With warmer and brighter weather moving in and finally (we hope) settling in, we start to notice more people cutting their weeks short and going out to meet the sunshine in all corners of the country. It’s finally starting to feel like the weather is set for planning that long weekend, mid-week or week in a country cottage or a coastal hideaway. But what if you haven’t got round to the planning part yet? What if you’re just itching to get away with your loved ones and you’re at a loss with where and when to go? Don’t panic. One thing we’re dedicated to is helping you find a place that’s right for you. From the limestone-lined countryside of the Cotswolds to the parkland and beaches of Dartmoor, Dorset and Devon, there’s always a unique holiday to be had any time of the year. Some are different, and some are very different…
Taikoo
Partial to a touch of the oriental? Taikoo takes pride in marrying the East to the West with a truly stunning indoor pool and eye-catching Japanese-influenced exteriors nestled with views over the hills of the Dartmoor National Park. Sleeps 14. Features include: indoor pool, large powered pagoda, woodland and formal gardens. Up to two dogs welcome.
The Hyde
Head to Herefordshire and catch the train – at the house! This is the house famous for its private train. Don’t worry, it’s not just for the kids; you can hop on with the little ones. Sit back as you roll through the private grounds, over bridge and through tunnel, remarking on The Hyde‘s great outdoor features. Don’t be surprised if you go the whole day without seeing the kids. With a wide range of fun things to do both inside and out, they’ll amuse themselves as long as you let them. Sleeps 20. Features include: private train, maze, tennis court, tree house, Wendy house and woodland. Up to two dogs welcome.
The Freeth
Another idyllic hideaway in Herefordshire perfect both for smaller and for larger groups, The Freeth is a classic in the best ways: old stone, extensive grounds, and cosy, spacious interiors. Swing open the South-facing windows and then feed the ducks (in the pond, not the pool!) Sleeps 18. Features include: indoor heated pool, pond, swings and games room. Up to two dogs welcome.
Meadowbank House
One thing Meadowbank House does so well is embrace all that is great about modern interior design without spoiling those traditional touches we all love in certain measures. This is a Cotswold gem which is just as comfortable hosting a party as playing home for large or small families. Fancy features spread themselves out downstairs and the bedrooms are coloured in character. Sleeps 16. Features include: outdoor heated pool and hot tub. Dogs welcome.
Churchill Wood
Let’s pop across the Cotswolds to our dearly beloved Churchill Wood. Nestled in Spetchley and with interiors and exteriors alike adorned in a wealth of homely tradition, this property is fitted out for the young ones with games and distractions for days, as well as more than enough to keep the adults entertained. Quiet spots throughout for a rare spell of reading, and large open living spaces for getting all the family together in front of the fire. Sleeps 12-16. Features include: hot tub, swing/slide set and games room. Up to two dogs welcome.
Alcester Farmhouse
“Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?” Shakespeare country is the setting for what could be your best play of the year: Alcester Farmhouse. Warm and intimate interiors hide away behind old doors, and the gardens are set for summer BBQs, games and a soak beneath the stars. Sleeps 14-16. Features include: hot tub, play area, pool table, table football, large open fire. Up to two dogs welcome.
The Moult
Where to start with this exceptional house? With a fascinating history, everything you need and much, much more, you’d be very hard-pressed to beat The Moult for the perfect summer holiday in Devon. There really is nowhere quite like that pink house. With its impressive and (unsurprisingly) award-winning pool, it rests triumphantly in the happy memories of many past guests. Claim your own stay here and see why it’s considered such a blessing to Salcombe. Sleeps 16-24. Features include: heated outdoor pool, indoor gym, cinema room and a private path straight down to the beach.
Holmegate House and Wing
Again, to the beach! To Lulworth Cove – just 10 minutes away from this beautiful house in Dorset! The Jurassic Coast attracts millions every year and it’s clear to see why. History, fossils, fun, great food, long walks, soaking up the sun. Holmegate House and Wing is another house with a special relationship with the coast. Don’t miss this house’s amazing virtual tour, which can be found by simply clicking the image above and scrolling down the page. Sleeps 14-18. Features include: outdoor heated pool and play area, and indoor play room. Up to two dogs welcome.
Mulberry House
Rest easy in the balance of country and coast at Mulberry House, close to Lyme Regis with its lovely shops, cafes and restaurants. Interiors are fresh, neutral and finely finished. It’s not the biggest house out there but you can bet it has room and atmosphere enough for large gatherings of family and friends. I can smell it now: the coffee brewing as the Southern breeze drifts through the open-plan living and dining spaces. Mmmmm. Sleeps 12-14. Features include: Lawned gardens with games.
Don’t delay! Find out more by clicking the name links in each paragraph and book your next summer adventure!
