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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Entertainment

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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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Carbon Monoxide Detector

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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

Baby Bath

Bathtub

Toiletries

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Cooking Essentials

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Iron

Washing Machine

Extra Pillows and Blankets

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Laptop Friendly Workspace

Self Check-in / Check-out

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

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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

Amazon Prime

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Rain Shower

Pod Coffee Machine

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Found in the centre of town, a thirteen-minute walk from Lincoln's iconic Cathedral, this large family home has been restored with comfort and style in mind. Especially so, given the size of the two lounges. Add the dining area into the equation, and you can see how there's plenty of room for everyone to carve out their own space. Two pull-out beds and two single sofa beds keep sleeping arrangements flexible, although these are best for children as they're on the smaller side. 

Step out through the bifold doors onto a large patio area with garden furniture for seamless indoor and outdoor dining. Down from the patio is a large grass area and lower patio area with a Hot Tub suitable for 6-7 people. This is the perfect garden for summer socials and BBQs.

Blue Velvet & Cedar

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

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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

Desk

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

Sonos

Baby Monitor

Courtyard

Safe

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

Cafetiere

Espresso Machine

Outdoor Fireplace / Firepit

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

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Children's Dinnerware

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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

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

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

Balcony

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

Satellite / Cable TV

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

Playground

Air Conditioning

Single-Level Home

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This pretty farm building conversion offers all the independence of a private cottage with its own garden, with the added bonus of communal grounds where children can run free. Ideal for families, it's part of a small complex of similar homes just a five-minute walk from the nearest beach. Comfortable and smart, the single-storey cottage shows off its heritage with a stable door, high ceilings, oak beams and skylights, while the open-plan living space is perfect for keeping an eye on the kids as you whip up meals in the country kitchen. Bedrooms are cosy and relaxing, and we love the double doors that open out into the garden from the master bedroom. Outside, make use of the barbecue in your enclosed garden, or take the kids to the communal play area. With a fort, swings and a sunken trampoline, it's bound to be a hit. Walk to some of the area's best beaches from your doorstep, stroll to the local pub and head off on all sorts of adventures around the island by car.  

Bay Cottage

Free Parking

An eleven-minute drive to the bustling town of Hexham (or just over thirty minutes to the metropolis of Newcastle), this delightful cottage offers a secluded, rural retreat in the north of England. The setting is postcard-perfect – a white picket fence, traditional iron lamppost, and handmade stone wall surround this cute and cosy home. As you stroll down your paved entrance, you’ll notice your manicured lawn, flowerbed, and dining patio. On a sunny day, it’s the ideal spot for a picnic. Or on a chilly evening, it’s even better for stargazing with a hot toddy in hand. Inside, the living space is a welcoming mix of old and new. The stylish, light-grey kitchen is understated and modern. But we love the traditional countryside features such as flagstone flooring and a sandstone, inglenook fireplace with a wood-burning stove. You feel like you've gone back in time when you’re stoking the flames with the cast-iron tools, and adding fresh logs from the wicker basket. And there’s plenty of history to discover outside the home too – take a thirty-five-minute walk to the 2000-year-old Chesters Roman Fort and Museum on Hadrian’s Wall.

Sandstone Hearth

Step-Free Access

Seven minutes by car from Durham city centre, this former rectory plays host to a most luxurious home that feels a world away from urban life. In the rolling fields of County Durham lies a village called Witton Gilbert. At its heart, you’ll find local pubs, shops, and a bowling green, but a five-minute walk will take you up to your vast manor. Enter through majestic,  wrought-iron gates, up your private drive, to the bright blue front door – a cheery invitation to welcome you inside. With modern, velvet furniture in the living space illuminated by enormous bay windows, the gold detailing truly shimmers in the afternoon sun. Pad across the plush carpet to the flagstone floors of the kitchen, where you can rustle up a wholesome Sunday roast on the bottle-green Aga. The dining space has ample room for the whole family, with a rustic table made from huge planks of wood, for a nod to country living. On a balmy summer evening, you might even want to trade the dining table for a picnic on the lawn, followed by a game of tennis on your private court (and a gin and tonic after sunset).

The Ecclesiastic

Breakfast Included

Glamping never looked so good than at this charming cabin nestled within a wild-flower meadow of a 2500-acre family-owned farm estate. Don't be fooled by its unassuming aluminum exterior. Inside, the cabin is surprisingly spacious and lovingly converted by your hosts to provide all the creature comforts. Expect spotless interiors with a well-equipped traditional kitchen complete with a Belfast sink, a neat en-suite shower, and luxurious Egyptian linens on the king-sized bed and bunk beds for the kids. A welcome hamper brimming with local goodies, including milk, eggs, freshly baked bread, and marshmallows for those obligatory s'mores, will help to settle you in. And you'll bank a blissful night's sleep here – your only neighbours are the occasional peacock or deer strutting by. While away your days watching nature unfold outside on the terraces - the private elevated balcony looking out into surrounding woodland (a great spot for den building) is a beautiful place for a cuppa. Or don your hiking boots for a country walk – perhaps with a pit stop at the welcoming local pub (within walking distance) for a swift pint. Just be sure to make it home for dusk as the sun sets over the surrounding countryside. Placed in one of the UK's largest 'dark-sky' areas, there's much stargazing to be done while getting toasty beside the firepit.

Under the Stars

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Situated on a small family-run agricultural nursery, we think this luxury lodge is the perfect place to switch off and recharge. Not only is the location excellent – the idyllic South Downs are practically on your doorstep – but the attention to detail here is second-to-none. Rainfall showers and eco-friendly toiletries in the bathrooms, Netflix on the smart TVs and a panini maker in the kitchen are just a few of the things we love. The design is impeccable with blue velvet, dark greys and lots of wood. It's the perfect blend between rustic, country living and contemporary comforts, with chic furniture handmade by host Lucca. Speaking of, he'll leave a welcome hamper brimming with goodies for you to enjoy, and depending on the season, it'll contain fresh Italian fruit and veg grown on their farm. 

Days start and end here out on the deck, enjoying alfresco breakfasts in the sun and evening dips in the private hot tub. In between, set off and explore the local area – just walk out the front gates and you're on the National Trust South Downs footpath, leading towards Highdown Hill. A fourteen-minute walk away is the local pub, a few eateries and shops in Ferring, and it's only a five-minute drive to the beach. And with Worthing, Chichester and Brighton all less than an hour by car, you'll have plenty of options for adventures around West Sussex.

Dew on the Vine

Check in to this waterfront cottage in the Lake District, where heritage, design, and uninterrupted views of Talkin Tarn and the Carrock Fells blend seamlessly. Though set deep in the Cumbria countryside, there's nothing twee about the inside of this home. Accents of racing green and antiqued brass bring flow and a dash of luxury throughout the space and guide you upstairs to an exquisite bedroom with a gleaming slipper bath at its heart. Part of an exclusive estate set within 1.5 acres of grounds, you could feel a million miles from anywhere here. But you're not as remote as you may think. The footpath from your door leads to the charming village of Talkin. Grab a shift pint and hearty meal in the village inn, or mosey down to The Boathouse Cafe for lunch al fresco overlooking the tarn. When it's time to embrace the great outdoors, hire a rowing boat, paddleboard, or kayak to launch off the tarn. Tee off from the local golf course - it overlooks the cottages. Then take a stroll around the 1.3-mile tarn through the mature woodland. Or, you could stay tucked up at home and soak up those views from the private patio or beside the fire – it's a scene you'll never tire of.

Look of Luxe

DVD Player

Bicycles

Outdoor Audio

There aren't many homes in our collection where you could feasibly arrive by kayak rather than by car, but this is one of them. Perched on the side of the Menai Strait, this four-storey gem dates back to the Victorian era and benefits from beautiful views of the sea, Bangor Pier and the Snowdonia mountain range. This can be enjoyed from the big bay windows or the comfort of the outdoor terrace. Better still, you can head down to the home's private shingle beach which also has a small cave to explore. Back inside the home, the interior is traditional, with portraits hanging on the walls and a large wooden dining table a regal centrepiece to gather the group around after the day's excursions. The town of Beaumaris with its castle, pier and beach take just six minutes to reach in the car, while you can get to Penrhyn Zip World in twenty minutes if you're looking for hi-octane thrills.

The Marquess

Stair Gates

Safety Gates

Just outside the picturesque village of Llanfrynach, on the grounds of a grade II*-listed Georgian mansion, this one-bedroom cottage is all about rest and relaxation. This former coach house has been converted into a stunning contemporary space. Downstairs, the sitting room boasts sky-high ceilings and ten-foot-tall French doors leading out onto a private patio. The wood burner and deerskin rugs on the floor add a cosy feeling that's perfect for the colder months, while during the summer, you can throw open those doors and let the outside in. The cottage actually has two patio areas – one facing east and the other west – so you can always catch the sun no matter the time of day. Upstairs, the bedroom welcomes you with exposed oak beams and a natural stone wall that perfectly complements the black wrought iron bed frame. Step across the hall to discover a beautiful bathroom with a double-ended tub and a walk-in shower. If you can tear yourself away, there are plenty of leisurely walks and challenging hikes directly from your front door. There are options for all levels, from high peaks to gentle canalside strolls and everything in between. Despite the secluded location, plenty of pubs and restaurants, as well as a supermarket, within a ten-minute drive. After a hard day of hiking in the hills, why not treat yourself to a relaxing massage in the on-site treatment room.

The Gatekeeper

Rejuvenate with panoramic sea views every day at this beachfront hideout perched along one of Sandgate’s most sought-after private roads. Boasting direct access to a quiet and secluded stretch of beach, and yet just a 4-minute drive (or thirty-three minutes on foot) from the bustling seaside town of Folkestone, it’s hard to imagine a better location. Wake up with invigorating strolls along the nearby coastal paths. Rustle up a picnic for the beach, or head into Sandgate for a dose of seaside nostalgia with fish and chips and lashings of ice cream. When it’s time for a spot of shopping and culture, mosey along to the cobbled streets of Folkstone, where you’ll find bustling restaurants, gastropubs, and the thriving artist quarter. Back at home, maritime curiosities bring coastal charm, while a dramatic mural painted by Kent artist Oliver Trowell brings drama and a dash of colour to the space. After busy days exploring the Kent coast, soak weary legs in the Jacuzzi bathtub. Then pad out onto the south-easterly facing terrace, fire up the barbecue and nestle down in the charming pergola. It’s your front-row seat to watch the glowing setting sun.

Blue Horizon

Piano

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This unique home was a bakery in the 1950s but it was converted by the host's parents, who both worked at the Lincoln School of Art. As well as being a day job, they also had a strong interest in artistic endeavours and they filled the interior with hand-crafted ceramics, fabrics and paintings. Today, much of their collection remains and it lends the feel of part-museum, part-period home — especially with the hardwood floors and wood-burning fireplace. The large garden is equally special too, with a pond full of frogs and plenty of lawn space on which to lie back with a book borrowed from the packed shelves in the dining room. When you fancy exploring your surroundings, the city of Lincoln is thirteen minutes away in the car, while the Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty can be reached in just over twenty. Closer to home, there's a pub two minutes' walk around the corner.

Where The Art Is

Paid Parking On Street

Resort Access

Two of the things that the Kent town of Deal is most famous for is its castle and stretch of pebbly coastline. As it happens, both of these things are visible through the big bay window in the lounge of this apartment. Back inside, the decor is simple, but every aspect has been executed so well. Wooden floorboards and white walls provide a classy backdrop against which colourful furnishings and photographic artwork pop off. The kitchen is pretty large considering the address is only for two, so you'll be able to flex your culinary muscles with no trouble. The presence of a bathtub is also sure to be appreciated after a long day frolicking about on the beach, which sits at the end of the street. There are plenty of pubs and restaurants within walking distance, too.

A Northerly Wind

Buzzer / Wireless Intercom

Known locally as the Kingdom of Fife, this east coast region of Scotland is awash with historic monuments, ancient towns, sweeping beaches, and fresh sea air. While its heritage speaks volumes, there are of course plenty of built-up areas with everything a modern visitor could need.

Kinghorn offers pubs, traditional chippies, a golf course, and cute cafés, but the standout feature is the huge town hall. This Tudor-Gothic style building was built in 1826, with its ground floors having played the role of council chambers and even a prison. Secret stairways and enormous windows let you admire views of Kinghorn Beach, a seven-minute walk away. But why are we focusing solely on this historic landmark? Well, because this is your home. 

Your apartments are set over the first and second floors, with jaw-dropping, period interiors which feel regal, luxurious, and opulent. Rich red fabrics, elegant cornicing, chandeliers, solid marble fireplaces, antique furniture, gilded mirror frames – we could go on. There’s even a private walled garden at the back, where you can sit out under the stars sipping whisky and looking out over your very own kingdom.

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Escape to the Country: Some Favourites From the Cotswolds

Cornwall Itinerary for 7 Days: How to Spend Them

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

We selected the 9723 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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