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.
A beautifully appointed 3-bedroom house close to the Northam Burrows Country Park, Pebble House is just a few minutes away from the North Devon village of Westward Ho! With the beach and the Royal North Devon Golf Club also nearby, this well-located property offers modern interiors and attractive outdoor spaces, accommodating up to six guests.
This part of North Devon is great for water-sport lovers, walkers and cyclists, with numerous excellent beaches and walking routes. A private terrace area is found just outside Pebble House, where you have a dining table and chairs. A disposable barbecue is also available to you.
Inside, you have a spacious lounge with big sofas, a wood burner and a 42-inch Smart TV. There is direct access to the terrace from this area, via the large doors which let in lots of natural light. A lovely kitchen and dining area is just a few steps away, offering a dishwasher, coffee machine and all the appliances you could need. There is also a separate utility room.
A king bedroom is found on the ground floor, with en suite shower room, built-in wardrobe and access to the terrace. Upstairs are two more bedrooms, one with twin beds which can be linked together if needed, and another king room with en suite. The family bathroom is also on this floor, featuring a double-ended bath with handheld shower.
Equipped with all sorts of features including underfloor heating, Google Home, Netflix and Wi-Fi, Pebble House has lots to look forward to. With Westward Ho! just minutes from your door, you can enjoy great restaurants and pubs around the local area, with more in nearby Bideford – a larger town around 10 minutes’ drive away.
There are plenty of interesting places to visit in the region, with the pretty village of Clovelly a particular highlight. Further north, you will find Saunton Sands, Woolacombe, Croyde Sands and Ilfracombe, as well as the extensive countryside of the Exmoor National Park.
North Devon packs in a whole lot, with plenty of places of interest dotted around the coast and countryside. Perfect for hiking, walking and wildlife-spotting, the Exmoor National Park is one of the UK’s most impressive areas. On the northern coast, you have the scenic Lynton and Lynmouth. One overlooks the other, with a spectacular Cliff Railway connecting the two.
This is just one of the area’s attractions, as you can also enjoy a ride on the steam trains of the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway. There are many excellent restaurants too, and great opportunities to try water sports such as surfing and kayaking. The stunning scenery makes it fine walking territory too.
Loved by Charles Kingsley, Charles Dickens and others, pretty Clovelly is a privately owned village on the coast which is open to visitors for a small admission fee. With a busy fishing harbour and cute cobbled streets, the village retains its traditional feel, and has a couple of museums and pubs to visit, along with the beautiful Clovelly Court Gardens and a visitor centre. Events such as the Seaweed Festival and Herring Festival take place throughout the year, and kids can even enjoy rides from the resident donkeys.
Some wonderful beaches line this stretch of coast, including the lovely Saunton Sands, just north of Westward Ho! Alongside it, you’ll find the sand dunes of Braunton Burrows, an atmospheric area with lots of wildlife to spot. From popular family beaches to secluded coves, you can find the place for you in North Devon. Try Ilfracombe’s Wild Pear Beach or the rocky Bucks Mill near Clovelly for peace and quiet, or Combe Martin for a large, sandy beach with good facilities nearby.
About 10 minutes’ drive from Westward Ho! you have the larger town of Bideford, which is a good place to visit for shopping, dining or checking out a few attractions. The Bideford Railway Heritage Centre and the Burton Art Gallery & Museum are both based here, and just outside the town there’s the popular adventure park, The BIG Sheep and, next door, the Ultimate Adventure Centre. Together, these parks offer all kinds of entertainment and activity that’s perfect for a family day out.
There are plenty of gardens to visit in North Devon, with those of Tapeley Park situated just a short drive from Bideford. Castle Hill Gardens near Barnstaple extend over 50 acres and are also well worth a look, as is the colourful RHS Rosemoor. You can discover how honey is made and learn all about the bees who make it at the Quince Honey Farm in South Molton, which also features its own beautifully landscaped Nectar Gardens.
A charming 2-bedroom home set in inviting gardens, this property lies close to the town of Ilfracombe and the popular Watermouth Castle and theme park. Suitable for up to four guests, this Grade II listed barn has been skilfully converted and benefits from lots of natural light.
The pretty gardens offer privacy and space, with a lawn area that’s ideal for relaxing on a sun lounger. A cosy terrace features a large barbecue, dining area and seating, and there’s even a hammock for those much-needed siestas.
You will find the main living areas on the upper level of the barn, including a spacious lounge area with skylight, wood burner, comfy sofas and a Smart TV. There is a roomy, separate dining area with seating for six at the table, and an adjacent kitchen with a dishwasher, microwave, coffee machine and electric oven. Underfloor heating and free Wi-Fi are available too.
On the lower floor, there are two comfortable bedrooms. The first has a super king-size bed and an en suite bathroom with a rolltop bath and shower. The second bedroom has two twin beds which can be converted to a super-king, and an en suite shower room.
With so many amazing beaches and coastal trails nearby, Ilfracombe Country House provides convenient storage for surfboards and bikes. There is also parking for two cars and an electric car charging point.
As one of the highlights of the North Devon coast, Ilfracombe is set around a lovely harbour and offers a range of good places to eat including a Michelin Star restaurant. You can experience the Victorian tunnels leading down to the beach or visit the big family fun park at Watermouth Castle, about 10 minutes’ drive from the town.
Down the coast are scenic spots such as Saunton Sands, Croyde and Woolacombe and, a little further, the fascinating village of Clovelly, Westward Ho! and the nearby town of Bideford.
The rugged North Devon coast is just part of what makes this area truly special. There are all kinds of places to discover, from quaint villages to harbourside towns and family attractions.
One not to miss is the fishing village of Clovelly. This privately owned village is a visitor attraction in itself. For a small admission charge, you can potter around the cobbled streets, visit museums, a church and pretty gardens, while children can enjoy a ride on a donkey. An inspiration to artists and authors, Clovelly is sure to inspire you too.
Many wonderful beaches line the North Devon coast. Don’t miss Saunton Sands, just north of Westward Ho!, or the sand dunes of Braunton Burrows. This is a fine place to take a walk, with lots of wildlife to spot along the way. Woolacombe, Ilfracombe and Combe Martin are among other popular choices for a family day at the beach.
Lynton and Lynmouth form another of the coast’s must-sees. One overlooks the other, with a spectacular Cliff Railway connecting the two. It’s a steep climb to do it on foot, but the scenery makes it worthwhile. Also in this area, you can enjoy all kinds of water sports, or perhaps a steam train ride on the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway.
North Devon is full of beautiful gardens. A short drive from Bideford, Tapeley Park is a lovely estate sitting on a hill above the River Torridge which attracts many walkers and garden enthusiasts. Near Barnstaple, the Castle Hill Gardens surround a magnificent, 18th-century mansion house and are stunning in their own right. RHS Rosemoor, near Great Torrington, is another garden which will impress, with a rose garden, arboretum, fruit orchards and much more.
The town of Bideford is one of the larger centres in the area, and offers a good range of shops and restaurants to visit, along with attractions such as the Bideford Railway Heritage Centre and the Burton Art Gallery & Museum. Nearby, you will also find The BIG Sheep and the Ultimate Adventure Centre, which are both great for family days out, combining wildlife with fairground-style fun and adrenaline-fuelled activities.
Another favourite in the north of the county is the Watermouth Castle Theme Park which offers a big range of thrilling rides and attractions such as Gnome Land. There is an actual castle on the site too, dating back to 1825 – perhaps its destiny as a theme park was in the stars, as the original owner’s grandson went on to build Europe’s first fairground ferris wheel.
Formerly a bookshop, the charming Rodwell Cottage sits moments from the harbourside in Weymouth, Dorset. With room for up to five guests, this cottage packs a lot in over its three floors and offers outdoor space in the form of a private courtyard with seating.
You have an open-plan living area on the ground floor which incorporates a cosy lounge space with access to the courtyard. With a wall-mounted TV, Chesterfield-style sofa and wood burner, you are sure to feel at home here. Your kitchen and dining area are right there too, featuring a fridge freezer, washing machine and two eye-level ovens.
The kitchen is a pleasure to use, with skylights letting the natural light in, and the dining space keeps things casual with bench seating. A large bay window and bare stone wall create points of interest in this attractive space.
Rodwell Cottage has three bedrooms, including two with king-size beds. One of these can be converted to twin beds if required. The loft bedroom on the second floor has an en suite shower room of its own, while the two on the first floor (the master bedroom and one room with a single bed) both have direct access to a family bathroom with bath and overhead shower. There is also a WC on the ground floor.
This cottage is ideal for exploring Weymouth’s beautiful harbourside. You can enjoy boat trips from the harbour or settle down in one of the many pubs or coffee shops found in the area. Newton’s Cove, a shallow water beach, is also close by.
Weymouth’s golden sands are just one of the attractions of this Dorset town on the Jurassic Coast, with many lovely walks to be had on the Rodwell Trail to Portland or the Radipole Lake Nature Reserve. You can also visit the SEA LIFE Adventure Park, pretty Bennetts Water Gardens or local highlight, Nothe Fort.
A seaside favourite in one of the UK’s most scenic counties, Weymouth has plenty going on. Its golden sand beach is the centrepiece, with the Esplanade running alongside it – offering ice creams, cafés, deckchairs and the like – forming part of the extensive South West Coast Path.
The harbour and marina lie close to the beach and all sorts of boat tours are available to let you see the Jurassic Coast in all its glory. Another beach rivals Weymouth’s for iconic status – the 18-mile Chesil Beach is not far away, running all the way from West Bay to Portland. It’s a pebble beach that’s all about the views and the atmosphere – described by author John Fowles as ‘an elemental place, made of sea, shingle and sky’. The view of Chesil Beach from the coast road has, in fact, been voted one of Britain’s best.
Perhaps Weymouth’s biggest attraction, aside from the beaches, is the mighty Nothe Fort. Featuring a maze of underground passages and panoramic sea views, this historic fort is a favourite with visitors and hosts all kinds of events – even weddings. It’s supposedly haunted too, if ghost-hunting is your thing.
At Bennetts Water Gardens you can enjoy eight acres of tranquil lakes, with a Monet-style arrangement of more than 140 types of lilies one of the highlights. The gardens are inhabited by a wide variety of wildlife, and at the end of your visit you can also view a museum of local history.
An incredible underwater world awaits you at Weymouth’s SEA LIFE Adventure Park. There are almost 2000 creatures at this centre, including Europe’s only colony of fairy penguins. With its Ocean Tunnel and Caribbean Cove play area, this place is a good choice for a day out with kids.
Bird watchers will enjoy the tranquil Radipole Lake Nature Reserve, where even beginners can try to spot finches, bitterns, sparrows, robins and others. There is also plenty of wildlife to be found along the Rodwell Trail. This former railway line has been transformed into a 3.4km route which is ideal for cycling or walking, taking you past old station platforms and Sandsfoot Castle, a fort built by Henry VIII.
For an even more extensive cycling route, try the Portland Trail. At 27km long, this route takes you through Lodmore Country Park, then Weymouth town centre and eventually on to the Isle of Portland. This wild and rugged spot marks the southernmost point on the Jurassic Coast and is joined to the mainland by Chesil Beach. The isle packs in a surprising amount, with museums, castles, lots of restaurants and the famous Portland Bill Lighthouse waiting for you.
Whitestrands House holds a wonderful position within the popular South Devon resort of Salcombe, being just a five-minute walk from the very centre and a wide selection of excellent amenities and restaurants.
The luxurious home has been lovingly modernised with extremely high attention to detail and features contemporary interiors and elegant furnishings throughout. Whitestrands House can comfortably sleep up to ten guests across its four beautifully-appointed bedrooms. On the ground floor is the impressive living accommodation which comprises of an open-plan living and dining area, a second cosy sitting room, as well as a fully-equipped kitchen which comes complete with all the tools you could possibly need to create delicious meals. Upstairs on the first floor, are the first three bedrooms, the impressive master boasts a king-size bed, impressive estuary views as well as its very own en-suite shower room. Also on this level is a double room and a super-king or twin room as well as a luxury family bathroom. Upstairs on the second and final floor is the fourth bedroom which is ideal for children with four single beds as well as a second family bathroom which even boasts a bath TV!
Outside, the children will enjoy playing games on the lawns, beautifully landscaped by Roberta Taker. After action-packed days spent having fun on the nearby beaches, the whole group can gather on the terrace and enjoy a delicious barbecue al fresco – heaven!
Whitestrands House holds an excellent position within the South Devon resort of Salcombe and are within walking distance of all amenities and attractions. Located within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Salcombe is known for its spectacular coastal views and rolling surrounding countryside, as well as being a centre for sailing. Salcombe is a great base for a holiday spent on the water or at the water’s edge, ideal for any children wanting to try out new water sports - whether it be sailing, kayaking, surfing or paddle boarding!
There is plenty for the whole family to see, do and explore in the surrounding area. The south coast of Devon has so much to offer for all ages; everything from rock pooling at South Sands beaches to fun days out at Woodlands Family Theme Park or Totnes Rare Breeds Farm, both less than a 45-minute drive away. Kids can hunt for glow-worms or try mono-fin swimming at North Sands, meet seals and dolphins on a sea kayak trip, or lions and giraffes at either Dartmoor or Paignton Zoo, both make for fabulous days out and are less than 50-minutes away. Any history enthusiasts will be sure to enjoy a trip on the Dartmouth Steam Railway which runs between Paignton and Kingswear and boasts truly picturesque scenery.
Whitestrands Hideaway holds an excellent position within the popular South Devon resort of Salcombe, being just a short five-minute stroll from the estuary centre and a wide variety of fantastic amenities and restaurants.
The garden apartment boasts bright, contemporary interiors throughout and makes an ideal choice for a small family of four or even a romantic escape for two. The accommodation is set across one level and comprises of an open-plan living and dining area with cosy wood burning stove as well as a fully-equipped bespoke kitchen which boasts all the amenities you could possibly need. The two beautifully appointed bedrooms both feature chic, neutral tones and sumptuous White Company linens. The master bedroom features a king-size bed and its own en-suite shower room, while the second room can either be set up with twin beds or a super-king double, making this room suitable for children sharing or two couples holidaying together. Guest staying in the second bedroom can make use of the luxury family bathroom.
Outside, Whitestrands Hideaway boasts its very own private garden complete with an al fresco dining terrace and a spacious lawn for games. The apartment also benefits from private parking, a real bonus in Salcombe!
Whitestrands Hideaway holds an excellent position within the South Devon resort of Salcombe and are within walking distance of all amenities and attractions. Located within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Salcombe is known for its spectacular coastal views and rolling surrounding countryside, as well as being a centre for sailing. Salcombe is a great base for a holiday spent on the water or at the water’s edge, ideal for any children wanting to try out new water sports - whether it be sailing, kayaking, surfing or paddle boarding!
There is plenty for the whole family to see, do and explore in the surrounding area. The south coast of Devon has so much to offer for all ages; everything from rock pooling at South Sands beaches to fun days out at Woodlands Family Theme Park or Totnes Rare Breeds Farm, both less than a 45-minute drive away. Kids can hunt for glow-worms or try mono-fin swimming at North Sands, meet seals and dolphins on a sea kayak trip, or lions and giraffes at either Dartmoor or Paignton Zoo, both make for fabulous days out and are less than 50-minutes away. Any history enthusiasts will be sure to enjoy a trip on the Dartmouth Steam Railway which runs between Paignton and Kingswear and boasts truly picturesque scenery.
The Dunnet Estate holds a magnificent location on the north coast of the Scottish Highlands, set on Dunnet Head, the most northerly point of the UK mainland. The 2,000 acre estate boasts remarkable coastal views in all directions and a makes a truly extraordinary setting for a family get-together or special occasion stay. While guests will enjoy total tranquility and privacy, a variety of helpful amenities, including supermarkets and restaurants, can be found in the nearby town of Thurso, less than a twenty-minute drive away.
The home boasts a varied and fascinating history, originally completed in 1906 by Admiral Sir Edwyn Alexander-Sinclair, notable for firing the first shots of the Battle of Jutland. In 1948, the Estate was purchased by Commander Clare and Lady Doris Vyner, a close friend of Elizabeth, HRH the Queen Mother, and invited her to stay at the house in 1953 after the death of her husband, King George VI. During her stay, she spotted Barrogill Castle from one of the upstairs windows, she arranged to view and purchase the dilapidated castle, later renaming it the Castle of Mey, its original name. This story was even touched upon in the first series of the popular tv show, The Crown. Since then the home has been hotel, a private residence and even nearly became a recording studio for Led Zeppelin. The house gradually fell into a state of disrepair until it was eventually purchased by its current owners who have lovingly restored and transformed the house into the beautiful home that it is today.
The ground floor is home to the fabulous entertaining spaces which comprise of the elegant sitting room, library, games room and formal dining room which can comfortably seat up to twenty guests. The kitchen comes fully-equipped with all the tools you could possibly need to create delicious meals, while a second caterers’ kitchen is available for those who wish to really relax and hire in the professionals! The Dunnet Estate can comfortably accommodate up to eighteen guests across the nine beautifully-appointed bedrooms, seven of which feature en-suite facilities, while the remaining two share the use of a fantastic family bathroom. On request, four of the bedrooms can be set up with twin beds, making them ideal for siblings or friends to share.
Outside, wonderful views can be enjoyed from every direction: south to Dunnet Bay, west to Peedie Sands beach which is a short walk away, north to Dunnet head and east to St John’s loch and the Castle of Mey. Any children in the group will enjoy exploring, playing games, and having yummy picnics in the large grounds.
The Dunnet Estate is situated on the north coast of the Scottish Highlands, while guests will enjoy the tranquil position, helpful amenities can be found in the village of Castletown, less than 10-minutes away. A wider variety of shops and restaurants can be found in the town of Thurso, less than a 20-minute drive away. For those travelling from further afield, Inverness Airport is just a two-and-a-half-hour drive away. A day trip to Orkney can also be easily arranged from the house.
There is plenty for guests to see, do and explore in the surrounding area. Hike across the Estate to the beautiful Peedie Sands or Dunnet Bay Beaches, spend perfect days swimming, surfing and watching the sun set over the Atlantic. For history enthusiasts, the Castle & Gardens of Mey and Old Keiss Castle are well worth a visit and both less than a 30-minute drive away. Any keen whisky or gin drinkers will enjoy informative tours of the Wolfburn Single Malt Distillery and the Dunnet Bay Spirits Distillery, both less than 20-minutes away, be sure to book in advance to secure tickets. Finally, no trip to this remarkable part of Scotland would be complete without a visit to John o’Groats to have a picture taken next to the iconic signpost, just a 20-minute drive away. From here, enjoy a 3km coastal walk to Duncansby Head Lighthouse and admire the truly out of this world scenery.
Sherborne Cottage holds a wonderful location in the heart of the popular Dorset town of Sherborne, where a variety of excellent pubs and restaurants as well as helpful supermarkets can be found within walking distance. The cottage is owned by the neighbouring hotel and so guests will enjoy sumptuous hotel-style amenities including White Company toiletries and soft robes, while also benefitting from access to the hotel’s fabulous restaurant and spa facilities.
The characterful cottage has been beautifully modernised to provide luxurious accommodation for up to six guests while still retaining all its original charm. On the ground floor is the main living space which comprises of a sitting room with a cosy inglenook woodburning fireplace, dining room with solid oak table as well as a fully-equipped kitchen which comes complete with all the tools you could possibly need to create delicious meals at home. Upstairs, on the first floor is the impressive master suite which comprises of a super-king bed, opulent in-room bathtub, and en-suite shower room. Also on this level is a double room as well as a fantastic family bathroom. Upstairs, in the eaves, is the third and final bedroom, a colourful super-king room complete with en-suite shower room.
Outside, there is a charming walled garden which comes complete with al fresco dining facilities, the perfect spot to spend lazy mornings enjoying a cup of coffee. After action-packed days spent exploring the wonderful Dorset countryside, enjoy delicious barbecues al fresco on the terrace.
The cottage holds a central position within the market town of Sherborne, with a variety of amenities, including artisan shops and restaurants, situated in easy walking distance. Also reachable on foot in less than 10-minutes are the beautiful Sherborne Abbey as well as Sherborne Old Castle, the romantic 12th-century ruin set in lovely grounds next to the impressive New Sherborne Castle & Gardens – perfect days out for those who wish to leave the car at home!
