Wolf's Happy Hound Short Break by Bee Friedmann
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A couple of weeks ago Wolf convinced me it was time for a break so off we went to Sheffield to visit a friend. We spent Saturday and Sunday rambling around the Peak District, eating delicious food in little country pubs and filing our lungs with fresh air.
Monday arrived too soon and It was time to drive back and so wanting to stretch the peaceful holiday time a little longer we stopped half way at the very dog friendly, Duxford Lodge where a warm welcome awaited us from owners Pip and Carlos, and Tiggy the black lab with the waggiest tail.
This beautifully restored boutique lodge is perfectly situated an hour up the M1 from London. Very close to Cambridge and for all air enthusiasts Duxford town is home to the large IWM Duxford Air Museum.
When owners Pip and Carlos first laid eyes on The Lodge she was a very different building to what she is today with a plastic awning out the front, UPVC windows, peach walls everywhere and avocado suites in the bathroom. However, with their strong vision the couple saw through her outdated 80’s interiors to the building itself, which is an absolute gem and being so close to the Duxford airfield has bags of history associated with it. Winston Churchill stayed here during the war, as did Bing Crosby when he came over to entertain the American troops.
Eighteen months were spent renovating the old girl inside and out. No wall or cornice were left untouched. The result is a warm and inviting space, traditional with a twist which highlights original features. Dark, rich walls are brought to life with pop art. The before and after pictures Pip showed me bring it home. The difference is remarkable.
The ground floor with its original tiles is home to the reception area and leads to the snug where there are cosy sofas to sink into with a delicious coffee or cocktail. The large bright dining room doubles as co-working space and its large restored windows look over the front lawn.
After a delicious dinner it was time for a quick pre bedtime walkies through the charming village and down to the stream.
Our big bedroom had direct access to the garden, a huge and comfy double bed with snuggly duvet and crisp bed linen. The bathroom has the most deliciously scented body products and there was tea and coffee. Wolf had a comfy bed, treats and a cool yellow knotted giraffe to keep him happy.
An early bedtime beckoned accompanied with a pre-bed brownie and glass of complimentary sloe gin.
Breakfast was served on the terrace in the lovely sunshine. There was a yoga class going on but I decided to continue the relaxing a little longer and lingered with my coffee and book.
The countryside is full of lovely pubs and gentle walks and Pip has lots of suggestions for making the most of your stay in the area. On the way back down to London we stopped for ‘last walkies’ through golden fields of wheat and cool woods.
Make an enquiry or book your stay online: