Bishop's Stortford

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Amazon Prime

Netflix

Satellite / Cable TV

Board Games

Library of Books

Sound System

Streaming Services

Entertainment

Bathtub

Hair Dryer

Heated Towel Rail

Rain Shower

Bathroom

Blender

Cafetiere

Cooking Essentials

Dishwasher

Freezer

Fridge

Juicer

Kettle

Kitchen

Kitchen Utensils

Microwave

Oven

Stove

Toaster

Wine Cooler

Kitchen & Dining

Private Washing Machine

Private Dryer

Black-Out Blinds

Dryer

Drying Rack

Hangers

Iron

Ironing Board

Vacuum Cleaner

Washing Machine

Bedroom & Laundry

Exercise Equipment

Hot Tub

Wellness & Fitness

Desk / Workplace

Laptop Friendly Workspace

Wi-fi

Internet & Office

Central Heating

Fireplace

Temperature Control

Underfloor Heating

Heating & Cooling

Free Parking On Premises

Parking Available

Private Entrance

Self Check-in / Check-out

Parking & Access

Balcony / Patio

Barbeque

Garden

Outdoor Fireplace / Firepit

Outdoor Seating

Patio / Terrace

Outdoor

Throws

Nice to haves

Carbon Monoxide Detector

Fire Extinguisher

Smoke Detector

Other

There are parts of this home — such as the wooden ceiling beams and thatched roof — where you can see this seven-hundred-year-old cottage's age. There are other features, however, that do their best to hide this big number. The extension that holds the modern kitchen, for instance, was only built in recent years and the super-sleek surfaces wouldn't look out of place in a newly constructed property. One of the best things about this home is its total seclusion. Located right by the entrance of National Trust Hatfield Forest, nature is your only neighbour here and you're all sorted for great hikes and biking tours (make a note of the Flitch Way cycle path which will get you to Great Dunmow in just over half an hour). However you choose to spend your time here, be sure to finish the day basking in the warmth of the crackling log-burner, or with a dip in the hot tub as the sun goes down.


Raindrops On Roses

Toiletries

Baby Bath

Changing Table

Pod Coffee Machine

High Chair

Coffee Maker

Bread Maker

Cot / Crib

Baby Monitor

Free Parking On Street

Balcony

Welcome Hamper

Stair Gates

Safe

Set in three acres of private gardens, this Regency period home is the best of country and village living. Towering oaks and evergreens line the manicured lawn, so it feels like you’re completely secluded from the world. Dotted throughout the gardens you’ll find plenty to entertain the kids – a slide, trampoline and sandpit. Let the kids run free on the lawn as grown-ups enjoy a cool drink on the terrace, or perhaps head down to the comfy sofa seats right by the river at the bottom of the garden. Inside, a wall of bookshelves and a wood-burning stove in the living room keep things cosy and there’s a fully-stocked pantry. Chefs will be in their element in the big, family kitchen where a chrome range cooker and huge fridge wouldn’t look out of place in a professional kitchen. Should work, or a work-out, call there’s a dedicated office upstairs with a Peloton bike and exercise balls for those sticking to a strict schedule. In terms of location, you’ve got woodland walks right on your doorstep (just cross the wooden bridge from the garden) and you’re in the heart of charming Standon village. Cosy country pubs, bakeries and shops are an easy walk, and it’s an hour’s drive from London if you crave a day in the big city. 

Together By The River

Cleaning Products

Extra Pillows and Blankets

Bicycles

EV Charger

Single-Level Home

Child Friendly

First Aid Kit

With idyllic views over the Essex countryside, this architect-designed barn on a farm makes full use of the vistas with its large picture windows. The spacious open-plan living room is perfect for entertaining – there's the all-important log burner, too, for when the weather turns cold. Or, in the warmer months, make the most of the garden with its barbecue and fire pit – though be prepared to chat with your neighbours as this is shared with two other homes. Speaking of gardens, Gibberd Garden, created by Sir Frederick Gibberd, is nearby, and the historic market town of Bishop's Stortford is within easy driving distance too.

The Pastoral

Embark on a countryside retreat at this farm in the Essex countryside. This converted barn offers an idyllic getaway for those seeking a rural setting in all seasons. Three cottages share the garden, so expect to see neighbouring guests during your stay. When you’re not out dining in a local pub, you can prepare dinners in the modern kitchen, or why not have your host arrange a fresh home-prepared meal for you? Audley End House, Hatfield Forest and Great Dunmow are just a short drive away, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore nearby too.

As Fine As Straw

If you're looking for a peaceful retreat in the country, then this converted barn set on a working farm is the perfect choice. Its high ceilings and modern design make it a stylish place to unwind after busy days traversing the local area – whether you're snuggled up by the sleek log burner or preparing a delicious supper using the owners' local produce (supplied for an additional fee), you'll be left entirely undisturbed here. Of course, you will need a car or bike to get to the nearby villages, such as Saffron Walden, Bishops Stortford and Rayne, but with acres of space around you, there's plenty of parking. 

The Hummingbird's Song

Jacuzzi

Private Parking

Pets Allowed

Pets

Situated right on the lakeside with its own private, wood-fired hot tub this fantastic glamping pod offers comfortable accommodation for up to six guests within its light and surprisingly spacious feeling interior. Unwind in the warm waters of the hot tub as you gaze out over the lake, soaking up the tranquil views of the water and the countryside, or fire up the barbecue to cook up something tasty on a sunny afternoon. 

During your stay at this unique lakeside chalet, you'll enjoy a discount at the on-site farm shop – so you can pick up the freshest regional produce that the area has to offer while supporting local businesses (that's got to be a win-win!). The pod is part of a farm park, so kids and adults alike can enjoy meeting the alpacas, lambs, pigs, and other farm animals with free entry. 

Venture off the farm and into the town of Hertford and you will find a range of local shops, restaurants, and traditional pubs as well as the historic Hertford Castle, the grounds of which are perfect for a picnic on a summer's day. There are also loads of walking trails nearby, such as the Chadwell Way Sculpture Trail which follows a five-mile route through the towns and countryside of Hertford, Ware, and Great Amwell, in Hertfordshire, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to get out moving out in the fresh country air.

The Lakeside Glam-pod

When life gets hectic and an escape to the quiet countryside is calling, it's homes like this that act as beacons of solitude. The modern comforts of everyday life meet the rustic appeal of countryside immersion here. Nestled in the Essex countryside, this barn will place you on a beautiful plot of land the whole family can find entertainment in. Pet the local farm animals with the kids, then wander around the garden and admire views of the countryside stretching in all directions. The apple meadow is our favourite spot to find relaxation. Sit at one of the picnic benches surrounded by wildflowers and indulge in a gin & tonic or two. 

No matter where you spend your time during a stay here, you'll always feel at one with the wild. Exploring the serene Essex countryside around is a must. There's various walking opportunities within close proximity of the home to enjoy. The host recommends the fifteen-minute walk to their favourite local, The Lion and Lamb pub. Hatfield Forest is only a short drive away too, and here you'll be able to marvel at ancient trees in a National Trust run area. If you're looking to go further afield, why not make the forty-minute drive to Cambridge for a day out shopping? It's a wonderful city to roam due to its historic architecture.


Frith Mead

Nestled on a working farm in the quiet, rural village of Great Canfield, this zinc-roofed barn overlooks the fields of the Roding Valley. After a leisurely breakfast, head out and wander the footpaths on the farm venturing into the open countryside, or even wander the 0.5 miles to the nearby pub for lunch, or on to the local carriage driving centre for coffee and a quick bite at the cafe.

If you’ve been caught in the British rain on your walk, then shed your walking gear in the shared boot room to dry while you get cosy in front of the home’s wood-burning stove. Then, in the early evening, why not fire up the barbecue that can be found in the wildflower meadow here? Enjoy an alfresco picnic meal under the shade of an umbrella, as you gaze out at the beautiful flowers and the fields beyond. 

This home is not only ideal for escaping to the countryside but its location means you can also easily venture as far as London and Cambridge, or explore rural East Anglia. What’s more, Great Dunmow, famous for the Flitch Trials, is the nearest town to this home – reachable in just three miles. Here, you will find butchers, a bakery, cafes, a wine shop, other independent shops, supermarkets, and even a weekly Tuesday market. 

Woolmers Mead

Luxury Bedding

Desk

Courtyard

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a stay at this dreamy holiday home in the heart of rural Essex. Just twenty minutes from the historic market town of Bishop's Stortford, this gorgeous property is perfectly placed to explore everything the county has to offer. Jump in the car and head to Southend-on-Sea for a relaxing walk along England’s east coast or cycle into Takeley, where you’ll find a smattering of local pubs and restaurants to satisfy your hunger. 

Back at your cosy home from home, you’ll find everything you need for an exceptional stay. While two barns adjoin to this one, they are not interconnected, making this barn perfect for unwinding with friends or family. Gather everyone outside for a picnic by the meadow or share a bottle of English fizz at the spacious dining table before heading to bed for some well-deserved rest. 

Millers Mead

Rice Maker

This rustic barn conversion is a delightful place to stay in the Essex countryside. It has been lovingly restored, and retains its original wooden beams, which give the home a traditional, cottage-like feel. There are public footpaths nearby, meaning you’ll be able to make the most of exploring the surrounding countryside. After a busy day hiking, kick back on the plump sofas with a drink in hand, and warm up in front of the wood burner. During the day, the huge garden is the perfect spot to play games as a group, before cooking up a hearty meal on the Weber barbecue, to enjoy on the outdoor seating.

Butterfly Barn

Bathrobes

Situated within the idyllic Gotha Gardens at Pembroke Farm, this cottage stays true to its farmhouse heritage without giving up on any modern luxuries. Whitewashed beams adorn the ceilings in the living room, vibrant flatwoven rugs lay on oak floors and an ornamental fireplace takes centre stage. It's the perfect spot to kick back and relax after a long walk through the gardens and the open layout makes it easy to socialise while others rustle up a meal in the French farmhouse-style kitchen. During the summer, head out to the terrace overlooking the courtyard for a cup of tea or evening tipple, surrounded by lush potted plants and pretty flowers. But the best part of this home is the access to the Gotha Gardens. Stroll among the greenery, stopping to smell the roses and nibble on a slice of cake in the courtyard cafe. When you can pull yourself away from this verdant hideaway, it's only a quick drive to Ashwell – home to beautiful architecture and three county pubs – and stately homes like Wimpole Hall and Knebworth House are easily reachable. If you crave a little hustle and bustle, Cambridge is less than forty minutes by car.

Picture This

From its charming seafoam-green exterior to its sunny loft living space – a delightful area to unwind after a busy day – this home is the perfect marriage of period features and modern comforts. Tucked away in the village of Thaxted, it's right next to Clarence House – a beautiful 18th-century, Grade 1, Queen Anne listed property. 

Inside, the living room is a bright and welcoming space with its wood staircase, original beams and wall mouldings, and sash windows that flood the loft in natural light throughout the day. There's a sleek, modern kitchen ladened with everything needed for rustling up hearty breakfasts. It's been recently renovated so everything here is sparkling new, from the stylish bathroom to the comfortable bedroom. You're sure to get a peaceful night’s sleep thanks to the striking four-poster bed and church facing position.

While you could easily spend all day tucked inside your cosy cottage, go out and explore your surroundings. Head to the local market on Fridays, which takes place opposite the Guildhall. Here, you'll also find plenty of boutique-style shops, cafes and pubs to stop for a drink. Just beyond is John Webb's windmill (three minutes on foot), which is the gateway to many country walks accessible from the village. 

Postcard from Thaxted

Smart TV

You’ll find this cottage nestled in the Hertfordshire countryside. Boasting a conservatory – meaning you can enjoy garden views whatever the weather – and a private garden offering vistas of the surrounding countryside, you can escape the hustle of bustle of everyday life here. With a separate lounge, kitchen, and dining room, this home is well set up for families or groups. If you’re into hiking, there are walking trails on the doorstep. Or a ten-minute drive will take you to the picturesque riverside town of Ware.

 The Sacombe Retreat

DVD Library

DVD Player

Games Console

Espresso Machine

Laundry Supplies

Air Conditioning

Secured Parking

Buzzer / Wireless Intercom

Early / Late Check-Out Available

Gated Community

Multiple Sets of Keys

Access to Business Centre

Security Cameras

Security System

Set on a countryside estate, this converted barn captures a sense of the charm of the Home Counties. The setting is ideal for a couple to get out of the city for a break – you wouldn’t know it, but London is less than an hour away on the train. It’s a real gem of a getaway, whether you’re more inclined to enjoy tranquil walks in fields of parkland and nature reserves, cooking farm-to-table meals at home, or heading to the local pub for a Sunday roast.

