The Reading Rooms

4.5★

Very good

Sleeps 4
Bedrooms 2
Bathrooms 1
Pets Yes
View on map

Features

Off road parking
Ground floor bedroom
Open fire
Garden / Patio
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities

* Based on a combined average customer score

68 Customer Review(s)

“The cottage is characterful, in a lovely location, ideal for walking in the hills from the house.”

It was warm, clean and the kitchen was well equipped. Downside was that some repairs are needed; gas hob needed matches, dishwasher rack broken, bedroom doors are scraping the floor badly. It was also disappointing to arrive to a cold house after a 9 hour drive. Heating not scheduled to come on until the arrival time of 6 pm and someone had unhelpfully left the thermostat at 10 degrees. Once the heating was on it is a beautifully warm cottage. We did however thoroughly enjoy our week in the ...

It was warm, clean and the kitchen was well equipped. Downside was that some repairs are needed; gas hob needed matches, dishwasher rack broken, bedroom doors are scraping the floor badly. It was also disappointing to arrive to a cold house after a 9 hour drive. Heating not scheduled to come on until the arrival time of 6 pm and someone had unhelpfully left the thermostat at 10 degrees. Once the heating was on it is a beautifully warm cottage. We did however thoroughly enjoy our week in the Dales despite the not so good weather.

- Sarah, October 2021

Thank you for your feedback. We are so glad you enjoyed your stay at The Reading Rooms, Sorry the property was not fully heated when you arrived but glad you found that it heated up quickly. We have reminded our housekeeper to ensure the thermostat is set at a reasonable temperature after they have completed the clean especially considering the milder weather we have been having recently is not set to last. We always encourage our guests to let us know if there are any issues during their stay and if you had done this, we would have rectified the dishwasher issue immediately. It was fully operational before your arrival but the clips holding the rack had fallen off perhaps whilst in use, This has now been rectified for future guests. Thanks again. Property Owner
Martin October 2021

“The cottage was warm and cosy a d well equipped.”

There is a footpath outside the door which takes you over moors. My wife missed the fact that there was no hairdryer but we will I know in future to take one. We would certainly recommend this cottage for walking as it is perfectly sited to do many walks. There are several good pubs in Hawes which is only 7 miles away and the George in Hubberholme is excellent and only 3 miles drive.

- Martin, October 2021
Karan September 2021

“We loved The Reading Rooms.”

We would rate it 9/10. There is just some slight changes that for us would give it full marks, such as comfortable outdoor seating, and larger sofas in the lounge. Other than that everything was just wonderful, particularly the garden and the situation. We had a lovely holiday. Thank you.

- Karan, September 2021

Thank you for your comments. We are glad you enjoyed the property. The sofas in the lounge are bespoke and fit the size of the room. We will adding additional garden furniture for next year. Thanks for your comments Property Owner
Ian August 2021

“It was a wonderful place to stay but seating in the lounge could be comfier other than that it was exceptional.”

- Ian, August 2021

Thank you for your feedback. The sofas in the lounge are bespoke and fit the size of the room. We are glad you had a great stay Property Owner
Sandra August 2021

“The cottage is lovely, the garden beautiful and location perfect for sitting out and enjoying a glass of wine in the sunshine in the late afternoon.”

It worked perfectly for us and our dogs. The location is great however it should be mentioned it is over 6 miles from Buckden. Equidistance between Buckden and Hawes. 5 miles walk along the Dales Way to the nearest pub in Hubberholme and then another 1.5 miles to Buckden Village.

- Sandra, August 2021
Paul July 2021

“Brilliant cottage and perfect place to spend a week relaxing and walking.”

Great for the dog too. Nice welcome parcel of food, fresh milk, eggs and dog chew. Location was better than expected… garden peaceful with delightful bubbling stream. Beds comfortable and everything clean and well presented. The only things that would have been extra nice would be comfortable garden recliners and a hair dryer…. But that is just ‘gilding the lily’.

