Hi Guys,
The mission was accomplished as a result of combining a couple observations from the photo,with a 'Google Image' search, and a generous helping of luck!
I wasn't convinced that the location was Sheffield-ish for a couple of reasons, I had an issue with the colour of the stone used for the chimney stacks and was curious about the lattice-work which had me thinking 'Celtic'.
However, with only the photo and recollection to go on, I did several searches using the word 'Thatched' plus one of the following: Sheffield, Yorkshire, Chatsworth, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Cottage, House, Timbered, Rustic, National Trust, Chocolate Box, plus a couple more.
I got plenty of similar results, but the mystery house remained conspicuous by it's absence.
From the description preceding the additional photo,s suggesting the possibility that the house may have been owned by someone of note, I had a ponder before modifying my search parameters slightly and combined 'Thatched' with each of the following; Bronte, Tolkien, Author, Composer, Writer, Poet, Playwright.
When I entered the 'Thatched Playwright' search, the results turned up several small images of the building in question.
If you haven't already done so, I recommend doing
an internet search for 'The Swiss Cottage Tipperary', and spend a few minutes checking out the interior as well as the exterior - I would imagine that a visit in real life would be quite a memorable experience, but then again... ...eh?, Richard?!
Andy