When it comes to a countryside escape, you can't get much better than the rolling hills and chocolate-box villages of the Cotswolds. Take a look at some of our best homes in the area – you can't really get much better than these either. 

Escape to the Country: Some Favourites From the Cotswolds

Pasties, cake, ice cream and pirates. If you stick Cornish in front of it, it becomes a tradition. So, here’s a very Cornish Cornwall 7 day itinerary. 


Cornwall Itinerary for 7 Days: How to Spend Them

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Wi-fi

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Heating & Cooling

Parking Available

Free Parking On Premises

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Parking & Access

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Pets Allowed

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Welcome to this charming sanctuary nestled in the quaint village of Preston on Stour. Be enchanted by this bewitching 16th-century cottage, a picture-perfect fusion of history and modernity. Discover romantic adventures and Shakespearian escapes in the idyllic Warwickshire countryside. Bask in the luxurious warmth of a rustic lounge with a flickering fireplace and get lost in time exploring Stratford-upon-Avon's rich history. Every corner is outfitted to pamper you: an olive-green sofa perfect for relaxation, a four-poster bed ensuring serenity and golden slumber, a peaceful garden offering mesmerizing views of the village life. The cottage dazzles with character amidst original timbers, polished flagstones and vibrant colours. Delight your senses with home-cooked meals prepared in the well-equipped kitchen, indulge in spa-inspired showers, or simply gaze into the tranquility of the surroundings from the comfort of your historic hideaway.

Shakespeare & Juliet

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Iron

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Balcony / Patio

First Aid Kit

Whether you're traveling with friends or family, Tranquil Teeside Cottage will be your tranquil home away from home as soon as you step through the door. Sleeping up to four guests, this charming cottage boasts an inviting open plan living, kitchen and dining room that exudes countryside charm. With two comfortable bedrooms, a cozy bathroom, a balcony overlooking the scenic River Tees, and a garden complete with outdoor furniture, your senses will be serenaded by the serene surroundings of this riverside retreat. Nestled in the idyllic Barnard Castle in County Durham, this enchanting river escape offers a picturesque setting for self-catering staycations in the North East. Sink into relaxation as you enjoy the whispering waters and unwind in this hidden gem on the Tees.

Tranquil Teeside Cottage

Outdoor Fireplace / Firepit

Child Friendly

Surrounded by woodland with beautiful views across the River Meon, this home is ideally placed for a relaxing rural retreat. You can enjoy the views while sitting on the deck next to the water. Children will love exploring the grounds while everyone can enjoy cosy nights by the fire-pit. Inside, the rooms are simple, fresh and family-friendly. Your host provides a welcome pack with basic essentials and you’ll find plenty to explore in the surroundings. Follow the South Downs Way or adventure further afield to the villages of Meonstoke and Droxford.

Days by the River

Cot / Crib

Dryer

Ironing Board

Barbeque

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Patio / Terrace

This beautiful home sits within the grounds of a historic stately manor. It’s between Herefordshire and Monmouthshire, so you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore the Brecon Beacons and the area’s delightful towns and villages. French doors open to the terrace and garden, where you can play croquet and admire the deer park just beyond the estate’s gardens. Inside, the wood-burning stove keeps things cosy. It's a stylish and tranquil home that’s been meticulously renovated. We love the elegant tiling in the en-suite bathrooms. 

The Summer Lodge

Amazon Prime

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Heated Towel Rail

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Set within an acre of private woodland, this cottage is a true escape back to nature. As an upside-down home, the first-floor living area is bathed in light and we love how it extends seamlessly out onto the decking. The kitchen is a match for any budding chef, but with traditional Welsh pubs, restaurants, and a cafe mere minutes away on foot, dining out is sure to be on the menu. Keen to explore further afield? Take to the trails of Snowdonia National Park, cross the Menai Bridge for a visit to Anglesey, or hike the North Wales coastal path – there’s something for everyone here. 

Wild Woodland

Smart TV

Sonos

Bathrobes

Hot Tub

Underfloor Heating

If you’re seeking an escape back to nature that’s a perfect fit for two, it’s time to stop scrolling. We love this former Porters’ Lodge, packed full of character and inviting its guests to unwind. You’ll find this home set on an estate, where you can enjoy the landscaped grounds at your leisure – if you’re not too busy relaxing in your private cedar hot tub, that is. Locally, a hike up the Pentland Hills is a must, and for those seeking a city fix, Edinburgh is a thirty-minute drive away. 

Brambled Bliss

Steeped in history, this grand yet homely castle makes for a remarkably atmospheric base in the Scottish Borders. The seat of Clan Kerr, this 15th-century castle is known as Scotland’s frontier fortress. It’s set amid enchanting forests overlooking the River Jed, 2 miles south of Jedburgh. Some guests will sleep in the ground-floor wing, while others will fight over the romantic turret bedrooms. A wood-panelled turret library in the southwest tower is full of books and curiosities, and there are portraits of King James VI and the Kerr family dotted throughout the castle. For a real taste of historic Scotland, you won’t do better than this castle. 

Scottish Hideaway

Games Room

Pool / Snooker Table

Ping Pong Table

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Pod Coffee Machine

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Tennis Court

Beach / Pool Towels

Fenced Garden

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On a sprawling estate in the heart of Sherwood Forest, this manor is perfect for big groups looking for country strolls and myriad entertainment options. Apart from a private hot tub, tennis courts and a state-of-the-art barbecue station, there are woodland walks and lawn games to fill your days here. Come evening, retire to one of many lavish lounges inside, or gather in the banquet-sized dining table. Kids and big kids will enjoy the games room with its pool table and retro arcade games and if you’re hosting a special celebration, there’s a function room that can seat up to 50 people in grand surrounds. This is one of those spots where memories are made.

The Country Slicker

Library of Books

Experience historic Scotland at its finest at this castle retreat. This beautiful castle was built in 1560 and has been thoughtfully restored to its former glory by the father-and-daughter owner team. You’ll find antique furniture and historic features throughout the castle, but modern home comforts have been added too. Play board games in front of the fire in the Great Hall before sinking into a four-poster Ralph Lauren bed. Explore the Cairngorms National Park and the nearby golf courses, or drive 1.5 hours to Edinburgh for a day trip. This castle is sure to be a memorable choice.

A Fine Malt

This is a stunning home in the beautiful village of Little Compton, near Moreton-in-Marsh. The property is situated in the heart of the Cotswolds and offers easy access to all the area has to offer. The cottage sleeps up to 6 guests and has three bedrooms, a spacious living room and a well-equipped kitchen. The property also has a private garden and a patio, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning views.

Washbrook Cottage

Baby Monitor

Courtyard

With a beautiful walled garden and hot tub, this home is a great place to chill out. There’s plenty of room for lounging, barbecuing and dining here, or you could cook in the beautifully appointed kitchen with its Quooker tap among other kitchen amenities. The living room has that country essential, a log burner, too. We love the bedrooms here – one has French doors that open onto the courtyard front garden, while the other has a Juliet balcony. What about the address? Well, the location is great – this home is situated in Burnham Market, a picturesque, leafy village with plenty of boutiques, while about six miles away lies Wells-next-the-Sea. 

Market Delight

Luxury Toiletries

Rain Shower

Cafetiere

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Tailor-made for two, this tranquil cottage promises a romantic retreat and true escape from it all. Set on an estate, you can wander the landscaped grounds at your leisure. Feeling a little more adventurous? Hire an e-mountain bike and take to the estate’s twenty kilometres of trails or head out to hike the Pentland Hills, instead. Back home, the fireplace and rolltop bath are a warming sight after a day of exploring, but we think you’ll be tempted to relax outdoors on the private terrace. A cedar hot tub, outdoor fireplace, and nature surrounding you – what’s not to love?

Scottish Spirit

DVD Player

Buzzer / Wireless Intercom

Multiple Sets of Keys

This magnificent Georgian home is steeped in history and filled with eighteenth-century glamour, from the antique sideboard to the cast-iron fireplace. Set on the first floor, this storey was often referred to by architects of the time as the 'Piano Nobile', since it was the part of the building that had the highest ceilings and tallest windows. Best of all, these glorious sash windows look out over picturesque views of the Royal Crescent and Royal Victoria Park, so you'll get to admire one of Bath's most iconic sights from the comfort of your own home. When you're ready to explore the city, it takes about fifteen minutes on foot to reach the famous Roman Baths, as well as a range of modern spas should you fancy trying it for yourself.


Through The Ages

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Set in one of the most beautiful parts of Yorkshire, this formerly derelict barn was chanced across by its owners in 2015, and lovingly converted into the stunning home it is today. The vibe is English country, with real moments of grandeur. With antlers on the walls, fine china ornaments, touches of tartan, and a solid teak dining table that wouldn’t look out of place in a stately home, it’s the kind of place you can imagine a hunting party coming back to after a day out on the moors. The grand feel continues in the bedrooms, each of which is as luxurious as the last but has its own unique design. We can see ourselves spending windswept days walking the hills of God’s Own Country before returning to pre-dinner drinks by the fire in the snug (the original stone floor is particularly gorgeous). Once the kids are set up with a movie in the second living room, a candlelit meal around the dining table beckons, followed by a session in the wood-fired hot tub.    

