It was game, set and match when we saw this elegant 16th Century grange situated on a quiet lane in the heart of Shakespeare country. Play a spot of tennis on the private courts surrounded by beautiful countryside, have a wander around the formal gardens or picnic on the sweeping lawns. Later, read a book in the hanging tree pod or spot the wildlife around the natural swimming lake. There are lovely sunny patios for alfresco dining, too. If you want a quiet spot, read the newspapers in the garden room with its botanical print wallpaper, purple sofas and chaise longue. South and west-facing windows create a bright and cheerful space. One of our favourite rooms has to be the orangery with its four sets of double doors, glass lantern roof, swan neck chandelier and long refectory style table primed for convivial, lazy brunches. There's so much house here – we haven't even mentioned the elegant bedrooms – there are canopied beds, four posters, antiques and designer wallpaper aplenty. This home is surrounded by some wonderful walks. Ancient Hay Wood is under 7 miles away or culture lovers can head to Stratford-upon-Avon for a performance at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Food lovers, on the other hand, are catered for in Henley-on-Arden, where there are some charming restaurants to discover. Or just relax in the local pub – there are two friendly ones within a thirty-minute stroll.

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Additional fees

• Your host works with local vendors to provide a variety of in-cottage services for an additional fee, including wine and cider tastings, private chefs and dining experiences, hampers and food boxes, cooking classes, yoga sessions, floristry workshops, craft kits, massages, and beauty treatments

• Your host can also help arrange paid experiences in the local area – these include horse and bike tours, helicopter rides, paddleboarding, spa days, and a wide range of days out

• Two well-behaved dogs are welcome for an additional fee

Additional fees subject to a 3.5% handling charge.