Mark Close Farmhouse & Mark Close Milking Parlour

- self catering holiday cottages -

Alston, North Pennines National Landscape

Mark Close Milking Parlour guest information

We are looking forward to welcoming you to Mark Close. Please use this page to find information about the milking parlour & Alston. 

On the first day of your stay, we’d really appreciate it if you time your arrival for after 4.00 p.m. Please let us know If you’d like to arrive earlier; this may be possible if we do not have other guests leaving on the same day. We live on site, please feel free to call, message us, or come and see us in the Barn if there is anything you need. If for any reason we are not around when you arrive, the cottage will be left unlocked or the key will be in the key-safe by the front door (a code will be sent if required) Parking up the drive, past the farmhouse & the barn, in front of the Milking Parlour entrance (a guide is below).

PLEASE NOTE: We ask prior to your arrival that you confirm if you & your additional guest will/will not make use of the hot tub during your stay and that you’re happy to follow the safety rules and T&C’s. A copy of these can be found at the end of this page.

Location of Mark Close Milking Parlour & Alston:

Mark Close Milking Parlour is situated approximately ½ a mile from Alston along Brampton Road (A689). (Please look for the Mark Close Farmhouse sign)

We can be located in the following ways:

Postcode: CA9 3BD

GPS co-ordinates: 54°48’54.9″N 2°27’04.8″W

What3Words: ///destined.photo.dries

From the M6 at Penrith (Junction 40) follow signs for A66E (Scotch Corner, Brough) Then follow signs for A686 (Alston). Upon reaching Alston, follow the signs for Brampton (A689) When leaving Alston, Mark Close Milking Parlour will be on the left.

From the M6 at Carlisle (Junction 43) follow signs for A69 (Newcastle, Hexham) Then follow signs for A689 (Alston) When nearing Alston, Mark Close Milking Parlour will be on the right.

From the A1 at Scotch Corner (Junction 53) follow signs for A66 (Brough, Penrith) Then follow signs for B6277 (Middleton-in-Teesdale, Alston) Upon reaching Alston, follow the signs for Brampton (A689) After leaving Alston, Mark Close Milking Parlour will be on the left.

From Newcastle follow signs for A69 (Hexham, Haydon Bridge) When nearing Haydon Bridge follow signs for A686 (Alston) Upon reaching Alston, follow the signs for Brampton (A689) After leaving Alston, Mark Close Milking Parlour will be on the left.

Local information:

We try to keep this section up to date but the town is constantly changing and some information may not be current.

Alston Moor, set high in the North Pennines National Landscape, is an ideal centre for walking, cycling, or as part of a tour of the north of England’s landscape and heritage gems. Visitors can expect a unique opportunity to explore its beautiful landscape of fells, moorland, huge skies, tumbling mountain streams, rivers and waterfalls. Take time to discover rare alpine flora and upland birds alongside its rich industrial heritage.

The North Pennines, a UNESCO Global Geopark, has a rich and fascinating lead mining heritage. We also have some of the darkest skies in the UK, so this is a wonderful place for stargazing.

The picturesque town of Alston with its steep cobbled main street and historic stone buildings boasts many wonderful shops, cafes and pubs. Nearby Nenthead and Garrigill are well worth a visit to enjoy exploring the mines and take advantage of many and varied walks.

Shops:

The Spar supermarket

Station Road CA9 3HY (0.9 miles)

01434 382 425

Open 7 days a week from 7:00 a.m. – 11.00 p.m. ATM on petrol station forecourt. There is a deli counter and butchers within the store.

The Co-operative

Market Place CA9 3HS (1.0 mile)

01434 381 231

Open 7 days a week 7.00 a.m. – 10.00 p.m. ATM in store.

Other Supermarkets

The nearest large supermarkets are in Penrith, Haltwhistle and Carlisle. Sainsburys, ASDA, Tesco and Morrisons all deliver to Mark Close.

The Nook farm shop

Epiacum Roman fort, further along the A689 towards Slaggyford CA9 3BG (1.5 miles)

07415 029 398

Opened in November 2019, next to Epiacum Roman Fort on the A689. They serve and promote local produce, including their own farm-bred beef and lamb. All the produce is locally sourced or made there. They have a cafe, farm shop, large car park & a good outdoor seating area.