Yorkshire Homestead

Free Parking

Green is the theme at this beautifully restored historic farmhouse; rolling pastures all around and exquisite emerald, olive and moss hues inside. Recently featured in Elle Décor, the owner is an interior designer and a lovely host to boot. Welcoming your whole brood and then some, there’s plenty of space for everyone to spread out in the three gorgeous sitting rooms, seven individually styled bedrooms, large bespoke, country kitchen and expansive garden. Those travelling with young children will love the playroom, chock-full of games and toys to keep them quiet for hours on end. There is billiards and table tennis in the outhouse if the big kids want to get involved, too. A boot room makes a no-stress entrance for muddy wellies after yomps through the surrounding countryside and the endless lawns call for picnics and croquet in the sunshine. Your nearest village is Piercebridge, situated three miles away, with its own farm shop and proper pub. Further afield, the Yorkshire Dales, Saltburn-by-the-Sea and Barnard Castle are all within a forty-five-minute drive – perfect for family days out in the fresh air.

Enchanted Forest

This home ticks all the boxes for a couple after a romantic retreat to the coast. You'll find all the mod-cons needed here – from a beautifully designed open-plan living space and a cosy wood-burning stove to the spacious bedroom and luxurious roll-top bath in the en-suite. The sleek kitchen is equipped to create tasty meals for two, and your welcome pack will include some sweet treats for after – let the host know if you’re celebrating a special occasion and they might slip in an extra surprise. The mezzanine level snug allows for a moment's alone time or a sneaky afternoon snooze, while the outdoor deck patio is the perfect spot for coming together. As if that wasn’t enough, the jewel in the crown is your own private hot tub, where you can savour a glass of wine and gaze up at the stars. A short fifteen-minute drive will take you into Aberaeron, where you can stroll around the harbour and admire the brightly coloured houses. Bring a book and relax on the sand, or try out water sports if you're feeling more active. For walkers, the Wales Coastal Path nearby will show you some epic scenery, and you may even be lucky enough to spot a bottlenose dolphin in Ceredigion Bay – a short ferry across the water.

Wooden Beams

Playground

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Gated Community

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Wheelchair Access

Herb Garden

Pet Bowls

Private farmland surrounds this stunning converted barn, a traditional slice of countryside tranquillity. There's a delicate balance of modern grandeur and tasteful tradition here. The fresh decor complements vaulted ceilings, flagstone floors, barn doors and oak beams, while the snug sitting room hosts a log burner and the general feel of bucolic cosiness. Reached via the stunning glass-paned walkway, each bedroom has its own stylish design, complete with an en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet. One en-suite has a delight of a free-standing bathtub, another almost feels like a woodland sauna. Socialise in the large country-style, open-plan kitchen and dining area, with top-of-the-range appliances to make life that little bit easier. Outside, the courtyard’s comfortable seating and peaceful surroundings invite you to fire up the gas barbecue and while away the evening. Or enjoy your morning coffee in the lush gardens before a day of exploring – it's just a short drive to dozens of Cotswolds villages. Drive to the achingly quaint market town of Chipping Norton in just thirty-seven minutes with nearby Hook Norton offering great local beers from one of the area's most popular breweries – it's always worth a visit. This is a home where life on the farm is a thrill, and staying in a barn feels the height of luxury. 

Dovesong

This professionally-managed home is located in the desirable SouthChurch area, near Southend and great transportation links. The open-plan lounge and dining area is spacious and stylishly furnished, with comfortable sofas and a large dining table. Guests can relax in the large garden during warmer weather. The two main bedrooms are also spacious and comfortable, with a bunk bed and sofa bed available for larger groups. Guests have access to the entire property, including fast Wi-Fi and free on-street parking. The booking is protected by a Deposit Guarantee, Guest Guarantee, and public liability provided by SUPERHOG.

The Lighthousekeeper's Daughter

DVD Library

Satellite / Cable TV

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Shared Pool

Sauna

Access to Beach

Rising above Loch Lomond like a dazzling glass mirage, this extraordinary home is truly one of a kind. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows and bi-folding doors dominate its front, offering unobstructed views of the Loch and its stunning surroundings. With its own private miniature beach, this truly is a Highlands haven. Inside, the contemporary and vintage-inspired decor makes the light-filled living space feel elegant while the rustic antler chandeliers and leather sofas lend warmth and cosiness to make you feel right at home. Spend your mornings reading on the Loch-facing deck or enjoy a morning coffee from the sumptuous sofa while watching the sun come up over the water. Then, book yourself some relaxing and restorative treatments at the nearby spa or head over to one of the many nearby golf courses for some fresh air fun. After a day of activities and exploring, come back for a soak in the eight-person hot tub before curling up in the plush bedrooms for a wonderfully peaceful night’s sleep.


