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

Bathtub

Hair Dryer

Bathroom

Coffee Maker

Dishwasher

Fridge

High Chair

Kitchen

Kitchen Utensils

Microwave

Oven

Stove

Toaster

Kitchen & Dining

Cot / Crib

Dryer

Ironing Board

Washing Machine

Bedroom & Laundry

Wi-fi

Internet & Office

Central Heating

Fireplace

Heating & Cooling

Parking Available

Parking & Access

Barbeque

Garden

Outdoor Seating

Patio / Terrace

Outdoor

Pets Allowed

Pets

Child Friendly

Other

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

Sonos

Baby Bath

Heated Towel Rail

Rain Shower

Toiletries

Cafetiere

Children's Dinnerware

Cooking Essentials

Espresso Machine

Freezer

Kettle

Pod Coffee Machine

Wine Cooler

Private Washing Machine

Private Dryer

Black-Out Blinds

Cleaning Products

Drying Rack

Extra Pillows and Blankets

Hangers

Iron

Vacuum Cleaner

Laptop Friendly Workspace

Underfloor Heating

Free Parking On Street

Free Parking On Premises

EV Charger

Private Entrance

Single-Level Home

Fenced Garden

Outdoor Fireplace / Firepit

Sun Loungers / Beach Chairs

Welcome Hamper

Nice to haves

Carbon Monoxide Detector

Fire Extinguisher

Smoke Detector

It’s no wonder that this home, in the heart of the Lake District National Park, has been nominated for Cumbria's most stylish two-bedroom retreat. A lot of thought has gone into the design of this home. There’s a Morsø log burner and designer furniture in the Scandinavian-style living room and luxurious beds with Egyptian cotton linen. Sliding doors from the living space lead to a fantastic social outdoor area with seating and dining, as well as a fireplace and barbecue. You can’t come to the Lake District without exploring the area – so have a stroll around Bowness-on-Windermere’s streets filled with boutiques, cafes, and pubs. Or go for a boat trip on Lake Windermere, less than 200 metres away.

Waterside Serenity

Board Games

Games Console

Games Room

Pool / Snooker Table

Sound System

Ping Pong Table

Bathrobes

Ice Machine

Blender

Hot Tub

Tennis Court

Wellness & Fitness

Temperature Control

Beach / Pool Towels

Garden Games

Outdoor Kitchen

Sun Umbrellas

Umbrellas

24-Hour Security

Security Cameras

Security System

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

Private Parking

Grand but grounded, this country retreat blends period charm with laid-back luxury. Tucked in the sleepy village of Puttenham, this home is made for gatherings, with eight bedrooms, landscaped gardens, and space to spread out across every corner. Start mornings with coffee in the sun-dappled kitchen, lose hours in the garden with its private hot tub and pond views, then gather around the AGA for slow suppers and catch-ups. Whether you're celebrating something special or just seeking stillness, this is a house that makes room for it all.

Orchard Hollow

Luxury Toiletries

Luxury Bedding

Gated Community

Self Check-in / Check-out

Step-Free Access

Balcony / Patio

Courtyard

Throws

First Aid Kit

Safe

Charming and cosy, this three-room converted stable is perfect for a romantic getaway. It’s been restored to the highest standard, with comfortable furnishings and modern amenities including underfloor heating – this is a getaway location for all seasons. In summer, the patio garden is a lovely spot for a cuppa. Staying here, you’ll be close to Burford’s historic high street and will have easy access to the rolling hills and honey-stone cottages of the Cotswolds. You’ll also be able to drive to Oxford to visit the museums as well as being only 30 minutes from Cheltenham to enjoy the races.


Stable Stay

DVD Player

Tucked away in the peaceful Hampnett Valley, this cottage is everything you imagine when you picture a classic Cotswolds stay. A rose-framed entrance leads into a warm open-plan space where exposed stone and a range cooker evoke timeless country comfort. Wake to birdsong, enjoy long breakfasts with the French doors open, or unwind on the lawn as the sun slips behind the hills. Walkers will love the Monarch Way on the doorstep, while Northleach’s pubs, delis and shops are just a short stroll away. And when the day’s adventures are done, the glow of the woodburner welcomes you.

