Rock Lobster - a family friendly that sleeps 8 guests in 4 bedrooms

Pull up on the drive of Rock Lobster, and you are immediately struck by how much you start to hear the world differently. Simple sounds all the more audible, somehow—the crunch of the gravel under tyre; on any given day, the North Sea lisping, washing or crashing against the stubborn volcanic rocks. The wind whistling a breezy sea shanty or carrying with it the billowing of Norse gods. One thing, however, remains constant: the utter calm and mesmerising tranquillity of Rock Lobster. Step through the slate blue front door, and the combination of space, light and quality fixtures and fittings instantly say that you're going to enjoy this break. The sense of openness is soothing and rejuvenating.

Rock Lobster's open plan kitchen/diner/living room dispenses with blinds or window dressings to take full advantage of the superb views out to sea. The elegant kitchen, with its cool blue hues and dining area, is the perfect place to watch the sunrise. An oven and warming drawer, induction hob, two dishwashers, American-style stainless steel fridge/freezer, and microwave makes feeding eight guests a breeze. A dining table to accommodate your whole party is a sociable way to start or end the day. The lounge area with its large comfy sofa and armchairs comes with a wall-mounted TV, electric wood burner-style stove, and patio doors to the front of the property. There's also a handy utility room with washing machine and condenser tumble drier, and a cloakroom with WC and basin.

Two of the four bedrooms are on the ground floor. One with a double bed and ensuite shower room and WC. The other that can be made up as either a super-king or twin beds and a bathroom that also has a walk-in shower, and WC. It's been said that nearby Dunstanburgh Castle was built to resemble and outshine the castles built in Wales. And it's from Wales that Rock Lobster borrows too, with Melin Tregwynt Welsh woollen blankets and throws adorning all the beds; simple in spirit, satisfying in quality and timeless in design.

The main lounge occupies the house's prime spot on the first floor. There are enticing, comfy sofas and a smart TV, although the bifold doors to the balcony with stunning sea views will probably mean you'll watch less TV than ever. Don't be surprised if you're rewarded with the sight of dolphins dancing.

There are another two bedrooms on the first floor, each with a king-size bed, ensuite shower room and WC, although a shrewd guest will work out which one has the Juliet balcony with stunning views and bagsy that one first.

With central and underfloor heating, all power, linen and towels taken care of, you're free to kick back and plan your Northumberland adventures. The world's your oyster. Or is that lobster?

Full-length doors lead out to the patio area with its tasteful wooden table and chairs—it is many a guest's favourite spot. The secure wrap around lawn is as simple and well-kept as the house.

The converted garage is now a games room with table tennis, table football, sofas, separate shower room, WC and basin—handy if the North Sea winds bring with them inclement weather.

There's parking on the drive for up to four cars.

Within walking distance of Rock Lobster is a brilliant children's playground, Jolly Fisherman pub, The Shoreline Cafe, Mick Oxley Art Studio as well as the famous tiny horseshoe harbour and L Robson & Sons for your legendary Craster Kippers (not to be missed).

This cottage offers its guests barbecue grills, an arcade/game room, and a garden. The front desk is open around the clock.

This Alnwick cottage is smoke free.