We had an absolutely great stay at Apple Cottage. Bellingham Estate is 10 minutes from the M1 so access to it is very convenient. The bed was really comfortable and the shower was fantastic. The cottage was spotless on arrival. We never met Mark but his dad Des showed us the cottage.
Apple Cottage is a perfect location as it is far enough away from Bellingham Castle so that you won't hear the wedding receptions at night when you close the door and yet still only minutes from the gate of Bellingham Estate. The estate has some great walks with preserved fields for local flora and fauna to re-emerge.
Marks parents (Des and Margo) are so helpful. We had a problem 'unrelated to the cottage' and Margo rang the local doctor for us and also provided advice on different hospitals. Very helpful when the doctor on call stopped working at 8am.
All in all it's a great place to stay.