Right Angles

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With honeyed stone walls and a Grade II listed status, this bronze South West Award-winning traditional stone cottage is quintessentially Cotswolds. The exposed beams and inglenook fireplaces showcase the building’s considerable heritage (it dates back to 1670), but you’ll find plenty of modern comforts here, as well as cosy styling that favours neutral tones and natural textures. We love that it’s a home for all seasons — stride out on blustery walks in the winter months, before coming back to underfloor heating, a wood burner and thick goose down duvets. In the summer, the British countryside is arguably at its best and here you get access to a large birdsong-filled garden with plenty of shady spots for a gin and tonic. Stargazers are in luck here as there are no streetlights in the local village of Southrop and the Milky Way shines extra bright. And of course, what would a country getaway be without a nearby pub? The Swan can be reached in about three minutes' walk, although the Victoria Inn takes half an hour in case you fancy earning your pint.

Shepherd's Flock

This charming stone cottage in North Wales accommodates two guests and one child, with spectacular views of the Snowdonia Mountains from a secluded position above the Eglwysbach valley. The Bodnant Estate offers ten luxury self-catering cottages, including Ty Newydd, sleeping eight guests, and Lletty, sleeping six guests. The estate features hilly and wooded countryside in the lower reaches of the Conwy Valley and various houses and cottages available for rent as holiday lets. The cozy cottage has been sympathetically extended to provide generous openings between the main rooms and includes a wood-burning stove, oak floors, an enclosed garden, garden furniture, barbecue, and Wi-Fi. Guests can explore over 20 miles of private paths winding through woods and farms across the estate or visit the world-famous Bodnant Garden owned by the National Trust. Fishing permits are available at Bodnant Garden Centre. Other nearby attractions include Zip World Fforest, Adventure Parc Snowdonia, Welsh Mountain Zoo, sandy beaches of Llandudno, Conwy and Colwyn Bay, Penrhyn Castle and several Welsh castles.

The Time Machine

This old dairy, set on the Burghley Estate, is a peaceful getaway for large groups and makes a pretty picture for small celebrations. Throughout the restoration of the dairy and its conversion into cottages, an emphasis remained on the history of this building, and plenty of the original features remain to make this a charming and comfortable stay. With two wings, it also grants everyone plenty of space, though the mezzanine bedrooms can only be accessed through several ground-floor rooms, which might not feel the most private. Still, it's a beautiful space, and the estate is within the Capability Brown Parkland, first landscaped in the early 1700s and still as lush and inviting, perfect for walks with the dogs.

The Cottage Soul

This cosy cottage is tucked down a quiet street within the historic walls of Conwy. Perfectly sized for two guests, there’s an open-plan living room with a wood-burning fire, a snug bedroom and a small courtyard (shared with the neighbours). Two dogs are welcome to join you here, plus there’s a sweet welcome pack with Prosecco provided for your arrival. Outside, you’ll find everything you could need on the doorstep. From here, it’s a short walk to the castle, beaches and amenities. It’s also a great base for guests looking to adventure further afield and explore Snowdonia National Park.

Sea on the Horizon

Lift Access

Bright, modern and colourful, this home has everything you need for a comfortable stay in St Albans. From its wood floors to its Chesterfield-style sofa and sleek kitchen, this apartment instantly makes you feel welcome. Open up the living room’s French doors for leafy views from the Juliet balcony before sitting down at the glass dining table for your morning cup of coffee. St Albans’ city centre is just a fifteen-minute walk away, with its beautiful cathedral, Verulamium Museum and Roman Theatre, while historic Knebworth House dating back to 1490 is just a thirty-minute drive away. London is reachable by train in just thirty minutes (or an hour by car), making trips to the capital a cinch. After a day of exploring, come back home for a long soak under the rainfall shower. If you have work to catch up on, the dedicated desk space and speedy wi-fi will make getting down to business a breeze. Finish the night off with a glass of wine and a movie, before retreating to your stylish bedroom for a restful night’s sleep. 


Boudica In Blue

If salty skin and fresh sea air sound appealing, then this home – positioned quite literally a stone's throw away from Laxey beach (a two-minute walk) will have you jumping with joy from the moment you arrive. Though its serene location is a focal selling point, well thought out stylish interiors invite you to spend time inside the home as well as on the beach. 