Cotswold Roses

Amazon Prime

Netflix

Home Cinema Setup

Streaming Services

Desk

Workplace

Beach Essentials

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

Balcony

Rooftop Terrace

Set near the water’s edge on Hayling Island, this contemporary home really makes the most of its picturesque position. The house has an upside-down layout, with the bedrooms on a lower floor and the living space upstairs, ensuring extra-special views from the sofa. We love the garden, which has plenty of room to relax in the fresh sea air, and the covered balcony, where you can enjoy the view even when it rains. The island itself is a true holiday haven, with unspoilt beaches, scenic cycle trails, and a kid-friendly amusement park. Little ones will also like this home’s hidden playroom and bunk bed slide – but guests of all ages will love this coastal gem. 

 Tides of Hayling

Once the home to the estate’s Head Gardener, this Midlothian home is the perfect bolthole for a family on a back-to-nature retreat. We love the sense of history this home offers, along with all the modern touches you’d want for a relaxing stay. The cedar hot tub is sure to be a hit with all, while the outdoor fireplace is the ideal spot to unwind with a tipple to share tales from the day. With 3,100 hectares to explore, you’ll never be bored here – but if you fancy a change of scene, head to the Pentland Hills or hop in the car for a trip to Edinburgh, thirty minutes away. 

Scottish Tranquillity

Exercise Equipment

Alarm System

Set in the Lake District, this home has been featured on the TV show Extraordinary Escapes, and we can see why. Situated on the shores of Lake Windermere, it has wonderful views and an acre of garden, as well as several balconies. There’s a terrace for dining and relaxing, as well as a jetty where you can moor a boat or kayak. The interior of this home is impressive too with its designer furniture and ski lodge feel. A home cinema and a games room with a bespoke 8-foot pool table will keep everyone entertained. And all the bedrooms have floor-to-ceiling windows – two also have oval baths overlooking the lake. This place has been designed with total luxury in mind.

Lakeland Retreat

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

Stair Gates

Escape to this idyllic Herefordshire retreat, perched on top of a hill beside an iron-age fort and offering breathtaking countryside vistas. Perfect for a multi-generational family stay (with two dogs in tow), alongside the main barn, there's a smaller stone barn (connected on the first floor) offering a snug, two further bedrooms and a well-equipped playroom. If you can lure yourselves from the enclosed private garden, you're just a five-minute drive from the historic market town of Bromyard with delicatessens, butchers and pubs for a taste of county life. 

The Vintage Farmhouse

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

This stunning lochside home is perfect for a family retreat or a peaceful getaway with friends. Enjoy views of Glencoe in the distance, and Loch Etive right on your doorstep – follow the track from the garden to reach the shoreline. The boat jetty is an idyllic spot for a picnic, and there’s a barbecue in the garden. When it’s chilly outside, curl up in the living room with a whisky and a board game – what could be better? This is a secluded home-from-home, but you’ll be just 5 miles from the shops of Taynuilt, and 15 miles from Oban. 

The Highland Hideaway

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

Parking On Street

Fenced Property

A small town with an intriguing history, the compact grid system of Caerwys was allegedly the model layout for the first settler who mapped out the city of Philadelphia. But far from its transatlantic, urban sibling, this quaint village has stuck to its rustic roots. At the heart of the town, a five-minute walk from the golf club, four from the 13th century St. Michaels Church, and less than a minute from your nearest pub, this cottage is ready to welcome you home. As you arrive, its rugged stone exterior oozes rural, village charm. The white door beckons you inside, where underfloor heating allows you to explore every room in warmth and comfort. Its cosy, traditional lounge features a wood-burning stove and plump leather sofas – perfect for snuggling up with a classic novel as you sip hot chocolate. But on summer days, the conservatory at the back offers a modern, sunlit nook for sipping chilled pinot grigio. We love the stylish, bi-folding doors leading out to your private patio and courtyard. With picnic benches, a barbecue, alfresco dining table, plus a view of the aforementioned church, you’ll be spending every balmy afternoon in this idyllic spot.

