10 Best Cruise Lines for Couples

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Romance and cruising would seem to go hand in hand, particularly if you've spotted any of the cruise lines' advertisements showing photos of couples snuggling at the bow at sunset, or sipping orange juice on their private veranda in bathrobes, or even -- and this one we have a hard time believing -- spending time alone on a deserted beach with their mega-ship anchored in the background.

Advertisements notwithstanding, cruising can be one of the most romantic vacation options, but choosing the right cruise line and, even more specifically, the right ship within the fleet, can be a challenge. You don't want that sunset marred by crowds on deck, the romance of a dinner for two killed by the whiny kids at the next table or a cozy evening ruined by cramped cabins with minimal amenities.

For our top picks, we looked at criteria that we would deem universally romantic: ships that offer cabins with private balconies, great bathrooms and extra-special amenities; options for dining a deux; cozy nooks and date-night venues; and almost-private open-deck spaces for relaxing by day and stargazing by night.

Here are our favorite ships for celebrating or rekindling romance with your sweetheart.

Princess Cruises | Paul Gauguin Cruises | Windstar Cruises | Norwegian Cruise Line | SeaDream Yacht Club | Celebrity Cruises | Regent Seven Seas Cruises | Crystal Yacht Cruises | Azamara Club Cruises | Viking Ocean Cruises

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1. Princess Cruises Best Ships: Crown Princess, Emerald Princess and Ruby Princess

Why: The youngest of Princess' Grand-class ships -- Crown Princess, Emerald Princess and Ruby Princess -- blend big-ship options and small-ship cozy. Romance has always been the Love Boat line's focus, but the tiny, charmless balconies and bigger size of its newer Royal-class ships mean that the elder sisters still win in this category.

Sweet Digs: Each boasts the line's traditionally high percentage of suites and mini-suites. Suites feature separate sitting areas, large balconies and walk-in closets, and come with perks like evening canapes, a complimentary mini-bar setup, laundry services, use of the ship's thermal suite and complimentary dinner in a specialty restaurant on embarkation night. But even the standard mini-suite is charming and comfortable. Plus, the line is rolling out its new Princess Luxury Bed fleetwide through 2018. With pillow-top mattresses, Jacquard-woven cotton bed linens and fluffy duvets, you might be inspired to snuggle in bed a bit longer.

Onboard Romance: What could be more romantic than a night at "Movies Under the Stars," reclining on padded loungers while snuggled under wool tartan blankets on the pool deck? Or for quiet tete-a-tetes with your sweetie, try Adagio, a lovely and private top-deck lounge. During the day, we love The Sanctuary, a (mostly) shaded retreat, complete with waiter service, spa menu and massage services (a couples' massage is available).

Dinner for Two: Open-seating (as well as traditional) dining is available. But the most romantic option is the Ultimate Balcony Dining dinner experience. For an extra fee, cruisers are treated to a lobster dinner with Champagne and course-by-course service. (Or have a romantic breakfast in your cabin with the line's Balcony Breakfast option.) Only caveat: Your cabin must have a balcony. We also love the ships' specialty restaurants. Request a banquette at Crown Grill, a steak and seafood restaurant with an open grill; indulge in a multicourse meal at the Italian Sabatini's; or share dishes with your sweetie at Share by Curtis Stone or The Salty Dog Gastropub. For a more casual option, try Vines, a wine and sushi bar. If chocolate is your aphrodisiac of choice, be sure to try the onboard cocktails and desserts created by master chocolatier Norman Love.

Downside: While the deluxe mini-suites are lovely and comfortable, the all-open-air balconies are anything but private.

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2. Paul Gauguin Cruises Best Ship: Paul Gauguin

Why: Designed, built and decorated to sail year-round in the romantic South Pacific, the cozy, 332-passenger Paul Gauguin offers an air of tropical festivity. Dining is restaurant-style, the staff is superb and the ship is highly inclusive (cocktails and other beverages are included in cruise fares). But it's the ship's remote and lush island destinations that really turn up the notch on the romantic nature of the trip.

Sweet Digs: You know this is a ship intended for couples when most cabins come with a queen-sized bed and only a limited number can be split apart into twins. Consistent with the decor around the ship, cabins are tropically inspired. When you embark, you might find that your cabin attendant has showered the bathroom sink with red rose petals. Definitely book ahead so you can nab a balcony cabin. It's not a trip to the South Pacific if you're not out on your balcony, savoring coffee, as Bora Bora pulls into view. And just when life onboard couldn't be any better, suites and category A and B veranda staterooms feature butler service.

Onboard Romance: Dance cheek to cheek with your honey to the tunes of a chanteuse in La Palette Lounge, or gaze at the sea or stars from the lounge's top-of-ship vantage point.

Dinner for Two: For such a small ship, the choice of restaurants is superb. L'Etoile, which offers French cuisine accented with Polynesian touches, serves as the main venue. Couples will appreciate plentiful tables for two and an attentive wait staff that will keep your glasses filled with house wines and nonalcoholic beverages. Two casual venues offer indoor and alfresco dining, with reservations-only dinners. And there's always room service for meals in bed or on your balcony.

Downside: French Polynesia is a long trip from just about anywhere, so be prepared to endure hours on a plane before you get to your luxurious destination.

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3. Windstar Cruises Best Ship: Wind Surf

Why: Wind Surf's both a sailboat and cruise ship, and it features a hybrid blend of cruise traditions (such as the crew show, organized shore excursions and multiple eateries) and utterly romantic vistas. Carrying just 310 passengers, the ship's onboard ambience is relaxed (no set seatings at dinner) and its itineraries focus on ports in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Baltic that are often too small to appeal to massive ships.

Sweet Digs: What Windstar's cabins lack in size and variety, they make up in style. The staterooms offer decadently soft bedding, L'Occitane bath products and flat-screen TVs with DVD players. Most suites are simply two standard cabins opened up and joined together, but having two bathrooms is generally a boon for marital bliss. For a special occasion splurge, book one of two Bridge Suites, which feature separate living rooms and bedrooms, a whirlpool tub and a massaging shower.

Onboard Romance: A favorite spot -- and it's remarkably quiet -- is at the outside tables at Wind Surf's cigar bar; it's a great place to sit under the stars (or enjoy a quiet cocktail). If it's too chilly for sitting outdoors, head to the indoor section of the Compass Rose lounge to listen to some pre-dinner music over drinks with your sweetheart.

Dinner for Two: For casual daytime dining, the glass-walled Veranda offers seating outdoors as well as indoors. It's adjacent to the grill and features both buffet fare and choices from a menu. At night, enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner by the pool at Candles, sample French-influenced contemporary dishes at Stella Bistro or dine in the main restaurant, AmphorA, which features local and creative cuisine.

Downside: This ship is small and cabins are close to the water, so in rough seas, you'll definitely feel the motion of the ocean and perhaps watch the waves close in over your porthole. If you're prone to seasickness, bad weather might kill the romance of a Windstar cruise.

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4. Norwegian Cruise Line Best Ships: Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Pearl and Norwegian Jade

Why: Norwegian's "Freestyle Dining" philosophy (passengers can dine without the hassle of assigned times and tablemates at a variety of restaurants) is perfectly suited to table-for-two travelers. While the line's newest and biggest ships are full of Las Vegas flash and nonstop entertainment action, we prefer its Jewel-class for the right mix of romantic options and plentiful activities.

Sweet Digs: If you can afford them, the ships' Haven suites -- Courtyard Penthouses, Owner's Suites and Garden Villas -- are tops for a romantic getaway. These suites are located away from the fray in a private-access area of the ship -and offer a host of special perks, from access to an exclusive pool area (complete with padded loungers and hot tub) to VIP-only breakfast and lunch in either Cagney's Steakhouse or Moderno Churrascaria. The suites feature separate living and sleeping rooms, flat-screen televisions, butler service and swishy bathrooms, some with a whirlpool tub set into a picture window alcove.

Onboard Romance: Active couples can play a little one-on-one basketball on the sports deck or race each other up the rock climbing wall; while those looking to relax together can snag side-by-side loungers in the spa's relaxation room or take a dip in the thalassotherapy pool. At night, snuggle up to your honey, cocktail in hand, on one of the plush couches (on Norwegian Gem) or canopied beds (on Norwegian Pearl) that serve as loungers in the Bliss Ultra Lounge and Night Club; on Jewel and Jade, hit up Bar City to have your pick of multiple bars and drink styles.

Dinner for Two: Try dinner at Cagney's, the dedicated steakhouse, and Le Bistro, a French eatery.

Downside: These mega-ships aren't exactly intimate, and you might have to queue up for your dinner table for two if you don't eat at odd times or make reservations in advance.

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5. SeaDream Yacht Club Best Ships: SeaDream I and SeaDream II

Why: These nearly identical 112-passenger yachts win top romantic honors for sophisticated couples who want luxury (phenomenal dining and great service) in a casual ambiance. The ships are gorgeously restored; dining is all as-you-wish; cabins, though cozy, are outfitted with everything you could possibly need; and service is outstanding, personable, attentive ... and subtle. Fares are all-inclusive, too, which means tips and most drinks are included in your fare. Choose a warm-weather itinerary if you want to spend time playing with the ship's water toys offered from its onboard marina.

Sweet Digs: There are only four types of stateroom. The most romantic is, of course, the Owner's Suite (with a fabulous windowed bathroom); the Admiral Suite has similar amenities but is somewhat smaller. The Commodore Suites are basically two standard cabins put together -- we actually preferred our standard accommodations. The 195-square-foot standard cabins feature separate seating areas and bedrooms, with a small but exquisitely outfitted bathroom (huge shower-for-two with three shower heads). Add to that fine linens and great mattresses on the bed, high-tech flat-screen televisions, DVD and CD players, stocked mini-bars and plenty of storage space.

Onboard Romance: Our favorite place for sunset-timed port departures was on one of the Balinese beds on the top-most deck. Tucked around the smokestack, they are built just a bit above the deck railing, which gives you a sense of floating above the water. (You can also reserve one for a night sleeping under the stars.) We also loved the Top of the Yacht bar for after-dinner drinks to a soundtrack of live music.

Dinner for Two: There are two primary venues. The Main Dining Salon (indoors) feels like a restaurant at an elegant, small boutique hotel. But our favorite spot was the Topside Restaurant; it's an open-sided outdoor eatery (covered, though, so shaded) and there are a handful of wonderful and private nooks.

Downside: There are no cabins with balconies, but the open decks are so expansive and there are so many lovely nooks that you'll never miss them.

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6. Celebrity Cruises Best Ship: Celebrity Solstice, Equinox, Eclipse, Silhouette and Reflection

Why: Celebrity's newest ships are sophisticated and hip, and cater to couples on adult getaways, rather than families on holiday. Plus, there are plenty of onboard spaces tailor-made for parties of two -- from wine bars to multiple specialty dining venues, double pool loungers and top-deck lawns perfect for picnicking.

Sweet Digs: For a true splurge, suites range in size from 300 to 1,636 square feet, with amenities such as separate living room/dining room areas, baby grand pianos, whirlpool tubs and large balconies. For couples who enjoy the spa experience, Celebrity's AquaClass cabins and suites create an oasis of calm on the bustling ships with massaging showerheads, complimentary spa-oriented bath and body products and upgraded bed linens. Plus, couples can seek further R&R with complimentary use of the AquaSpa Relaxation Room and Persian Garden and exclusive specialty restaurant, Blu. There's also good news for pairs looking for a private retreat without breaking the bank -- 85 percent of all cabins feature private balconies.

Onboard Romance: It's easy to rekindle the romance with a picnic for two in the Lawn Club, a real grass lawn on the ships' top decks. Or hide away in a corner of the Deck 4 wine bar or martini bar, and get a little tipsy with your loved one; the aft Sunset Bar is great for views. The pool deck and adults-only Solarium also have cozy double sunbeds and hammocks for snuggling in the sun.

Dinner for Two: With so many top-notch specialty restaurants onboard, any table for two will do for a romantic night out. Our favorite for couples (and anyone else, for that matter) is Murano, the upscale Continental restaurant offering both tasting and a la carte menus. Treat yourself and your sweetie to luxe dishes like caviar, escargots, sweetbreads or foie gras. For dinner with a view, dine early at the back-of-the-ship Tuscan Grille, an Italian steakhouse with a wine country feel.

Downside: Onboard dates don't come cheap, whether you're shelling out for glasses of wine or fabulous cocktail creations, splurging on a specialty restaurant meal (Murano charges $45 per person) or booking upper-class cabins.

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7. Regent Seven Seas Cruises Best Ship: Seven Seas Explorer

Why: You can't go wrong with the "Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built," an all-suite, all-balcony vessel that features personal service, gourmet cuisine and the most-inclusive cruise fares of the major luxury lines. You don't have to worry about lover's quarrels over the price of shore excursions, which pre-cruise hotel to book or how many drinks to order -- it's all covered by your cruise fare.

Sweet Digs: Take your pick! The smallest cabin on Explorer is a 219-square-foot suite with an 88-square-foot balcony and marble bathroom. The largest is a whopping 2,917 square feet and features a luxurious bed with topped with a $90,000 horse-hair mattress and $60,000 bed linens; an in-cabin spa complete with private sauna, heated ceramic lounge chairs and unlimited spa treatments; and a 958-square-foot balcony -- with a hot tub, dining table and assortment of loungers -- that wraps around the entire front of the ship. If you want to spoil yourself but can't quite afford the ship's top suite, know that all Penthouse Suites and higher categories come with butler service, upgraded toiletries and free use of iPads and iPods onboard.

Onboard Romance: Head to the gorgeous spa and gym area to get a little sweaty together (personal training for two?) and then relax in the back-of-ship infinity pool or heated ceramic loungers. Or visit the Observation Lounge for 180-degree views by day and cocktails and music by night. If you like learning together, sign up for a cooking class at the Culinary Arts Kitchen.

Dinner for Two: It's easy to get a table for two on these ships, even in Compass Rose, the main dining room. And the food is superb, with no drop in quality from the specialty venues to the main dining room. For date night, try the pan-Asian Pacific Rim, modern French Chartreuse or the Prime 7 steakhouse -- you'll need to make reservations for these popular venues but there's no fee.