Alston whole foods (ethical grocer and delicatessen)

Market Place CA9 3QN (0.9 miles)

01434 381 588

An ethical grocer and delicatessen run by a workers’ cooperative, since 1998. They offer an unrivalled choice of local, regional and classic cheeses. Plus, a wide range of foods – dried, tinned, chilled and frozen; toiletries and household goods. Special diets, gluten free, vegan, vegetarian, sugar-free.

Alston market/craft fair

Fairhill recreation ground, The last Saturday of every month.

Full of gifts, local crafts and food. Well worth a visit.

Mad Hatters Hardware

2 Front Street CA9 3HU (0.9 miles)

01434 382 991

A hardware store with a selection of gifts, crafts, pet gear and children’s toys.

Market Cross Gifts

Market Place, Alston CA9 3HS (1 mile)

01434 382 534

Market Cross Alston is a hidden gem offering gifts and home furnishings from around the world. With over 35 years of retail experience, they take pride in sourcing products that are unusual, unique and not normally found in large high street stores.

Mellow Yellow

Front Street, Alston CA9 3SE (1 mile)

01434 382 050

At the top of Front Street, well worth the climb! Clothing and lifestyle emporium. Much bigger than it appears from the outside. Browsers welcome.

Cumberland Mustard

Their honey mustard has been made in Alston since 1983, a taste of the county. They have a range of flavours, most popular is the Original, and using raspberries, make their own raspberry vinegar that goes into vinaigrettes, mustard, red onion marmalade and their Mostarda. Available at Alston Wholefoods, or via their website.

Hi-Pennine Outdoor Shop

Front Street, Alston CA9 3QN (1 mile)

01434 381 389

This long established family run store selling outdoor clothing and equipment from well-known reputable brands. They have a good range of footwear and clothing, including some “Outdoor Clearance” lines, as well as camping equipment, local maps and books. A new range of British made giftware. They pride themselves on excellent service and advice.

The Cane Workshop

Market Place, Alston CA9 3HS (1 mile)

01434 382 973

Specialists in the re-caning and restoration of all traditional rattan cane furniture. They provide a comprehensive re-caning service where traditional methods and natural materials are used. From the town centre shop you can buy restored furniture, fine art prints and locally made craftwork. Please ring to avoid disappointment.

Stokoe House

Market Place, Alston CA9 3HS (1 mile)

01434 382 973

Available from within The Cane Workshop, a selection of award-winning homemade jams, marmalades & chutneys made locally on Alston Moor.

Fuel:

Spar/Texaco Garage

Townfoot Garage, Station Rd, Alston CA9 3HY

Mordun Quality Fuels

Alston CA9 3HZ

EV Charge points

Tyne Willows Playing Fields, 7 Station Rd, Alston CA9 3HZ

2 type 2 chargers 12.2 kW

We hope to install EV charge points in the future. Please do not attempt to charge cars from the Farmhouse internal sockets, this invalidates our insurance.

Pubs/Restaurants/Cafés/ Takeaways in Alston:

The High Plaice (fish and chips)

1 Front Street CA9 3QH (1 mile)

Sadly, the High Plaice is currently closed, we’re hoping new owners will take over soon.

Jack’s Take away

Located at the Globe Shop on the Front Street in Alston CA9 3QW next door to the Whole Foods shop. 07915966975

It’s hard to find much about Jacks online as it’s the kind of place that’s successful just through word of mouth, below are photos of his menus. For large orders food needs to be ordered well in advance. Jack also does a wonderful takeaway Sunday roast which must be ordered in advance.

The Nook farm shop

Epiacum Roman fort, further along the A689 towards Slaggyford CA9 3BG (1.5 miles)

07415 029 398

Opened in November 2019, next to Epiacum Roman Fort on the A689. They serve and promote local produce, including farm-bred beef and lamb. All the produce is locally sourced or made there. They have a cafe, farm shop, large car park & a good outdoor seating area. Dog Friendly.