- Paul, July 2021
Robert July 2021

“Our third time at this cottage and it was spotlessly clean with lovely bedding and towels.”

Thanks for the welcome treats.Husband left TWO coats which were sent back to us within a week of our return home .That is really good service thanks to owners and Sykes.Rob and Margaret Gilmour

- Robert, July 2021
Hannah June 2021

“We had a wonderful time.”

- Hannah, June 2021
Martin May 2021

“The property was Great, the position excellent.”

We and our Dog loved it. For anyone who wants to get away from it all and be surrounded by the tranquility of constant running water and a variety of nature this cottage and position is perfect. However, although it did not really effect us, it should be noted that the complete lack of a phone signal should be detailed on the property advertisement rather than the final information sent just before the holiday commences. Also an Electric toaster would have been good as toasting bread under the grill took an awfully long time and is more than like an energy waste. Also it would have been good to have some relaxing garden chairs.

- Martin, May 2021

Thank you for your feedback. Just to reassure guests that we do have a toaster at the property located in the kitchen cupboard. There are also two sets of garden chairs in the garden for guests to choose from. The mobile signal is due to the property being located in the Yorkshire Dales however there is wifi at the property for guests to access in order to make calls. Property Owner
Cathryn May 2021

“The Reading Rooms is a fantastic home from home.”

This is our second time there and won't be the last. I love the river, the sheep wandering around, the general atmosphere of the cottage. I would happily move in tomorrow!

- Cathryn, May 2021
Gill April 2021

“Wow what a fabulous cottage in a great location surrounded by the Dale's.”

Very well equipped with everything you could possibly need. Our dog certainly enjoyed the enclosed and safe garden. A very big thank you to Angela and Steve, especially for the welcome pack. Would definitely recommend and hope to return in the future.

- Gill, April 2021
Christine April 2021

“The Reading Rooms is one of our favourite places to stay.”

The location is amazing if you are looking for peace and tranquillity. The garden is brilliant for dogs (and people). There are various places in the Dales where there is no mobile signal and this is one of them however you are not cut off from the outside world as you can connect to the broadband system which is very good! There is a toaster in the cottage despite the comments made by another guest who stayed there. It is kept in a cupboard! Our Cavapoo dog loved the beck at the bottom of the garden and was in heaven paddling in the water. We have stayed twice in the Reading rooms and will be returning (can’t wait).

- Christine, April 2021
Stacey December 2020

“We stayed for 3 nights over Xmas and had a lovely stay , the reading room was ...”

We stayed for 3 nights over Xmas and had a lovely stay , the reading room was lovely and warm when we arrived , check in time in rather later though 6pm on a dark dec night with a car load of items isn’t ideal, we chanced it and just arrives earlier as the cottage wasn’t booked out the night before and the key was available, the place was sufficiently equipped and we was able to cook a full Xmas dinner , all in all a lovely stay in beautiful surroundings with walks on the doorstep

- Stacey, December 2020

Many thanks for your feedback. Since covid checkout and in times have been altered to protect customers and therefore we would ask all guests to please respect these times. I am sure that you will appreciate that although a property is not booked out for the previous day to your arrival, does not mean the cleaners or owners are not in the property. Property Owner
Heather October 2020

“Comfortable and cosy country cottage with pretty garden and local walks.”

We enjoyed our stay.

- Heather, October 2020
Kath September 2020

“Just spent a week at the cottage with 2 dogs.”

The location is remote so a long haul to shops, pubs etc but that's not a problem as long as you're prepared with food supplies etc. Lovely position on the river and the enclosed, walled garden was great with the dogs. Lots of walks on your doorstep and some lovely places to visit. We went to Semerwater, Aysgarth Falls, Westburton, Kettlewell and Lynton. The cottage is well equipped and spotlessly clean. A very enjoyable break added to by some lovely weather. Will definitely return and highly recommend.

