Hello from your host Helen ..... (and my Mum, Joan!)

Welcome to my website. I hope you enjoy it! 

Here's a little bit about me.....

I'm a local girl. I grew up approximately 10 miles away from Pateley Bridge, so I know Nidderdale very well.

It’s a fabulous area with a rich diversity of flora and fauna and plenty of places to walk and explore. There's always something to see and do and as a wildlife enthusiast, I love it!

Having spent many years working in the print industry, I decided to change direction a few years ago, initially renovating a property, then renting it out. I hankered after a holiday cottage however and in 2021, Flax Mill Cottage became that property.
This is my first holiday let and I love it! I hope that you will too.

I manage the cottage myself, so everything is personally checked by me, but I also have an amazing ‘assistant’ (aka the ‘ironing lady’ on my Facebook page…MUM!), who helps me on changeover days, with bed making and ironing. 

Direct bookings with me.  What are the benefits?

Booking directly with me, is cheaper for you, as I don't charge fees, unlike the big Online Travel Agents (OTAs).
I don't have to pay fees either, so we both save money. 
 
It's nice to communicate directly with you, rather than through a third party OTA. I enjoy being able to offer any help I can, in order that your stay in Nidderdale is the best that it can be. It's a friendlier way to holiday!
 
During your stay, I am here for you if you need any help with anything. 
 
I sincerely hope that you won’t encounter any issues, but if you do, you may be reassured that I will do my utmost to rectify them during your stay. You will not be left without help or resolution.

Supporting a local business. If you book directly with me, you are helping to support my business, rather than an OTA. In turn, I can support other local businesses, in my purchase of goods and services for the cottage. We help each other. 
 
 

Value and Trust

The large booking sites charge you and me for the privilege of using their websites, in the form of Fees. It’s a significant sum. 
I can price my direct bookings at a lower level, as I am not paying fees and neither are you. This creates a saving for us both and better value for you.
 
Booking with me is safe. Payments are secure. You can pay securely through my website using your credit card and Stripe.
All payments are encrypted. I don’t see your details. 
Alternatively, you may pay directly from your bank to mine.
Your money is safe, whichever way you pay. 
Upon payment, you will receive an emailed receipt, clearly stating the details and payments of your stay.
My Cancellation procedure and Terms and Conditions are all available under T’s & C’s at the foot of the website. 
 
I hope that you are comforted by the above information and can feel confident to book direct with me. 
I look forward to hosting you.