The Top Café

Ryder House, Front Street CA9 3SE (1 mile)

Café offering a variety of food and drinks. Everyone welcome, including cyclists, walkers and bikers. They also offer take away and delivery see ‘Food by Angela in external caterers’ Dog friendly.

Saddlers bakery and bistro

Front street Alston, opposite the post office (1mile)

07494129845

Open Wednesday – Saturday

A beautiful selection of breads and baked goods and great breakfasts and home-made lunch items. They also do brilliant celebration cakes, and hampers to order.

Wooly’s Café

South Tynedale Railway, Alston Station, CA9 3JB (1 mile)

Homemade food and a delicious cake selection to choose from. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options always available. Food also available as a take-out option to enjoy on the train as you travel through the beautiful countryside. Open daily in season. Very Dog friendly.

The Little Buffet Car

South Tynedale Railway, Slaggyford Station CA8 7NH (4 miles)

A range of hot and cold drinks, snacks, traybakes and ice cream.

Alston House Hotel

Townfoot, CA9 3RN (0.9 miles)

www.alstonhouse.co.uk

01434 382 200

Overlooking the South Tyne River and the fells, this relaxed hotel in a stone-and-brick building dating from the 17th century. There’s a casual bar/restaurant serving British and Italian cuisine, as well as a cafe offering light meals. Alston House is the best place to eat near-by for accommodating large groups and for celebrating events. There is also a takeaway menu of pizzas and burgers etc. Dog friendly in some areas with a large beer garden. (Unfortunately, the entrance has steps and is not wheelchair accessible).

Lowbyer Manor

Hexham Road, CA9 3JX (1.1 miles)

01434 381 230

Lowbyer Manor, a Grade II listed Georgian Country House is fully licenced and offering good home cooked food. Has Sky sports. The dining room can be hired for events and large groups. Dog Friendly.

The Cumberland Inn Hotel

Townfoot, CA9 3HX (0.9 miles)

01434 381 875

Great food and a really good beer selection. Dog friendly.

The Angel Inn

Front Street, CA9 3HU (1 mile)

01434 381 363

A Cosy pub with a traditional coal fireplace, offering hearty meals and a selection of drinks. Has Sky sports. Dog friendly.

The Turks Head

Market Place, CA9 3HS (1 mile)

01434 381 148

The Turks Head is an attractive 17th century “olde world” pub situated in the centre of Alston. The atmosphere is relaxed, and with friendly staff always on hand to help. Serving drinks only. Dog friendly.

The Victoria Inn

Front Street, CA9 3SE (1 mile)

01434 381 194

The Victoria Inn serves a range of draft beer, lager and cider. Pool table, dart board and wifi available. Serving drinks only. Dog friendly.

The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman’s rest, Slaggyford

CA8 7PB (5.4 miles, a 10 minute drive or 1hour 45min walk) 01434 671526 www.theksi.co.uk

Newly re-opened in February 2023, the Kirkstyle has a new locally sourced fine dining menu as well as a great pub classics menu. Frequently featured in national food critics reviews.

Food is currently served from Thursday to Sunday.

Places to eat further away:

The Hive (Nenthead) 

www.hivenenthead.co.uk

Café and gift shop with quiz nights and special events.

The Hemmel Café (Allenheads) 

http://thehemmel.cafe

The Forge (Allendale) 

www.allendaleforgestudios.co.uk

Café with art gallery and craft shop.

Farlam Hall (Brampton) 

www.farlamhall.co.uk/dining

Really wonderful fine dining, seasonal evening menu and amazing afternoon teas and Sunday roasts.

Langley Castle (Langley) 

www.langleycastle.co.uk

Lovely afternoon teas in a beautiful castle. They also do a ‘battlements tour’ each morning. Dog friendly

The Carts bog inn (Langley) 

https://cartsbog.co.uk/

Great food. Dog friendly

The Village bakery (Melmerby) 

https://www.facebook.com/TheOldVillageBakeryMelmerby/

A lovely bakery and café with a craft shop.

The Shepherds Inn (Melmerby)

https://shepherdsinn.pub/

Worth a trip down Hartside, great food & atmosphere.

The Elks Head (Whitfield)

www.whitfieldestate.co.uk/page/what-we-do/the-elks-head

Really lovely menu. Dog friendly in the bar.