Downside: Because its prices include nearly everything, Regent Seven Seas Cruises has some of the highest cruise fares in the industry.

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8. Crystal Yacht Cruises Best Ship: Crystal Esprit

Why: If you want to sample the high life, where days are spent lounging on a day bed in the sun with a drink in hand, swimming and snorkeling or touring the more yacht-y ports, Crystal Esprit beckons. The 62-passenger yacht is also incredibly high-tech, carrying Jet Skis and a three-person submersible; cabins loaded up with state-of-the-art technology; and even an outdoor flat-screen TV for movies under the stars.

Sweet Digs: Most cabins are identical and a generous 280 square feet so you won't feel like you're tripping over your honey on a small ship. Rooms come outfitted with high-tech touches, such as a Soundbar speaker system, iPads for accessing ship services and flat-screen TVs loaded with movies. Enjoy the services of a butler, a stocked mini-bar and Krups coffee maker, king-sized bed and even a rain shower in a spacious bathroom. For truly special vacations, snag the one Owner's Suite onboard, which has separate living and sleeping areas and an egg-shaped soaking tub in the bathroom.

Onboard Romance: Most passengers are splashing in the water or enjoying complimentary tours during the day. If you're onboard, you're likely to be found cuddling on a Balinese bed or dipping your toes in the plunge pool. At night, catch a flick on the outdoor screen, or get social in The Cove, the ship's living room with live music and bar service.

Dinner for Two: The elegant Yacht Club Restaurant is the only dinner venue onboard. You won't have trouble snagging a table for two and will be spoiled for choice with a regular menu and special four-course menu offered each evening. For total privacy, order room service off the Yacht Club's menu and take date night back to your cabin.

Downside: Crystal Esprit offers port-intensive itineraries, so if you're looking for sea days, you won't find them. The yacht uses Zodiacs to tender, with some wet landings, and rocks and rolls when not in sheltered waters. If you have mobility issues or are prone to seasickness, the romance might be lost rather than found on this small ship.

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9. Azamara Club Cruises Best Ship: Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest

Why: Azamara offers two twin intimate ships and a destination focus, so you can bond with your loved one over new experiences and incredible adventures ashore. The line will constantly hand you opportunities for memorable date nights with its Nights and Cool Places after-dinner excursions and complimentary, once-a-cruise AzAmazing Evening shoreside event. The onboard atmosphere is geared to adults, so your vacation-for-two won't be disrupted by unruly rug rats.

Sweet Digs: Standard cabins are pretty cozy, but 46 suites offer more luxury and elbow room. The most sought-after are Ocean and World Owner's Suites, which command the fore and aft of the cabin decks. Think king-sized beds, marble baths and enormous private balconies. If the two of you love the spa life, book a Spa Suite, located near the ship's spa facilities; the suite comes with in-room spa music, a glass-enclosed soaking tub and separate rain shower, a free evening excursion and a spa credit. Couples massage, anyone?

Onboard Romance: Take your partner for a whirl with ballroom dancing in the Cabaret Lounge, or look for that green flash at the Sunset Bar, cocktail in hand. For the ultimate in romance, though, book the Nights in Private Places package. For one night, you'll get the aft spa deck all to yourself. A private butler will serve a candlelit dinner, you can float in the thalassotherapy pool while gazing at the stars, and then spend the night snuggled up on the canopied daybed, done up in fine linens. Just be sure to slip your robe back on when the butler comes to serve breakfast in the morning.

Dinner for Two: Tables for two are not hard to come by in Azamara's main, open-seating restaurant, but for a more intimate repast, book into one of the specialty restaurants, the Prime C steakhouse or the Italian Aqualina. Special event meals not to miss include a jazz brunch, Officers' BBQ with suckling pig and barbecue ribs and the White Night dinner served on deck.

Downside: If you like onboard nightlife, Azamara's options are limited. The casino is small and theater offerings are hit and miss. You won't find a packed disco or dancing well into the wee hours.

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10. Viking Ocean Cruises Best Ship: Viking Star, Viking Sea, Viking Sky and Viking Sun

Why: With beautiful sun decks and a huge Nordic-inspired spa, Viking Ocean's four identical ships are ideal for couples who love to relax...after a hard day of touring in port. The line's destination focus includes jam-packed itineraries, late nights and overnights in port and included shore excursions. Well-appointed cabins, included Wi-Fi and wine with meals, multiple dining venues and a no-kids-under-16 policy seal the deal.

Sweet Digs: You can't go wrong when every cabin has a balcony, thoughtful touches like plentiful outlets and quiet-closing drawers, and bathrooms with heated floors. Upgrade to one of 14 Explorer Suites for sprawling verandas, separate living rooms and bedrooms and soaking tubs in the bathrooms. If nothing but the best will suit your sweetheart, book the one Owner's Suite with its private sauna, dining area and wet bar, and comfortable living room with stereo system.

Onboard Romance: During the day, relax in the light and airy, glass-enclosed Wintergarden Conservatory and take your honey to tea for finger sandwiches and scones in the late afternoon. Or lounge by the all-weather main pool, with retractable roof, or aft infinity pool. A cool drink is never far away. At night, camp out in Torshavn, to dance, enjoy a cabaret show or sip Armagnac in a dark corner.

Dinner for Two: The mouth-watering food at Manfredi's will start your date night off right. The Italian venue is complimentary and offers an expansive Italian menu. Don't miss the daily specials and definitely save room for dessert (as difficult as that might be). If your style is more casual, check out the sushi bar in the World Cafe buffet or the cured meats and bacon-and-pea soup served faux-fireside at Mamsen's.

Downside: All that running around in port can you leave you exhausted, with little energy for romance at day's end. Be sure to factor in some relaxation time with your special someone, but expect limited entertainment onboard (day and night) and no casino.

Local Daily Record | Local News

Read article : Local Daily Record | Local News

Friday, Aug. 4

• Michael Shriver, of Enid, reported someone took three Mig style welders, three gas powered electric generators, miscellaneous hand tools, a big screen television, four large-sized car speakers, four medium sized car speakers and eight tires from the 1500 block of South 2nd. Estimated loss, $4,900.

Saturday, Aug. 5

• Ron Anderson, of Enid, reported that between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Aug. 1, he lost his black Glock 42 .380 caliber handgun somewhere in Enid. Estimated loss, $500.

• Meloney Jacobs, of Enid, reported someone took her 1992 blue Ford F150 from Taco Bell at 402 S. Van Buren. Estimated loss, $500.

• Ryan Ginn, of Ardmore, reported someone took miscellaneous currency, a black Apple iPod Touch, JBL Bluetooth headphones, Apple Lightning charger cable, purple Mirco USB charger cable and miscellaneous prescription drugs. Estimated loss, $488.

Sunday, Aug. 6

• Lindsey Harman, of Enid, reported that between July 21 and July 25, someone took a dresser, miscellaneous bath products, clothing, wall art, toys and bedding from her residence in the 4100 block of South Van Buren. Estimated loss, $2,425.

Monday, Aug. 7

• Cawayne Mingo, of Enid, reported that between 4 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Aug. 4, someone took his black Apple iPhone 7 Plus with a black Griffin protective case while it was in the 500 block of East Oklahoma. Estimated loss, $925.

Tuesday, Aug. 8

• Patrick Lloyd, of the 700 block of South 4th, reported sometime between 12 a.m. Aug. 7 and 2:31 p.m. Aug. 8, someone entered his residence and stole three flat-screen televisions and cash. Estimated loss, $650.

• Michael Martens, of the 1800 block of Norman, reported sometime between 10 a.m. Aug. 7 and 7:30 a.m. Aug. 8, someone pried open the back door of his residence and stole a steel toolbox containing miscellaneous tools, a propane heater, ice chest, cat food, a lawnmower and a fiberglass ladder. Estimated loss and damage, $730.

Wednesday, Aug. 9

• Jessica Perez, no address given, reported sometime between 10:30 p.m. Aug. 8 and 8 a.m. Aug. 9, someone entered her vehicle while it was parked in the 1100 block of South Oakwood taking a wallet and its contents. Estimated loss, $2,765.

 Thursday, Aug. 10

• William Leroy Gainer, of Drummond, reported at 9:38 p.m. Aug. 10, someone damaged the driver’s side rear panel and passenger side doors and left blood on the front seat of his vehicle while it was parked in the 2000 block of West Rupe. Estimated damage, $600.

 Friday, Aug. 11

• Michael Lynn Martins, of Enid, reported between 6:30 p.m. Aug. 10 and 8:32 a.m. Aug. 1,1 someone entered a residence in the 500 block of West State and took miscellaneous tools. Estimated loss, $1,570.

Saturday, Aug. 5

• 8:29 a.m. 2230 W. Elm, false alarm or false call.

• 9:25 a.m.: 1132 E. Oklahoma, medical assist.

• 1:35 p.m.: 2730 N. Van Buren, medical assist.

• 3:23 p.m.: 1201 N. 102nd, grass fire.

• 3:30 p.m.: 1710 Mimosa Drive, dispatched and canceled en route.

• 5:58 p.m.: 2705 W. Oklahoma, medical assist.

• 6:14 p.m.: 2530 N. Monroe, medical assist.

Sunday, Aug. 6

• 12:14 a.m.: 525 S. Quincy, EMS call.

• 5:40 a.m.: 501 S. Hoover, medical assist.

• 6:22 a.m.: 900 W. Phillips, medical assist.

• 9:29 a.m.: 5801 N.Oakwood, medical assist.

• 11:04 a.m.: 225 W. Garriott, medical assist.

• 2:37 p.m.: 509 W. Oak, dispatched and canceled en route.

• 4:22 p.m.: 805 W. Oxford, police matter.

• 6:09 p.m.: 3828 N. Washington, medical assist.

• 9:32 p.m.: 1817 Mosher Drive, medical assist.

• 9:52 p.m.: 520 E. Cherokee, helicopter landing area assistance.

• 11:53 p.m.: 6102 W. Chestnut, medical assist.

Monday, Aug. 7

• 7:46 a.m.: 5605 Arrowhead Drive, medical assist.

• 8:27 a.m.: 616 W. Randolph, medical assist.

• 1:04 p.m.: 1521 N. Kennedy, authorized controlled burn.

• 1:20 p.m.: 826 W. Nagel, medical assist.

• 3:12 p.m.: 419 S. Harrison, medical assist.

• 3:16 p.m.: 520 E. Cherokee, helicopter landing area assistance.

• 3:39 p.m.: 1913 W. Elm, medical assist.

• 5:17 p.m.: 702 W. Iowa, medical assist.

• 5:19 p.m.: 1918 Field Drive, medical assist.

• 7:06 p.m.: 1101 W. Pine, recreational fire.

• 8:33 p.m.: 1022 E. Cherokee, medical assist.

• 11:30 p.m.: 1726 Centennial, person in distress.

Tuesday, Aug. 8

• 1:14 a.m.: 4502 W. Randolph, person in distress.

• 4:26 a.m.: 2618 Mt. Vernon, EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury.

• 5:15 a.m.: 1404 N. Garland, alarm system sounded due to malfunction.

• 6:19 a.m.: 2010 W. Maple, medical assist.

• 7:49 a.m.: 1002 Sequoyah Drive, unintentional transmission of alarm.

• 11:56 a.m.: 406 W. Birch, medical assist.

• 12:42 p.m.: 2817 W. Chestnut, medical assist.

• 2:36 p.m.: 1225 S. Cleveland, medical assist.

• 3:10 p.m.: 221 S. 30th, medical assist.

• 4:02 p.m.: 4202 LaMesa Drive, false alarm or false call.

• 7:54 p.m.: 1219 N. Grand, medical assist.

• 8:37 p.m.: 1305 S. Ritchie, medical assist.

Wednesday, Aug. 9

• 3:51 a.m.: 4202 LaMesa Drive, medical assist.

• 3:57 a.m.: 820 W. Pine, medical assist.

• 6:38 a.m.: 3400 S. Van Buren, smoke or odor investigation.

• 8:21 a.m.: 301 S. Grand, no incident found on arrival at dispatch address.

 • 11:55 a.m.: 628 E. Maple, gas leak (natural gas or LPG).

• 2:39 p.m.: 3236 Neilson Drive, medical assist.

• 3:11 p.m.: 2618 Mt. Vernon, person in distress, other. 

• 3:47 p.m.: 3607 Buffalo Drive, medical assist.

• 6:13 p.m.: 3800 W. Purdue, off-road vehicle or heavy equipment fire. 

• 6:19 p.m.: 5801 N. Oakwood, false alarm or false call, other.

• 7:17 p.m.: 5103 W. Garriott, smoke detector activation, no fire, unintentional.

• 8:42 p.m.: 3900 N. Oakwood, brush or brush-and-grass mixture fire.

• 9:37 p.m.: 2626 Northgate Drive, power line down.

• 9:54 p.m.: 5506 W. Chestnut, power line down.

• 10:07 p.m.: 428 S. Fillmore, medical assist.

• 10:27 p.m.: 1600 N. Van Buren, person in distress, other. 

• 11:41 p.m.: 4810 Spring Ridge, medical assist.

Thursday, Aug. 10

• 3:04 a.m.: 3607 Buffalo Drive, medical assist.

• 6:25 a.m.: 5801 N. Oakwood, smoke detector activation, no fire, unintentional.

• 7:40 a.m.: 2618 Mt. Vernon, medical assist. 

• 10:43 a.m.: 2101 E. Oak, medical assist.

• 10:53 a.m.: 600 S. Monroe, alarm system activation, no fire, unintentional.

• 11:59 a.m.: 6405 Memorial Drive, medical assist.

• 12:55 p.m.: 2705 London Lane, medical assist.

• 1:29 p.m.: 628 E. Maple, medical assist.

• 2:06 p.m.: 4018 Shenandoah, medical assist.

• 3:45 p.m.: 929 S. Oakwood, gas leak.

• 9:20 p.m.: 310 W. Garriott, fire, other.

• 9:35 p.m.: 2604 N. Jackson, medical assist.

• 9:40 p.m.: 4810 Spring Ridge, medical assist.

