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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Llansteffan is an idyllic coastal village nestled on the banks of the River Tywi estuary in Carmarthenshire, offering a charming escape for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts. You'll be captivated by the light and airy atmosphere of this delightful holiday retreat, elegantly decorated with a contemporary touch. Unwind in the lounge, warmed by a cozy wood burner and mesmerized by serene estuary views. The dining area beckons for relaxed conversations as you plan your day's adventures. The well-equipped kitchen caters to your culinary desires. The master bedroom with en-suite affords ultimate relaxation, while three more bedrooms ensure ample space for guests. Outside, a decked area invites you to savor breathtaking sunsets over the estuary, accompanied by a glass of wine or a beachside barbecue. With parking for four cars and pet-friendly arrangements, this coastal haven ensures a memorable stay for all.

Estuary Bliss

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Parking Available

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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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High Street, Norton is an expertly designed holiday home with style in abundance. Nestled in the heart of the market town of Norton, you'll be perfectly placed to enjoy the many independent restaurants, shops and bars nearby. Sleeping up to four guests, this beautiful holiday home is an ideal base for romantic retreats, family staycations and getaways for small groups of friends. High Street, Norton also accepts one well-behaved dog so your four-legged friend can enjoy a holiday too!

Charming Norton Hideaway

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Nestled on the edge of Holkham Estate, this lodge is somewhere you can truly immerse yourself in nature yet still have the coast within easy reach. Perfect for couples and those keen to bring their four-legged friends along for the stay, there are countryside walks from your doorstep, with a stroll through Holkham Park a must. The enclosed garden is just the place for wildlife spotting as you relax in the evening, while locally, if you fancy a beach day, Holkham Bay is just a short drive away. 

The Sea Is You

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Nestled in the idyllic village of Cley-next-the-Sea, and located behind The George and Dragon Hotel, our Enchanted Coach House invites you to experience the true magic of a British coastal retreat. This newly renovated ground floor property offers luxurious accommodation for two guests, boasting a generously-sized bedroom with a king-size bed that promises restful nights. Indulge in the stylish en-suite bathroom equipped with a walk-in shower and contemplative Japanese bath. The heart of the coach house is a large open-plan kitchen and dining area thoughtfully furnished to cater to all your self-catering requirements. Step outside into nature's embrace as you wander through the Whispering Pines or find solace in the hidden corners of The Secret Garden. With its proximity to the stunning Norfolk coast, this charming coastal escape is the perfect place to create lasting memories.

Enchanted Coach House

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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

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Set within seven acres of private woodland in the beautiful Slad Valley, this architect-designed home has amazing views across the Cotswold escarpment. You can enjoy the vistas from its terrace and various seating areas, as well as from inside. There’s the all-important log burner in the open-plan living area and a library to relax in with a book. We love that the main bedroom suite opens out onto the patio too. When you want to explore, the town of Stroud is around 3 miles away with its farmers’ market and museum, while the local village pub is just over a mile.

The Woodland Villa

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Seamlessly blending traditional and modern, this rural farmhouse is a true escape from it all. Tailor-made for socialising, we love the open-concept kitchen and dining areas making up the heart of the home, where in winter, you can soak up the warmth of the wood burner or in summer months, spill out onto the terrace. Locally, you’re just a short distance from the vibrant market towns of Clitheroe and Settle, while walkers and cyclers alike will adore Gisburn Forest, a mere five-minute drive away. 

A Serene Soul

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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

Access to Beach

Fancy a romantic getaway with a twist? This upside-down home places a firelit living area above the bedroom, where the en-suite bathtub enjoys a framed view of the creek. Upstairs, we think the waterside terrace might inspire a paddle to Salcombe – made easy by the three-seater kayak your host provides. It's worth noting that there is a bit of a hike to the front door here (thirty-six steps, to be precise), so this home won't be the best option for everyone. 

The Great Outward

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 charming Tudor castle, built in 1560, has been fully restored to create the perfect romantic retreat for two. Set in the picturesque Teesdale landscape, this historic property is located near the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District National Park, as well as the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Guests can admire the ornate roof beams carved from oak trees felled over 400 years ago in the dining hall, and relax in the cosy living room with a wood-burning stove set within a Tudor fireplace. The bedroom features a double bed on an oak floor adorned with Persian rugs and offers stunning views of the walled garden and the high moors beyond. The property also boasts an enclosed courtyard garden and two designated parking spaces. Up to two well-behaved dogs are welcome for a small additional charge.

The Daffodil Garden

Games Room

Full of countryside charm, this Grade II listed farmhouse is a perfect place for a family gathering. The flexible sleeping arrangements mean the bedrooms can be split into single beds if preferred, so whatever your set-up, it can be accommodated with ease. With plenty of space for everyone to spread out and a snooker room to enjoy some game time, you can socialise or settle down in a quiet nook. Locally, a guided walk of the deer park is a must, with the red deer herd visible from the house. 