Further afield, the historic town of Shaftesbury with its iconic Gold Hill is less than a 30-minute drive away, while Salisbury, best known for its medieval Cathedral, is just an hour away. There are a huge number of attractions in the surrounding area for visitors of all ages and interests, Fleet Air Arm Museum, Haynes Motor Museum, Titinhull Garden and Elizabethan Montacute House are all within a 25-minute drive of the cottage and make for fascinating days out. For families, popular Longleat Safari Park and Monkey World sanctuary are both reachable in under 45-minutes. For shopaholics, Clarks Outlet Village is home to a large variety of designer brands and less than a 40-minute drive away. The stunning Jurassic coastline is easily reachable from Sherborne Cottage in an hour, popular destinations include West Bay, Durdle Door, Chesil Beach and Lyme Regis.
If you happen to be lucky enough to secure a booking at The Glass House, then be prepared to be totally blown away by this sensational architectural masterpiece! Designed by Mecanoo, a leading Dutch based architectural design firm and hidden away on the tranquil Huntsman Lake, within 850 acres of stunning Cotswolds woodland on the prestigious Lakes by Yoo private estate, this glorious property sleeps eight guests in absolute luxury.
The Lakes by Yoo is a fabulous collection of sumptuous private properties and a few select rental villas, the brain child of design collective Yoo Studio, co-founded by none other than Philippe Starck. This magnificent estate boasts several large freshwater lakes, meadows and woodland, a haven for wildlife, in the Gloucestershire countryside. Each of the properties is cleverly screened for total privacy. The Lakes by Yoo is located in the pretty, historic village of Lechlade which sits in an Area of Natural Beauty on the River Thames, just ninety minutes from London. Guests staying at The Glass House and the other exclusive properties can enjoy a fabulous collection of amenities including water sports such as paddle boarding, canoeing and kayaking, fly, lure and pole fishing, pond dipping for youngsters, cycling, ziplining, shooting, trapeze, horse riding, dune buggies, paint balling, climbing, numerous workshops, a children’s club and indulgent wellness treatments at the luxurious Orchard Spa with its 17 metre heated swimming pool, gym, treatment rooms, sauna and steam room. There are endless walking trails, an arboretum, a vegetable patch and herb garden, a hennery where you can help yourselves to eggs, a bird hide and even a small beach. The Lakes also offer a private dining menu packed with seasonal, local produce, using only the finest ingredients, perfect for long lunches or an evening celebration. The team can take care of everything from decorating to flowers to create the perfect celebration. If you can bare to leave The Glass House and this heavenly estate, many of the Cotswold’s major sights are only a fifteen minute drive away.
The Glass House is absolutely astonishing, a one-of-a-kind, lakefront masterpiece. This superb, contemporary wonder sits within the Huntsman Lake, accessed by a single bridge and surrounded by decking. It appears entirely made from glass, distinguishing itself from all of the other properties. Its striking glass construction offers the unique experience of ‘outside-in living’, wholly connecting its lucky guests to the stunning natural landscapes outside. Your haven of tranquility cleverly blends the natural landscape and astounding contemporary design in perfect harmony. From every corner of this treasure, you will see the lake rippling with the movement of diving birds, ducks and swans. As the sun shines on your decking, you can enjoy refreshing wild swimming or have some fun with kayaks and paddle boards.
Within The Glass House, your hearts will soar when meandering through the mesmerising spaces that are flooded with natural light. Dazzling whitewashed walls are decorated with towering, vibrant, colour pop canvases, starkly contrasting with the stunning, centrally exposed jet black staircase. Enormous, eye-catching sculptures catch your eye as you attempt to compare the internal beauty with the outdoor panorama seen through the floor to ceiling windows. You will feel the zen flow between every expansive, cavernous space. The highly impressive kitchen and dining area is at the heart of the house with every gadget and appliance imaginable. Even the most discerning of chefs will be thoroughly impressed to find six ovens plus tandoori and pizza ovens. The wine fridge can be quickly filled with your favourite selections. Your designer dining table and chairs is perfectly positioned so that you can dine with a view, opening the doors in summer months to listen to the lake’s soundtrack of a gentle hush with the occasional swoop of a bird.
The dining area is separated from one of the two living rooms by a contemporary glass wood-fired fireplace, a work of art in itself. This living room enjoys a serene ambience with a sunken corner sofa space and a projector throwing your favourite television programmes and movies onto a full height white wall. Your second living space boasts sumptuous velvet chaises, a cosy spot for a read of the Sunday newspapers or perhaps a snug area for tired children to watch a movie.
The Glass House boasts four incredible bedroom suites. The master is simply astounding with 500 sqft of stunning space and floor-to-ceiling glass walls that make you feel as though you are sleeping outside. It offers his and hers walk-in wardrobes, a luxurious bath that sits next to the glass for breathtaking views over the lake, a huge rain shower and the compfiest bed imaginable. The remaining three bedroom suites are also stunning with fabulous interior design, sumptuous furnishings and gorgeous, stylish ensuite bathrooms. Depending on how you use the interconnected open living areas, you could add some extra guests as well as two older children by creatively using the exciting cinema space combined with outsize cushion mattresses to create a den in the leizure zone. The office space is sleek, minimalist and another perfectly positioned spot where you will be captivated by the outdoor vistas.