• 10:01 p.m.: 410 W. Illinois, building fire.

• 11:56 p.m.: 2112 W. Maple, medical assist.

HILTON GARDEN INN SAN FRANCISCO/OAKLAND BAY BRIDGE HOTEL OFFERING SPECTACULAR VIEWS OF THE BAY

Read article : HILTON GARDEN INN SAN FRANCISCO/OAKLAND BAY BRIDGE HOTEL OFFERING SPECTACULAR VIEWS OF THE BAY

San Francisco, Aug. 22, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- International corporations, software giants and animation studios surround The Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge as clients, and neighbors. Brides choose this hotel and location for exceptional event planning services, and space with spectacular views of the San Francisco Bay. Situated on the waterfront at 1800 Powell Street in the heart of Emeryville, California, The Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge close proximity to headquarters for Pixar Animation Studios as well as the Clif Bar, Peet’s Coffee & Tea, Bayer and Clorox. Other residents include international biotech and software corporations LeapFrog and MobiTV that make it an ideal Bay area location for business events and seminars. Just minutes from downtown San Francisco and international airport, this hotel is convenient to UC Berkeley, McLaughlin Last Shore State Park and Seashore, Emeryville Marina, Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve, Radio Beach, and walking distance to the popular Bay Street Shopping Center and Public Markets.  It is also just across the bridge from the Presidio and AT&T Park, home of the San Francisco Giants. Sun-filled guest rooms and suites offer unforgettable views of Oakland/Berkeley Hills or San Francisco Bay including the Oakland Bay Bridge, Angel Island State Park and Alcatraz. Taking simple things to another level, tasteful amenities await guests: flat screen televisions, custom bath products, complimentary WiFi, cooked-to-order full breakfast, Keurig Coffee systems, 24-hour fitness gym, 24-hour business center, and Hilton’s famous custom plush beds, designed to improve circulation and reduce nighttime restlessness for a perfect night’s sleep. Guests enjoy regionally-inspired delicious breakfasts and dinners in the Great American Grill created with locally-grown produce, meats and seafood. Or relax in the lounge with a drink while watching the game. Evening room service, catering department and 24-hour Pavilion Pantry convenience market are also available. The Dine and Unwind Package offers guests up to $25 daily food and beverage credit. A limited time offer, see website for more details.  Check out Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge contemporary appointed rooms using the same Google Street View technology used in streets around the world. Creating a high-quality, 360-degree experience, interactive features showcase 278 Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge guest rooms, suites, event spaces and ballrooms. Offering exceptional bay views in over 9,400 sq. ft. of flexible space as a boardroom, event spaces and three ballrooms, Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge is popular for corporate events, seminars and weddings. The Top of the Bay 3,865 sq. ft. ballroom comfortably hosts up to 300 guests and offers magnificent Bay views. Two additional ballrooms offering different Bay and Mountain views, 1,950 sq. ft. each, are ideal for smaller receptions and events for up to 150 guests. Customized media packages, and online planning tools make staging memorable events easy. Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge promises to do whatever it takes to ensure customers are satisfied, or they don’t pay. Guests can count on us. GUARANTEED™.  Our Hilton Garden Inn Promise reflects our focus on hospitality and integrity. We are committed to providing an excellent hotel experience for every guest, every time. For more information or to book an event, please visit Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge  or call 1-510-658-9300.. Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge participates in Hilton HHonors^®, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton Worldwide. Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge, 1800 Powell Street, Emeryville, CA, is operated by Davidson Hotels & Resorts, one of the most respected, successful and creative lodging companies in the industry. For more information about Davidson Hotels & Resorts, visit www.davidsonhotels.com ### About Davidson Hotels & Resorts Davidson Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning, full-service hotel management company providing management, development/renovation, acquisition, consulting and accounting expertise for the hospitality industry. Amassing one of the purest full-service hotel portfolios in the industry, Davidson's proficiency ranges from the upper-upscale to near-luxury segments with nearly 12,300 rooms and 1.4 million square feet of meeting space across the United States. A trusted partner and preferred operator of Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt and Starwood hotels, Davidson delivers hospitality and creates value for owners with every single hotel. More information can be found at www.davidsonhotels.com. Attachments: A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fc81c95f-1398-4cfe-a25f-05e79cd07e87 Attachments: A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6c4947a5-a053-4f4c-b7d1-a97532c4f349 Edana Chisler - Director of Sales Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge 510-658-9300 x 2020 echisler@HGIEmeryville.com

Travel: G&V Hotel, Edinburgh - The Scotsman

Read article : Travel: G&V Hotel, Edinburgh - The Scotsman

Do not disturb: Old Town’s exotic eyrie

G&V has ripped up that straight-backed and slightly stuffy approach to five-star hospitality and conjured up a replacement that is full of colour, creativity and modernity.

Budget or boutique?

The name of Italian fashion house Missoni was above the door of this hotel until 2014 but the new owners have stepped confidently into their stylish shoes.

The foyer and lounge have a space-age feel, as though you’re checking in for an intergalactic flight, with low-hanging silver globe lights, high-gloss surfaces and the alluring pink glow from a hydroponic grower where the herbs for the bar are produced.

Clusters of chairs and sofas ooze comfort by the flickering flames of the fire. It’s all very intriguing and you can’t help but want to investigate further.

Room service

Off the dark and dramatic corridors of the G&V there are 137 rooms, many with 180 degree views of the capital. From room 503, you feel as though you can almost touch Salisbury Crags and the Pentlands stretch out to the south. Although one of the greatest cities in the world is out there waiting to be explored, you’ll probably want to stay here for some time.

Local artists have customised some of the rooms and ours has been blasted with zingy bright prints and accented with hand-painted details on the wall. Signature furniture pieces add further character, including a huge glass coffee table resting on a tree trunk. The bed is king size and dressed in pure white.

All the practical things are here too, including a Nespresso machine, two flat-screen televisions, a DVD library and a mini bar.

The bathroom is one giant wet room split by thick glass panels into a shower, toilet and bath area. And decked out in black mosaic tiles and purple high gloss, there is one moody looking loo. No wonder Lady Gaga chose to stay at the G&V.

Wining and dining

Eating and drinking is another dimension of the G&V experience. The Epicurean bar is on the ground floor and sits like a dark cavern off the foyer. There is some serious alcohol artistry practised here, and as if to emphasise the fact, a little paintbrush is secured to the cocktail menu, which is themed around the Scottish Colourists. The Plein Air, named after the practice of painting outdoors, mixes gin, fennel soda and a dash of violet liqueur which is suspended in the glass like a drop of pigment. Drinking it is indeed like meeting a stiff breeze. The Miel Royale, a mix of fresh rhubarb, gin and champagne, is sweetened with honey from G&V’s rooftop apiary. The Epicurean alone is worth a visit if you are feeling experimental.

The hotel restaurant, Cucina, delivers a modern Italian menu. An interior designed by Timorous Beasties, a soundtrack of deep house and an army of smiling staff set the scene.

Food is smart and super fresh. In my white crab and avocado starter, the fruit had been smoothed and reset with fennel and cream and little shards of white meat gave a sweet sea punch. The sea trout main was plump like a pink pillow and dressed in a sweet almond crust with salted spinach on the side. My partner had rabbit with hazelnut. Now this is a man who loves his rabbit, preferably fresh from the field with the legs hanging over the plate, but here the little beast looked like it had been brought back to life as abstract art – my partner wished he’d had the pork ragu.

A glorious selection of puddings, such as milk sorbet, honeycomb and white truffle honey, was on offer, but we shared the perfectly balanced cheese board.

Worth getting out of bed for

The breakfast is fabulous, from the cold continental buffet to the hot traditional plates and the special egg menu. Step outside and you’ll be right in the heart of the Old Town and all it has to offer. The Meadows, the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle and Mary King’s Close are a stone’s throw away.

Little extras

Small dogs are welcome in all of the hotel bedrooms and a pet bed and bowls are provided for a charge.

Rooms from £210 B&B to £425 B&B for a standard Signature room. Room 503 starts at £650 and goes up to £1,500 B&B. G&V Hotel, 1 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1AD, tel: 0131-220 6666

Star-studded Santorini, the perfect honeymoon destination

Read article : Star-studded Santorini, the perfect honeymoon destination

Angelina Jolie reportedly bought a house with her ex-husband Brad Pitt on the island after falling in love with Santorini during the filming of Tomb Raider. Justin Bieber recorded a music video there recently. Even the Kardashians took a break from swanning around LA to jet across the Atlantic and film an episode of their reality television show on the island.

So what better honeymoon destination could you ask for if you are looking for a mix of glamour and relaxation after months of stressful wedding preparation? And that's exactly where my wife and I went, to take a break from reality and pretend we could afford to live it up like Brad and Angelina on a volcanic caldera in the Aegean Sea.

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Getting to Santorini, or even Greece for that matter, during the off-season is not straightforward. There are no daily direct flights to Athens and a stopover is necessary along the way. So to break up the air travel we decided to stay four nights in the Greek capital to take in the sites and sounds the historic city.

We checked into the five-star Royal Olympic Hotel which is one of the most luxurious and central hotels in Athens. The hotel lobby alone is a masterclass in stately opulence. Large replica statues of Greek goddesses nestle in between classic leather sofas and giant vases. If it is a business trip destination you're after, the hotel has 18 recently refurbished meeting rooms and each is renovated according to a theme nodding to the city's rich history.

You are doing yourself a disservice if you don't book into one of the hotel's panoramic rooms at the front of the building. Luxurious double rooms feature electronic curtains which can be drawn with the flick of a switch to reveal spectacular views of the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Arch of Hadrian. Even more awe-inspiring are the views of the pinnacle of Greek architect - the Acropolis - from the Royal Olympic Hotel's rooftop garden restaurant. The view is only enhanced by the massive spread laid on by staff for the buffet breakfast, which features local delicacies and international favourites.

The rooftop restaurant is the perfect setting for a candle-lit dinner where you can tuck into high-end Greek dishes as the floodlit Acropolis looms over on the hotel. The hotel also has a pool bar and lounge which are the perfect settings for cocktails when the city heat gets too much.

Of course, the Acropolis should not only be enjoyed from the distance and a trek up the historic hilltop is an essential pilgrimage for any tourist. Signing up to one of the local tours is a good idea as the level of signage on the ancient citadel is limited.

Another must-see site is the Panathenaic Stadium, which is less than 15 minutes' walk from the hotel. The stadium is built entirely of marble and was the setting of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

The city is full of restaurants and cafes where a well-earned beer and local tapas can be devoured to break up the sightseeing. Every corner of the Plaka area of the city serves up fresh salads, fish and meats which can be washed down with a cold Mythos beer. The streets leading to Syntagma Square are also littered with restaurants of all price ranges. Fashion bargains are available a short walk from the square at the Monastiraki flea market, but, as always, beware of pickpockets. After four nights in Athens, we took the 30-minute flight to Santorini where we were collected from the airport by a representative from the Athina Luxury Suites company. After a short drive we arrived at the boutique clifftop resort in Santorini's capital Fira.

The first thing you notice in Fira are the steps. There are hundreds of them, winding up and down between the hotels and guesthouses sitting on the caldera cliff face. The second thing you notice is the donkey dung. Due to the lack of access for cars, donkeys are used as taxis for tourists and transport for construction workers.

Athina Luxury Suites is a small family-run business but the resort rolls out the sort of luxury you would expect from an international hotel company. Athina's staff (with particular mention going to key members Sarah, Lulu and Christopher, and of course the boss Panos) go above and beyond to ensure you are enjoying your stay. If you're looking for guidance on restaurants or attractions, the Athina staff won't steer you wrong.

For the first three nights we stayed in the honeymoon suite, which not only has a private jacuzzi on the balcony but also a steam room in the bedroom. A complementary bottle of Champagne sitting in an ice bucket was popped soon after our arrival.

After three nights in the honeymoon suite we were promoted to the royal suite. This luxury suite is a two-bedroom, three-bathroom villa, complete with marble staircase and heated balcony jacuzzi big enough to fit 10 people. There are three flat screen televisions, a full-size marble statue of the Greek goddess Athena, and enough room to host a dinner party for a dozen guests.

Fresh breakfast is served on the balcony every morning and the choices are endless. You can also have lunch or drinks by the pool in the evenings to watch the sunsets.

Santorini is not cheap and the average price of dinner is not far off what you might pay in Dublin. Seafood is the local speciality but most restaurants also serve up traditional Greek favourites such as souvlaki and gyros. On the main square there are some great little restaurants with plenty of outdoor seating. Ellinikon is worth checking out for the seabream alone. There are also some lively fast-food joints.

A little further up the road, the recently renovated Kokkalo provides a modern Greek twist on the typical US steakhouse restaurant. Falafel Land, which is tucked behind the square, is also a hidden gem for ideally-priced grub. Outside Fira, Mario's fish restaurant, which is located near the airport, served up the best meal of the trip.

Nightlife doesn't end after dinner in Fira, it only gets started. In early April, the party scene was only kicking off but there was a smattering of nightclubs and pubs luring in tourists with offers of cheap cocktails. The most popular is the Two Brothers Bar, where punters are offered free shots if they allow the barmen to whack them over the head with a stick. They give you a helmet to wear but they don't hold back when they hit you. Still, a free shot is a free shot. Locally brewed craft beer Crazy Donkey is difficult to find but if you do come across it, you should definitely try a bottle.

To really see Santorini, you need to rent a car. The island is small but public transport isn't great and most sights are only 20 minutes' drive away. You can zip around the coastal roads taking in views of the cliffs and the other volcanic islands sitting in the Aegean Sea.

It is worth driving south to Akrotiri to see the archaeological site of the first city on the island which dates back to 3,000BC. The nearby red beach is also worth a look. There's also a tomato factory museum if that's your thing.

The most northern tip of the island is the town of Oia where holidaymakers gather every evening to watch the bright red Greek sun disappear into the Aegean Sea. An all-day boat tour - drink and barbecue included - are also a popular way to see the island's spectacular coastline. With the sun beating down from the heavens there really is no better way to see Santorini. The catamaran cruises also end by harbouring in Oia to watch the sunset.