Twice Brewed Inn (Bardon Mill) 

https://www.twicebrewedinn.co.uk

Nice food and brewery tours (must be pre-booked). We’d suggest combining this with a visit to Sycamore gap.

Rat Inn (Anick) 

www.theratinn.com

Regularly featured in the UK’s top Gastropubs it offers a wide range of locally sourced, local produce.

External caterers:

Food by Angela

Based in Garrigill, Angela will deliver her lovely home cooked meals and pies to Mark Close. Please order at least 2 days in advance (not available on Sundays).

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100046933396222

Nans bakery

Sami creates and delivers beautiful celebration cheesecakes, cakes, afternoon tea and savoury boxes.

https://nansbakery.co.uk

Kate Harrison

You might have seen Kates’ Highland cows in the fields on the way down from the Hartside pass! Kate creates wonderful home cooked food. She can provide anything from buffets and wedding cakes to roast dinners and will deliver food or cook in-house.

07884227462

High Rigg catering

Will deliver bespoke meals, buffets and afternoon teas or can offer a personal chef on site.

https://www.facebook.com/HighRigg

Eden Catering

Private chef Samuel Key offers private dining in the Farmhouse.

www.edencatering.co.uk

Local places to visit:

South Tynedale Railway

Station Road, CA9 3JB

01434 338 212

www.south-tynedale-railway.org.uk

Join the double award winning railway and enjoy a scenic ride through the beautiful South Tyne valley on one of the trains hauled by vintage steam, diesel or battery electric locos all with their own fascinating history. Walk along the South Tyne Trail and take in the glorious views, visit the Discovery Museum and the engineering workshop viewing gallery and find out all about England’s highest narrow-gauge railway.

The Hub Museum

Located adjacent to South Tynedale Railway, and opening days are generally the same as the railway. A vibrant local history and transport museum, packed full of bygone forms of transport and delightful snippets of local history. Staffed by friendly volunteers.

Epiacum Roman Fort (Whitley Castle)

Epiacum Roman fort, further along the A689 towards Slaggyford

www.epiacumheritage.org

A dramatically-sited Roman fort perched on the flanks of the Pennines; originally built to control the valuable lead and silver mines of Alston Moor. The impressive multiple ramparts are some of the finest in the whole of the Roman empire. Epiacum is about halfway along the Maiden Way – a Roman road running between Bravoniacum (Kirkby Thore) and Magna (Carvoran). There are two visitor trails to explore – The Nervian Trail and also an interactive family trail across the site. Access is on foot from the small car park alongside the A689.

Nenthead Mines

Nenthead Smelting Mill, CA9 3NR

07494 497 868

www.nentheadmines.com

A once-thriving lead and zinc mining enterprise that sometimes produced 30% of the UK zinc ores. Take an underground tour, explore the extensive industrial remains or marvel at the mineral displays all on special open days.

Killhope Mine

The North of England Lead Mining Museum, DL13 1AR

01388 537 505

www.killhope.org.uk

One of the last-remaining 19th-century lead mining complexes on the Pennines. Work as a Victorian washer boy for the day, pan for minerals or marvel at the working machinery including the impressive Killhope Wheel – a large and fully-restored waterwheel used to power the ‘jiggers’ and ‘buddles’ that separated the lead ore from the waste. Don a lamp and hard hat and take a tour down the underground mine, you’ll need wellies and something warm.

Ashgill Force

B6277 towards Barnard Castle, CA9 3HB

Ashgill Force is a stunning waterfall with a path access that enables you to stand behind it. There’s a lovely walk to it from the pretty village of Garrigill. Travelling from Alston town centre, it’s exactly 5 miles from The Market Cross to a small stony lay-by on the right, just before the B6277 turns sharply right to cross Ashgill Bridge; the waterfall is beneath the bridge. Park in this lay-by, walk across the bridge, and at the far side pass through the stone stile on the right in the wall; this leads you onto a clear path. Follow this path for about 120m, then turn right, almost doubling back on yourself, and follow the narrower path down towards the waterfall. There is a path that leads behind the waterfall itself, and the lower series of falls, accessible by a path over the wooden footbridge, are also well worth exploring.

