Log Cabins to RentLog cabins are self catering accommodation, but that is not a sentence of one week in the kitchen. It’s an opportunity to start the day at your own pace with breakfast as you like it, and to come and go as you please. But it’s lovely to have a restaurant close by so that you only use that kitchen when you want to. The log cabins below will ensure you never feel chained to the hob or the sink.
Woodhill Beach House is fabulously nestled on the banks of the River Severn estuary and as a result makes the perfect base for those wishing to escape reality, relax and unwind in style. Due to its much desired location it boasts uninterrupted panoramic views of the estuary, perfect for wildlife lovers! The property has been fashioned in form of a French inspired chic beach house and comes complete with all the necessary modern amenities for a more than comfortably stay.
As you enter the house you will instantly notice the lift, this allows easy access to the basement level and first floor. This is a really fantastic addition, particularly for those who have mobility issues or problems with staircases. The first floor is incredibly spacious and is comprised of an open plan dining area and fully equipped kitchen. The living room is the perfect spot to curl up in one of the comfy arm chairs with a good book while enjoying lookng out over the tranquil surroundings and river. The lovely dining room, bright and light due to the beautiful skylight it makes a lovely room for the family to gather together and enjoy a nice meal.
On the first floor two bedrooms can be found. Guests are bound to be arguing over who gets to stay in the wonderful master en-suite bedroom, complete with king-sized bed. Fabulous views of the Estuary and horizon can be enjoyed from the many windows and french doors and even from the comfort of the luxurious bathtub! The second en-suite double bedroom on this level boasts equally impressive views.
Three bedrooms are situated in the upper floor. Two of the double bedrooms are larger in size with access to private washrooms. The smaller of the double bedrooms has nautical themed porthole windows and an en-suite bathroom. Heading back downstairs to the basement, you will find the snug area, perfect for a cosy movie night. On this floor, a further en-suite double bedroom can also be found. Adjoined to this bedroom is a small living space, with a working fireplace, with further access to the garden.
The town of Portishead is just off the coast of the Severn Estuary, Somerset. Due to its proximity and its tributary, Portishead has a rich history as a port and docking yard. There are still exquisite examples of Town’s fine history of Victorian Gothic architecture and plenty of popular trails for keen hikers to explore. Being surrounded by the stunning countryside of Somerset, holiday makers love to visit the likes of Gordano Valley Nature Reserve, Battery Point and The Clevedon Coast Path; where Wales is visible on clear days.
For those looking to make more of the localised attractions, Portishead Marina’s recent re-development means it has a host of bars, cafes and restaurants.
When holidaying in Portishead, try to time your stay with the Portishead Carnival, Flower Show or Raft Race which are all a celebration of the local heritage.
The house is an ideal base to explore the delights of Somerset. Visit enchanting stately homes such as Stourhead, Iford Manor and Bowood House and Gardens. Discover the charming and quaint English villages of Castle Combe, Frome, and Braford apon Avon. Not to mention the fabulous selection of delicious pubs and resturant to try including The Ethicurean at Barley Wood walled garden, Roth bar and grill at Hauser and Wirth or the Talbot Inn in Mells.
Sparrow House holds a wonderful location, set within an exclusive, gated development, just south of the popular town of Cirencester in Gloucestershire. The contemporary, lakefront home makes a luxurious holiday home for those who wish to explore this beautiful region of the country. The fantastic facilities on offer, which include an on-site spa with swimming pool, tennis court, children’s playground and restaurant, make it an excellent choice for families.
The modern property features a quirky, upside-down layout which allows guests to enjoy the gorgeous surroundings and views from the open-plan living areas.
Sparrow House can comfortably accommodate up to eight guests across the four well-appointed bedrooms. On the ground floor are the first three of the bedrooms, a double room with en-suite shower room, a twin room as well as a bunk bed room, perfect for younger guests! These bedrooms share the use of a family bathroom also on this level. Upstairs, on the first floor is the bright open-plan living and dining area with its large windows and access to the balcony overlooking the lake. Also, on this floor is the modern fitted kitchen which boasts all the amenities a budding chef could possibly need as well as a TV room, perfect for keeping the children occupied on rainy days! On the second floor is the king-size master suite, guests are bound to argue over this room with its luxurious en-suite bathroom and lake views.
Outside, the balcony comes with dining facilities and barbecue, making it the perfect place to enjoy a sundowner or to dine al fresco while admiring the lake views at sunset.
On the region’s southern fringes, Cirencester is one of the major centres of the Cotswolds, and offers much more than just sightseeing. It’s certainly a town with a history – at one time the second-largest in Britain – but it hasn’t become a tourist hub in the manner of many of England’s heritage cities, meaning it’s even more of a joy for those who do come exploring.
You can get an insight into the history of Cirencester at its Corinium Museum, this being the Roman name for the town. Mosaics and artefacts bring the story vividly to life, and children can get involved too with special activities. Those who love art, nature or both will find something to please them at Cirencester’s Elemental Sculpture Park, where more than 150 pieces are dotted around the woodlands.
You wouldn’t expect to find many beaches in Gloucestershire, but there is one at the Cotswold Country Park at Shorncote to the south of Cirencester, a place made for family fun with a water park and children’s playground. For a bit of culture, the town’s Sundial Theatre offers a varied programme of events, and those with an eye for a bargain can explore the antiques and collectibles on offer at the Corn Hall indoor market on Fridays.
The town’s excellent dining scene certainly shouldn’t be overlooked – you will have no trouble tracking down anything from an artisan coffee to a Michelin Star three-course meal. Among the highest-rated places in town are Tierra & Mar, a great spot for tapas, and The Falcon at Poulton, where the food is restaurant quality and the setting is a delightful country pub.
Welcome to the stunning grade II listed Colleton Hall and East Wing. It holds a truly marvellous location, nestled within thirty-eight acres of private woodland and parkland, it offers those fortunate enough to stay the perfect country escape where they can enjoy total tranquillity. Its unspoilt location, set between Exmoor to the north and Dartmoor to the south, makes Colleton the perfect choice for those wishing to really explore Devon and all that it has to offer. While you will be staying in an area boasting rolling countryside, moorlands and valleys, the rugged north Devon coastline with its gorgeous beaches, is just a short car journey away.