- Kath, September 2020
Lynne September 2020

“Lovely cottage extremely dog friendly wood flooring throughout.”

Gorgeous garden ideal for our lively Springer Spaniel

- Lynne, September 2020
Belinda March 2020

“Lovely cottage with great views.”

Lots of walks nearby. Cottage well equipped and warm.

- Belinda, March 2020
Susan January 2020

“Fantastic sheltered location for peace and quiet with ready access to lots of walking and not far to travel to areas of interest in the Dales.”

Our visit in January was definitely wellie weather just go prepared for what the weather does, we had everything, sunshine, rain, wind, fog, snow and ice. Lovely returning to warm cosy cottage with lots of space to dry clothes and the dog.Glad of washing machine and constant hot water in the shower. Little light pollution so when nights clear stars are amazing.

- Susan, January 2020
Francine November 2019

“A beautiful cosy cottage in a stunning location.”

Luckily, we had fab weather (freezing cold but sunny), so our dogs, and us, were able to take many long walks in the amazingly beautiful Dales surroundings. The beck at the bottom of the garden (walled with a gate, so the beck can be accessed from the garden) was a bonus, meant we could wash the dogs there after our tramps! We loved our stay, so peaceful, and were sad to leave. I would thoroughly recommend this cottage for countryside lovers and dog owners! Thank you

- Francine, November 2019
Frances November 2019

“I think rustic charms of this lovely cottage would be better appreciated in the warmer, sunnier, drier weather.”

Had we gone earlier in the year when it was warmer I think the holiday would have exceeded our expectations.

- Frances, November 2019
Alan September 2019

“Unique isolated situation”

- Alan, September 2019
Teresa August 2019

“One small thing Maybe an oversight but a toilet brush was not provided.”

Could do with more forks .!! Nice cottage had a great time despite the torrential rain .

- Teresa, August 2019
Paul July 2019

“Loved the cottage, loved the garden, loved the beck.”

Great place to stay. Thanks.

- Paul, July 2019
Cathryn May 2019

“The Reading Rooms cottage is the best cottage I have ever stayed in.”

Absolutely fabulous. So good in fact that we have already booked to return next year. It really is a home from home. The area is fantastic and it was a tough choice between sitting on the patio and watching the world go by or exploring the area.

- Cathryn, May 2019
Martin February 2019

“The owner is an all round good chap.”

The cottage is wonderfully remote with beautiful walks on the doorstep. Great place.

- Martin, February 2019
Allan February 2019

“The reading room is the most fabulous place in the dales to stay ,remote but close to all wonderful sites ,good pubs and wonderful scenery,very welcoming host leaving,tea,milk biccys and eggs to start you off was a fantastic surprise and much appreciated.”

Our dog poppy loved the garden with stream running through it and we couldn’t want for anything more of a holiday home . Thank you

- Allan, February 2019
Janice November 2018

“The Reading Rooms was a most relaxing place to stay.”

It was very clean and well equipped with some lovely walks straight from the door. There was a lovely welcome pack of tea bags, milk and biscuits, and the bed was exceedingly comfortable and we slept like logs every night listening to the burbling brook just outside the window. Would like to return next year.

- Janice, November 2018
Jackie October 2018

“Fantastic location for exploring the best part of the Dales, walks in every direction and stunning views to wake up to every morning.”

The cottage is well equipped, cozy and comfortable.

- Jackie, October 2018
Robert October 2018

“Lovely cottage right by a beck in the middle of nowhere.”

Perfect for peace and tranquility

- Robert, October 2018
Carolyn October 2018

“Definitely recommend The Reading Rooms cottage if you want peace and quiet, just the running of the river near by.”

Great for walking with dogs. The views are stunning! Walkway just outside the cottage. The cottage is fully equipped (home from home), very spacious. Steve, you thought of everything....Garden enclosed so didn’t have to worry about the dogs. Thankyou for letting us stay, we will back

- Carolyn, October 2018
David July 2018

“This is a great place to stay, particularly with the dog.”