Halcyon Hideaway

Playground

Pool / Snooker Table

Luxury Toiletries

Children's Dinnerware

Swimming Pool

Heated Pool

Electricity Adaptors

Printer

Fenced Garden

Fenced Property

Garden Games

Outdoor Kitchen

Outdoor Shower

Pool House

Sun Loungers / Beach Chairs

Sun Umbrellas

Umbrellas

Meeting / Conference Rooms

24-Hour Security

24-Hour Front Desk

Alarm System

It’s not often you stumble upon a family home near London with a swimming pool in its back garden. The modern house sits in the idyllic, riverside village of Amwell, within walking distance of a cosy local pub and a handful of shops, cafés and restaurants. It’s a fifteen-minute walk from St Margeret’s (Herts) train station if you’re arriving by rail or want to get into London. The swimming pool in the back garden, flanked by palms, wouldn’t look out of place in Palm Springs, and a bubbling hot tub awaits at the side of the pool house. Inside, it’s a classy, monotone affair, as though a black and white filter has been applied. The main lounge is a vision of dove-grey velvet, from floor to sofas (there’s plenty of room for the whole group in here) and the kitchen is sleek slate and black with all the mod cons of the 21st century. Gather the group at the long dining table for a big meal before heading off to bed in one of the stone-grey and white havens.

Hillside Retreat

Lift Access

Balcony / Rooftop Terrace

Step into this cosy and colourful Hertfordshire home, and out of the busy to-do of everyday life. Peacefully appointed, to stay here is to find a real sense of tranquillity from the moment you arrive. 

Wake up to serene green views from your Juliet balcony. Light pours in through the balcony doors in both the bedroom and the living space that making for a bright and uplifting interior. Lovingly decorated with tasteful artwork, antique adornments and curated flowers, it's the type of place in which you'll quickly feel at home. 

Sit down for lunch in the sunny and ever-so-charming dining area by the window – complete with a sleek white kitchen for plating up your home-cooking perfection. 

Walk into St Albans town centre for independent book and clothing shops, a surplus of quaint cafes and elegant eateries. If you're looking for a fun family day out, the stately Tudor home and gardens of Knebworth House are just a thirty-minute drive away, while you can reach London's glittering West End in under an hour.

Sunflower Whisperings

Access to Gym / Spa

Sauna

Workplace

Bike Shed

Video Intercom

Safety Gates

With a prime position on Dunstable's High Street, this apartment in a 19th-century building is a peaceful enclave away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Step inside and you're greeted by an interior dominated by cleansing shades of white and muted greys, with only the odd houseplant and piece of artwork adding a little colour and character. Stylish parquet flooring sits underfoot, while the glossy kitchen is a triumph of minimalist design. 

The home gets plenty of natural light from the tall triple glazed windows on either side of the space, but if you want to feel the sunshine on your skin, you also have the option of heading out to the building's communal courtyard, which has seating and a table, plus free cycle hire for you to explore.

Being right in the centre of town, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants lying nearby in case you're not in the mood to cook. Even though it's possible to get into London in around an hour on the train, there's a wealth of beautiful countryside around the home, too — Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate are only five minutes' drive, for example.

Mister Modern

Access to Beach

Hidden away next to ancient woodland in rural Essex, this cabin is a British getaway that overflows with quirk and charm.

Inside, classically styled furnishings, such as the tufted Chesterfield, oak dining table and the four-poster bed that's come straight out of a fairytale, rub shoulders with the eclectic animal portraits that dot the wall, the antler chandelier and antique-style gramophone — which actually works in case you're in the mood for a boogie. The copper rolltop bathtub that lies just next to the bed is another decadent touch that we can't help but salute.

The home's exterior is full of pleasant surprises, too. When the weather's warm enough — and even when it's not — you can sit out in the home's hot tub, before drying off on one of the egg chairs next to the roaring fire pit. It's possible to hear the sounds of wildlife from the neighbouring forest, as well as the occasional roar from Colchester Zoo, which is less than ten minutes' drive from the home.

Elsewhere in the local area, the huge Abberton Reservoir takes five minutes to reach in the car and offers spectacular birdwatching opportunities. The local village of Layer de la Haye, with its pair of pubs and farm shop, is a ten-minute walk away, too.

Kooky Cabin

Parking On Premises

This cosy home is the perfect rest point for a romantic getaway to the riverside town of Marlow. Snuggle up together on the sofa to watch a movie on the TV as the smell of a delicious homecooked meal wafts throughout the house. Enjoy your tasty plate of food at the dining table with a documentary on the screen as you socialise with your loved one, planning a fun itinerary of what you'll be up to in the town. If you're fancying a relaxing day in, get under the duvet to read a new book you picked up recently as you sip on a toasty cup of coffee. If weather permits, head out to the bench outdoors to dine alfresco with a hearty meal, washed down with a sumptuous glass of red – or sparkling bubbly.