The home boasts a rich and fascinating history and while it is believed to date back to Elizabethan times, Sir James Roupell Colleton purchased the Hall in 1833 and spent several years upgrading the house enhancing the existing Georgian features; today’s style and architecture reflect this. In recent years, Colleton Hall has been completely refurbished by the present owners, revealing original features and now seamlessly blends its original character and charm with modern interiors and updated furnishings. Colleton Hall can comfortably accommodate up to twelve guests across six, well- appointed bedrooms. On the ground floor is the main living accommodation, the four grand reception rooms including a grand gothic reception hall are all south facing, overlooking the impressive grounds with doors leading onto the terraces. The large, family kitchen boasts all the tools a budding chef could possibly need! Upstairs on the first floor are the six bedrooms, three king-size doubles, two double rooms and a children’s bunk bed room, each with en-suite bathroom or shower room. There are terraces from the West Wing bedroom and also the master en-suite overlooking the lake and parkland in the distance.
Large groups can be comfortably accommodated in the additional East Wing, taking the total number of guests up to 18. The stylish East Wing is a separate annex with a private entrance hall, living room, kitchen and 3 well-appointed bedrooms. Making it ideal for young families or older members of the party who require additional privacy.
This makes Colleton Hall and East Wing the perfect accommodation for big friends and or family groups celebrations, with pleanty of space and great value for money.
The real wow factor can be found outside, the grounds are south facing which allows guests to enjoy wonderful countryside views. The expansive grounds offer the opportunity for long walks through the totally private woodland alongside the stream which flows to the Little Dart River. The children are bound to enjoy wildlife spotting with the opportunity to see a range of diverse wildlife (including red deer) and birdlife!
The near-by villages of Nomansland, Rackenford and Witheridge together offer helpful amenities including excellent pubs, post offices, village stores and restaurants. The Michelin award-winning restaurant The Mason Arms is just a 10-minute car journey away in Knowestone, while The Stagg Inn, said to be the oldest pub in Devon, is just over a mile away in Rackenford. The old market town of Tiverton is 15 minutes away, set on the banks of River Exe, it boasts its very own Castle,canal walk and a wider range of fantastic amenities with a large variety of shops, supermarkets and restaurants. South Molton and Barnstaple offer weekly pannier markets with a wide range of local produce.
There is plenty to see, do and explore in the surrounding area, Exmoor National Park is just 20-minutes from Colleton Hall, while buzzing Exeter is half an hour away, enjoy a fun-filled day spent in the ancient city after a scenic car journey through the Exe Valley. For the beach bums and keen surfers, there is easy access to the popular beaches of Saunton Sands, Woolacombe and Lynton, all less than an hour away.
There is easy road access to Colleton Hall for those coming from all directions, situated just 20 minutes from Junction 27 of the M5 and 5 minutes from the A361. For those travelling by train, Tiverton Parkway station is just twenty minutes away, from here it is possible to reach London Paddington in just two hours. For those arriving by air, Exeter Airport is just 35 minutes away, Bristol Airport is reachable in 1 hour and 15 minutes.
The local activities include golf, horse-riding, fishing, walking and many Exmoor adventures are all close by. This Manor and its secluded grounds and woods represent the ultimate country estate escape: spring fed lake for dark water swimming, paddle boards, rowing boat and canoe and wildlife, including Devon's famous red deer wandering through the grounds.
If you are looking for a gorgeous Cornish retreat within a spectacular country estate with endless activities, then look no further than Lostwithiel House! Lostwithiel House is one of two cottages set within the stable yard of Lostwithiel Manor Estate. Designed by the master architect Sir John Soane and refurbished by the brilliant Sarah Fortescue Designs, this three bedroom cottage is surrounded by glorious landscaped gardens, a lake, deer park, parkland, fascinating historic monuments, miles of cycling and hiking tracks, orchards and a tennis court. Lostwithiel House is perfect for a family or friends wanting to explore the south and north coasts of Cornwall and the captivating moors. There are other holiday properties on the estate including the fabulous Grade II listed Lostwithiel Manor which sleeps up to eighteen guests, the 18th century Lostwithiel Stewardry which sleeps up to fourteen guests, Lostwithiel Stable House which sleeps four and Lostwithiel Dairy House which sleeps eight guests. If you are celebrating a special event or planning a family reunion, each of the properties can be booked with Oliver’s Travels. Lostwithiel Manor is a fantastic wedding and entertainment venue. The list of estate activities for all guests staying in the properties is endless.
The charming town of Lostwithiel is just four miles from Lostwithiel House, nestled in a beautiful wooded valley at the tidal reach of the River Fowey in central Cornwall. From this gorgeous countryside spot, guests can visit both the north and south coasts of Cornwall, explore the moors and enjoy the most delicious cuisine imaginable. Local to Lostwithiel Manor Estate, guests can take dips at Talland Bay and Lansallos Beach and visit Fowey, Polruan, Par Sands, St Austell, Mevagissey, the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Restormel Castle and the iconic Eden Project.
Lostwithiel House is extremely characterful and very comfortable. Within this unique, beautifully renovated property, you will discover vivid splashes of colour, sumptuous furnishings, gorgeous fabrics and excellent fittings. The outstanding Sarah Fortescue Designs have waved their magic wands, creating a colourful, eclectic, sophisticated and fun interior. The first floor, open plan living and dining room is simply fabulous with a gorgeous vaulted ceiling, a delightful window seat, comfy sofas, a smart dining area and a fully-equipped modern kitchen offering everything you need for your self-catering stay. Laundry facilities can be found in the stable yard. You will enjoy beautiful estate views including some of the churchyard. Also on the first floor is the master bedroom with its mellow green tones, comfy bed, gorgeous soft furnishings and immaculate ensuite bathroom.
Downstairs, you will find two well-appointed twin bedroom suites, one with a gorgeous, floral, red-toned wallpaper and lavish green leaf headboards and the other with its matching bedspreads and draped curtains. Sarah Fortescue Designs have done a brilliant job, making sure you are comfortable and feel pampered. The attention to detail and contrasting colours make this cottage fun and out of the ordinary. The twin beds in each room are dressed with crisp cottons and the ensuite bathrooms come with luxurious organic toiletries and fluffy white bathrobes and towels.