The Lincolnshire Sun

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A historic gatehouse on the grounds of the Shaftesbury Estate in rural Dorset, this petite one-bed lodge has recently undergone a loving refurb by one of the estate owners, Lady Shaftesbury. She obviously has a great eye for design, as her palette of delicious apricot and duck egg blue stylishly updates this vintage cottage into not just a twenty-first-century home, but a home with charm and character. There are plenty of thoughtful touches we found exquisite, from soft dressing gowns to the complementary breakfast hamper – and everything, from Egyptian cotton bedding to the plush sofas, is of boutique hotel quality. The hosts are attentive, meticulously committed to making sure your every whim is met. All in all, this cosy country hideaway is perfect for city escapes, with nearby the great beaches of the Jurassic coast, the New Forest, the National Trust property of Kingston Lacey, cities like Salisbury or Portsmouth and traditional seaside in Bournemouth. And while it feels like one of a kind, a twin lodge and two maisonettes in a neighbouring cottage are also available, so you can bring your friends too (although you might want to keep this little secret to yourself). 

A Little Peach

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This fantastic dovecot conversion pairs thoughtful, rustic decor with high tech amenities including air conditioning, Netflix, Xbox, Amazon Echo and ultra-fast internet. If you would rather unplug, the free-standing rolltop bathtub is a particular highlight, accompanied by a selection of luxury toiletries for your pleasure. Use it all guilt-free – solar power, air source heating and filtered well water make this an environmentally friendly retreat. 

Though set in a private fourteen-acre estate, this country cottage is within easy distance of local amenities. The historic hamlet of Market Harborough is just a ten-minute drive away, where you'll find a host of independent shops and traditional British eateries. Stop off at the Haddon Fields on your way back and enjoy a gentle stroll through the woodland. Once you've worked up an appetite, return to your dovecot digs in time to soak up the last of the day's light with an al fresco meal on the terrace.

Rectory Cottage

Set in Gwbert, this home has uninterrupted views over Cardigan Bay, positioned at the mouth of the River Teifi. It's an area that's famous for its sparkling blue seas and dolphin-watching – you may even spot a pod from the kitchen window. Inside, it's open, bright and tastefully decorated with a mix of antique and quirky furnishings. Two of the bedrooms have dreamy sea views, and there's a magazine-worthy glass-fronted porch off the living room where you can sit with a cup of coffee and watch the morning settle over the ocean, following the line of the front garden’s picturesque water feature all the way out to the sea. For active travellers, the nearby activities are endless – you'll find golf courses, stunning beaches within walking distance, shore fishing, pony trekking and a host of cycling paths. The Ceredigion section of the All Wales Coastal Path can be joined with just a five-minute walk from home, and the area is home to a choice of local boat tour operators, should you fancy a closer look at the bay’s famous dolphins.  

Swim Or Dance

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

You'll find this handsome stone cottage in a rural hamlet right on the edge of Snowdonia National Park, just a thirty-minute drive from the base of the famous mountain. There's a lovely view of this hilly terrain from the home's private garden, which comes with a gas barbecue and plenty of seating for when the weather plays ball. Inside, there are both rustic and modern aspects. A log-burning fire sits in the corner of the living space, for example, but the kitchen has a Quooker tap for instant boiling water and the bathrooms would be right at home in any slick urban apartment. However, we all know that it's the great outdoors that's the big attraction in Wales and there are endless adventures to be had on your doorstep. Both Criccieth and Aberdesach beaches can be reached in under a quarter of an hour in the car, while you can also visit the old slate mines at Blaenau Ffestiniog, only a half-hour drive away.

Slate Stream

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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

We may have found the most adorable home for two. This former milking parlour is one of a small group of cottages in the heart of the Anglesey countryside. Rural, secluded and perfectly in tune with nature, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down. Wander down secret paths in the extensive grounds then take a seat on the deck to watch the dragonflies hovering above the water. The fishing lake is well stocked and there can surely be few more idyllic places for casting a line. Inside the single-storey stone cottage, you’ll find pine furniture, pretty coordinating fabrics and a log burner to warm your toes by. With Anglesey’s dramatic coastline just a short drive away, big surf and blustery coastal walks are in plentiful supply. Stock up for supper in the bustling market town of Llangefni, before hunkering down for the night together. 

The Milk Room

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If you’re looking for a bohemian escape in Cornwall, then look no further. This rustic hideaway is perfect for a solo traveller or a couple looking to get in touch with the raw beauty of the Cornish countryside and who care most about the luxuries of the soul – great music, fantastic light, the roar of the waves. This snazzy barn conversion has bucketloads of character and soulful perks, including a piano, a record player with a vast collection of vinyl, and its own mini sauna. Throw in the super-king sized bed, a brand new bathroom (with bathtub) and kitchen, its location (snuggled away in ancient woodland), the fact that it’s just a five-minute drive to the nearest pub and beach at Crackington Haven, and you’ve got a rural retreat you’ll want to keep quiet about, so you can keep it for yourself. 