A week is the perfect amount of time to spend on this beautiful island, giving you a chance to lie on the beach or by the pool, as well as see the many sights. All in all, Santorini is the perfect honeymoon destination.

Top attractions

Sunset in Oia

Take an all-day catamaran cruise to Santorini’s most northern town, Oia, or drive, and find a perch along the historic walls to watch a spectacular sunset on the Aegean Sea.

Panathenaic Stadium

The first modern Olympic stadium can sometimes be overlooked by tourists but the sheer vastness of the entirely marble sports ground and its fascinating museum make it a must-see.

Getting there

Philip stayed in:

Royal Olympic Hotel

This five-star hotel is in the centre of Athens and a short walk from all the main attractions. Rooms range from around €180 per night for an executive room, to €625 for a suite. Athenian panorama rooms start from €345 per night.

www.royalolympic.com

Athina Luxury Suites

This five-star boutique hotel is on the caldera cliff-face in Santorini’s capital Fira.

Summer rates for junior suites start from €427 per night. The honeymoon suite is €769 per night and the royal suite costs around €1,282 during peak season.

www.athinasuites.com

30 Magnificent Large Cottages to Rent for Your Next Big Group Holiday

Read article : 30 Magnificent Large Cottages to Rent for Your Next Big Group Holiday

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If you are planning a trip away with a group of friends and family there are many large cottages to rent around the UK. Whether this is a birthday gathering, family reunion, corporate event or wedding celebration, there are large and luxurious properties available in the most beautiful parts of the UK. Depending on the type of break you are looking for, there is holiday accommodation for your taste, group size and budget. Find properties with indoor pools, sea views, lakes and stunning outdoor opportunities.

Discover a list of large cottages to rent in some of the most scenic areas of the UK.  Browse and book today at affordable prices. The bigger your group the more your can save per person (and the bigger your accommodation). Make your next holiday the one that will be talked about for years to come!

Find large cottages to rent around the UK. Book your holiday house today!" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/large-cottages-to-rent.jpg?resize=480%2C320" alt="Find large cottages to rent around the UK. Book your holiday house today!" />Find large cottages to rent around the UK. Book your holiday house today!

For a quick look at the large cottages to rent that we’ll be discussing below, here’s the full list:

• Aarons, Okehampton, Devon
• The Moors House, Okehampton, Devon
• Scarlet Pimpernel, Colchester, Suffolk
• Chubbs Farm, Axminster, Devon
• Redgate Farm, Axminster, Devon
• Apple Mill, Sidmouth, Devon
• Blencowe Hall, near Greystoke, Cumbria
• Hause Hall Farm & Cruik Barn, Martindale, Cumbria
• Waternook, The Lake District, Cumbria
• New Lodge, near Penrith, Cumbria
• Kirkbride Hall, Penrith, Cumbria
• Glassonby Old Hall, Glassonby, Cumbria
• Cazenovia Hall, near Greystoke, Cumbria
• The Normans, Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk
• Long Barn, Norfolk
• The Oaks, All Stretton, Shropshire
• Lletty & Annexe, Colwyn Bay, Conwy
• The Old Post Office, Liss, Hampshire
• Oat Hill Farmhouse, Broadway, Cotswolds
• The Manor House, Stroud, Cotswolds
• White Willow Lodge, near Lechlade, Cotswolds
• August House, near Northleach, Cotswolds
• Barnhouse, near Lechlade, Cotswolds
• Forthampton Court, Tewkesbury, Cotswolds
• Lower Farmhouse, Moreton-in-Marsh, Cotswolds
• Bellhouse, near Nympsfield, Cotswolds
• Hunter Court, Oxfordshire, Cotswolds
• Furlong Barn, Southam, Warwickshire
• Ivy House & Reading Room, near Ashbourne, Derbyshire
• Hillside Farm, Whitby, Yorkshire

Looking for a large cottage to rent in a particular UK region? Select from the the list of locations below to find a cottage for your large group.

1. Aarons

Book Aarons today

Aarons, Whiddon Down, OkehamptonFirst floor of Aarons, Whiddon Down

Whiddon Down, Okehampton, Devon (DV166)
Sleeps: 8 guests
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3 (an en-suite bathroom, family bathroom and shower room)
About the property: Aarons is a beautiful light and airy barn conversion in a small hamlet, based in Dartmoor National Park.
About the location: This property is perfect for exploration in Devon and Cornwall. The A30 is only a short drive away.

Layout:
The ground floor includes:

• A large hall
• Utility room with washing machine and dryer
• Shower room with wc
• Double bedroom with 5’ bed and en-suite bathroom
• Twin bedroom with 3’ beds
• Another twin bedroom with 3’ zip and links (which can convert to 6’ double)

The first floor:

• Double bedroom with 5’ bed
• Bathroom
• Kitchen
• Large sitting/ dining room with French windows onto a large patio

House rules:

• Pets not allowed
• Smoking not allowed
• Minimum stay two nights
• Kid-friendly
• Baby-friendly

Key features & amenities:

• Wood burning stove
• Enclosed garden with garden furniture and barbecue
• Off street parking (three vehicles)
• Wi-Fi
• Pub nearby
• Great size for groups and families

Additional features:

• Electric double oven with halogen hob, larder fridge, freezer, microwave and dishwasher
• Utility room including washing machine and tumble dryer
• Smart TV with Freeview, DVD/CD player
• Mobile telephone
• Two travel cots and two high chairs (upon request)
• Children’s table and chairs, toy box & outdoor toddler toys
• Garage available to store things (bikes & equipment)

Activities & things-to-do:

• Cycling
• Fishing
• Golf
• My personal sanctuary spa
• Walking

Nearby attractions:

• Changford: 2.5 miles away. Here you can find great shops, pubs restaurants and the famous Gidleigh Park Hotel (two Michelin Stars).
• National Trust’s Castle Drogo, Drewsteignton: You can see this from the house. This is an early 20th Century Castle.
• Exmouth: 30 minute drive away. This is Devon’s oldest seaside town and has two miles of sandy beaches. Not to mention, is a world Heritage site.
• Coasts both north and south in easy reach
• Museum of Dartmoor Life, Okehamptom: Located next to the Tourist Information Centre
• Dartmoor Letterboxing: Dartmoor is known for it’s hidden letterboxes. This is a great activity where participants search the Tors and valleys for hidden treasure, following clues or looking under rocks.
• Surfing beaches of North Cornwall and Devon
• Exeter: 18 miles from the property. Devon’s capital city and home to Exeter Cathedral
• High Moorland Visitors Centre, Princeton: Here you can find information on where to go and insight into Dartmoor.

Price: lowest price from £425

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2. The Moors House

Book the Moors House today

The Moors House, South Zeal, Okehampton, DevonGround floor of The Moors House in Okenhampton

South Zeal, Okehampton, Devon (DV134)
Sleeps: 10 guests
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 3 en-suite shower rooms and 2 family bathrooms
About the property: This is an 18th century self catering holiday longhouse. The Moors House is located in the village of South Zeal, on the northern part of the Dartmoor National Park, Devon.

Layout:

Ground floor:

• Sitting room with granite inglenook fireplace and wood burning stove
• Snug with wood burning stove
• Kitchen
• Utility room
• Dining room (dines 10 guests)
• Boot room with seating and hanging facilities and WC

Stairs to reading area leading to five bedrooms:

• Two double bedrooms with 6’ zip and link beds (can convert to 3’ twin beds upon request). Both rooms have TV/DVD
• One bedroom with 5’ bed with TV/DVD
• Two more bedrooms with 5’ beds.
• Three en-suite shower rooms, one bathroom with a bath and shower over bath, one bathroom with separate shower.

About the location: The house is a short walk to the Devonshire village of South Zeal. Here you can find two friendly pubs serving food, a store and a coffee shop. This is the perfect location for outdoor exploration as Dartmoor National Park and the Tarka Trail are at your doorstep. The home is also only four miles east from the town of Okehampton.

House rules:

• Pets not allowed
• Smoking not allowed
• Minimum stay three nights
• Kid-friendly
• Baby-friendly

Key features & amenities:

• Log burner/ open fire
• Fully enclosed garden
• Parking for five vehicles
• There are steps down to the house
• WiFi
• Pub nearby
• Great size for groups and families

Additional features:

• Thatched roof and exposed beams
• Electric range cooker with gas hob, microwave, dishwasher, larder fridge, separate small freezer
• Washing machine and dryer
• Two TVs, two DVDs and DAB radio with docking station.
• Three bedrooms with TVs and DVDs
• Cot and high chair (available on request)
• Garden furniture and gas barbecue
• My Personal Sanctuary service

Activities & things-to-do:

• Cycling
• Fishing
• Golf
• My Personal Sanctuary Spa
• Walking

Nearby attractions:

• Exeter: 15 miles west. Property is easily accessible from Exeter St Davids, Exeter Airport and the A30/M5
• Roadford Lake for sailing and angling (20 minutes away)
• Beaches are a 30 minutes’ drive away.
• The Eden Project: One hour from the property.
• Numerous golf courses in the area
• Two riding stables within five miles

Price: lowest price from £518 (for 7 nights)

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3. Scarlet Pimpernel

Book Scarlet Pimpernel now
Scarlet Pimpernel, Stoke by Nayland, ColchesterViews from lodges at Scarlet Pimpernel, Stoke by Nayland, Colchester

Stoke by Nayland, Colchester, Suffolk (SU061)
Sleeps: 8
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 4
About the property: This is a combination of lodges Scarlet and Pimpernel that together accommodate eight guests.

Layout:

Scarlett:

• Open plan kitchen
• Dining and sitting room
• Two twin bedrooms with 3’ zip and link beds (can be made into double). Both have en-suite bathrooms.

Pimpernell:

• Open plan kitchen
• Dining and sitting room
• Two twin bedrooms with 3’ zip and link beds (can be made into double). Both with en-suite bathrooms.

About the location: Scarlet Pimpernel is located in the peaceful Constable Country, which is near Stoke by Nayland in Suffolk. This is the perfect place for a family and friends’ reunion and golf or spa breaks.

House rules:

• Pets not allowed
• Smoking not allowed
• Minimum of two night stay
• Kid-friendly
• Baby-friendly

Key features & amenities:

• Wooden balconies
• Onsite parking
• Welcome hamper provided
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Lodge Porter on call 24/7 to transport guests to and from the spa/golf/dining facilities
• House Chef available to prepare a bespoke menu at the lodge
• Complimentary access to indoor heated swimming pool, sanarium, steam room, jacuzzi and technogym
• Onsite spa and two championship golf courses (additional charges)
• Onsite two AA restaurant, bars, clubhouse restaurant, gift and golf shops, squash court, pool, fishing, covered driving range and professional golf lessons (charges will apply)
• Underfloor heating throughout
• Electric oven and four ring induction hob, microwave, dishwasher, fridge and freezer
• Flatscreen TV, Blu-Ray DVD player, surround sound in the sitting room and iPod docking station
• Travel cot and high chair available on request (may be addition charges)

Activities & things-to-do:

• Fishing
• Golfing
• Swimming
• Walking

Nearby attractions:

• Colchester Castle: a complete Normal castle and grade II listed building
• Colchester Zoo: with over 260 rare species (may part of breeding programmes)
• Lavenham: known as “the most complete medieval town in Britain” with a fine collection of medieval and Tudor architecture
• Constable’s Dedham: where Britain’s greatest landscape artist went to school
• Flatford Mill: grade I listed watermill on the Rier Stour built in 1733 that is most famous for being painted by artist John Constable in 1816
• The Beth Chatto Gardens
• Antique shops
• Kentwood Hall in Long Melford: romantic moated Tudor mansion with extensive gardens and rare breed farm

Price: lowest price from £866 (for seven nights)

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4. Chubbs Farm

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Chubbs Farm, Axminster, DevonGround floor of Chubbs Farm in Devon

Axminster, Devon (DV083)
Sleeps: 12
Bedrooms: 6
Bathrooms: 3 (one shower room, one en-suite bathroom and one family bathroom)
About the property: This property used to be part of a farm set and is detached and thatched. This house accommodates 12 guests and is situated at the end of a track within 10 acres with views down to and across the Axe Valley. The recent refurbishment to the property combines the original features with a more contemporary design.

Layout:

Split level ground floor:

• Large entrance hall
• Children’s snug with TV & video
• Sitting room
• Five steps down to the dining room
• Large farmhouse kitchen with breakfast table, utility room
• Large shower room with WC
• Boot room
• Double bedroom with a 5’ bed
• Twin bedroom with 3’ beds
• Bathroom with WC and small sitting area
• Galleried stairs to first floor

First floor:

• Master bedroom with 6’ bed, balcony and en-suite bathroom with shower over the bath
• Small queen-size double bedroom
• Two twin bedrooms with 3’ beds
• Bathroom

About the location: Chubbs Farm is set in a quiet and rural position, only two miles from Axminster. The property is a 10 minute drive from Lyme Regis, the regency resort. You can enjoy a day at the beach or go fossil hunting on the nearby cliffs.

House rules:

• Smoking not allowed
• Pets not allowed
• Minimum three night stay
• Kid-friendly
• Suitable for children under 5 years

Key features & amenities:

• Wood burning stove
• Two acre lawned garden with decked area
• Unfenced stream that runs around the perimeter of the garden (steep bank and requires child supervision)
• Onsite parking
• Up to two dogs welcome (small fee per dog)
• Access to the property is via a rough farm track (drivers should take care)

Additional features:

• Thatched roof
• Hall with slate floor and rest of property has rugs/ oak floors
• French doors from kitchen onto a patio
• Double electric range oven, microwave, fridge, freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer
• Additional fridge/freezer in utility room
• Flat-screen digital TV, video, DVD, stereo with iPod docking station
• Three travel cots and two highchairs (available on request)
• Gas barbecue available
• Private water supply

Activities & things-to-do:

• Fishing
• Walks
• Fossil hunting
• Boat rides

Nearby attractions:

• Close to a local beach
• Many lovely walks through nearby fields
• The nearest town is Axminster with a pub, shops, cafes and restaurants
• Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s River Cottage Canteen and Deli is in Axminster
• Nearby towns include: Salcombe, Seaton, Beer and Sidmouth

Price: lowest price from £833 (for seven nights)

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5. Redgate Farm

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Redgate Farm, Shute, Axminster, DevonGround floor of Redgate Farm in Shute, Devon

Shute, Axminster, Devon (DV145)
Sleeps: 10
Bedrooms: 6 (two in the annex)
Bathrooms: 3 (one family bathroom, one en-suite bathroom and one shower room)
About the property: Located in the peaceful village of Shute, Redgate Farm is a thatched, 17th century, Grade II listed farmhouse. The property has a beautiful garden and views over the surrounding farmland.

