every week. Sleeping two (plus a baby in a travel cot), the apartment is dog friendly and welcomes up to two small, well-behaved dogs. There is free on-street parking via a residents' permit which we provide for guests. Alnwick is a famous market town, steeped in history, and it's also the home of the world famous Alnwick Garden and Treehouse. The treehouse restaurant is totally unique and a must-see! The apartment is also only a minute's walk from the Bailiffgate Museum, which is dedicated to local social history. Furnished to a luxury standard and decorated in restful Farrow and Ball colours, the house provides a relaxing atmosphere enhanced by a selection of beautiful original artwork by local artists. The house is also one of the few luxury properties in the area to welcome dogs, with free dog beds and a doggy welcome pack to make your pet feel at home. Entrance Access is from the main street, where four steps lead to the red front door. This entrance is shared with two other apartments in this historic townhouse. Once inside, the shared entrance hall, up one step, you will find the Barbican View's front door. The apartment has a spacious, open-plan hallway leading to the kitchen area, which also leads to the lounge / dining area. This cosy holiday apartment is on one level, making it very appealing for less mobile guests, although please note that there are two steps up to the bathroom door, which is accessed via the bedroom. Lounge / Dining Room This spacious, comfortable room boasts a large sash window with uninterrupted views of the Castle and Barbican, as well as the street below. There is an attractive original period cast iron feature fireplace (decorative only) and full gas central heating. There is a large comfortable sofa, stunning window seats, a large flat-screen TV with HD Freeview and a Blu-Ray player (which turns the TV into a smart TV), a hi-fi with MP3 docking station, and a range of books, music and DVDs are provided for your enjoyment. The dining area comprises a dining table for two guests (a child's high chair is available on request). Free superfast broadband Wi-Fi is available throughout the apartment. Kitchen The kitchen has been thoughtfully redesigned to make the best possible use of space, with oak cabinets, integrated appliances and plenty of work space. It is well equipped with a ceramic hob over a fan-assisted oven, fridge-freezer, microwave, coffee maker, toaster, slow cooker and dishwasher. A half glazed door leads from the kitchen to a private, south-facing courtyard garden. Bedroom This is a lovely spacious room, with an original feature inglenook stone fireplace. The king-size bed has a luxurious pocket-sprung mattress. Fluffy white towels are provided and luxury bathrobes are also available on request. There is a built-in wardrobe, chest of drawers, dressing table and chair. A TV with an integrated DVD player, clock radio and hairdryer are also provided. Please note that the landline telephone is for incoming and emergency calls only. A travel cot can also be placed in the room on request. Bathroom A very light, spacious, luxury bathroom with spa bath, separate walk-in shower with dual heads, wash basin, wc and heated towel rail completes the living accommodation. Fluffy white towels and complimentary luxury toiletries are provided. A utility cupboard contains a washing machine, ironing board and vacuum cleaner. Courtyard Garden The attractive, private courtyard garden is fully enclosed and furnished with a bistro-style patio set and a painted wooden bench. Planted with a variety of leafy and flowering shrubs, the space also boasts a soothing water feature. Outside space of this nature is rare in the centre of town. The garden really is a wonderful, peaceful oasis in the heart of the town, providing an outdoor room to enjoy al fresco breakfasts, lunches or early evening drinks after a day exploring. A hosepipe is fitted for guests bringing dogs. We offer full-week stays starting Monday or Friday, 3-night weekend breaks starting on Friday, and 4-night midweek breaks starting on Monday. For more details, seasonal and short break prices, up-to-date availability and special offers search for "leaholmecottages". Please note that, as they are in the same building, Barbican View and the upper floor flats Lionsgate View and Castle Retreat can be booked together for couples holidaying together or for extended families who require extra space. About pets:Pets allowed: dogs less than 22 lbs per pet (limit one pet total).We welcome one small/medium sized dog, £25 fee.About checkOut:Check out before 9:30 AM.About children:Children allowed: ages 0-17.Travel cot and high chair for infants, on request.About checkIn:Check in after 4:00 PM.About smoking:Smoking is not permitted.Smoking is not permitted anywhere indoors.About events:No events allowed.