Musician's Escape

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Multiple Sets of Keys

Shhh. Can you hear that sound? Us neither. Quietness and tranquility await in this truly extraordinary country cottage in the North Yorkshire dales. The home's glorious traditional features - original stone floors, warm wooden beams, a roaring fireplace - are full of character, but it's the styling of this home that will make you feel at ease from the moment you arrive. In the welcoming living room, the exquisitely-soft turquoise sofa is the perfect place to while away the hours with a book from the well-stocked bookshelf, and Eastern-inspired touches (including Buddha statues) add to the sense of calm. The kitchen, with its white marble countertops and exposed stone walls, is the ideal spot to cook up a rib-sticking meal. The bedrooms are elegant but simply furnished, with mustard yellow blankets and a dried flower wreath creating little moments of joy. But perhaps the real peace here comes from the scenery – this home is in the Yorkshire Dales’ Arkengarthdale, a beautifully remote location where you can hike for miles without seeing another soul. Bliss.

The Riverside Cottage

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Set in a tiny hamlet above bohemian Hebden Bridge, the location of this home is everything.  Thick with artists, crafters, beekeepers, and people who like to do things a bit differently, HB must be one of the most unique villages in England. That quirky, independent spirit carries through into this cottage, with its eclectic mix of furnishings. Think classical with touches of the Middle East, craft crockery and striking wall art. The tree-filled garden is just the place for a morning chai latte, before browsing Hebden Bridge’s independent boutiques, watching an art-house film at the 1920s Picture House, or making a literary pilgrimage to Sylvia Plath’s grave in the ruined churchyard across the road. If you’d like an outdoorsy interlude from all that arts and culture, the surrounding countryside is prime territory for hiking. Come back to your small but perfectly formed base for an evening of love, laughter and stories around the firepit. 

Counting Stars

Accessible Parking

Welcoming guests in style, this converted barn in West Yorkshire boasts a large living area with ample room to socialise and sprawl out. In keeping with its rustic charm, it features plenty of exposed stone, wooden beams and high vaulted ceilings, while modern touches such as a striking bespoke staircase, innovative handmade lighting and a sleek island kitchen have been installed with luxury and comfort in mind. Enjoy meals together at the long table in the open dining area, admiring scenic views of the Yorkshire countryside through vast picture windows. Venture off into the surrounding area and experience the picturesque views first hand, discovering the tranquil beauty of the woodlands. When you're in the mood for exploring further, take a short drive to the quaint village of Ripponden for a hearty pub meal in one of the charming eateries and an enticing taste of the slow life.

Tell a Tale

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From the moment you see the grand stone exterior and cobbled courtyard, you’ll know that this ever-so-charming home is steeped in history. It's a former malthouse that’s over 300 years old and filled with traditional features. When you step into the entrance hall, you’re entering through the large oak door onto the original cart-way, and as you start trying to choose which bedroom you want to lay claim to, you’ll be winding your way up a turret stairway with rope bannisters, surrounded by wooden beams and original fireplaces. The interior has been fully renovated, with a modern handmade kitchen, squishy sofas, and cute-as-a-button bedrooms. Sip your afternoon tea perched on the sunny window seat with a good book in hand (there's an extensive collection to choose from), while gazing at the expansive green views of the playing fields and village church in the backdrop. Elsewhere, the large 14-seater pine dining table will be the perfect spot to savour a slow dinner with the entire group. Although in the garden you'll notice a patio, complete with outdoor furniture, that’s ideal for wine and cheese nights – there's a large lawn and a range of outdoor games available too (including table tennis) for hours of early evening fun. You don’t have to go far to continue the historical theme, as the pub next door is one of the oldest in the country and has been the resting place for many a monarch visiting the area since the 15th century. The surrounding county town, Frome, just a fifteen-minute drive away, was voted one of the best places to live in the UK - explore the rich history, shop at independent boutiques, buy fresh produce at the local market or dine at one of the many eateries dotted around nearby.

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In a secluded spot down a single-track lane, this contemporary barn is a welcome surprise. Renovated in the style of Caruso St John (the famed architects behind the Tate Modern), it's a striking tribute to modern, eco-friendly design – solar panels and a heat source pump power the heating and hot water. The inside is just as dramatic, with copper light fittings, high-design furniture and large picture windows that make the most of the garden views. All the mod-cons are accounted for, including rain showers, a home-cinema projector and underfloor heating to keep chilly toes at bay. Throw a log on the wood-burner for extra cosiness and snuggle up in the window seat with a good book. Outside there's even more to love, including a private pool, leafy garden and a calisthenic gym space that works as a yoga or kickboxing studio. After a morning workout and a dip in the pool, enjoy a walk around Manor Bottom, or if you want to stretch your legs even more, the seaside town of Ventnor is a forty-minute walk away. But our favourite part were the hosts. The amount of love Steven and Agnieszka put into making their guests' stay extra special is quite something. No detail has been overlooked, be it organic toiletries, a welcome hamper filled with local jams and chutneys or arranging on-site massages. They even go the extra mile to carefully curate books and music for each individual guest – safe to say, you'll be in excellent hands.

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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

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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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