Eastlife Spring 2020

DOG FRIENDLY
Tails
About
Town
A cosy country
getaway
Written by Emma Kemsley
“we popped on our
bobble hats, poured a
glass of wine and had
a dip in the hot tub –
bliss!”
Whether it’s cold, wet and miserable or sunny, dry and bright,
you simply can’t beat a cosy, country getaway. However
finding a luxurious retreat which is dog-friendly as well as
offering the style and comfort is often problematic. But I am
here to tell you it does exist, and it’s in Hertfordshire!
Who would have thought that nestled in the pretty village
of Cottered, near Buntingford, are two quirky, peaceful
hideaways. Welcome to Bethnal & Bec; two luxury selfcatering
retreats, beautifully furnished and offering everything
you could possibly want for an overnight break, and I mean
everything!
Fletcher, my husband and I checked-in on a wet and stormy
afternoon. Entry was by code and easy to navigate from
the instructions I’d been emailed. Fletcher squealed with
excitement.
We were in the property less than 30 seconds before Fletcher
demanded to go in the fenced garden, home to a firepit and
hot tub. Beyond this is a 1.5 acre, relatively secure field, which
Fletcher thoroughly enjoyed running around.
We stayed in Bethnal, which ticked all the boxes for an
overnight stay; think warm and cosy, a crackling log fire,
freestanding bubble bath, vinyl record player, comfy bed and
Netflix. It’s self-catering but essentials are supplied such as
bread, milk and eggs. The fridge, freezer and pantry is fully
stocked if you wish to purchase more. There’s also a dine-in
menu available by pre-order.
Fletcher was fully catered for too. On arrival there was a box
full of everything you’ll need for your pet; towels, bed, bowls,
treats, a toy and shampoo should your pooch get extra muddy
on one of the surrounding country walks. There’s also a shared
portable doggy shower. Further items such as Pawesco and
dog beer can be purchased from the dog-friendly pantry
selection.
Fletcher wasted no time devouring the dried fish snacks. A
treat I’ve bought him in the past that he refused to eat. Bethnal
& Bec’s offering obviously tasted much better. However it
wasn’t long before he turned his attention to the box of sticks
and kindle for the fire. It’s no secret Fletcher is obsessed with
sticks and he thought they had been provided for him to chew
on.
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