Layout:

Ground floor:

• Utility and boot room
• Kitchen with doors to breakfast room/ conservatory
• Sitting room with wood burning stove dining room
• Study/TV room

First floor:

• Double bedroom with zip and link beds (can convert to two singles)
• Two single bedrooms with 3’ beds
• Family bathroom
• Double bedroom with 6’ bed and en-suite bathroom with separate shower

Annexe with first floor accommodation:

• Double bedroom with zip and link beds (can convert to two single beds)
• Twin bedroom (access via the double bedroom)
• Shower room (access via the double bedroom)
• Annex attached to the main house (step into a lobby to access the annex)

About the location: Redgate Farm is located in the charming village of Shute, located between Honiton (seven miles) and Axminster (four miles). The National Trust property of Shute Barton is at the centre and Redgate Farm was originally part of the Shute Estate. The surrounding countryside offers you the opportunity to enjoy walks in the local area.

Also, there are two local pubs only a five minute drive away from Kilmington which serve good food. The nearest shops can be found in Colyton, a six minute drive away.

House rules:

• Smoking not permitted
• Minimum of three night stay
• Pet friendly
• Child friendly
• Baby friendly

Key features & amenities:

• Wood burning stove
• Landscaped gardens, herbaceous borders and large cobbled courtyard
• Lake only 200 yards from the house (child supervision required)
• Onsite parking
• One dog is welcome (small fee)
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Property set in six acres of grounds
• Oil-fired central heating, electric storage heaters in the annex, gas fire in the TV room
• Range cooker with gas hob, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer
• TV, CD/radio, DVD player.
• Travel cot and high chair (available on request)
• Steps between some of the rooms
• Games barn with table tennis, table football and darts board
• Garden leading to croquet lawn
• Paddock for ball games
• Covered Bothy for outside entertaining
• No barbecues permitted due to thatch

Activities & things-to-do:

• Games room
• Walking
• Fishing

Nearby attractions:

• Lyme Regis, a lovely seaside resort is within easy reach of this property
• The town of Axminster where you can visit one of the River Cottage Canteen for a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner
• Nearest beaches at Branscombe (eight miles) or Beer (seven and a half miles)

Price: lowest price from £83

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“I have found out that there ain’t no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them.” – Mark Twain

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6. Apple Mill

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Apple Mill, Venn Ottery, Sidmouth, DevonGround floor kitchen at Apple Mill in Venn Ottery

Venn Ottery, Sidmouth, Devon (DV060)
Sleeps: 8
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3
About the property: Apple Mill is a Grade II listed property and can be accessed via its own driveway. The property has its own secluded, private garden with hot tub and courtyard.

Layout:

Ground floor:

• Large family room with wood burning stove (opens up to a kitchen with dining area/ seats 14)
• King size bedroom with a 5’ bed
• Twin bedroom with 3’ bed
• Shower room with walk in shower

First floor:

• Double bedroom with a 5’ bed and en-suite shower room
• Master bedroom with a king-size 5’ bateau lit (sleigh) bed and en-suite bathroom with a roll top bath and separate shower

About the location: This property is located in the stunning Devon countryside. Apple Mill is only four miles from Sidmouth in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near the Jurassic Coast, the UK’s only natural World Heritage Site. It is also near to Venn Ottery Common and the Otter Valley, which are perfect for Devon countryside walks.

The Woodbury Park Golf and Leisure Club is only 10 minutes from Apple Mill (enjoy free complimentary membership during your stay). The facilities include an 18-hole championship golf course, a nine hole golf course, driving range, indoor swimming pool with Jacuzzi, sauna, gym, squash courts, tennis courts, beauty therapist and two restaurants. Green fees, court fees and beauty treatments not included.

House rules:

• Smoking not permitted
• Pets not permitted
• Minimum of three night stay
• Kid-friendly

Key features & amenities:

• Wood burning stove
• Sun trap courtyard and garden with hot tub
• Parking (four vehicles)
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Electric range cooker with gas hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine
• Freeview Sky TV, further TV in master bedroom. Video, DVD & radio/cassette/CD player
• Telephone (available on request)
• Travel cot (available on request)
• Gas barbecue and patio furniture
• Private water supply
• Two adult bikes (available on request)
• Dinner delivery service from Tasmin Lear at Wild Thyme
• Free complimentary membership to Woodbury Park Golf and Leisure Club

Activities & things-to-do:

• Fishing
• Golfing
• Swimming pool
• Cycling
• Jacuzzi/ hot tub
• Tennis court

Nearby attractions:

• You can visit many of the local National Trust houses, gardens or castles in the area
• For a family day out, you can visit an adventure park, farms or steam railways which are within easy reach of the cottage
• There are many wonderful beaches nearby at Sidmouth, Budleigh Salterton, Beer, Branscombe and Exmouth

Price: lowest price from £553

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7. Blencowe Hall

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Blencowe Hall in CumbriaSitting area at Blencowe Hall, Cumbria

Blencowe, near Greystoke, Cumbria (CU037)
Sleeps: 24
Bedrooms: 12
Bathrooms:13
About the property: This is a multi award-winning Grade I listed, fortified manor dating back to the 1400s. It has undergone extensive renovations, bringing the two towers into use for the first time in more than 300 years.
Blencowe Hall has won the following awards: English Heritage Construction Conservation Award, Eden District Design Award, the NWDA Conservation Award and the RICS National Conservation Award. Visit England has also awarded it 5 stars.
About the location: Blencowe Hall is located on a bluff above the river Petteril and is surrounded by gardens, grounds and fields with access to the river. Views extend to the nearby Lakeland fells and across the rolling Eden Valley fields.
The property is on the edge of the Lake District (only four miles from Lake District National Park and seven miles from Lake Ullswater. Also nearby is Aira Force National Trust waterfall, perfect stream to paddle in. There is also a tea shop and scenic walk up to the peak of Gowbarrow Fell.

House rules:

• Smoking not allowed
• Pets allowed
• Kid-friendly
• Minimum three night stay

Key features & amenities:

• Two open fires
• Lawned garden with patio
• Onsite parking
• Up to two dogs welcome (small fee)

Additional features:

• Oak panelling and beams
• Ancient masonry walls and doorways
• Spiral stone staircases
• Ancient carde robes
• Juliette balconies
• Four poster beds
• Wood chip central heating, the Billiards Room has a gas fired open fronted cast stove
• Four door oven gas Aga, a separate Bosch hob, Bosch electric oven. Two refrigerators, microwave, two dishwashers
• Washing machine and tumble dryer
• Utility area with second sink, storage and cloakroom
• LCD TV, DVD player, iPod docking system
• Telephone
• Catering service available
• Barbeque with charcoal provided and outdoor furniture
• Bicycles may be rented

Activities & things-to-do:

• Cycling
• Fishing
• Pigeon shooting
• Horse riding
• Golf
• Walking

Nearby attractions:

• Brown trout fishing along the river
• Clay pigeon shooting within the grounds
• This property is on the edge of the Lake District, four miles from the Lake District National Park and seven miles for Ullswater
• One mile walk from the village of Greystoke, where you can find Greystoke Castle and its 3,000 acre estate. This village is perfect for public walks. Also, Greystoke has a heated village swimming pool, local post office/shop a cycle cafe and a 6th century coaching inn serving meals (The Boat and Shoe)
• The Aira Force National Trust waterfall is also nearby offering you the opportunity for a scenic walk up to the peak of Gowbarrow Fell

Price: lowest price from £3065

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Image: The Rowley Estates, Modern Heritage Matters

“Appreciate good people. They are hard to come by.” – Mark Twain

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8. Hause Hall Farm & Cruik Barn

Hause Hall, Hallin Fell, Martindate, CumbriaGround floor at Hause Hall in Cumbria

Hallin Fell, Martindale, Cumbria (CU050)
Sleeps: 14 (option to for 18 guests if you book The Stables as well)
Bedrooms: 7
Bathrooms: 7
About the property: Hause Hall Farmhouse and the Cruik Barn offers you 5 star rated accommodation in the Lake District National Park close to Lake Ullswater.
The farmstead extends several traditional lakeland stone buildings. This includes Grade II listed five bedroom, five bathroom farmhouse and the adjoining two bedroom, two bathroom Cruik Barn. These are linked across a traditional paved stone terraces along with The Stables. The Hause Hall Farmhouse can also be booked with The Stables to sleep 18 guests.
About the location: The property, Hause Hall Farm and its two adjoining cottage, is located part way up Hallin Fell at the south end of Ullswater in Martindale. Enjoy spectacular views over the fells and up into the hidden valleys of this secluded area of the Lake District.
The property is a short distance from the Howtown Hotel and its Walkers Bar, open to non residents from April to November. Also, only one mile away on the footbath is the Michelin starred Sharrow Bay Hotel. The Cruik Barn and Stables are never let independently to value your privacy during your stay at Hause Hall Farm.

House rules:

• Kid-friendly
• Pets allowed
• Smoking not allowed
• Minimum three night stay

Key features & amenities:

• Wood burning stoves
• Walled gardens and yorkstone terrace
• Onsite parking
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Spectacular views over the fells and up into the hidden valleys
• Cycle storage

Hause Hall:

• Central heating provided by ground source heat pump with underfloor heating downstairs and radiators in bedrooms
• Gas fired four-oven Aga and separate gas hob with an electric oven. Microwave, fridge, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer
• LCD TV, DVD iPod dock
• Telephone
• Catering service available
• Travel cot, highchair and stair gate (available on request)
• Garden furniture and Weber barbecue

Cruick Barn:

• Central heating provided by ground source heat pump with underfloor heating downstairs and radiators in bedrooms
• Electric hob and an electric oven, microwave, fridge, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine

Activities & things-to-do:

• Cycling
• Fishing
• Golfing
• Walking

Nearby attractions:

• The property is only a short walk away from the Howtown Hotel and the Walkers Bar (open to non residents April to November)
• One mile up the country lane or footpath is the Michelin starred Sharrow Bay Hotel
• Ullswater Cruises provides two hour cruises and short trips on a daily basis
• Derwentwater Marina is close to Keswick offering the opportunity for windsurfing, canoeing, rock climbing courses, boats for hire and sailing
• Nearby historic houses: Dalemain House and Gardens, Acorn Bank Garden and Watermill, Hutton-in-the-Forest and Appleby Castle

Price for Hause Hall Farm & Cruick Barn– sleeps 14 guests: lowest price from £1790 (Book here)

Price for Hause Hall, Cruick and The Stables– sleeps 18 guests: lowest price from £2,092 (Book here)

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9. Waternook

Waternook, Ullswater, The Lake DistrictLake view from Waternook in Cumbria

Ullswater, The Lake District, Cumbria (CU060)
Sleeps: 12 (option for 20 guests if you book The Great Barn as well)
Bedrooms: 6 double bedrooms (all en-suite)
About the property: Set within 26 acres of private grounds and gardens, Waternook provides a secluded setting with views of lake and mountain. The property is located at the base of Hallin Fell and is complimented with half a mile of Ullswater lake with boathouse and private jetty.
The property has sleek and sophisticated interior styling, making it the perfect place for a special event, wedding or gathering with friends.
About the location: The Ullswater Valley lies in the the English Lake District and is a place that offers a great escape since it is relatively untouched by tourism. Ullswater is surrounded by beautiful Lakeland fells, perfect for walks. This is an adventure destination for the family or a romantic escape. Ullswater also offers a lot of exciting opportunities for thrill seekers looking for an adventure.

House rules:

• Minimum 3 night weekend stay, 4 night mid-week stay or 7 night week long stay

Key features & amenities:

• Half a mile of lake frontage
• 26 acres of private estate grounds
• Lake view
• Terraced gardens with seating
• Boathouse with private jetty
• Infinity terrace with hot tub
• Two dogs are welcome (small fee)
• Onsite parking
• Concierge services available

Additional features:

• Stone and porcelain en-suite bathrooms with rain showers
• Designer baths in two bedrooms
• State of the art kitchen
• Wood burning stove
• Spa and wellness sanctuary
• Lake view dining
• Panoramic views of lake and mountains
• Integrated music system and iPad control
• TVs in all bedrooms
• Barbecue terrace with equipment
• Travel cot and highchair (available on request)
• Dog beds (available on request)
• Cinema with Sky movies and sports
• Secure bike and canoe storage
• Security gate entry system

Activities & things-to-do:

• Jacuzzi/hot tub
• Sauna
• Cycling
• Fishing
• Walking

Nearby attractions:

• Ullswater is the perfect destination for lakeshore walks. Hiking for the novice and more experienced mountaineers
• Ullswater Lake: Known as one of England’s most beautiful lakes. You can take a Round the Lake Pass with Ullswater Steamers. You can hop on and off at different piers around the lake and explore at your own pace.
• Lots of exciting outdoor activities: mountain biking, pony trekking, paragliding and sailing. Waternook’s concierge service can help you arrange these activities.
• Historic houses like Dalemain and Hutton-in-the Forest: both beautiful properties with lovely gardens
• Rheged Centre in nearby Penrith: This is an arts centre, cafe, cinema, farm shop and market selling local produce (with a grass covered roof).