Outdoor activities:

Walking

www.walkalstonmoor.com

https://isaacs-tea-trail.co.uk/

Alston Moor is proud to have been a Walkers Are Welcome town since 2013.  The Pennine Way passes through Garrigill and Alston, There’s an amazing variety of walks to suit all interests and abilities on Alston Moor, and in the wider North Pennines. Take a look at our walking website for inspiration, or pop into Hi-Pennine outdoor shop or the Tourist Information Centre for books and leaflets.

We’ve also included a map and guide to a circular walk from Mark Close in the house guest information pack (located on the dining room table). We also love walking along the railway to the Little Buffet car at Slaggyford, Walking along the Pennine way to Epiacum and the Nook, and going for a walk to Lambley viaduct. 

Cycling

www.visiteden.co.uk/outdoor-adventures/cycling-in-eden

Alston Moor and the North Pennines is a wonderful destination for cyclists, with some of the country’s most challenging climbs, but on much quieter roads than might be expected.  The Sea to Sea cycle has various options on Alston Moor, passing through Alston, Garrigill and Nenthead.  Eden Tourism produce a series of leaflets about cycling in the region, and copied can be picked up at Alston Tourist Information Centre.

Dark Skies

www.northpennines.org.uk/exploring/stargazing

The North Pennines is the perfect place for star gazing. With Alston Moor being in the centre of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), it’s the perfect base for a great dark skies experience.

Golf

01434 381 675

www.alstonmoorgolfclub.org.uk

The highest golf course in England (1476 feet above sea level) Alston Moor offers a challenging 18 holes of golf, over its 10 greens and 18 tee positions. The course is situated in 132 acres of parkland, high meadow and pasture land, 2 miles south of Alston on the B6277. Within the AONB it offers spectacular views of the North Pennines. With its small but friendly membership, the course is ideal for golfers, of all ability, who enjoy playing the game, at their own pace, in stunning surroundings. Visitors welcome.

Fishing

www.alstonangling.co.uk

Alston Angling Association beats cover almost ten miles of the Upper South Tyne salmon and sea trout fishing. Fish start to arrive in the river from May onwards with September and October being the peak months. The nearest stocked trout fishery is Langley Dam, about forty minutes away. Day tickets are available from Alston Post Office to fish for salmon and sea trout on the river South Tyne.

Skiing

www.yadmoss.co.uk

Yad Moss England’s longest real snow ski lift can be found 4 miles south of Alston on the B6277. Run by volunteers, it offers accessible opportunities to enjoy snow sports in this beautiful part of northern England. The ski area is served by a fast Poma tow of 600m length and 125m vertical rise. In good snow conditions there are 8 blue/red ski runs of up to 800m in length. The ski runs are lined by snow fences or otherwise follow shallow gullies or areas where the grass has been cut shorter. A day lodge provides warmth and shelter for your picnic. Opening times are weather dependent. There is no equipment hire on site.

Watersports/adventure activities

There are a few adventure activity providers nearby;

Independent adventures

www.independentadventure.co.uk/talkin-adventures-cumbria

Organise boat hire, paddleboarding, archery, raft building etc. at Talkin Tarn.

The Weardale adventure centre 

https://weardaleadventurecentre.co.uk/

Run canoeing, gorge walking, mine exploring activities etc all over the north Pennines.

North Star Adventures

https://www.northstaradventure.co.uk

Organise Ghyll scrambling, climbing, canyoning etc.

The North East Outdoor Pursuits Centre

www.north-east-outdoor-centre.co.uk

Located in Tow Law do clay pigeon shooting, paintball and archery

Aquaventures 

https://aquaventuresuk.com/

Organise Ghyll scrambling at Ashgill force.

External suppliers:

The Little Pod Experience, beautiful themed pods from princess parties to karaoke hen dos, Rebecca’s pods are great for celebrations.

https://www.instagram.com/thelittlepodexperience

https://www.facebook.com/littlepodexperience

Please let us know before your stay if you’d like any other external suppliers to come to the Farmhouse as insurance checks will need to be carried out.