You can enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple and alfresco meals using the Weber barbecue on the terrace and roam this beautiful estate, enjoying the wildlife and scenery. The stable yard games room is very popular. The estate grounds are truly sensational. The lake is stunning, surrounded by grassy banks, nearby flocks of sheep and ancient trees. You may want to enjoy a lakeside barbecue or perhaps evening cocktails by the lake. You can stroll through the deer park watching the grazing fallow deer who have nibbled on the park’s lush grass since the days of the Domesday Book and head to the centuries-old trees in the ancient woodland. Adjacent to the deer park is the estate cricket pitch where you can watch one of the regular weekend matches, one of the estate’s most popular summertime traditions. The gardens are totally captivating. The Dorothy Garden boasts beautiful fountains and the Shrubbery offers a multitude of vibrant colour with thirty four different varieties of hydrangeas and vivid pink and purple rhododendrons and azaleas. The Stewardry Walk offers a palm-fringed paradise and a tropical fountain. The gardens also feature Lady Hamilton’s marble bath, a waterfall, a pool, magnolias and a huge array of other exotic plants. The estate’s magnificent parkland slopes gently towards the lake offering that true countryside feel. Here you can enjoy picnics and bask in the sun. You can also explore the exquisite ‘living museum’, discovering the estate’s impressive monuments including the obelisk which soars 123 feet into the sky. You can put your running shoes on and explore the many acres of land listening to birdsong and sheep for company. You can enjoy yoga, play tennis or just rest with your holiday book. Children love collecting morning eggs from the estate chickens or foraging for wild garlic to make pesto and blackberries for beloved crumbles. You can also pick fresh produce from the kitchen garden for supper. In the autumn, you are welcome to pick apples from the orchard.
Children can enjoy a mud kitchen located in the estate grounds, adjacent to a charming Romany caravan, where they can let their imaginations run wild. Additionally, there is an outdoor kitchen tucked away in a picturesque corner of the estate, available for guests to use. The estate also boasts a popular craft space, providing a creative outlet for guests to indulge in various artistic endeavors. The estate offers a multitude of recreational options, including paddle boards, mountain bikes, and more, ensuring there's something for everyone.
When it comes to food, Lostwithiel Estate goes the extra mile to cater to guests' culinary needs. They can arrange meals for guests from a local deli called Bella Mama, ensuring delicious and convenient dining options. In Lostwithiel, guests can find an excellent butcher and baker, providing access to fresh and high-quality meat and baked goods. The estate is also proud to collaborate with Trewithen, a renowned local dairy known for sourcing their milk from within a 25-mile radius of the estate. This enables guests to enjoy locally sourced milk, butter, yogurt, and clotted cream during their stay. As an added treat, guests are welcomed with a delightful cream tea upon their arrival, setting the tone for a truly enjoyable experience at Lostwithiel Estate.
With acres of ancient woodland and miles of paths and tracks to explore, Lostwithiel House is a paradise for four-legged friends.
At Lostwithiel House every family member should be included in your travel adventures, and that includes your beloved canine companions. With the understanding of the joy and comfort that comes from traveling with your dog, at this property the owners are thrilled to offer a warm welcome to both of you.
The estate plays host to a number of annual events including a five mile race around the estate in aid of St John’s Ambulance Cornwall, an Endurance GB Ride, the south west’s premier Cornish ride with over 200 riders, Charity Open Gardens in aid of Cornwall Hospice Care and the Carriage Driving Day sponsored by the British Driving Society. Every event is wonderful and you will feel privileged to be there!
Lostwithiel House is located on the fabulous Lostwithiel Manor Estate with its acres of parkland, deer park, woodland, lakes and stunning gardens. The estate is wondrous with spectacular scenery and brilliant spots of picnics and relaxing. Guests are welcome to enjoy wild swimming in the lake and to forage or pick produce from the kitchen garden. Close by, you can enjoy Talland Bay and Lansallos Beach for a quick dip or venture further to the beautiful beaches on the north or south coast of Cornwall. The estate is brilliant for walking and cycling plus there are many stunning areas to discover outside of the estate.
Cornwall is known as a foodie paradise and there are plenty of places close by where you can enjoy delicious goodies and meals. There are also a number of food festivals including the St Ives Food and Drink Festival, Truro Food Festival and the Mevagissey Shanty Festival.
Restormel Castle lies by the River Fowey near Lostwithiel. One of the four chief Norman castles of Cornwall, it is notable for its perfectly circular design. Once a luxurious residence of the Earl of Cornwall, it was ruined by the 16th century and is now under the supervision of the English Heritage. It is a beautiful picnic spot.
A trip down to Fowey is a must! The Fowey estuary is a glorious sight with Fowey on one side at the mouth of the River Fowey and the gorgeous town of Polruan on the other. There are regular passenger ferries to and from Polruan and a car ferry to Boddinick. The ferry house was originally the du Maurier family home and later the home of Angela du Maurier, Daphne’s sister. As well as being incredibly pretty, Fowey enjoys a rich history. During the Second World War, Fowey was the centre for air-sea rescue and one of the places from which the D-Day invasions were launched. St Catherine’s Point is on the Fowey side of the harbour entrance where it functioned as a lighthouse in medieval times. St Catherine’s Castle below was built during the reign of Henry VIII to defend the harbour entrance. It is accessible when walking from the pretty Readymoney Cove. On Fore Street you will find the Old House of Foye, a medieval house built in 1430. It is now a shop but the walls, beamed interior and fireplace are pretty much the same. During the summer, Fowey Town Hall’s museum and small aquarium is open. Daphne du Maurier is celebrated with the Du Maurier Festival each May and at the Literacy Centre next to the church.