The basement of The Glass House is the ultimate in relaxation and leisure zones. With its Japanese zen styling and its fantastic array of treats, there may be some members of your groups that you may have to prise away! An enticing jacuzzi and sauna sit on one side together with elegant sculptures and soothing lighting. On the other side, your cinema area offers an altogether different vibe. You will discover a full size snooker table, colourful movie posters and a bar complete with a popcorn machine. No expense has been spared in the luxurious nine seater cinema screening room. You can relax in fully reclining leather electric armchairs and enjoy satellite television, Netflix, Amazon Prime, a selection of blue ray DVD films, professional lighting, a highly impressive sound system and a boom box which adds seat vibration and movement to simulate a 3D cinematic feel when watching big production movies such as Mission Impossible.
The central staircase leads you to the roof terrace which you reach via an electric skylight. The roof terrace is a glorious sun trap where you can enjoy alfresco dining using the barbecue, sun bathe, relax, enjoy your favourite tipples and enjoy the far reaching views over the lake. On the lower deck, you will also be captivated by the extraordinary scenery and enjoy the serenity and seclusion of this spectacular property, enveloped in greenery.
The Glass House is located on the exclusive The Lakes at Yoo private estate in the Cotswolds. This amazing 850 acre estate sits quietly outside the historic village of Lechlade. Lechlade enjoys a thriving market square dominated by the 15th century Church of St Lawrence and boasts a good array of cosy cafes, pubs and shops. The town square is close to the famous Halfpenny Bridge and the boating marina on the River Thames. Lechlade is popular with leisure traffic on the river, overseen by the Neptune-lie statue of Old Father Thames at St John’s Lock. A towpath walk from Lechlade takes you to the nearby Buscot House. Also close by is Kelmscott Manor, William Morris’s summer home for twenty five years.
The Lakes at Yoo offers an incredible list of entertainment. Although the dreamy Cotswolds villages are nearby, you may not even want to leave the estate. The Orchard Spa offers a wellness escape like no other. With a holistic approach to wellbeing, the estate’s panoramic views provide the inspiration for relaxation, healing and recuperation. The spa boasts a 17 metre pool, a brilliantly equipped gym, treatment rooms, a sauna and steam room. The spa is open between 2pm and 5pm for rental guests who want to indulge in luxury, bespoke facials and massages, reflexology and body treatments, beauty, waxing and tailored therapies. To enjoy the wildlife and unique Cotswold reed beds up close, guests can borrow paddle boards and kayaks to take to the lakes. The lakes are teeming with trout, pike, perch, bream and roach. At the fishing hut, you can hire tackle, rods and other equipment or arrange lessons for fly, lure and pole fishing. There are other amazing outdoor activities including bike hire, horse riding, dune buggies, paint balling, climbing, shooting, trapeze and ziplining. Should you be interested, the team can also arrange workshops including woodworking, arts and crafts, raft building and even cocktail classes. Perhaps something to consider if you are celebrating a special occasion! During the school holidays, there is a little lake’s explorers children’s club for children aged four and over. It gets booked quickly though!
The Cotswolds is blessed with many gorgeous quintessentially English villages and towns, some exceptional fine dining, artisanal markets and lots of activities. Close by, you can visit Bourton-on-the-Water, Burford, Bibury and the Slaughters. Throughout this remarkable area, you will see fabulous thatched cottages, plenty of glowing honey-coloured Cotswold stone, undulating fields dotted with sheep and lots of narrow lanes flanked by dry stone walls.
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.
Painswick is an historic wool town, known as ‘The Queen of the Cotwolds’. It is surrounded by some of Gloucestershire’s most wonderful countryside and features many gorgeous buildings built with the mellow Cotswold stone from the local quarry on Painswick Beacon. It sits halfway along the Cotswold Way National Trail with marvellous hikes all around. Painswick Beacon enjoys magnificent views across the Severn Valley to the Welsh mountains. Painswick was chosen as a location for the BBC TV adaptation of J K Rowling’s ‘The Casual Vacancy’ so many of the sites can be spotted around the town. While exploring, you will discover the country’s oldest bowling green, New Street which was constructed in the 15th century, the splendid churchyard of St Mary’s and the town’s 18-hole golf course. If you prefer to explore by bike, the Cotswolds and Severn Vale 7 day cycle tour passes through Painswick. The town’s narrow streets are brimming with shops, pubs, restaurants, cafes and galleries including the Art Couture Painswick Gallery. Painswick hosts an annual Arts Festival and the Art Couture Painswick Festival. The Rococo Garden is a short walk from the centre of the town, a flamboyant garden designed in the mid 1700’s with carpets of snowdrops and other gorgeous plants and flowers.
Guests staying at The Glass House also enjoy visits to Oxford, 25 miles away and Cheltenham, 30 miles away, 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.
The wonderful Old Workshop is nestled on the fantastic Pontardawe Country Estate which enjoys a remarkable history, unique character and more than one hundred and twenty acres of beautiful rolling Welsh countryside. The Pontardawe Country Estate is located between the Brecon Beacons National Park and the beautiful Gower Peninsula in South Wales. The Old Workshop is a cosy countryside cottage that has been beautifully renovated to provide modern, luxurious living. It is situated alongside a mountain stream on the slopes of Mynydd Marchywel, overlooking the central courtyard of the estate and sheep grazing in parkland.
