What’s The Armada’s Rest like?
This unique one-bedroom flat is housed in a 14th Century property that’s the oldest building in town, bar the church. Many of its wooden beams were salvaged from the wreckage of the Spanish Armada – hence the name. The spacious flat, which is spread over two floors, is located in the market town of Coleshill, around a 20-minute drive from Birmingham.
How dog-friendly is The Armada’s Rest?
Good. Dogs are very welcome at The Armada’s Rest although no provisions are provided so you’ll need to bring your own beds, bowls and food. If you’re planning to bring a pet, you must inform host Sophie in advance. There are no extra charges.
Tell me more about The Armada’s Rest
Interior design lovers will be in for a treat at this fantastically quirky property which is packed full of historic features yet has a real homely feel. From the front door, a tiled corridor leads round to a winding staircase, which takes you up to the main living accommodation. At the top of the stairs, you’ll find the spacious bathroom with the charming kitchen off to the right. A long corridor runs down to the front of the flat, where the colourful living room – with feature wall and retro furniture is located. The large twin bedroom can also be found off the corridor and comes complete with snuggly rugs and personalised Armada’s Rest cushions.
The Grade II Listed flat is used as a part-time family home so is incredibly well-equipped throughout. The rooms are all enormous too – even the cupboards are huge! The flat is full of fun little touches, from cool prints to funky ornaments and retro light fittings. Each room also has lots of greenery and guests are welcome to enjoy the toys, books and magazines dotted around. Parking is available right outside the front door and there is a baby gate at the top of the stairs, which is handy. Be sure to look out for the medieval spy hole on the landing – and watch your head on the low beams and doorframes!
What’s the food like at The Armada’s Rest?
This is a self-catering property so you’ll need to bring your own, but guests are provided with an excellent breakfast basket. Ours contained tea, coffee, milk, bread, butter, crumpets, fruit and cereal and often, there are some extra goodies provided in the fridge. The cupboards are very well stocked too and if you need any condiments or cooking oil during your stay, you’re welcome to use the existing supplies.
You certainly won’t go hungry in Coleshill, though. The High Street is full of independent restaurants, pubs and shops and has something to suit all tastes, whether you fancy fish and chips or a Chinese takeaway. It’s also a great place to try an authentic Balti curry – which was created in Birmingham – and there are several award-winning Indian restaurants nearby. We can thoroughly recommend Rajrani, which is just over the road from The Armada’s Rest.
Are there resident dogs at The Armada’s Rest?
No, but you’re sure to see plenty out and about in Coleshill.
Where are the best dog walks near The Armada’s Rest?
Coleshill Parish Church is a short walk from The Armada’s Rest and the green space surrounding it – known as The Croft – is a great place to exercise your dog. As you approach it, you will see a noticeboard detailing walks in and around the town. A 1.5-mile circular walk along a mix of pavements, footpaths and fields will show you all of Coleshill’s key sights.
You will also find information about the Tame Valley Wetlands as you stroll through The Croft itself. Despite running from Birmingham to Tamworth, the wetlands remain something of a hidden secret. A board located in The Croft details a five-mile circular walk through the local countryside. For more walk suggestions in and around Coleshill, click here.
What Ernie and Stan loved about The Armada’s Rest
Having so much space to roam, the great walks on the doorstep
What I loved about The Armada’s Rest
The funky design, the character, the fantastic location
How to book The Armada’s Rest
Overnight stays start from £75 a night. Quote ‘ERNIE’ when booking to get 5% off. For more information, check out The Armada’s Rest Airbnb listing.