We are both now semi-retired. Nicky's work has been in higher education student recruitment and marketing, where Tim has been a Bookie! We both still pick up odd bits of work or consultancy here and there but, in the main, we are happy to be at home and to take time ensuring our property is of the highest standard for our guests whilst, at the same time, delighting in meeting new people and ensuring that they have the best experience we can provide.
We also have a large family of 5 children, all with partners and some with children of their own - we love spending time with them all and this property allows us to do this very well (we usually block out the weekends when they are all coming to stay as there isn't enough room in our house for all of them!).
Finally, we have a fabulous Labradoodle named Herbert. He's such a lovely boy and a great hit with our guests. However, if you don't like dogs, or if he is a bit too 'present' during your stay, just mention it to us and we will have a word in his ear!

We bought Grafton Villa back in 2005 and have been ladelling on the love (and emptying our bank accounts) ever since. The renovations have been a real labour of love but we do love the property and feel very privileged to live here, so the love is sort of a natural part of it all!
Getting the outbuildings renovated (the cottage we did in 2009 and the stables were both finished in 2014), has meant that we are able to share some of this privilege with others, which has been great. We have met some wonderful people from all over the world, many of whom come back to visit us time after time - so we guess we are getting it right!

you have your own front door. You can spend your entire stay in isolation or stop for a chat, whichever better suits your mood.
We are, however, on the same property footprint as you so you will see us (and Herbert) around and can always knock the door if you want help or advice on anything to make your stay more interesting or comfortable