There are some amazing sandy beaches on the south coast. Par Sands, close to the village of Par and four miles from St Austell, boasts a huge expanse of sand backed by pretty dunes. Polkerris Beach magically combines an idyllic sandy cove and stunning coastline with an array of entertaining watersports. You can stand up paddleboard, learn to sail and windsurf, explore the coastline in a kayak or simply enjoy exploring the rock pools and building sandcastles. There is a wonderful beach restaurant and waterside pub. The National Trust’s dreamy Lantic Bay is a great spot for paddling and for a picnic. It is well worth the climb back up and the views from the top are amazing. To the North, the surfers favourite, Newquay, is less than a 50-minute drive while popular Padstow is also within easy reach. The traditional fishing village of Port Isaac, best known for being the setting off the popular TV series Doc Martin, is also less than an hour away.
Mevagissey lies within a UNESCO Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is another working harbour, nestled on the unspoilt dramatic Cornish coastline. Mevagissey boasts an aquarium, museum, seafood restaurants, atmospheric pubs, watersports, beautiful gardens, cycle trails and much more. You can walk from the town to the stunning Lost Gardens of Heligan.
Chelsworth Barn has to be the most stunning barn conversion ever! With magnificent lofty opulence, this historic carcass has had architects and interior designers in their element blending ancient charm with high-end ultra-contemporary chic style. With 6 sensational bedrooms, the lavish cavernous interior is perfect for large groups, sleeping up to 11 guests.
Chelsworth Barn is at the heart of a farm in the wonderful village of Chelsworth, often called the prettiest village in Suffolk. Hedging all around the cathedral-like property provides ultimate privacy and a feeling of remoteness and seclusion. You will arrive via a byway and five bar gate to this magical location in the middle of farm life. Chelsworth has a fascinating history, first recorded in AD962. Today it is famous for its superb gardens and ancient houses, many of which were built in the 17th century. A feeling of time gone by hangs lovingly over this pretty and well cared for the village.
On entering this dreamy conversion, your jaw is likely to drop! Traditional beams and rafters meet industrial contemporary elements. Floor to ceiling glass walls and partial glass ceilings allow the brilliant Suffolk light to illuminate this impressive space. Previously a Napoleonic munition store, this pet-friendly holiday home definitely has the wow factor! The industrial style, ultra-cool, stainless steel kitchen at one end is a focal point and a chef’s dream. It is incredibly social with bar stools waiting for you so that you can keep the cook company with a glass of wine. All around the lovingly restored, exposed wall struts and rafters offer an achingly luxurious feel and sense of space. Combined with the enormous, social, dazzling white dining table, beautiful tiled flooring and edgy interior styling, Chelsworth Barn will hold your eye. The level of detail is incredible, even down to the trendy raised kitchen plug sockets! There are punches of contemporary and quirky flair everywhere. The central position of the dining table is just perfect for celebrations. With fantastic starry night views and far reaching ones outside, you will feel blessed.
At the far end of the barn, you will find luxurious sofa seating and armchairs where you can snuggle down in front of the television and relax. You can catch glimpses of the lush garden through the slit windows. Every element of this conversion adds eye-catching interest. The fantastic underfloor heating will keep your warm and toasty.
Chelsworth Barn boasts six sublime bedrooms, all quite minimal in design though all very individual. The Airclad pod on the side of the barn is architecturally innovative as an inflatable based construction. With a super kingsize bed, sofabed and a striking round spa bath, there may be a race to this suite. The bedrooms are spread over all of the floors of the barn. The ground floor bedroom offers a super king bed and open ensuite bathroom as well as french doors onto a small balcony and countryside views. There are 3 bedrooms on the first floor, two can be arranged as twins or super king beds, and the third is a single. Another fabulous super king bedroom is on the second floor with an open walk-in wet room. Every bedroom boasts gorgeous countryside views and handpicked designer accessories. The four bathrooms are stunning contemporary gems with walk-in showers or standalone baths.
Outside the barn, you will enjoy beautiful, peaceful private space with a state-of-the-art barbecue, alfresco dining and stunning views.
Chelsworth Barn is located in the heart of a farm in the ancient village of Chelsworth, one of England’s oldest settlements. The village is very pretty and brimming with ancient homes and stunning gardens. For over fifty years, on the final Sunday in June, the village has opened many of its gardens to the public to raise funds for Chelsworth’s Grade I listed church. If you happen to be there then, you will be in for a treat! In 1967 admission to the five open gardens was half a crown and a total of £150 raised through entrance, plant sales and teas. Now it raises thousands and visitors enjoy artisan crafts, teas and buying plants. The setting is picture-book English.
Not far from Chelsworth, deep in the heart of the Suffolk countryside, you will find the charming village of Lavenham. It is considered to be Britain’s best preserved medieval village and one of Suffolk’s most important wool towns. At every turn, you will be delighted with the medieval charm and gorgeous timber framed buildings lining the narrow streets. The market place is buzzy and a focal point. Over 300 of the buildings in Lavenham are listed as being of architectural and historic interest, including the stunning Church of St Peter and St Paul, The Guildhall, Little Hall and De Vere House. Lavenham was the 14th richest town in Tudor England due to its famous Lavenham Blue broadcloth. The village is proud of its strong links with America with the Lavenham airbase. Lavenham is very popular with masses of boutique shops, fabulous art galleries and wonderful cafes and restaurants. You should not miss it!
Bury St Edmunds is a jewel in the Crown of Suffolk. The home of Saint Edmund, the original patron Saint of England, it has 1000 years of history to explore. Visitors enjoy the restaurants, shopping, various annual festivals and some wonderful parks. You can visit the fabulous St Edmundsbury Cathedral and stand amount the ruins of the Abbey of St Edmund in the beautiful Abbey Gardens.
If you fancy a day at the seaside you can head to Aldeburgh, Thorpeness or Southwold for some bracing fresh air and gorgeous sands.
Saundersfoot Beach House is exactly what it says on the tin! This a house right on the Saundersfoot Beach! You can relax listening to the waves, watch the tide ebb and flow, watch the sunrise, watch it set and watch the moon sparkling over the waves. You can probably even smell the salt in the air! It is an absolutely stunning location, and this fabulous house makes the very most of it.