Atlantic Cartography

Free Parking

Situated in a Grade II-listed building dating back to 1878, we can't help but swoon over this Alnwick apartment. It doesn't lack character, that's for sure – vaulted ceilings, exposed beams and antique knick-knacks like typewriters and old books are in abundance. We think it's the perfect blend of old and new, and nowhere is a better example of that than the open-plan living area. Bright and roomy, there's more than enough space here to spread out and get comfortable, whether you're tucking into a feast around the table or snuggling up in front of the fire. Cooking is anything but a chore in the glossy kitchen, and on rainy days, head up to the mezzanine for board games and billiards. There's also a communal garden for the summer months, where you can sip tea in the sunshine or cocktails at twilight.

And the location is excellent, too. Alnwick is as charming as they come, sprinkled with history and magic – no wonder they filmed Harry Potter here. Spend afternoons wandering down the cobbled lanes, popping in and out of the independent shops, cafes and bookstores that line the high street. The famous Alnwick Castle is just a short walk away, while the Northumberland coast is a thirteen-minute drive. In the evenings, forgo the home-cooking for a pint, delicious pub grub and live music at one of the cosy inns in town.

Watching the Wheels

Bicycles

Desk / Workplace

Herb Garden

With farmland to the front and the owner’s beautiful private nature reserve behind – this gorgeous home, part of a cluster of mill buildings, is in an idyllic spot. 

Take a stroll through winding footpaths of the reserve that meander through meadows and forests of giant cedars and ancient oaks. In spring, you’ll see enchanting carpets of bluebells, primroses and daffodils, but whatever time of year you come, you’ll be treated to an array of wildlife, from chaffinches to woodpeckers. There are maps to find the footpaths going onwards to Snape Maltings, just over two miles away, and to the sea at Aldeburgh (or it’s seven minutes in the car). You can borrow some bikes too if you prefer to cycle.

You don’t have to go anywhere to get some fresh air, though. There’s a lovely old cobbled, sunny courtyard where clematis and wisteria clamber up the walls – it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the welcome hamper of breakfast goodies. There’s another patio area, too, with fragrant rambling roses – ideal for a glass of wine.

The home itself is a sympathetic conversion of a stable and grain store. We adore the character features inside, such as the traditional 17th Century Suffolk white brick flooring, wood-panelled walls and old oak floorboards. Part of the original manger has been incorporated into the wall dividing the kitchen and the living space area – a lovely touch. Open the stable doors here and listen to the blackbirds singing at dusk. Furnished with antiques, this cottage will appeal to couples and pet owners looking for a luxurious country bolthole.


Blackbirds Singing At Dusk

Step back in time at this meticulously restored Regency cottage. Your hosts have poured their time and energy into sourcing period-specific reclaimed materials and equipping the home with antique furnishings to create a cosy and charming English escape that offers the very best of coast and country.

All that effort has clearly paid off, as evidenced by the beautiful interior. From the Victorian roll-top bath to the eighteenth-century range and the wainscotting on the walls – every effort has been made to make it feel as authentic as possible. Even the mod cons, such as the TV, are hidden away inside bread ovens that are built into the chimney so as not to shatter the illusion.

At the top of the narrow staircase is the twin bedroom, through which you enter the main bedroom – a pretty common arrangement for houses of this period.

Step outside, and you'll find a beautifully maintained nature reserve right on your doorstep. Your hosts bought it in 2015 and have spent the intervening years slowly restoring and exposing its beauty, with winding footpaths leading to conveniently placed benches, soaring Scots pine trees and ancient oaks – perfect for a reflective moment in nature or a ride on the supplied bikes.

For adventures further afield, you'll find maps detailing footpaths that run to the world-class concert hall at Snape Maltings, two-and-a-half miles away, and continue through forests and past lakes, leading all the way to the sea at Aldeburgh. 

The Miller's Cottage

DVD Library

Projector

Mini Bar

Heated Pool

Outdoor Pool

Swimming Pool

Early / Late Check-Out Available

Multiple Sets of Keys

Pool House

Outdoor Shower

A lot of time and thought has been put into converting the historic chapel that is now The Burrow. Nestled in a tranquil spot of countryside surrounded by rolling hills, the space feels authentically rustic but still comfortable and elegant. The tall arch windows provide floods of natural light and beautiful views of the landscape, including the inviting (and heated) swimming pool. While remote location would be difficult for guests without a car, it also makes it a great spot for a romantic getaway. 