It is comfortable, fully equipped for your needs and has a great location. This is was our second visit to The Reading Rooms and we will be back.

- David, July 2018
Jessie May 2018

“Garden was well cared for and river was fenced off so didn't have to worry about the dog going walkabout.”

Cottage was warm and cosy. I definitely could have stayed an extra week there given the chance. :)

- Jessie, May 2018
Stephen May 2018

“The cottage is in a exceptionally beautiful quiet location but the inside could be better with more kitchen equipment like sauspans, bin liners,washing up liquid, hand wash as there is no shop nearby to pop and get some.”

We also had to clean the dishwasher before we could use it as there was a lot of food just lying in there. But having said that we really enjoyed it and the weather was good as well and we would go back again sometime in the future.

- Stephen, May 2018
Pauline September 2017

“Lovely property, comfortable and in a pretty location.”

- Pauline, September 2017
Melvin April 2017

“FANTASTIC LOCATION REALLY REMOTE AND QUIET.”

... SUCH A BEAUTIFUL PLACE.... NEAREST TOWN ONLY 6 MILES AWAY....THE COTTAGE WAS EXQUISIT IN ALL WAYS...THANK YOU

- Melvin, April 2017
Alan March 2017

“Only reason I would not book again is because never stay in the same place twice.”

Cottage was lovely.

- Alan, March 2017
Christine October 2016

“Beautifully located.”

Lots of stunning walks on the doorstep. Cosy, log burner. Beds are amazingly comfortable and white crisp sheets a joy. Very clean and everything you will need is in the cupboards. We had a lovely time here.

- Christine, October 2016
Catherine September 2016

“Fantastic cottage.”

Spacious, cosy, clean with tasteful decoration and well fitted out. Hot water and central heating very efficient, lovely bathroom. Everything we needed.

- Catherine, September 2016
Linda September 2016

“Great cottage would go better prepared”

- Linda, September 2016
Michael August 2016

“Fantastic cottage located right in the middle of the Yorkshire Dales, great walking and town not too far away.”

The cottage was clean, well euipped and comfortable, very much dog friendly. Steve the owner was very responsive via mail and telephone which was a big help. We would definetley come back.

- Michael, August 2016
Jayne June 2016

“The setting of The Reading Rooms is stunning.”

Even the neighbours were lovely and very friendly. It is such a lovely place to stay.

- Jayne, June 2016
Michael May 2016

“The property itself was fantastic (no complaints whatsoever) and we very much enjoyed staying there and want to book The Reading Rooms for the same time next year.”

It was particularly nice to return to each evening and in a very quiet location.

- Michael, May 2016
Jennifer May 2016

“The Reading Rooms is the perfect place to get away from it all.”

It is spacious, clean and comfortable with a large, fully enclosed garden and huge parking area. There are great walks and views, right from the door in all directions, and 3 dog friendly pubs serving good food all within 6 miles.

- Jennifer, May 2016
Ruth April 2016

“Fantastic cottage with everything you could need in a beautiful quiet setting.”

- Ruth, April 2016
Susan October 2015

“We loved coming back to The Reading Rooms after a day's walk with the dog and there were plenty of those from the door.”

The location was perfect.

- Susan, October 2015
Sue September 2015

“Loved the location for walking with dogs and picnics fantastic.”

Property really good and we loved looking out to the stream all day every day.

- Sue, September 2015
Heather September 2015

“This was our 4th visit to the Reading Rooms so I guess we like the place.”

It's position for exploring the Dales is great with walks from the door. Excellent enclosed garden for our dogs and really comfortable accommodation.

- Heather, September 2015
Saskia August 2015

“The Reading Rooms is a very cosy cottage, with a quiet garden.”

Good dog walking in the area.

- Saskia, August 2015
William July 2015

“A lovely well maintained Cottage in a beautiful location.”