Further afield:

Hadrian’s Wall (19 miles/ 35 minutes)

Multiple sites in Northumberland, Cumbria and Tyne and Wear

www.hadrianswallcountry.co.uk

Stretching 73 miles from coast to coast, Hadrian’s Wall was built to guard the wild north-west frontier of the Roman Empire. Discover the remains of the forts, towers, turrets and towns that once kept watch over the Wall. See rare Roman artefacts, get hands-on in museums and take in spectacular views of the rugged landscape to find out what life was like for the men, women and children on the edge of Roman Britain. Hadrian’s Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We recommend Vindolanda and the Roman army museum and Housteads Roman fort.

Lanercost Priory (22 miles/35 minutes)

www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/lanercost-priory

Lowther Castle and Gardens (24 miles/ 40 minutes) 

https://lowthercastle.org

Beautiful ruined castle with gardens and extensive grounds. There’s a café, cycle hire and a really great children’s adventure playground. Dog friendly everywhere except the play area.

Acorn Bank (20 miles/30 minutes)

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/acorn-bank

Beautiful gardens and a watermill.

Allendale Brewery (14 miles/ 25 minutes)

http://www.allendalebrewery.com/

Tours can be arranged in advance for groups in the afternoon.

Talkin Tarn (24 miles/35 minutes) 

www.carlisle.gov.uk/talkintarn

Talkin Tarn Country Park is a 65 acre lake set amid 120 acres of farm and woodland. You can sail, windsurf, canoe or hire wooden rowing boats from the park, or take a walk around the Tarn. This is ideal for families with smaller children, as the 1.3 mile path around the Tarn is an easy stroll. It is also suitable for wheelchairs.

Walby Farm Park (30 miles/45 minutes)  

www.walbyfarmpark.co.uk

Farm and petting zoo with large indoor/outdoor children’s play areas, soft play and cafe. Great for younger children and as a rainy-day activity.

High Force (18 miles/ 25 minutes) 

www.rabyby.co.uk/high-force/waterfall

Alston Road, Forest-in-Teesdale, DL12 0XH

High Force is one of the most impressive waterfalls in England. The River Tees has been plunging into this gorge for thousands of years but the rocks it reveals are far more ancient – with origins dating back over 300 million years. There’s an accessible route to the bottom of the waterfall from the carpark at the high force hotel, tickets can be purchased from the high force hotel. Alternatively, the top of the waterfall can be reached for free by crossing the crossing the bridge near the high force hotel and joining the Pennine way. There is also a nice walk from Low force to High Force starting at the Bowlees visitor centre.

Matfen Tree Top adventure (48 minutes/ 34 miles)

https://goape.co.uk/locations/matfen

Tree top challenge and axe throwing.

Keilder Forest Park & Water (56 miles/ 1hr 20mins)

A69 to Hexham then follow the B6320 to Bellingham

www.visitkeilder.com

Kielder Water & Forest Park brings you nature on a grander scale. The views are bigger, the night sky brighter and the sports wilder. Home to the biggest man-made lake in Northern Europe and, at over 250 square miles, the largest working forest in England. The best way to explore Kielder is to start at one of our three visitor centres, Tower Knowe, Kielder Waterside or Kielder Castle.

Dalemain House, Gardens and Estate & Tea Room (23 miles/ 40 minutes)

http://www.dalemain.com

A beautiful stately home and gardens. Dogs are not allowed in the House or gardens.

Ullswater (28 miles/50 minutes)

www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/places-to-go/explore-ullswater-glenridding-and-pooley-bridge

Our nearest lake district lake  there are wonderful walks here and the famous Ullswater steam boats, we’d also recommend a visit to beautiful Aira force.

Beamish Living Museum (42 miles/ 1 hour 14 minutes)

www.beamish.org.uk

Other towns, cities & places of interest:

There’s plenty to keep you on Alston Moor, but with five major but quiet roads radiating out from Alston, you’re ideally placed to explore towns and cities all over Northern England. Here’s just a selection, with a very rough guide as to how long it will take to drive from Mark Close Farmhouse:

  • Allendale (20 mins)
  • Penrith (30 mins)
  • Hexham (30 mins)
  • Stanhope (30 mins)
  • Middleton In Teesdale (30 mins)
  • Carlisle (45 mins)
  • Barnard Castle (45 mins)
  • Appleby In Westmoreland (50 mins)
  • Keswick (60 mins)
  • Durham (60 mins)
  • Newcastle Upon Tyne (60 mins)
  • Kirkby Stephen (60 mins)
  • Northumberland Coast (1 hr. 30 mins)

We hope that you enjoy your stay here at Mark Close and have fun exploring the area and all it has to offer. If you need any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to make sure your holiday is a happy one.