The characterful Old Workshop enjoys one bedroom with an added single bed, beautiful open plan living space, a luxurious wet room and its own outdoor space. The cottage was formally the estate carpenter’s workshop. In addition to its superb grounds, the Pontardawe Estate boasts a gorgeous manor house, Pontardawe Country House, as well as a number of other holiday cottages that Oliver’s Travels also feature. Guests can book each of these individually or for a special celebration, you may want to consider booking a selection of the cottages as well as the manor house.
The Old Workshop is tucked away and offers beauty, serenity and tranquility to the lucky guests that happen to book it. The Old Workshop was a former outbuilding on the estate, some of which record a history back to the early 1400’s. The estate lies in the ancient hamlet of Cilybebyll with links to the descendants of Welsh Kings, Arthurian legend, tales of the Mabinogion, the Norman invasion, the Earls of Pembrokeshire, Winston Churchill’s secret army, eighteenth century prisons, Charles II, the tea plantations of Ceylon, coal mining, the Industrial Revolution and much more. A World War II hideout, used by Churchill’s Secret Army was found in the estate’s private bluebell woodland and gained recognition as a Scheduled Ancient Monument of national importance.
The living space of The Old Workshop is very cosy and very modern. Open plan in design, it features a sleek, contemporary kitchen in one corner, perfect for your self-catering getaway, a modern, circular dining table and chairs in the middle and comfy sofas, a television and a contemporary wood burning stove at the far end. The television comes with over 150 channels for your entertainment. The generous sized bedroom is minimalist in styling, features a characterful exposed stone wall and offers both a kingsize bed and a single bed. You may decide to book this cottage for a romantic break or come with one child and perhaps a baby in a cot. The neutral walls are decorated with Welsh themed pictures and prints throughout. The cottage’s bathroom is a contemporary wonder with beautiful tiling, a wet room rainforest shower and other excellent fittings. The cottage is all on one level so it is perfect for anyone with mobility issues. The contemporary wet room offers ample room for a wheelchair to turn. It is also eco-friendly, being heated with renewable energy. The Old Workshop is also pet friendly but please let us know in advance if you want to bring your furry friend. There is private parking on the courtyard alongside the cottage.
The Old Workshop comes with a pretty, private garden where you can enjoy the wildlife, relax with a glass of wine on the south facing terrace, enjoy the tranquil sounds of the mountain stream, feed the birds on the patio walls or each lunch under the chestnut tree.
You can have food delivered from the local supermarket in Pontardawe, so you do not even need to leave this idyllic corner of Wales. Guests enjoy access to the river and farm trail and enjoy woodland walks from the doorstep. It is just a fifteen minute stroll along a country lane to the village pub. It is hard to beat this secluded, peaceful location. If you do leave the estate, then the majestic Brecon Beacons and the stunning Gower Peninsula are on the doorstep.
The Old Workshop is nestled quietly in the one hundred and twenty acre Pontardawe Country Estate in the tranquil hamlet of Cilybebyll, close to the village of Pontardawe. The estate is absolutely incredible with woodlands, rivers, bluebell woods, sprawling fields, bird nesting boxes, beautiful picnic spots, a stately manor house and other holiday cottages. It is the perfect rural retreat between the Gower Peninsula and the Brecon Beacons National Park. Though you may find it hard to leave this wonderful spot, there is much to do and see. The estate courtyard where many of the cottages are located is bounded by the upper reaches of the picturesque River Clydach and on the other side by green parkland pastures grazed by sheep and cows. The high hills of blue pennant sandstone provide the backdrop to an idyllic and tranquil scene. Guests booking The Old Workshop are free to roam the estate including its award winning bluebell woodland. The estate’s farm walk is a circular walk for guests which meanders from the doorstep of The Old Workshop towards the summit of Mynydd Marchywel and back. En route, guests follow mountain streams, climb over stiles, explore the bluebell woodlands and traverse lazy green fields. On a clear day, the panoramic vistas include the Swansea Valley, Swansea Bay, the Bristol Channel and the Brecon Beacons National Park.The cottage is an excellent base for those that want to explore the landscapes by bike. The Afan Forest and Bike Park Wales are easily accessible.
The beautiful Swansea Bay coastline and the Gower Peninsula with its idyllic secret coves and glorious stretches of fine sand can be reached by car in twenty minutes. For those that want to enjoy nature and the great outdoors, the National Showcaves of Wales and the Vale of Neath’s spectacular waterfalls are nearby. Guests enjoy visits to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the Glamorganshire Heritage Coast, both less than half an hour away.
The Victorian seaside village of Mumbles with its promenade, shops and restaurants is definitely worth a visit. Mumbles was one of Dylan Thomas’ many stamping grounds and is the home of some world class ice cream. Mumbles is steeped in history with its lighthouse being built in 1794. It also boasts a Victorian pier and Oystermouth Castle which sits on the hilltop overlooking the sea. There are lovely boutique shops and galleries including the gorgeous Lovespoon Gallery and the Gower Gallery. No visit to Mumbles would be complete without sampling some ‘fresh off the boat’ seafood, its handmade chocolates and its fantastic ice creams.
The fabulous, characterful Old School House sits quietly on the phenomenal Pontardawe Country Estate which enjoys a remarkable history, unique character and more than one hundred and twenty acres of beautiful rolling Welsh countryside. The Old School House enjoys much character, two bedrooms, beautiful living space and its own outdoor space. It is nestled between the folly and the walled garden with its own delightful lawn, alongside the picturesque River Clydach. In addition to its superb grounds, the Pontardawe Estate boasts a gorgeous manor house, Pontardawe Country House, as well as a number of other holiday cottages that Oliver’s Travels also feature. Guests can book each of these individually or for a special celebration, you may want to consider booking a selection of the cottages as well as the manor house.