Highly recommended.

- William, July 2015
Heather March 2015

“A lovely cottage, in a rural hamlet, quite remote but within 6 miles of Hawes.”

Enjoyed exploring the stream and local walks. We enjoyed the walking down the valley around Hubberholme, Star Botton and Kettlewell. Enjoyed cycling to Hawes on the road over Butter Tubs, some steep climbs and good descents from the cottage for the more experienced rider! Mucker a lovely stop for a coffee. Much enjoyed.

- Heather, March 2015
Matthew January 2015

“We really enjoyed our stay at The Reading Rooms.”

The scenery was beautiful and was a nice relaxing change. The cottage itself was roomy and comfortable. A great location if you want to holiday with dogs.

- Matthew, January 2015
Andrew November 2014

“An excellent property in a lovely setting.”

Ideal for 'getting away from it all'. Would definitely consider visiting again.

- Andrew, November 2014
Joanne September 2014

“A lovely property, would be happy to recommend.”

It had everything we could have possibly wanted.

- Joanne, September 2014
Deirdre September 2014

“The cottage was warm, comfortable, welcoming.”

- Deirdre, September 2014
Sally June 2014

“Excellent position of cottage.”

Great situation to explore Dales, and of course, Wensleydale Creamery.

- Sally, June 2014
Colin June 2014

“The isolation was exactly what we required, away from the hustle and bustle, and a joy to see our dog in the environment he should be in.”

The location was perfect, we come to the Dales frequently and this is the best so far. Thank you.

- Colin, June 2014
Pat May 2014

“A beautiful, comfortable cottage, well furnished and very practical.”

There was a safe garden for the dog and lots of walking from the door of the cottage.

- Pat, May 2014
Angela April 2014

“The cottage is ideal, very well furnished and all mod cons provided.”

The area is beautiful - very peaceful - cottage is in an ideal place to relax after a days walking in the beautiful countryside.

- Angela, April 2014
Dawn February 2014

“The property was brilliant, just as described on the web site.”

Total peace and quiet. Great walking for the dogs, found some lovely places to visit. Overall, an excellent week.

- Dawn, February 2014
Heather January 2014

“Second visit to The Reading Rooms.”

Position of property ideal for exploring the Dales and property furnished to high quality and dog friendly.

- Heather, January 2014
Pat December 2013

“The setting was picturesque and so peaceful.”

Great walking country. The cottage itself was great and the treats for the dog in the welcome pack were a really nice touch.

- Pat, December 2013
Alan October 2013

“The Reading Rooms are in a particularly isolated location enabling us to experience the peace and quiet of the Yorkshire Dales, while at the same time providing an excellent base for daily walking in the surrounding countryside.”

The facilities provided were of a high standard. Two double rooms enabled us to spend quality time with our friends, with enough space for us to enjoy each others company. The hamlet of Oughtershaw was close enough to Hawes to enable us to collect anything we had forgotten to bring with us, and to dine out in the evening if we felt disinclined to cook for ourselves.

- Alan, October 2013
Jamie October 2013

“It was a lovely cottage in a beautiful, peaceful, idyllic spot up towards the head of the Dale.”

Plenty of parking. Loved the solid fuel stove in the lounge, but also nice to have central heating as it was quite chilly outside. Just love the feeling of remoteness. Great area for road cycling.

- Jamie, October 2013
Simon August 2013

“The cottage was wonderful.”

The location was central to the national park, and there was a good deal of information in the cottage on things to do and see (which we relied upon quite heavily as first timers to the national park). It was obvious from walking in for the first time that this was going to be a comfortable residence. We had all amenities and more in the kitchen, and for an evening there was a lovely sitting room/lounge with television.

- Simon, August 2013
Mandy August 2013

“A proper cottage!”

Lovely quiet rural location with walking right outside the door. The shower was amazing! Thoroughly enjoyed our stay and will be back.