Price for Waternook – sleeps 12 guests: lowest price from £4930 (book here)

Price for Waternook & The Great Barn – sleeps 20 guests: lowest price from £6886 (book here)

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Image: Last Minute Cottages,  lakelovers.co.uk

10. New Lodge

You can book New Lodge here
New Lodge, Watermillock, CumbriaFirst floor sitting area with views towards the lake at New Lodge in Cumbria

Watermillock, nr Penrith, Cumbria (CU056)
Sleeps: 8
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 2 (and a shower room)
About the property: New Lodge was originally the gatehouse for Leeming House, which dates back to the early 1900s. The property is located in a beautiful location with incredible views of Lake Ullswater.
This is a luxurious lakeside lodge which has a stunning architecturally designed extension. This incorporates large areas of glass allowing you to enjoy panoramic views of the Lake, Barton Fell and Haling Fell from different levels of the house. The house also has its own private shore line and a small jetty at the end of the lawn making it a wonderful location to enjoy the beautiful lakeside setting.

Layout:

First floor:

• Oak staircase leading to a glass and oak mezzanine landing providing views over garden and lake
• Landing hall leads into a light contemporary open plan living area with wooden floor kitchen and wooden work top and a double ceramic sink
• Central island with breakfast bar seating
• To the front of the kitchen is  a large living area with double ceiling windows, seating and dining for up to eight guests (door out to balcony patio)
• Wood burning stove and television and external door from the kitchen giving access to the car parking area via external staircase
• Three double bedrooms: two x 6’ zip and link beds which can be made into singles on request and one 5’ double bed and an oval shaped bathroom with double shower and bath and double sinks. One bedroom with a double beam vaulted ceiling, wood burning stove, television and views over the lake

Second floor:

• Generous landing area that leads to the master suite with 6’ bed
• Large mezzanine master suite (lots of natural light and views with full floor to ceiling windows). Access a sofa and study area on the mezzanine balcony over the living space below. Walk in wardrobe leading to contemporary en-suite bathroom (free standing bath and shower).
• Separate room with single bed, which is perfect for children. Through this room you can access a game/TV room with sofa and velux windows

Outside:

• Access to the property is through a gated entrance onto a tarmaced drive with parking for up to five cars and hard standing for boats
• The flagged patio leads to a large lawn, which extends down to the private lake shower and small jetty

About the location: This is the perfect position for exploring northern parts of the Lake District National Park. Right outside the property you can enjoy beautiful walks. There are also lots of opportunities for outdoor activities like cycling, horse riding, kayaking, fishing and sailing.

House rules:

• Pets not allowed
• Minimum three night stay
• Kid-friendly

Key features & amenities:

• Two wood burning stoves
• Large garden leading to a private lake shore and jetty
• WiFi
• Onsite parking (up to five cars)
• Shoreline is fenced (child supervision still required)

Additional features:

• Stunning panoramic views overlooking Lake Ullswater and surrounding fells
• Floor to ceiling windows in the living area and master bedroom
• Wooden beam vaulted ceilings in parts
• Electric hob and oven, microwave, fridge freezer, dishwasher, washing machine and tumble dryer
• Charcoal barbeque and garden furniture

Activities & things-to-do:

• Walking
• Cycling
• Horse riding
• Kayaking
• Fishing
• Sailing
• Golfing

Nearby attractions:

Price: lowest price from £893

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“Never go on trips with anyone you do not love.” – Ernest Hemingway

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11. Kirkbride Hall

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Kirkbride Hall in the snow, Melmerby, Cumbriawood burning fire and double doors opening to the sanstone terraces and gardens" src="https://i1.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/kirkbride-hall-living-room-melmerby-nr-langwathby-penrith-cumbria.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="Kirkbride Hall living room with wood burning fire and double doors opening to the sanstone terraces and gardens" />Kirkbride Hall living room with wood burning fire and double doors opening to the sandstone terraces and gardens

Melmerby, near Langwathby, Penrith, Cumbria (CU054)
Sleeps: 8
Please note: Nearby properties can accommodate more guests – Melmerby hall (18 guests) and Stag Cottage (four guests).
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 4
About the property: Located in the Eden Valley near the Lake District National Park, Kirkbride Hall is a 5* rated property for up to eight guests. The property was completed in early 2015 and was designed to cater to all the comforts of a traditional Cumbrian cottage. This includes sandstone walls using stone sourced from within the estate, solid oak floors, antique furniture and a large welcoming wood burning stove in the sitting room.
The property is a sandstone terraced cottage situated in walled cherry and apple orchards of Melmerby Hall. The former orchard garden of Melmerby Hall is a beautiful setting for this property.
Kirkbride has open plan access and parking to the front, a large enclosed patio and garden to the rear. It is the perfect place to relax on a warm summer’s day with a lot of space for children to play safely on the property.
Since it is in on the grounds of Melmerby Hall (sleeps 18 guests) it is also a great opportunity for families that would like to be near each other but not in the same property. Stag Cottage is also nearby (sleeps four guests).
About the location:  Kirkbride is right next to the quiet and scenic churchyard of the Grade II listed St John’s Church in Melmerby. There is also private gated access to 20 acres of mixed woodland grounds of Melmerby Hall through an iron gate set into the orchard wall. These grounds include woodland paths, water meadows and a tributary to the River Eden.

House rules:

• Pets allowed (three dogs)
• Minimum three night stay
• No hen or stag parties
• Baby-friendly
• Kid-friendly

Key features & amenities:

• Wood burning stove
• Large enclosed patio and garden to the rear
• On-site parking
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Oak flooring
• Underfloor heating fired by an environmentally friendly wood chip boiler system
• Electric oven and hob, microwave, dishwasher, fridge/freezer, washer and dryer
• 42’ TV, DVD player, iPod docking system
• Telephone
• Catering service available
• Travel cot, high chair and stair gate (available on request)
• Barbecue and charcoal available

Activities & things-to-do:

• Fishing
• Cycling
• Golfing
• Horse riding
• Walking

Nearby attractions:

• Melmerby is set within the heart of the Eden Valley at the base of Pennine fells and the Hartside Pass (which climbs 1904 feet above sea level). This offers you the opportunity to get a beautiful viewpoint on a clear day of the Eden Valley, Lake District and even as far as southern Scotland.
• Melmerby also has a village shop, tea room, post office, antique shop. La Brocante Emporium is within walking distance of the property.
• The ‘Coast to Coast’ Cycle route passes through the village on the A686 and ascends via Hartside to Alston

Price: lowest price from £612

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12. Glassonby Old Hall

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Glassonby Old Hall in Cumbriaground floor dining room with stone fireplace" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/glassonby-old-hall-cumbria-ground-floor.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="Glassonby Old Hall's ground floor dining room with stone fireplace" />Glassonby Old Hall’s ground floor dining room with stone fireplace

Glassonby, Cumbria (CU052)
Sleeps: 8
Please note: There are neighbouring properties that accommodate more people, Elk Cottage (sleeps four) and Jenny’s Croft (sleeps four).
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 5
About the property: Glassonby Old Hall is a 5 Star Gold Award winning traditional long house that is Grade II listed. It is one of three luxury properties in Glassonby, Cumbria. The other two properties are Elk Cottage and Jenny’s Croft, which both adjoin Glassonby Old Hall. All properties date to the 1600s.
Recent renovations brought the properties back into habitation for the first time since 1764. Glassonby Old Hall still retains many of its original features like the old ship timber oak beams, oak mullion windows, flagged stone floors, open fires and stone staircases.
Layout:

Ground floor:

• Sandstone flagged and galleried dining room with large stone and log burning fireplace
• Dining hall has double doors that open onto a sandstone terrace leading into the garden
• Sitting room with wood burning cast iron stove, a large breakfasting kitchen with four oven Aga, utility and store room and a ground floor cloak room
• The Daleraven Room, a double bedroom with a 5’ king size bed and wc and shower room. The room has original sandstone walled well preserved below the glass flooring

First floor:

• The Master bedroom suite that is accessed along the oak gallery. This suite has a 5’ poster bed and an en suite bathroom with separate rainfall shower and a cast iron roll top bath
• The Addingham Room has a 5’ carved antique bed
• The Salkeld twin bedroom has two 3’ beds
• All of these bedrooms are located next to the family bathroom which has a cast iron bath and separate rainfall shower.

About the location: The property used to be a farm and is positioned on the hills of the Eden Valley, giving amazing views toward the Pennines and the rolling countryside.

This is the perfect location to an outdoor holiday in Cumbria. There are lots of walks nearby and leading to Lacey’s Caves along the Eden River, to the Long Meg Stone Circle (second largest in England) and to the nearby Cumbrian village of Melmerby. Here you can find the nationally acclaimed organic Village Bakery.

House rules:

• Kid-friendly
• Baby-friendly
• Pets allowed (two dogs welcome)
• Smoking not allowed
• Minimum three night stay

Key features & amenities:

• Two wood burning stoves
• Sandstone terrace leading up to a lawned area
• Onsite parking
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Oak and sandstone flag flooring with underfloor heating
• Four oven Aga, electric hob and separate oven, microwave, fridge freezer, dishwasher, washing machine and tumble dryer
• Large screen LCD TV, DVD player, iPod docking system
• Telephone
• Catering service available
• Heated towel rails in all bathrooms
• Cots and high chairs (available on request)
• Barbecue with charcoal available to use
• Garden furniture

Activities & things-to-do:

• Fishing
• Golfing
• Cycling
• Walking

Nearby attractions:

• Village shop in Kirkoswald (one and a half miles away) which has two local pubs
• You can rent bicycles, locks and helmets locally
• Nearby fishing spots
• Great walks from right outside of the property – from Dale Raven along the banks of the Riven Eden, a walk to Lacey’s Caves along the Eden River and a walk to the Long Meg Stone Circle
• Glassonby is situated along the popular C2C cycle route and there are also many quiet lanes in the local area for cyclists. Cycling route maps provided at property.
• Glenridding Sailing Centre, where you can hire canoes and sailboats
• Rookin House Farm where you can go on a Pony trek
• Lake Ullswater at the Sharrow Bay Hotel, where you can enjoy a leisurely meal on the shoreline
• Junction 40 of the M6 is nine miles away
• Penrith the historic market town can be easily reached by taxi from the station (three hours train journey time from London)

Price: lowest price from £612

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Image: The Rowley Estates, Holiday Images

13. Cazenovia Hall

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Cazenovia Hall, Near Greystoke, CumbriaFirst floor double bedroom at Cazenovia Hall

Near Greystoke, Cumbria (CU046)
Sleeps: 8
Please note: There are neighbouring properties that accommodate more people, Riverain and Wythburn Cottage (both sleeping six guests).
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 4
About the property: Cazenovia Hall is a Grade II listed and 5 Star Gold Award winning property located in the secluded grounds of the family owned Grade I listed Blencowe Hall. This holiday home has been renovated to a high standard with light and airy four bedroom traditional stone built barn that dates back to 1726.
This property has views up over the nearby hills. It’s secluded south facing sandstone terraces are perfect to relax after a day adventuring the Lake District.
About the location: This property is based on the edge of the Lake District (four miles away from Lake District National Park). Blencowe is also close to the Aira Force National Trust waterfall, offering a place to paddle, tea shop and walk up to the peak of Gowbarrow Fell.
Cazenovia Hall is also just over a mile from Greystoke Village, with a village shop, traditional Lakeland pub (The Boot and Shoe), a heated swimming pool and Greystoke Castle with its 3,000 acres of woodland grounds for country walks.

House rules:

• Kid-friendly
• Pets allowed (two dogs)
• Smoking not allowed
• Minimum three night stay

Key features & amenities:

• Open fire
• Private garden with sandstone terraces
• Parking (four vehicles)
• WiFi

Additional features:

• 5 Star Gold Award winning conversion, part of the Grade II listed sandstone barns within the Blencowe Hall Estate
• Double height, well-equipped kitchen with four oven Aga
• Oak flooring, underfloor heating from a sustainable wood chip boiler
• Four oven Aga, gas hob and electric oven, microwave, dishwasher, large fridge/freezer, washer and dryer
• 42’’ TV, DVD player, iPod docking system
• Catering service available
• Telephone
• Travel cot, stair gate and high chair (available on request)
• Teak garden furniture and barbecue with charcoal to use
• Secure cycle storage

Activities & things-to-do:

• Fishing
• Cycling
• Golfing
• Walking
• Clay pigeon shooting

Nearby attractions:

• Clay pigeon shooting is available
• Tributary of the River Petterill for brown trout fishing (within the grounds of Blencowe Hall)
• Pony trekking, sailboat hire, and cycle tours along the popular C2C cycle route (passes through the village) all easily arranged
• Perfect for walkers who want to enjoy the Lake District (only four miles away from Lake District National Park)
• Penrith railway station is close to the property (three hours direct from Euston). The station is four miles from Junction 40 on the M6.

Price: lowest price from £612

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14. The Normans

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The Normans, Wells-next-the-sea, NorfolkSecond floor master bedroom at The Normans

Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk (NO088)
Sleeps: 14
Bedrooms: 6
Bathrooms: 4 en-suite bathrooms and 1 en-suite shower room
About the property: The Normans is a three storey holiday townhouse based in the centre of Wells-next-the-Sea in Norfolk. The property is only a two-minute walk from the harbour and the sea. This is a self catering luxury rental house that’s garden is enclosed by a high wall.
The bedrooms are spacious and offer impressive views across the coast from Holkham to Stiffkey.
History of the property: The house was built for the town’s wheat merchant (rumoured to be a smuggler). This is why there is a spy window at the top of the house, from where the merchant could watch boats come in. The house had tunnels running beneath which lead to different locations in the town.
About the location: Wells-next-the-Sea is a popular Norfolk town that is based in a small harbour on the beautiful North Norfolk Coast. This area is one of the UK’s designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The town is known for its narrow streets, old alleys and yards with plenty of shops, pubs and cafes. Also, many impressive Victorian and Georgian buildings.