The Old School House is tucked away and offers beauty, serenity and tranquility to the lucky guests that happen to book it. With two beautiful bedrooms, the cottage sleeps four guests in luxurious comfort. The Old School House was a former outbuilding on the estate, some of which record a history back to the early 1400’s. The estate lies in the ancient hamlet of Cilybebyll with links to the descendants of Welsh Kings, Arthurian legend, tales of the Mabinogion, the Norman invasion, the Earls of Pembrokeshire, Winston Churchill’s secret army, eighteenth century prisons, Charles II, the tea plantations of Ceylon, coal mining, the Industrial Revolution and much more. A World War II hideout, used by Churchill’s Secret Army was found in the estate’s private bluebell woodland and gained recognition as a Scheduled Ancient Monument of national importance. The Old School House enjoys its own fascinating history. The building was used as the Church Sunday School in the early 20th century. Children received a glass of milk and a slice of cake after every session. Word spread and children came from other parishes to attend. The ground floor was originally a bakery and children from the estate were taught in an upstairs room. The building was also used as a sewing room at one point with the opera singer Madame Adelina Patti having many dresses made in the cottage. The cottage now makes for a tranquil, beautiful, idyllic retreat with its wonderfully rich history and the fabulous estate grounds. Guests wake up to bird song and the babbling stream, what utter bliss!
The Old School House boasts a warm and cosy living room with a fabulous wood burner for chilly evenings, comfy leather sofas and chairs and beautiful views from the windows. The cottage is pet friendly on request so you will often find guest’s furry friends curled up in front of the wood burner. The traditional country kitchen is the heart of this wonderful cottage. It offers a brilliant Rayburn cooker and woodburning stove which keeps the whole cottage warm and cosy. The solid oak kitchen offers every appliance that you could wish for and carries a very warm and welcoming ambience. The Old School House also boasts a very smart conservatory, a beautiful bright and airy spot to enjoy the warmth and natural light flooding through the windows, curled up with your holiday book. The cottage is heated by renewable energy.
Upstairs you will discover two beautifully finished bedrooms, one with a super kingsize bed which can be made up as twins and one with a double bed. The sumptuous beds are beautifully dressed and offer the sleep of kings. They share a gorgeous bathroom with a bath and overhead shower. There is an additional toilet on the ground floor. The cottage is very pretty, inside and out. You will not forget your holiday here, that is for sure!
You can have food delivered from the local supermarket in Pontardawe, so you do not even need to leave this idyllic corner of Wales. Guests enjoy access to the river and farm trail and enjoy woodland walks from the doorstep. It is hard to beat this secluded, peaceful location. If you do leave the estate, then the majestic Brecon Beacons and the stunning Gower Peninsula are on the doorstep.
The Old School House sits in the one hundred and twenty acre Pontardawe Country Estate in the tranquil hamlet of Cilybebyll, close to the village of Pontardawe. The estate is absolutely marvellous with woodlands, rivers, bluebell woods, sprawling fields, bird nesting boxes, beautiful picnic spots, a stately manor house and other holiday cottages. It is the perfect rural retreat between the Gower Peninsula and the Brecon Beacons National Park. Though you may find it hard to leave this wonderful spot, there is much to do and see. The estate courtyard where many of the cottages are located is bounded by the upper reaches of the picturesque River Clydach and on the other side by green parkland pastures grazed by sheep and cows. The high hills of blue pennant sandstone provide the backdrop to an idyllic and tranquil scene. Guests booking The Old School House are free to roam the estate including its award winning bluebell woodland. The estate’s farm walk is a circular walk for guests which meanders from the doorstep of The Old School House towards the summit of Mynydd Marchywel and back. En route, guests follow mountain streams, climb over stiles, explore the bluebell woodlands and traverse lazy green fields. On a clear day, the panoramic vistas include the Swansea Valley, Swansea Bay, the Bristol Channel and the Brecon Beacons National Park.
The cottage is an excellent base for those that want to explore the landscapes by bike. The Afan Forest and Bike Park Wales are easily accessible.
The Old School House is just twenty minutes drive from the beautiful Swansea Bay coastline and the Gower Peninsula with its gorgeous coves and glorious stretches of fine sand. The Victorian seaside village of Mumbles with its promenade, shops and restaurants is worth a visit and for those that love nature and the outdoors, the National Showcaves of Wales and the Vale of Neath’s spectacular waterfalls are nearby. Guests enjoy visits to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the Glamorganshire Heritage Coast, both less than half an hour away.
Mumbles was one of Dylan Thomas’ many stamping grounds and is the home of some world class ice cream. Mumbles is steeped in history with its lighthouse being built in 1794. It also boasts a Victorian pier and Oystermouth Castle which sits on the hilltop overlooking the sea. There are lovely boutique shops and galleries including the gorgeous Lovespoon Gallery and the Gower Gallery. No visit to Mumbles would be complete without sampling some ‘fresh off the boat’ seafood, its handmade chocolates and its fantastic ice creams.