With five bedrooms, Saundersfoot Beach House sleeps eight guests. The rooms are very spacious and feature giant picture windows so that you are absolutely captivated at all times by the beach vistas. The living spaces are huge, with unusual arched and brick features. The living room boasts an enormous L-shaped sofa and an enormous television to match, all strategically placed so that you can enjoy the views. There is a feature fireplace and a pine-clad ceiling throughout. Similarly, the dining table enjoys fabulous beach vistas. The kitchen is also huge with a variety of top-of-the-range utilities. There is no excuse not to cook up a feast in this kitchen! The open plan kitchen diner makes for a very sociable space, so it is easy to chat with your chef and keep them company.
One of the attractive double bedrooms is downstairs with a bathroom, and there are four bedrooms upstairs. The bedrooms are incredibly spacious. The vast master offers a whole wall of glass, a dazzling ensuite bathroom and a small balcony. There is a further family bathroom with a bath and a shower. All of the pristine bathrooms are contemporary in design.
Outside, guests enjoy a wonderful patio garden with deluxe lounge furniture where you can sit, enjoy and listen. It really is the perfect spot for an early morning cup of coffee, watching the sun come up or a glass of wine watching it go down. There is a huge umbrella, should you need some shade. The patio enjoys direct access to the glorious sandy beach. You will feel as though it is all yours! Moments away is the delightful Saundersfoot village. With wonderful charm and character, it boasts cosy cafes, restaurants and pubs around the pretty harbour. If you wander through the tunnels by the beach, you will arrive at Wisemans Bridge, perfect for a lunch stop.
Saundersfoot is a charming, small seaside resort between Tenby and Amroth. With a character all of its own, it is very popular with families for its stunning Blue Flag beach, pretty harbour and its quaint cafes and restaurants. Saundersfoot was designated as a conservation area by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in 1995. The harbour was originally built to transport coal from mines in and around Stepaside. Nothing remains of the mines, but the old coal tramway route has created one of the most fascinating sections of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. If you walk from Saundersfoot harbour, you will meet The Barbecue which was once Bonville’s Court Colliery Office.
Further along with The Stand, where Saundersfoot Beach House sits prettily, you come to Coppet Hall Beach which is reached through a tunnel. There are further tunnels and a walking path to Wiseman’s Bridge, a tiny seaside hamlet with a rocky beach before Amroth. Wiseman’s Bridge Beach was the stage for rehearsals of the D-Day landings during the Second World War. There is a wonderful waterside pub where you can enjoy a meal or a drink with superb sweeping views of Carmarthen Bay. The pub garden extends right down to the beach. If you carry on the old tramway, it will head inland through the woods to Stepaside where you can explore the old ironworks. This is a fantastic hiking and cycle path.
Tenby is a walled seaside town on the western side of Carmarthen Bay. It boasts 2 ½ miles of sandy beaches and is also on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. The 13th-century medieval town walls include the Five Arches Barbican Gatehouse. Tenby also has a museum, the 15th century St Mary’s Church, a wonderful art gallery and the National Trust’s Tudor Merchant’s House. At Tudor Merchant’s House, you can see how a medieval family would have lived. The town is adorable, teeming with attractive pubs and shops. In the harbour, the tiny St Julian’s Church is as charming as it is unique, built for 19th-century fishermen to say a prayer before heading out to sea. Tenby hosts an Arts Festival in September and a Beer Festival and Blues Festival in November.
You can hop across to St Catherine’s and Caldey Islands. The tidal island of St Catherine’s is home to the Victorian fort built to defend Tenby from an attack by Napoleon III. Caldey Island is owned by a community of Reformed Cistercian monks. Visitors enjoy the ancient priory and the famous Caldey chocolate, fudge and perfume. Boat trips run regularly from spring to late summer.
Found in a truly idyllic spot in Mill Village on a stunning first class development just south of Cirencester, Pintail Lodge offers not only immaculate, comfortable accommodation for 4 adults and 3 children, it also benefits from an incredible range of ‘resort’ style facilities and activities. Families will no doubt leave with a holiday to remember. The cottage is located in an enviable position, nestled quietly on the shoreline of the main sailing lake, Somerford Lagoon. It boasts a private pontoon for direct lake access.
This remarkable development certainly blends the very best of the outdoors with both relaxation and adventure. The development is located in the heart of the Cotswolds, amidst gorgeous lakeside hiking and biking trails, rivers, lakes and hundreds of acres of lush greenspace. It boasts an award winning spa where guests can enjoy luxury treatments, a steam room, sauna and three gorgeous swimming pools, one outdoor, one indoor and one a bracing eco-pool naturally filtered by water lilies. Lake activities include fishing, kayaking, canoeing, boating, windsurfing, paddle boarding and birdwatching. There are tennis courts, a fabulously well equipped Technogym, a library and a ‘restful reading’ lounge if you want to escape with a good book. Families will also enjoy the simple pleasures of wandering along miles of riverside or lakeside trails spotting the wildlife, bike riding or picnics in a heavenly countryside spots. During peak holiday seasons, children’s clubs offer fun activities including hot chocolate and marshmallows by the fire in the woods, competitive games and lots of creative fun. There is a wonderful restaurant close to the cottage with its own pizza ovens, perfect for takeways if you want a night out of the kitchen. There is also a handy shop.
Pintail Lodge offers three bedrooms on the first floor. There is a delightful children’s room with bunk beds and a separate child’s bed, sleeping three, a double bedroom and the lovely master king bedroom. The family bathroom is a delight with stone tiles and wooden panelling.
The ground floor living area is open plan in design and gorgeous with its grey and cream hues. The glossy contemporary kitchen is perfect for a self-catering break. Indoor dining is smart with lovely grey chairs around a trendy glass table and the lounge area is really cosy with sofas and chairs surrounding the feature fireplace. Warm, honey coloured Cotswold stone decorates the inside of the substantial fireplace with a lovely wood burning stove for cooler evenings the focus. Who doesn’t love a woodburning stove! There is also a downstairs cloakroom and shower.
Outside, Pintail Lodge features an outstanding south facing rear deck which is enclosed so very safe for children. Families can enjoy alfresco dining using the barbecue. There is even heating just in case it is a bit chilly. The views from the deck are stunning. You look straight out onto Somerford Lagoon. You will certainly be mesmerised listening for birds and watching the sail boats and kayaks. It is a great spot for your morning cup of coffee or watching the sun go down over the lagoon. Steps lead down from the deck to your lawn and your very own pontoon. Kayaks and canoes can be rented for your enjoyment.