Inside, a minimal and chic aesthetic is accentuated by tasteful decor and soft furnishings in every room of the house, providing high-level comfort throughout. With both an inside living area and an outside terrace, you can relax with plenty of space and a good book in hand. Why not get the whole group together to play with one of the provided board games? 

From the bedrooms, you'll be able to look out at the kayakers and paddle-boarders making a splash in the sea. In winter, the sound of the waves crashing into the shore should be enough to send you into a deep sleep. Head down to The Shed, a two-minute stroll away, for some of the best grub in town – and cosy blankets and throws to keep you warm on a chilly day – before ending the evening with a walk on the beach as the sun sets in the background.  

Sea Shells on the Sea Shore

Piano

The village of Tresaith on the Ceredigion coastline is relatively humble, but you can find some truly spectacular homes here – this three-storey gem is among them.

It's definitely an address that has been constructed with the surrounding scenery in mind, with sea views to be admired from the balconies and out through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Even to the rear of the house that isn't so blessed with coastal vistas, there's a peaceful terrace surrounded by flower beds and it's more than possible to enjoy alfresco feasts in this space, thanks to the dining table, pizza oven and barbecue.

Should the weather ever be a little uninspiring, there's plenty to keep guests entertained inside. In the games room alone, you'll find tables for pool and table tennis, as well as a darts board and piano. Once you've exhausted these, the cinema room complete with leather seats and surround sound is the ideal place to watch a movie or some live sports. It's just as easy to escape to the Jacuzzi bathtub and treat yourself to an unrushed soak.

You'll eventually want to head to the seaside at some point and Tresaith Beach is less than ten minutes' away on foot. It's easy to arrange watersport activities here and – if you're lucky – spot dolphins. There's also a waterfall at the far end of the sand, as well.

Looking Good

Parking On Street

Buzzy Bruton life is on your doorstep at this Grade II listed Georgian townhouse, set right along the well-heeled high street. Mingle with the movers, shakers, and millionaires in its gastropubs, independent shops, and art galleries. Or don your walking boots for bracing country walks – the house has direct access to a quiet lane leading onto the rolling countryside surrounding Bruton.

Back home, there’s room for all ten of you to pile into this magnificent three-storey home. Filled to the rafters with Georgian architectural details, original flagstone floors and exposed brickwork archways strike a note of authenticity, while a contemporary extension housing the open concept living space is firmly in the 21st century. And we love how pared back and gloriously clutter-free everywhere feels, allowing the contemporary artwork and vintage statement furniture to do all the talking.

On sunny mornings, spill out into the garden room and slide back the French doors onto the suntrap patio – there’s an outdoor dining area complete with a built-in barbecue that’s prime for lazy breakfasts or alfresco evening meals. Winter evenings are all about getting around that Fritz Hansen dining room table with original Eames chairs for slap-up dinners and catch-ups. And you can always keep the night flowing with a game of table tennis in the games room, squirreled away in the ancient stone garage. Or get your game face on for a late-night session around that Edwardian poker table.


A Royal Flush

Private Washing Machine

Once you've wandered about this home nestled away in the North Yorkshire countryside for the first time, it probably won't come as a surprise to learn that it was once a hotel. The vast size of the building and its grounds partially give the game away, but there's also something about how the communal areas are arranged, especially the pool table and bar that make it an especially sociable space.

You'll also get a sense of the home's heritage pretty quickly as well. Located on a farm that dates back to the 18th century, there's a strong rustic charm throughout the interior, from the wooden ceiling beams and stone archways to the open fireplace that's wonderful to retire next to after a long bout in the great outdoors. 

Speaking of which, there's a whole host of amenities on the grounds for when the forecast is being kind to you. As well as a large lawn and lots of equipment for playing games, there's plenty of seating for alfresco feasts, as well as a hot tub that's an idyllic spot for a nightcap, especially once the stars are out in the sky.

In the local area, there's a wealth of attractions to be discovered, from the Victorian spa town of Saltburn-by-the-Sea just two-and-a-half miles away to the Cleveland Way National Trail, which can be reached on foot and rewards those that follow the path with views of the dramatic coastal landscape.

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Escape to the Country: Some Favourites From the Cotswolds

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Book a stay in one of the best homes in United Kingdom

We selected the 9725 homes worth renting in this location

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Most popular homes in United Kingdom

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Travel guide: Staying in United Kingdom

Escape to the Country: Some Favourites From the Cotswolds

Cornwall Itinerary for 7 Days: How to Spend Them

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