House rules:

• Smoking not allowed
• Pets not allowed
• Kid-friendly
• Baby-friendly
• Minimum three nights stay

Key features & amenities:

• Open fire
• Enclosed, walled garden
• Parking (four vehicles)
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Electric oven with induction hob, microwave oven, fridge with freezer compartment, dishwasher, washing machine and tumble dryer
• TV, DVD player
• Travel cot and high chair (available on request)
• Garden furniture and charcoal barbecue
• Swinging seat and petanque pit in garden
• Catering can be arranged through Julie Abbs Catering

Activities & things-to-do:

• Horse riding
• Walking
• Bird watching
• Fishing

Nearby attractions:

• You can access the beach via a miniature steam train from the harbour. The beach has pine trees, sand dunes and colourful beach huts.
• The quay has an active fishing fleet and sailing club
• North Norfolk Coastal Path, perfect for walkers and birdwatchers with many creeks and marshes

Price: lowest price from £1199

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“A good friend listens to your adventures. A best friend makes them with you.” – Amanda Bradley

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15. Long Barn

Long Barn, Felmingham nr Aylsham, Norfolkfloor drawing room with wood burning stove and underfloor heating" src="https://i2.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/long-barn-felmingham-nr-aylsham-norfolk-ground-floor-drawing-room.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="The Long Barn's first floor drawing room with wood burning stove and underfloor heating" />The Long Barn’s first floor drawing room with wood burning stove and underfloor heating

Felmingham nr Aylsham, Norfolk (NO021)
Sleeps: 10 (or 16 if you also rent the adjoining property, Dovecote)
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 1
About the property: Located on the grounds of Felmingham Hall (a Grade II listed Elizabethan manor house) are the Felmingham Hall Barns. These are two award-winning holiday properties within a stunning 18th century barn conversion. Off a country lane and located at the end of a long drive, you can find the barns set within a walled garden and surrounded by farmland. There is a grape and laburnum covered pergola leading up to the properties.
The Long Barn is light and spacious, with a 30’ high vaulted drawing room with imposing fireplace, heating and double doors to front and rear gardens and terrace. The dining room leads out to a covered loggia (via double doors) where you can enjoy a meal while overlooking the private south-facing walled garden with views to the Hall. There are inter-connecting doors between Long Barn and Dovecote (sleeps six guests)
Property history: The Long Barn was once the home of William Talman, an architect of Chatsworth House and Master of the Works to the court of James I. Felmingham Hall was constructed in 1569 and is one the earliest examples of Elizabethan architecture in North Norfolk.

Layout:

Ground floor:

• Drawing room with a wood burning stove and underfloor heating, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room
• Twin bedroom with 3’ beds and an en-suite bathroom

First floor:

• Double room with a 4’6 bed, an en-suite shower room and a window over the grand hall
• Twin room with an en-suite shower room
• Double bedroom with a 4’6 bed and an en-suite bathroom
• Double bedroom with a 5’ bed, an ornate window/ fire escape an an en-suite bathroom

About the location: This property is based in unspoilt countryside not far from the National Trust’s Blickling and Felbrigg estates. It is the perfect location for exploring the Norfolk coastline, only 20 minutes away by car.

House rules:

• Kid-friendly
• Baby-friendly
• Pets not allowed
• Smoking not allowed
• Minimum two night stay
• No stag or hen parties allowed

Key features & amenities:

• Wood burning stove
• Lawned gardens with terrace
• Plenty of parking space
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Short walk from the beach
• Shared game rooms (table tennis, table football and toys)
• Freeview TV, DVD, CD, Telephone
• Travel cot, high chair and stair gate (available on request)
• Private water supply
• Garden furniture and barbecue
• Catering can be arranged through Julie Abbs Catering

Activities & things-to-do:

• Walking
• Game Room

Nearby attractions:

• Weaver’s Way, a famous network of country walks is ten minutes from the property.
• The east coast is just fifteen minutes by car.
• Holt and Burnham Market, both picturesque Georgian towns
• Cley, a seaside village with famous bird sanctuaries
• Cromer, a traditional English resort town its Hotel de Paris
• Sheringham and Wells, both towns a short drive away and offer delicatessens, antique shops, restaurants and theatres

Price for Long Barn – sleeps 10: lowest price from £1039 (book here)

Price for Dovecote – the adjoining property that sleeps 6: lowest price from £612 (book here)

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16. The Oaks

Book The Oaks today

The Oaks, Inwood All Stretton, Shropshirelarge bay window and views" src="https://i2.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/the-oaks-inwood-all-stretton-ground-floor-sitting-room.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="The Oaks sitting room with large bay window and views" />The Oaks sitting room with large bay window and views

Inwood, All Stretton, Shropshire (SH019)
Sleeps: 10
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 3
About the property: The Oaks is a detached country holiday house based in the South Shropshire Hills. This luxury self catering rental has been refurbished to a high standard, offering contemporary, spacious and light accommodation.
The garden is two acres and surrounded by post and rail fencing and hedges. There are also two large, sunny stone patios with teak furniture facing west and south, offering views over Shropshire’s Caradoc and Lawley Hills.
About the location: The Oaks is based on the side of the Long Mynd and enjoys stunning views over the surrounding hills. This area is regarded as one of the UK’s designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

House rules:

• Pets not allowed
• Minimum three night stay
• Kid-friendly
• Baby-friendly

Key features & amenities:

• Wessex stone log fireplace in sitting room
• Aga
• Two-acre garden and stone patio facing south and west
• Parking (eight vehicles)
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Perfect celebration venue for family or friends
• Beautiful views
• Visiting organic spa treatment service available with My Personal Sanctuary
• Oil Aga plus a separate electric hob, oven and microwave
• Fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer
• 42’’ Plasma TV with DVD. 19’’ plasma TV
• Separate TV and video in games room with selection of children’s videos, children’s pool table, table football and board games
• CD player, Bose iPod speakers, radio
• Travel cot, highchair and stair gate (available on request)
• Outdoor furniture and barbecue
• Catering service available

Activities & things-to-do:

• Fishing
• Walking
• Golfing
• Mountain biking

Nearby attractions:

• Hill View Fishery nearby offering fly fishing for trout
• The front gate leads directly into National Trust land where you can go walking, mountain biking and exploring
• Golf course at Church Stretton, the third highest in the country with fantastic views
• Several country pubs nearby with great food, open fires and real ale (short car journey)
• Church Stretton, a Victorian spa resort is only five minutes away
• Ludlow, known as Shropshire’s gastronomic capital offers Michelin-starred restaurants
• Acton Scott is Shropshire’s historic working farm and is perfect for children
• Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre at Craven Arms
• Ironbridge offers many interactive museums

Price: lowest price from £944

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17. Lletty & Annexe

Book Lletty and Annexe here

Lletty located above the Eglwysbach Valley at the Bodnant Estate, ColwynBodnant Garden in Conwy, Wales

Bodnant Estate, Colwyn Bay, Conwy (CY008)
Sleeps: 8
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2
About the property: Lletty is one of eight luxury self-catering cottages on The Bodnant Estate near Conwy in North Wales. This is the perfect location for an outdoor break.
The property is a historic three-storey Grade II stone holiday farmhouse dating from the 17th century. The farmhouse has been rescued from dereliction and restored which has lead to it receiving an award from the Conwy Civic Society in 2009 for the restoration. The farmhouse has many period features and the separate annexe provides accommodation for two guests.
Layout:

Ground floor:

• Twin bedroom with 3’ beds, a vaulted ceiling and a private bathroom
• Study/sitting room with stairs up to dining room and door to the garden

First floor:

• Double bedroom with a 5’ bed
• Twin bedroom with a 3’ single zip and link beds (can be converted into a 6’ king-sized bed on request)
• Bathroom with a shower over the bath

Annexe:

• Twin bedroom with two 3’ beds and an en-suite shower room with wc
• Tea-making area including small kitchen sink and mini fridge

About the location: The Estate lies off a woodland track where there are many walking opportunities, paths, woods and farmland. It is located high above the Eglwysbach valley, with pastoral views.
Central to the Bodnant Estate is Bodnant Garden, owned by the National Trust. Also, the garden is only one to two miles walking distance from this property and open every day of the year.

House rules:

• Baby-friendly
• Child-friendly
• Pets not allowed
• Smoking now allowed
• Minimum three night stay

Key features & amenities:

• Wood burning stove
• Enclosed garden, parts on a slope with steps and a level sitting area below the house. Also, an eating terrace to one side of the house
• Parking (three vehicles)
• Access is via a single country road and graded track across fields
• WiFi

Other properties on the estate:

Additional features:

• Period features within the property – oak and slate floors, vaulted ceilings, exposed beams and a bread oven
• Gas range cooker, microwave, larder fridge, freezer, dishwasher, washing machine
• TV, Freeview, DVD, CD/radio
• Travel cost, highchair and stair gate (available on request)
• Garden furniture and barbecue
• 10% discount at Hayloft restaurant, the Tearooms, Bodnant Cookery School and Bodnant Garden Centre
• Fishing permits available at Bodnant Garden Centre
• ‘Click and Collect’ service allowing you to order food in advance and then collect on arrival from the Bodnant Welsh Food Centre

Activities & things-to-do:

• Cycling
• Fishing
• Walking

Nearby attractions:

• Access to miles of private paths that run through the woods and across farmlands
• Bodnant Welsh food where you can find the Hayloft restaurant, producing rustic Welsh food with a modern twist
• Bodnant Tearooms where you can enjoy fresh cakes and look out to the beautiful Conwy Estuary and Carneddau Hills (also 25 meters of adventure play trail for children here)
• Bodnant Cookery School, where you can hone your skills with personal guidance from culinary experts. Classes for beginners and the more advanced.
• Fishing permits can be purchased so you can fish right near the property (Roach, Tench, Perch, Eels and Rainbow Trout)
• Bodnant Garden Centre
• Bodnant Craft Centre

Price: lowest price from £471

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“With freedom, books, flowers, and the moon, who could not be happy?” – Oscar Wilde

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18. The Old Post Office

Book The Old Post Office here

The Old Post Office, Empshott, Liss, HampshireThe Old Post Office’s kitchen and dining room in Hampshire

Empshott, Liss, Hampshire (HA018)
Sleeps: 10
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 3
About the property: The Old Post office is situated back from the road within a unique and private woodland setting and is complemented by the beautiful landscape.
Once the old post office, this property has been transformed with restored and reclaimed pink flooring throughout, stunning entrance hall and impressive stairway leading to a galleried landing. The sitting room leads into a piano room which then leads into the kitchen/dining room.
The open plan of the property gives you a great feeling of space with bi-fold doors leading to the patio area, garden and views over the woodlands. The master bedroom has vaulted ceilings, which creates an airy New York loft feel. This room also has a balcony which provides stunning views over the surrounding Hampshire countryside.
Property history: This property was once a family run business, which included the village stores, post office and bus stop. It was built in 1907 to serve the Le Court Estate and has been extended and renovated by the current owners. The restoration retains and enhances many of the original features with lovely decor along with replacing the tilting outside the property with handmade clay tiles. This restoration was featured on a television series.

Layout:

Ground floor:

• Kitchen/dining room
• Large galleried entrance hall
• Snug
• Sitting room
• Piano room
• Utility
• Cloakroom

First floor:

• Master bedroom, featuring balcony and en-suite bathroom with shower
• One double bedroom en-suite shower room
• Three further double bedrooms
• Family room

About the location: Alton, a nearby market town offers a variety of high street shops and also a weekly market. Also, the Watercress Line runs close with its steam locomotives. You can also venture into Farnham, Winchester and Basingstoke where there are more shops and a mainline railway station with connections to London Waterloo.

House rules:

• Kid-friendly
• Pets allowed (one dog)
• Smoking not allowed
• Minimum three night stay

Key features & amenities:

• Large galleried entrance hall & landing
• Parking (six cars)
• WiFi

Additional features:

• TV with Freeview and 3D smart TV with integrated Netflix/ Talk Talk TV for movies, CD player
• Gas cooker, dishwasher, washing machine, microwave, fridge and freezer
• Cot, high chair and stair gate (available on request)
• Garden with stream along the edge of the garden

Activities & things-to-do:

• Fishing
• Golfing
• Walking

Nearby attractions:

• Hamlet of Empshott, only two miles from the historic village of Selbourne and not far from the home of Jane Austen
• Many beautiful country pubs and walks in the vicinity
• South Downs National Park sites and nearby woodland
• Southampton Airport, accessible via M3 and M27 coastal motorway (40 minute drive)
• Frequent trains from London to Liss via South West Trains
• Liss, Hawkley, WInchester, Petersfield and Haslemere all offering villages, shops and dining

Price: lowest price from £1706

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19. Oat Hill Farmhouse

Book Oat Hill Farmhouse

Oat Hill Farmhouse, Snowshill, Broadway, Cotswolds" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/oat-hill-farmhouse-snowshill-broadway-cotswolds.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="Oat Hill Farmhouse, Snowshill, Broadway, Cotswolds" />Oat Hill Farmhouse, Snowshill, Broadway, CotswoldsOat Hill Farm House, Snowshill" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/oat-hill-farmhouse-snowshill-broadway-cotswolds-ground-floor.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="Ground floor, Oat Hill Farm House, Snowshill" />Ground floor, Oat Hill Farm House, Snowshill

Snowshill, Broadway, Cotswolds (CO232)
Sleeps: 16
Bedrooms: 8
Bathrooms: 5 and 2 shower rooms
About the property: Oat Hill Farmhouse is a 17th century farmhouse located in the centre of Snowshill and full of character features. This is a Cotswold village located at the top of the slope of villages of Stanway, Stanton Broadway, Buckland and Laverton.
About the location: You can get to the nearest pub within a three minute walk (The Snowshill Arms). Also, there is a church and its manor house within the village with beautiful gardens and tea rooms which are administered by the National Trust. On the edge of the village, you can also find Snowshill Lavender Farm, where you can wander through fragrant lavender fields (35 different varieties) and enjoy their tea rooms after.