The Burrow

Buzzer / Wireless Intercom

If you're looking for a classic country cottage – call the search off. With its idyllic walled garden and a luxury interior, this Grade II listed home is the perfect romantic retreat – just the ideal place to spend quality time with loved ones. Host Aisha has lovingly decorated this place with distinguished collectables and antiques, including the wonderful wardrobe in the master bedroom. Watch the sun set over the Somerset hills from the lush grounds – we love the stunning views from here. Later, relax in the hot tub or have a soak in the gorgeous slipper bath. When you're ready to venture out, the Georgian splendour of Bath is a twenty-minute drive away. Spend the day exploring the Royal Crescent, the Circus and the Roman Baths, as well as the many museums such as the Jane Austen Centre. Then unwind at the Thermae Bath Spa with its roof-top pool. For a more relaxed pace, there's a pub and café for lunch in Timsbury, around a five-minute stroll. Or put on your hiking boots and explore the glorious Somerset countryside.

The Parish Stone

Access to Beach

Located in the picturesque village of Harrowbarrow, with sweeping views of the Cornish countryside and Tamar Valley, this Grade II-listed building is sure to impress. Inside, it’s thoroughly up to date with a sleek white and grey colour scheme. The double-height ceilings and clever use of glass make the place feel extra spacious and bright, while a wood-burning stove adds a sense of cosiness. When the weather is on your side, spill out onto the south facing patio for sunshine all day long. After a tasty barbecue lunch, ramble through Kit Hill Country Park or take the thirty-five-minute drive down to Tregantle Beach for wind-whipped walks along the unspoilt sands. Come home in the late afternoon, salty-haired and ravenous, and dig into hearty fare at the traditional pub, just a fifteen-minute stroll from your doorstep. 

The Chaplain

Laundry Supplies

Accessible Parking

Bike Shed

A delightfully quaint bolthole set in the beautiful Kent countryside, this home's modern black facade is complemented by a rustic and quirky interior. Glass-fronted and beaming with sunlight all year round, the bright living space is warm and welcoming from the moment you arrive. The fully-equipped kitchen has soft wooden tables and open shelves, creating a homely and relaxing space to gather over a homecooked meal. It opens onto the trendy and whimsical lounge, with its yellow armchair and eclectic decorations. We loved the garden most of all – slide open the glass doors and step outside into the fresh air. Outside, you'll find an alfresco dining area – the perfect spot to tuck into the cake host Georgina leaves for you – and a cosy lounge area surrounding an open-air fire pit, which is ideal for enjoying a moment of calm while watching the sunset. You may even spot the resident kingfisher as it flies from the pond. When you're ready for sleep, drift off in the plush beds in the country-style bedrooms, then wake up feeling well-rested and ready to explore Kent. You're perfectly located for adventures – make the twenty-minute drive to the coastal Dungeness National Nature Reserve or reward yourself after a stroll with a pint in one of the delicious pubs nearby.

The Kingfisher

Baby Changing Mat

Living on the grounds of a 16th century country-house in the lush green Cotswolds (the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) already creates the ideal setting for nature lovers. Once you settle in with biscuits, fresh scones and fruits on arrival (among other goodies) and befriend the curious chickens, embark on a walk through the rolling Cotswold hills and valleys. While Netflix and cocoa are perfect for rainy days in, there is a whole world out there on sunnier days. The Cotswold Way is a trail that we’d definitely recommend, with plenty of historic pubs along the way, each serving their own collection of local ales. The home is located in Painswick, a village known as The Queen of the Cotswolds and characterised by beautiful narrow streets of honey coloured stone buildings dating back to the fifteenth century. Legend has it that the Devil won’t let a hundredth tree grow. There are all sorts of cafes and restaurants in and around the village, so make sure you ask the host, Hannah, for some recommendations.


The Cotswold Cedar

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

We selected the 9679 homes worth renting in this location

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Escape to the Country: Some Favourites From the Cotswolds

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