Pintail Lodge lies in a privileged lagoonside position within a gated resort in the heart of the Cotswolds. Just south of Cirencester, guests enjoy many entertainment options within the development as well as being located on the doorstep of fabulous Cotswolds attractions. The Cotswolds boasts idyllic villages, historic towns, a rich heritage of country houses, stunning gardens, wildlife parks, arboretums and enchanting nature reserves. Popular visits are to Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, Tetbury, Cirencester, Malmesbury and Lacock as well as the regency pleasures of Cheltenham and the Georgian glories of Bath which are less than twenty miles away.
Bourton-on-the-Water, like most of the Cotswolds, lies in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is the Venice of the Cotswolds with beautiful bridges crossing the River Windrush. Gorgeous cosy cafes line the pretty streets together with houses made with enchanting honey coloured Cotswold stone.
Stow-on-the-Wold is a delightful market town, the highest of the Cotswold towns exposed on the 800 feet high Stow Hill at the crossroads with the Roman Fosse Way. The town boasts a fascinating history. At the height of the Cotswold wool industry, it held annual fairs where as many as 20000 sheep were sold at one time. The Market Square is very attractive with its ancient cross, town stocks and an elegant array of Cotswold town houses and shops. You will find many fine antique shops, art galleries, gift and craft shops.
Tetbury is another historic wool town. It is an architectural gem with many of the wool merchant’s houses remaining the same as they were in the 16th and 17th centuries. The Parish Church of St Mary’s has one of the tallest and most elegant spires in the UK. Tetbury is popular for its independent shops including antique shops, vintage and interior shops, exclusive boutiques and the Highgrove shop. Tetbury holds many regular events including the May Day Wacky Races, the Spring Bank Holiday Woolsack Races when contestants carry 65lb woolsacks up and down the 1 in 4 hill, the August Summer Show, the September Food and Drink Festival, the October Tetbury Music Festival and the Christmas Lights Switch-on.
Close by, visitors can enjoy the stunning botanical experience of the National Arboretum at Westonbirt, the glorious Elizabethan Chavenage House used for many famous films and TV series, the beautiful Arts and Crafts Manor at Rodmarton, the 13th century Lacock Abbey and HRH Prince of Wales’ stunning garden at Highgrove. Local equestrian events such as the Badminton Horse Trials, Gatcombe Festival of British Eventing and Beaufort Polo are all popular.
Enjoying stunning contemporary interior design, vaulted ceilings to the striking living space, a lakeside deck complete with alfresco dining, a first floor decked balcony with a bistro table, four delightful bedrooms and a fabulous westerly facing aspect across the the tranquil Swillbrook Lake, Crocus House is extremely popular with large families and groups of friends. Swillbrook is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) so you will enjoy uninterrupted views as there are no watersports allowed on this lake.
Three of the four bedrooms are located on the ground floor. You will find a beautifully appointed king bedroom and a delightful double bedroom, both with immaculate ensuite bathrooms and access to the ground floor decked terrace and lawns running to the lake. Both bedrooms boast a lovely calm neutral colour scheme and quality linens and accessories adorning the beds. There is also a children’s bunk room and a pristine contemporary family bathroom with a double walk-in shower.
The first floor is home to the striking open plan living space and a study with a sofa, perfect if you want to disappear with the Sunday newspapers. The living space takes full advantage of the stunning views with its fully glazed rear elevation. This double height aspect with glass reaching the vaulted ceiling, illuminates this stunning room and creates a cavernous, airy space. A sumptuous corner sofa and chairs surround the feature inset wood burning stove, creating a lovely family spot for board games or afternoon tea. The walls are dazzling, all in brilliant white and showcasing the interesting artwork. The glossy white, contemporary kitchen offers plenty of cabinets and excellent appliances. Doors open to the first floor decked terrace which boasts awesome lake views, a delightful spot for your morning cup of coffee. There is a modern spiral staircase to the lower deck where you will find the barbecue and alfresco dining.
Stairs lead to the fabulous mezzanine master bedroom. It boasts stunning views over the living space and an outstanding ensuite bathroom. It is a peaceful haven, again enjoying the vaulted ceilings and modern architecture.
Crocus House is located on a first-class development, just south of Cirencester, where you will find a perfect balance of blissful relaxation and exciting adventure. Within hundreds of acres of lush green space, you will discover nine beautiful lakes, two rivers including The Thames, beautiful picnic spots and miles of lakeside and river trails, suitable for hiking or biking. Guests can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, boating and fishing, the luxury spa, on-site restaurant, a Technogym, tennis courts, the library, the ‘restful reading’ lounge and the fabulous children’s playpark. The spa offers fantastic luxury treatments, a steam room, sauna and three gorgeous swimming pools, one of which is a bracing eco-pool naturally filtered by water lilies plus there is an indoor and outdoor pool. During peak holiday seasons, children can attend children’s clubs with a huge range of fun activities. On your doorstep, you can also enjoy the the delights of the Cotswolds. Charming villages, historic towns, gorgeous gardens and gourmet restaurants all await.
Crocus House enjoys a impressive lakeside position within a gated resort in the heart of the Cotswolds. Just south of Cirencester, guests enjoy many entertainment options within the development as well as being located on the doorstep of fabulous Cotswolds attractions. The Cotswolds boasts idyllic villages, historic towns, a rich heritage of country houses, stunning gardens, wildlife parks, arboretums and enchanting nature reserves. Popular visits are to Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, Tetbury, Cirencester, Malmesbury and Lacock as well as the regency pleasures of Cheltenham and the Georgian glories of Bath which are less than twenty miles away.
Bourton-on-the-Water, like most of the Cotswolds, lies in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is the Venice of the Cotswolds with beautiful bridges crossing the River Windrush. Gorgeous cosy cafes line the pretty streets together with houses made with enchanting honey coloured Cotswold stone.