Wander the streets of Marlow to see what you can find – there's a gorgeous Vietnamese restaurant nearby as well as a great selection of rustic pubs to unwind in as you enjoy a pint or two. A short drive takes you to the verdant Higginson Park where you get a fantastic view of the river and is a lovely spot for a picnic. 

River Rest

On a tree-lined crescent road, this elegant apartment occupies the wing of a traditional Victorian home and welcomes you to enjoy a regal stay in southeast London. 

Just a short stroll from Hampton Court Palace as well as the River Thames, you’ll find yourself perfectly poised for magical strolls, sightseeing and the endless delights of city living. And from the moment of arrival, you’ll want to pause and savour the unique details of this home. From the antique furnishings and ornate styling to the personal touches and leafy garden views, this is the kind of space that promises to bring warmth and joy to your stay – as well as an abundance of charm and character. 

Enjoy relaxing in the elegant sitting room, savour a quiet morning coffee on the balcony, embrace the comfort of home cooking in the fully-equipped kitchen, and sip early evening drinks in the garden. However you choose to spend your time here, you’ll find it easy to settle in and make this space your own. 

Days can be spent admiring the beauty of the Royal parks – it’s just a short stroll to Bushy Park and a short train ride from Richmond Park. And with an abundance of shops, cafes and eateries on your doorstep, you’ll find yourself living like a London local.

Grace & Light 

Placing you right in the heart of Warfield, this home provides a practical yet cosy space from which to explore the Berkshire countryside. There are forest walks and cycle trails within easy reach, while it’s just a five-minute drive to the shops and restaurants of the Lexicon – a great option for family entertainment. At full occupancy, one guest will be sleeping on a pull-out bed which might not be ideal for longer stays, but it has all the other essentials you could need for everyday comfort. We like the little garden – a great spot for summer evening drinks. 

Joy & Ease

Home Cinema Setup

Projector

Baby Changing Mat

Just outside the village of Little Bentley, a five-minute walk from the local pub and a ten-minute drive from Colchester, this rustic barn is nestled on a working farm. Previously a popular children's café with fun play areas both indoors and out, it's an ancient barn that retains a great deal of rustic charm. 

Quirky and imaginative, it's a family home with an emphasis on keeping the little ones entertained (and safe – it's fully child-proofed). The huge living space is dominated at one end by a log burner, with aged leather sofas and throws perfect for cosying up on winter nights, while the other end features a super cool, Scandi-style kitchen – complete with a professional café coffee machine that's been left in situ so you can play barista. Fun things about this room include the chalkboard wall, a movie projector for film nights and an indoor hammock chair.  

One of the bedrooms is aimed at kids, with twin beds, funky lights, chalkboards, toys and books. But as if that wasn't enough, they have a whole play area in the main space, where imaginations can run wild thanks to a wooden teepee, a wooden shop and a range of homemade superhero capes to choose from. There's more outside with a willow tunnel and mud kitchen. As the sun sets, toast some marshmallows around the fire pit before heading to your cosy beds.

Gooseberry Fool

Piano

Sonos

Record Player

Paid Parking On Premises

Beach Essentials

Go off gird for a while beside the sweeping coastal banks of the desirable Granville Cliff Estate in Seasalter - the location of this contemporary, airy home. The estate's private beach, just a minute’s walk from the property, takes centre stage here. Grab the home's paddleboard and two-person kayak and head for the sea, or try beachcombing for seashells - the coast goes on for miles. And you can always pop back to rustle up a picnic when tummies start to rumble or stroll along to the acclaimed Sportsman pub to feast on oysters. Back at the sea-facing chalet bungalow, an effortlessly stylish home awaits. Expect vintage mid-century furniture, unique artwork, and a modern kitchen made for action. Ideal for groups of friends and family coming together, you’ll love how spread out the home feels. The self-contained apartment upstairs with a separate kitchen will be a bonus for anyone looking for that extra bit of privacy. And there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained in the surprisingly spacious garden, with a trampoline & football goal. When you can finally bear to part from the private beach, central Whitstable is just a five-minute drive away (or thirty minutes on foot). Just be sure to make it back home as the sun sets over Whitstable – it’s quite the show.

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Home spotlights in Bishop's Stortford

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