Emily & Alun

Terms and Conditions for the hot tub

By using the hot tub, you are agreeing to these terms.

Hot tub Safety rules

Hot tubs can be very dangerous; please read and abide by the ‘Hot tub safety rules’ they are there for your safety. By using the hot tub, you are agreeing to follow these rules. Please be aware if you do not follow these rules, you may be asked not to use the hot tub. If the safety rules are ignored and hot tub continues to be used in an unsafe way, after warnings, you may be asked to leave the premises.

We work hard to ensure the hot tub is as safe as possible for your stay. Please ask if you would like to see our hot tub maintenance, cleaning and testing records or the hot tub risk assessment.

Temperature on arrival

The hot tub water will have been changed for every new booking. If there is a same day change over this may mean that the hot tub has not warmed up in time for your arrival. The hot tub should be up to temperature by the following day.

Water safety testing

It is a Health and Safety Executive requirement that we test the chemical balance of the hot tub water twice a day to make sure it is safe for use. We will access the Milking Parlour garden through the side gate twice a day to test, clean, refill, and add extra chemicals. We will try to do this while you are out if possible. Occasionally the water may be unsafe and we will ask you not to use the hot tub until this has been corrected.

If you plan to use the hot tub during your stay, access must be required to undertake the daily testing. If you do not intend to use the hot tub during your stay, please let us know and we will not safety test the water.

Hot tub breakages

Occasionally, the hot tub may break or be unsafe to use. If this happens, we will do everything we can to fix the problem. These incidents are beyond our control and no refund will be given if the hot tub is out of use for part or all of your stay.

Ruining the filter

Fake tan sticks to the filter and prevents it working, if this happens the fake tan chemicals cannot be removed and the filter must be thrown away and replaced at a cost of £50. If this happens the £50 cost will be passed on to you. Anyone using the hot tub should shower before entering and anyone wearing large amounts of fake tan should not enter the hot tub.

Similarly, any large spillages or vomit which results in the filter being changed will also incur a £50 charge.

Hot tub safety Rules:

Hot tubs can be very dangerous and must not be used unless these rules are followed.

  • The hot tub should not be used by more than 4 people at once.
  • Please do not use the hot tub after 10pm.
  • Shower before and after using the hot tub.
  • Body creams, oils and fake tan can irreversibly damage the hot tub filter, these should be removed before entering.
  • Enter and exit the hot tub slowly, no jumping or diving.
  • Do not bring glass in or near the hot tub (plastic cups are provided).
  • Anyone with heart disease, diabetes, high or low blood pressure, serious illness, pregnant women and the elderly should consult a doctor before entering the hot tub.
  • The use of alcohol, drugs or medication before or during hot tub use may lead to unconsciousness
  • Prolonged immersion in hot water can cause hyperthermia, please do not use the hot tub for more than 15 minutes at a time.
  • Children under 8 should not use the tub and older children should have lower water temperatures and be supervised at all times by an adult.
  • Please do not submerge your head, we recommend long hair is tied back.
  • All electrical appliances should be kept at least 2 meters away from the spa.

Please do not sit or lie on the cover, and re-cover the hot tub after use. Instructions for removing the cover are in the guest information folder. The hot tub should not be used in winds above 15 mph.

Escape to the country at Mark Close

Located in the heart of The North Pennines National Landscape, Mark Close is your perfect home away from home to explore all the beautiful countryside that is on offer right on the doorstep.

A warm welcome from Emily & Alun

Thank you for visiting our site and we hope you were able to find everything you needed.
We are happy to answer any questions you may have, please visit the ‘contact us‘ page

Mark Close Farmhouse - Self Catering Holiday Cottages -

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