Stow-on-the-Wold is a delightful market town, the highest of the Cotswold towns exposed on the 800 feet high Stow Hill at the crossroads with the Roman Fosse Way. The town boasts a fascinating history. At the height of the Cotswold wool industry, it held annual fairs where as many as 20000 sheep were sold at one time. The Market Square is very attractive with its ancient cross, town stocks and an elegant array of Cotswold town houses and shops. You will find many fine antique shops, art galleries, gift and craft shops.
Tetbury is another historic wool town. It is an architectural gem with many of the wool merchant’s houses remaining the same as they were in the 16th and 17th centuries. The Parish Church of St Mary’s has one of the tallest and most elegant spires in the UK. Tetbury is popular for its independent shops including antique shops, vintage and interior shops, exclusive boutiques and the Highgrove shop. Tetbury holds many regular events including the May Day Wacky Races, the Spring Bank Holiday Woolsack Races when contestants carry 65lb woolsacks up and down the 1 in 4 hill, the August Summer Show, the September Food and Drink Festival, the October Tetbury Music Festival and the Christmas Lights Switch-on.
Close by, visitors can enjoy the stunning botanical experience of the National Arboretum at Westonbirt, the glorious Elizabethan Chavenage House used for many famous films and TV series, the beautiful Arts and Crafts Manor at Rodmarton, the 13th century Lacock Abbey and HRH Prince of Wales’ stunning garden at Highgrove. Local equestrian events such as the Badminton Horse Trials, Gatcombe Festival of British Eventing and Beaufort Polo are all popular.
Crooksbury Hill House holds a fantastic position, set within four acres of grounds, the home boasts direct access on to Crooksbury Hill and Common where guests can enjoy stunning views over southwest Surrey and east Hampshire across to the South Downs. While guests will enjoy a tranquil stay, the Georgian market town of Farnham which offers a selection of excellent eateries, independent shops, and supermarkets, is just a 5-minute car journey away.
The beautiful home has been lovingly modernised by its current owners to provide the perfect setting for a multi-generational escape to the country, comfortably accommodating up thirteen guests across it’s eight well-appointed bedrooms. The accommodation is split between the main house and a detached three-bedroom cottage, ideal for grandparents or those in search of a little peace and quiet from the rest of the group!
In the main house, the ground floor offers vast entertaining space, comprising of an impressive sitting room, formal dining room with marble fireplace and cosy snug, there is plenty of room for the group to get together and socialise in the evenings. The kitchen comes fully equipped with all the tools you could possibly need to create delicious meals, while also offering a relaxed, breakfast dining area, which leads through to the bright conservatory. Upstairs, are the five bedrooms, a super-king master room and five double rooms. Guests staying in these room share the use of a fantastic family bathroom with Jacuzzi bathtub, a family shower room and a handy cloakroom. The cosy cottage offers a second living room and kitchen, three further double bedrooms and a family bathroom.
Outside, the whole family will enjoy Summer afternoons spent splashing around in the private pool or enjoying some friendly competition on the tennis court! Although in the autumn & winter the pool is not available, the tennis court and indoor gym room & games area with table tennis and table football are available all year around. There are beautiful autumnal & winter walks in the surrounding forests, and the whole family can enjoy relaxing with a great selection of family boardgames in the cosy living room next to the fire.
Crooksbury Hill House holds an excellent position within the popular county of Surrey. Located in the parish of Tilford, it is less than a 10-minute drive from the town of Farnham where a wide variety of helpful amenities, including shops and restaurants, can be found.
There is plenty for guests of all ages to see, do and explore in the surrounding area. Thought to of been built by William the Conqueror, impressive Guildford Castle is just 20-minutes away. The beautiful RHS Garden Wisley, one of the world’s great gardens, is less than 25-minutes away and makes for a lovely day out. Family-friendly Birdworld, home to over 1,200 birds and other animals, is less than a 15-minute drive away.
The owner recommends families to visit Frensham Ponds just 5 mins away and Alice Holt Forest, 15 mins away with treetop adventures and walks/bike trails.
Keen walkers shouldn’t miss Bourne woods with wonderful woodland walks, where films such as Gladiator and Ridley Scott’s new film Napoleon being filmed. Along with, Wonderful walks in Surrey Hills including Devils Punchbowl and The National Trust’s Winkworth Arboretum.
Windsor is just a 40-minute drive away, here you will find Windsor Great Park and, of course, the famous Windsor Castle, scene of many a Royal event. For any teens or thrill seekers, Thorpe Park, is a must-visit while Legoland Windsor is ideal for any younger children, both less than 40-minutes away. For keen sporting fans, Ascot Racecourse, home to the annual Royal Ascot event is a real society highlight, with Ladies’ Day something of a fashion event too and just 30-minutes away. Sunningdale Golf Club, regarded as one of the finest golf clubs in the UK, is also less than 30-minutes away.
Glen Rest is an idyllic, beautifully appointed, two bedroom lodge that is nestled alongside the River Alladale in the wildly beautiful, twenty three thousand acre Alladale Wilderness Reserve in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Ideal for two couples or a small family, Glen Rest offers total privacy, peace, scenic beauty and a fabulous sense of freedom. The rugged beauty of this superb location allows guests to experience the Highlands in its wildest form while offering easy access to the picturesque seaside resorts of Dornoch and Ullapool, whisky and gin distilleries, outstanding golf courses and sensational walking trails. Spending a week exploring this dreamy wilderness reserve will be an unforgettable experience where you will discover rugged landscapes, heather covered mountain slopes, wildflower meadows, lush forests, meandering rivers and much wildlife including red squirrels, red deer and the famous Scottish wild cat. It is a nature lover’s dream destination! There are three other properties within the reserve, all enjoying the magical scenery and absolute seclusion. The Victorian manor house Caledonian Lodge is the largest of the properties, sleeping up to fourteen guests. Highland Retreat offers three bedrooms and Wilderness Lodge boasts five bedrooms. If you have friends that are thinking of taking a holiday in the same area, you may want to take a look at our web pages. One of the biggest draws of these fabulous properties is that apart from Wilderness Lodge, they are booked on a catered basis. Delicious breakfast foods will be ready for you to prepare and two course lunches and three course dinners are freshly made by the reserve’s wonderful chef using local and seasonal organic ingredients. They are delivered to you daily with simple instructions on how to heat them up. The reserve’s one and a half acre aquaponic gardens, orchards and beds produce tasty vegetables, salads, herbs and berries. There are three bee hives and over four hundred brown trout. Their ethically culled wild venison is available and they enjoy fantastic regional suppliers of fresh and wild caught seafood and local trout. Just think of venison stew, hearty pies, creamy soups, freshly caught trout and sticky date puddings in salty caramel sauce! What an amazing treat! You can walk in the hills, visit beautiful places and return to put your feet up and feast on yummy meals!
