Nestled in the heart of Northumberland, an area renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich history, lies Southlands Farm Cottages. This charming collection of luxury self-catering holiday cottages, lovingly restored and appointed by your hosts, Dee and Charles McGowan, offers a true retreat from the stresses of modern life. Inspired by Dee's artistic flair and Charles' creative hand, each cottage is a masterclass in blending country charm with modern comfort and luxury.
Our Cottages
Within the picturesque surroundings of the smallholding, you'll find three charming cottages, each with its own unique character and charm. West Cottage, with its open-plan living area and underfloor heating, is perfect for families or couples seeking a spacious retreat. Middle Cottage, with its beautifully restored glazed double front door and wood-burning fire, offers a cosy and intimate atmosphere. The Hay Loft, the latest addition to the Southlands family, beautifully blends country comforts with contemporary style, making it an ideal retreat for two. And for a truly unique experience, why not consider the lovingly restored 1940s Showman's Wagon, brimming with character and charm?
Our Gardens and Grounds
Beyond the cottages, the picturesque smallholding boasts beautiful gardens, a vegetable patch, and open fields where you and your four-legged friends can explore and unwind. Take a stroll through the gardens, where you'll discover a labour of love, tended to by Dee and Charles over the past 32 years. With its rolling hills, meandering streams, and lush greenery, the gardens are a haven for relaxation and tranquility.
Our Services
At Southlands, we're committed to creating a bespoke experience for each and every guest. From catering and courses to group bookings for weddings and fishing parties, we can tailor-make your stay to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for an action-packed adventure or a relaxing retreat, we'll do our utmost to make your stay unforgettable.
Latest News and Musings
Stay up-to-date with the latest happenings at Southlands through our blog, where you'll find Dee's Diary, a collection of musings on everything from cooking shortcuts to gardening tips, and Southlands Farm News, a window into the daily lives of Dee and Charles and the animals of the smallholding.
Unwind and Enjoy
At Southlands, we invite you to leave your worries behind and indulge in a little bit of luxury. With plenty to keep you occupied in the surrounding area, including long walks in stunning nature reserves and beaches, well-behaved dogs welcome, stabling for horses, and nearby pubs and shops, you'll find there's something for everyone.
Our Commitment to Sustainability
At Southlands, we're passionate about our green credentials. We strive to be as eco-friendly as possible, from using local and organic produce to reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices throughout the farm and cottages.
Poor Service and Hidden Charges
The reviews highlight poor communication and hidden charges as major issues with the accommodation. Several guests reported difficulty in contacting the owners to make changes to their bookings, and some were surprised by additional fees and fines imposed on them.
Missed Expectations and Lack of Transparency
Some guests were left with a sour taste in their mouths due to the owners' lack of transparency regarding the rules and expectations. For instance, one guest was fined for having dog hair in the shower catchment, despite being told that dogs were allowed. Other guests reported issues with the terms and conditions, which were difficult to access and understand.
Positive Reviews
On the other hand, several guests had a wonderful experience at the accommodation. They praised the hosts, Dee and Charles, for their warm hospitality and attention to detail in maintaining the cottages. The accommodations were described as immaculately clean, comfortable, and well-equipped.