- Mandy, August 2013
Dawn July 2013

“Lovely scenery and a cosy setting, an excellent little find and we will be back at some point in the future.”

We couldn't fault the cottage on anything at all. Fantastic.

- Dawn, July 2013
Joan May 2013

“Quiet location.”

Property very clean and comfortable.

- Joan, May 2013
David February 2013

“Immediately noticeable immaculate condition of cottage.”

Fantastic decor and a very welcoming feel.

- David, February 2013

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The property

A fabulous, stone-built detached cottage, set by a lovely river in the small village of Oughtershaw, in the very heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

A former reading room for the village school, this Oughtershaw cottage has been sympathetically renovated to provide first class holiday accommodation.

Set out mainly on the ground floor and finished to a high standard throughout, this Oughtershaw cottage combines modern furnishings and fittings with original features to provide a holiday home of real character and style.

The warm and rustic sitting room features an open double height ceiling with enclosed crossbeams, a staircase to a small mezzanine area, a lovely woodburning stove and French doors to the patio area.

A spacious kitchen with dining area, a delightful bathroom and two lovely bedrooms all ensure that guests have a memorable stay in this premier Dales location, plus outside there is a spacious private garden and a large parking area.

Set in a quiet rural village, this Oughtershaw cottage is perfect to get away from it all and enjoy Dales life at its very best.

A fabulous location, with wonderful walks from the doorstep and just a short drive to a good selection of traditional old pubs and award-winning gastropubs makes this a superb Oughtershaw cottage, whatever the time of year.

Summary

Mostly ground floor
Two king-size double bedrooms
Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC
Kitchen with dining area
Sitting room with woodburning stove
Small mezzanine sitting/reading area.
LPG central heating with woodburning stove
Electric oven, gas hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, washer/dryer, dishwasher, Smart TV, DVD, CD/radio, WiFi, selection of books
Fuel, power and starter pack for stove inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Ample off road parking
Spacious garden area with furniture adjoining the beck
Two well-behaved pets welcome
Sorry, no smoking
Shops 6 miles, pub 3 miles
Note: River runs at the bottom of the garden and is not fenced off, children to be supervised at all times

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £100.

View on map

About the location

OUGHTERSHAW

Buckden 4 miles; Hawes 6 miles.

Oughtershaw is in the very heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. A small hamlet located between its more famous neighbours of Buckden and Hawes, Oughtershaw shares the valley with the likes of Deepdale, Yockenthwaite and Hubberholme. This idyllic Yorkshire Dales hamlet makes the perfect place from which to explore the wonderful scenery and pretty villages of this magnificent Dale. Much of Upper Wharfedale is National Trust owned – an indication of the beauty of its classic countryside, with dry stone walls and barns, important flower-rich hay meadows and valleyside woodland. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best walking areas in the Dales, with The Dales Way passing right through the hamlet. Nearby Hawes is one of the most popular market towns in the Yorkshire Dales, home to the famous Wallace & Gromit Wensleydale cheese with its working factory, museum, visitor’s centre and restaurant. To the south lies Buckden, Kettlewell, where the Calendar Girls was filmed, and the not-to-be missed market towns of Grassington and Skipton.

Region Information

Yorkshire Cottage Holidays

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Reviews & Ratings

“The cottage is characterful, in a lovely location, ideal for walking in the hills from the house.”

“The cottage was warm and cosy a d well equipped.”

“We loved The Reading Rooms.”

“It was a wonderful place to stay but seating in the lounge could be comfier other than that it was exceptional.”

“The cottage is lovely, the garden beautiful and location perfect for sitting out and enjoying a glass of wine in the sunshine in the late afternoon.”

“Brilliant cottage and perfect place to spend a week relaxing and walking.”

“Our third time at this cottage and it was spotlessly clean with lovely bedding and towels.”

“We had a wonderful time.”

“The property was Great, the position excellent.”