The Alladale Wilderness Reserve is simply stunning, an Instagrammer’s paradise! The nearest village is Ardgay, a small Scottish village on the south west shore of the Dornoch Firth at the entrance to Strathcarron, the valley of the River Carron and at the mouth of the Kyle of Sutherland. To the west you will find the pretty fishing town of Ullapool, nestled on the shores of Lochbroom. You can also explore Inverness easily, the Black Isle and the picturesque seaside town of Dornoch with its cosy shops, beautiful cathedral, stunning beach and famous championship golf course. Chanrony Point and the Cromerty Firth are among the best spots in the UK to see bottle nose dolphins. Sports lovers can enjoy canoe trips down the Kyle of Sutherland, fishing, watersports and much more. The location makes it very easy to visit quiet Highland beaches, historic buildings and lush green landscapes sprinkled with waterfalls, challenging hills and mountains. A day trip to Aviemore brings the thrills of white water rafting, skiing, quad biking, an aerial adventure course and various watersports. You can also canoe on the River Beauly or sea kayak in the Firth.
Offering an oasis of gracious and glorious living deep in the Scottish Highlands, Glen Rest is wonderfully remote and is surrounded by extraordinary wild views. It is beautifully appointed throughout with the majority of rooms on the ground floor. The living room is a bright and airy space with a very high ceiling into the eaves, a delightful stone exposed wall, a comfy sofa, accent chair and a giant leather bean bag. It enjoys dazzling white walls that are beautifully accented by flashes of burgundy in the rug and scatter cushions, a wonderful blend with the cool mellow stonework. Just the other side of the living room is a fabulous dining area that is drowned in natural light streaming through its many windows. You will be dining in style while enjoying the fabulously hillside and mountain views through the windows. The galley kitchen comes with beautiful cabinetry, a Nespresso coffee machine, coffee grinder, juicer, Nutri-bullet and all the other appliances you could ever need.
The master bedroom lies to the other side of the kitchen with its sumptuous kingsize bed, gorgeous Scottish fabrics, oversized headboard and co-ordinated rugs. You will deep dive into some serious shut-eye in luxury linens. The lodge’s family bathroom is also on this level with a bath and walk-in shower. A modern staircase takes you upstairs where you will discover the loft room with its two single beds that can be made up as a double and a little open landing space. It is super cute!
Outside, there is a delightful terrace, space for bikes and those magical hilly views. You will just love Glen Rest and exploring the natural Alladale Wilderness Reserve!
Glen Rest is nestled alongside the River Alladale in the wildly beautiful, twenty three thousand acre Alladale Wilderness Reserve. Set in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, the closest village is Ardgay. It is a fabulous location brimming with forests, mountains, hills, rivers and splendid views. Ardgay lies on the Dornoch Firth, close to where it becomes the Kyle of Sutherland. Ardgay owes its existence to the 3rd Duke of Sutherland whose estates were so extensive when the railway was built from Inverness in the early 1860’s that he had some control over the route. Ardgay lies at the entrance to Strathcarron, the valley of the River Carron that extends far into the mountainous area to the south west. Some walkers hike from the Kyle of Sutherland in the east to Loch Broom in the west, crossing Scotland in a day.
The cute fishing village of Ullapool is very popular. In this area you can enjoy a variety of fabulous walks in the mountains, along the rock coast and following inland footpaths with an excellent selection of fine summits. Stornoway and Lewis in the Outer Hebrides are a ferry ride away. Ullapool and its surrounding area has been described as an outdoor paradise with a ‘Scandinavian twinkle in winter and Canadian-style adrenaline in summer’ and voted as one of the top ten outdoor destinations by Outdoor Fitness magazine. The Inverpolly National Nature Reserve, just like the Alladale Wilderness Reserve, is home to a wonderful array of wildlife including pine martens, wildcats, buzzards and golden eagles.
Dornoch is just under an hour away with its stunning cathedral where services were held as early as 1239, its breathtaking sandy beach, its Royal Dornoch Golf course and its wonderful shops, restaurants and bars. The links golf course has been played on since the 16th century. You might like to take a look in The Carnegie Whisky Cellars while you are there at its unique range of malt whiskies from all over Scotland. On the way there or on the way back, you may like to stop at the Whisky Distillery at Glenmorangie or at the famous ANTA Pottery and Tain Pottery studios.
Horse lovers can visit the family run Hollingwells Equestrian Centre near Edderton. You can enjoy excellent equestrian tuition or day long treks through stunning landscapes.
If you enjoy boat trips and looking for dolphins, there are plenty of opportunies. You can take a memorable day trip to see these beautiful animals from Chanrony Point or the Cromarty Firth on the Black Isle. You can take a wonderful stroll on pretty Rosemarkie Bay, enjoying a coffee at the local beach cafe before taking out your binoculars to spot the majestic animals. Another popular trip is to Lairg, a fifty minute drive from the cottage to the small, family run Go Wild Highlands where you can take canoe trips down the Kyle of Sutherland. A day trip to Aviemore offers the thrills of white water rafting, skiing, quad biking, an aerial adventure course and various watersports. As well as Royal Dornoch, other spectacular golf courses within easy reach are Castle Stewart and Fortrose and Rosemarkie. If you take a trip to Loch Ness you will enjoy a boat cruise, stopping at the ruins of Urquhart Castle. The Black Isle is also beautiful with plenty of quaint seaside villages, smoked fish shops, craft shops and cute cafes as well as its own Black Isle Brewery where you can stop and taste the beer.
