Guests can now book an overnight stay in a quirky and historic lodge nestled in Manchester's Heaton Park.
The Smithy Lodge, designed back in 1772 for Sir Thomas Egerton and built over 200 years ago, is a quaint little round building that has now been opened up for holiday lettings.
Situated beside the entrance gates to the park, also known for hosting the annual Parklife festival and Lightopia, the Grade II Listed former gatehouse offers a cosy living room, kitchen/diner, two upstairs bedrooms and a bathroom surrounded by the beautiful greenery.
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The quaint lodge, once the original gatehouse for Heaton Park and part of the Earls of Wilton estate, is perfect for a short staycation a stone's throw away from Manchester, with easy transport links in and out of the city centre.
Up to four people can book to stay at the renovated lodge, offering a traditional and historical experience complete with a spacious garden, outdoor seating area and views of Heaton Park.
Hosted by Cottages.com, the lodge can also be booked on Airbnb and is described as: "Fully restored, providing a wonderful opportunity to stay within the grounds of one of Europe’s biggest municipal parks.
"The property holds certain features which due to its original design and Grade II Listing, must remain. The stairs for instance are incredibly steep, there is no handrail, and most of the lighting is through lamps. Although this may not suit all, it adds to the charm and historic nature of this wonderful property."
This former octagonal gatehouse also offers private parking, with a few select dates still available to book in June 2023. Prices are around £399 for a three-night stay, subject to change and availability.
One reviewer said: "We loved this lodge for a family holiday. It was clean and well equipped and great for exploring Manchester" as another wrote: "Lovely short break. Quirky, beautiful building, warm and cosy."
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