Dawn & Ellie Hindby-Smith are a mother & daughter team.

After years of taking family holidays in self-catering accommodation around Europe, and sometimes further afield, we felt we had a lot to say about how a property should be presented. We had sampled some of the best, and definitely experienced some of the worst on offer, and eventually formed a clear idea of what we thought self-catering holiday-makers want and expect to find when they arrive.

After some thought, we decided we should put our theories into practice, especially since we live in the lovely, tourist-friendly city of York. Olivers of the Mount is the result. It is a new venture for this year (2008) and we were encouraged by the Visit England inspector, who was very enthusiastic and appreciative of our approach, and the different experience we were offering guests.

The configuration and historic features of the property demanded that we create two very diverse apartments, with their own individual characters. Whilst presenting some challenges in the design process, this gave us scope to appeal to a broader market and provide greater choice.

Despite this difference, we apply the same high level of service and attention to detail to both. We know we will only prosper by giving full value for money; in a market where typically over 50% of trade is repeat business, we cannot afford to do otherwise.

We also know that to stay ahead, we have to respond to comments from guests and seek to acheive continuous improvement. But in the final analysis, the most important thing for us is that you have a great time in York and take home only the happiest of memories.