House rules:

• Pets not allowed
• Smoking not allowed
• Kid-friendly
• Suitable for children under five

Key features & amenities:

• Two open fireplaces (including a huge inglenook in the kitchen)
• Large, tiered garden patio area for dining
• Parking (eight vehicles)
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Spacious family kitchen
• Exposed beams
• Some flag stoned floors and stone walls
• South and west facing summer house
• Kitchen includes large range cooker, microwave, large fridge freezer with ice maker, two dishwashers, wine fridge and island work station
• TV room with 46’’ TV screen with HD Freeview. DVD.
• External utility room with washing machine, tumble dryer, additional fridge and space for storage
• Garden furniture and barbecue
• Travel cot and high chair (available on request). Also, rooms large enough to accommodate a travel cot

Activities & things-to-do:

• Theatre
• Walking
• Cycling
• Polo
• Cricket
• Golfing
• Horse racing

Nearby attractions:

• Broadway (less than three miles away) and offers several restaurants, tea rooms and shops
• Towns of Chipping Campden, Moreton-in-Marsh and Stow-on-the-Wold are all a short drive away with wonderful restaurants and pubs
• Stratford-upon-Avon (a little farther away) with the Royal Shakespeare Theatre
• Cotswold Way in Chipping Campden offers plenty of footpaths for walkers
• For sports lovers there are several golf courses closeby, National Hunt Racing at Cheltenham, Cricket at Worcester and Polo at Cirencester Park

Price: lowest price from £2095

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“To move, to breathe, to fly, to float, to gain all while you give, to roam the roads of lands remote, to travel is to live.” – Hans Christian Andersen

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20. The Manor House

Book the Manor House today

Swimming pool and gardens" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/the-manor-house-bisley-stroud-cotswolds-gardens-and-swimming-pool.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="Manor House, Bisley, Stroud, Cotswolds - Swimming pool and gardens" />An aerial view of The Manor House with it’s lovely gardens and swimming poolOat Hill Farm House, Snowshill" src="https://i1.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/the-manor-house-bisley-stroud-cotswolds-swimming-pool.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="Ground floor, Oat Hill Farm House, Snowshill" />Outdoor heated swimming pool with changing rooms available from May to September at The Manor House

Bisley, Stroud, Cotswolds (CO268)
Sleeps: 14
Bedrooms: 7
Bathrooms: 6
About the property: This is a stunning 16th century Manor house with original features like an inglenook fireplace and mullioned windows. The gardens have a swimming pool and are maintained all year round. It is perfect for a break away  in the Cotswolds for a reunion with family, friends, gatherings and celebrations.

Layout:

Ground floor:

• Hallway
• Fully fitted kitchen/breakfast room (seating for 16)
• Dining room
• Drawing room with inglenook fireplace
• Sitting room
• Utility room and wc

First floor:

• Master bedroom with 6’ bed and en-suite
• Bedroom with 6’ bed and en-suite
• Bedroom with twin 3’ beds
• Bedroom with 4’6 bed
• Bedroom with a 4’6 bed and en-suite
• Bedroom with 5’ bed and an en-suite
• Family bathroom

Second floor:

• Bedroom with twin 3’ beds and en-suite

Outside property:

• Lawns and gardens with outdoor dining terrace with seating for 16
• Outdoor swimming pool with changing rooms

About the location:The property provides breathtaking views into the surrounding countryside. This is also the perfect place for walking, cycling and horseback riding. Also, the Manor House is great at any season with the beautiful pool in the summer and the log fire in winter months.

House rules:

• Smoking not allowed
• Pets not allowed
• Minimum two night stay

Key features & amenities:

• Open fire
• Lawns and gardens with terrace
• Outdoor heated swimming pool with changing rooms (available May to September)
• Plenty of on-site parking

Additional features:

• Views across the Cotswold countryside.
• Property retains many of its original features from the 16th century.
• Inglenook fireplace.
• Four oven oil fired Aga, dishwasher, fridge/freezer, washing machine, tumble dryer.
• Multiple televisions.
• Garden furniture and barbecue.

Activities & things-to-do:

• Swimming
• Golfing
• Walking
• Gardens
• Shopping

Nearby attractions:

• The towns of Cirencester and Cheltenham Spa are both equidistant from the property. These towns have many shops, restaurants, pubs and cafes to enjoy.
• Two hours away from London.
• Sports lovers can enjoy a visit to Cirencester polo grounds or the world renowned Cheltenham racecourse.
• Golfing at Minchinhampton, Naunton or Painswick Golf Club.
• There are many stately homes and gardens such as Painswick Rococo Gardens, Woodchester Manor and Rodmarton Manor.

Price: lowest price from £2494

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21. White Willow Lodge

Book White Willow Lodge today

White Willow Lodge, Near Lechlade, Cotswolds" src="https://i1.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/white-willow-lodge-near-lechlade-cotswolds.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="White Willow Lodge, Near Lechlade, Cotswolds" />White Willow Lodge, Near Lechlade, CotswoldsWhite Willow Lodge, Lechlade, Cotswolds" src="https://i1.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/interior-white-willow-lodge-near-lechlade-cotswolds.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="Sitting Room of the White Willow Lodge, Lechlade, Cotswolds" />Sitting Room of the White Willow Lodge, Lechlade, Cotswolds

Near Lechlade, Cotswolds (CO282)
Sleeps: 12
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 5
About the property: This property is set on a stunning lake in the centre of the Cotswolds. This is a great property for time away with family or friends. There is complimentary use of the luxury spa and outdoor facilities included in your stay. There are sleeping arrangement for ten plus an additional bunk bed for two for children only.
There are lake views throughout the property across three floor. The interiors are warm and luxurious in a contemporary design. The property has been published in ‘25 Beautiful Homes’ magazine.
Guests have access to kayaks, bikes, fishing, sailing and rowing boats, zip wires, a luxury spa on the estate with 20 meter pool, sauna, spa and fully-equipped gym. In home catering and beauty treatments are also available.

Layout:

• Master suite 1 – sleeps two, King bed
• Bedroom 2 – sleep 2, King bed
• Bedroom 3 – sleeps 2, Super king or twin bed
• Bedroom 4 – sleeps 4, Super king or twin bed and bunk beds
• Bedroom 5 – sleeps 2, King bed

About the location: Situated in a 650 acre estate of ‘Lakes by Yoo’ near Cirencester and only 90 minutes from London.

House rules:

• No pets allowed
• Minimum stay two nights
• No stag or hen gatherings allowed

Key features & amenities:

• Log fire in sitting room and master suite
• Outdoor terrace overlooking lakes
• Onsite parking
• Wifi

Additional features:

• Concierge Menu available (fridge stocking, fire lighting and bike hire)
• Security on call 24/7 at gated entrance
• Catering with a range of chefs
• On site spa offering treatments (gym, heated pool, sauna, steam and hot tub)
• Nanny services available with qualified childcare professionals. The ‘Yoo’ kids club  encourages kids to take part in outdoor adventures such as Ben Fogle’s School of Wild.
• Kitchen equipment and a Nespresso machine
• Outdoor terraces on both ground and top floor with a barbecue
• Sky TV, DVD/Blue Ray player, Sonos system and board games
• Two double kayaks available when lakes are open
• Onsite tennis courts, fishing, boating and wild swimming within the estate

Activities & things-to-do:

• Tennis
• Fishing
• Boating
• Kayaking
• Swimming
• Walking
• Children’s camp/activities

Nearby attractions:

• Many wonderful pubs nearby like: The Swan at Southrop (within walking distance) and The Five Alls in Filkin.
• Many waterways including the Thames, Avon and Severn run through the region. The Coln and Leach join the Thames at Lechlade, making the town a favourite mooring place for narrow boats and a hub for cruises. Also, there are opportunities to tour up-river on a Thames Launch or charter your own boat for the day.
• Lechlade, a market town that is home to a music festival and churchyard that inspired Shelley
• Burford, a medieval town that has been featured in Forbes list of Europe’s loveliest places to live
• Filkins, part of the estate of Sir Stafford Cripps
• Southrop with a beautiful 12th century church
• Lots of walking and hiking available with 3,000 miles of public footpaths. You can spend a few days walking the length of the Gloucestershire Way (100 miles from Forest of Dean to Tewkesbury Abbey)
• Daylesford Organics with handmade cheeses, pastries, breads and local produce
• Coln Valley Smokery in Northleach
• Benson’s Farm, delivers organic apple juice
• Cheltenham Festival, The Gold Cup (March)
• Cotswold Wildlife Park to get up close to the rhinos, camels, lions and more.

Price: lowest price from £1220

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22. August House

Book August House today

August House, Hampnett, Near Northleach, CotswoldsSitting Room of August House in the Cotswolds

Hampnett, near Northleach, Cotswolds (CO300)
Sleeps: 12
Bedrooms: 7
Bathrooms: 7
About the property: Built in 1872, August house was originally the village rectory but has been transformed into a modern home. This unique property is based in one of the Cotswolds most picturesque hamlets and perfect for family holidays away.
August House is spacious and perfect for family and friends to gather together. The ground floor offers a large kitchen/ breakfast room, family room, two sitting rooms, dining room and also a children’s playroom. Upstairs the bedrooms are decorated with double beds and en-suite bathrooms.
About the location: This property is located on the edge of Hampnett and is surrounded by countryside. There are six acres of landscaped parkland to explore and large gardens with formal lawns and box hedges. Also, an outdoor swimming pool is available in the summer months.

House rules:

• Kid-friendly
• Suitable for children under 5
• Pets not allowed
• Smoking not allowed
• Minimum of two night stay

Key features & amenities:

• Kitchen, three reception rooms and dining room.
• Heated outdoor swimming pool opened daily (June to August)
• Six acres of private landscaped gardens, parkland and picturesque lake.
• Plenty of on-site parking.
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Antique furniture throughout
• One bedroom with en-suite bathroom on the ground floor.
• Children’s playroom with toys and games
• Gas range cooker, fridge with small freezer compartment, two dishwashers.
• Televisions with Freeview in playroom, snug and kitchen.
• Bose iPod docking station and Roberts radio.
• Cooking and baking can be arranged prior (additional charge)

Activities & things-to-do:

• Cycling
• Swimming
• Walking
• Gardens
• Climbing
• Historic houses
• Racecourse
• Zoo
• Spas

Nearby attractions:

• Northleach is only a mile away and includes a convenience store, butcher and post office
• Burton-on-the-Water (10 minutes drive away) and Stow-on-the-Wold (15 minutes drive) have larger supermarkets and shops
• Nearby villages include Bourton-on-the-Water, Lower Slaughter, Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold and Cirencester
• Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens is perfect for a day out
• Crocodiles of the World, the UK’s only crocodile zoo
• Far Peak Climbing, a climbing facility at nearby Northleach (all ages and abilities welcome)
• Historic spa town of Cheltenham, only 10 miles away and known for festivals (literary, music and food) and famous racecourse
• Blenheim Palace, historic house and gardens open year round and perfect for walks with friends and family
• Gardens at Snowshill, Kiftsgate, Sezincote, Batsford and Hidcote (within an hour’s drive)
• Rail services run to Kingham railway station. There is a direct service from London Paddington (one and a half hours).

Price: lowest price from £2233

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23. Barnhouse

Book the Barnhouse today

View of Barnhouse, Near Lechlade, CotswoldsOutside Pool at Barnhouse in the CotswoldInside Barnhouse in the Cotswolds

Near Lechlade, Cotswolds (CO290)
Sleeps: 10
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 7 (5 are en-suite)
About the property: The Barnhouse was designed by Kate Moss and pricing includes the services of a butler during your stay. This is a gated community where you receive the ultimate rural retreat. This is a five bedroom, seven bathroom barn that is tucked away in the woods with panoramic windows across Bowmoor lake.

Layout:

• Master suite: sleeps 2, emperor bed
• Bedroom 1: sleeps 2, super king bed
• Bedroom 2: sleeps 2, super king bed
• Bedroom 3: sleeps 2, twin beds
• Bedroom 4: sleeps 2, super king bed

About the location: The property is located on Cotswold Water Park and is a great spot for exploring the local area. The Barnhouse is on a private estate on 650 acres of idyllic Cotswolds countryside. You are only 15 minutes from Cirencester, 30 minutes from Cheltenham Racecourse and 90 minutes from London.

House rules:

• Kid-friendly
• Ask about pets
• Smoking not allowed
• Minimum stay of two nights

Key features & amenities:

• Price includes butler services
• Five bedrooms with one master suite with art deco four poster bed and balcony
• Log fire in the sitting room
• Private outdoor heated pool
• Playroom
• Large secluded garden
• Parking available on property
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Concierge Menu available (fridge stocking, fire lighting and bike hire)
• Security on call 24/7 at gated entrance
• Catering available
• On site spa offering treatments (gym, heated pool, sauna, steam and hot tub)
• Nanny services available
• ‘Yoo’ kids club available
• Kitchen equipment and a Nespresso machine
• Outdoor terraces on ground and top floor with barbecue
• Sky TV, DVD/Blu Ray player, Sonos system and board games
• Two double kayaks available when lakes are open
• Onsite tennis courts, boating, fishing and wild swimming all on the estate

Activities & things-to-do:

• Cycling
• Fishing
• Walking
• Golfing
• Tennis
• Boating
• Kayaking
• Spa facilities
• Swimming

Nearby attractions:

• The Five Alls in Filkin and The Swan at Southrop (both excellent nearby pubs)
• Many local waterways offering boating and cruise opportunities. The Thames, Avon and Severn run through the region and the Coln and Leach join the Thames at Lechlade.
• Lechlade, home to music festival and churchyard that inspired Shelley
• Burford, medieval town named one of Europe’s loveliest places to live by Forbes
• Filkins, part of the estate of Sir Stafford Cripps
• Many walking opportunities with the Gloucestershire Way offering 100 miles from Forest of Dean to Tewkesbury Abbey
• Cotswold Wildlife Park
• Cheltenham Festival, The Gold Cup (March)
• Daylesford Organics offering fresh produce

Price: lowest price from £4530

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24. Forthampton Court

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Forthampton Court, Tewkesbury, Cotswolds" src="https://i1.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/forthampton-court-tewkesbury-cotswolds.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="Forthampton Court, Tewkesbury, Cotswolds" />Forthampton Court, Tewkesbury, CotswoldsForthampton Court in the Cotswolds" src="https://i1.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/forthampton-court-bedroom-tewkesbury-cotswolds.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="Bedroom at Forthampton Court in the Cotswolds" />Bedroom at Forthampton Court in the Cotswolds

Tewkesbury, Cotswolds (CO186)
Sleeps: 10
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 6
About the property: Forthampton Court is a modernised and spacious self-contained wing of a Grade II listed manor house. The property has been redecorated to a high standard and is furnished throughout with decorative prints and antique furniture.
Property history: Some parts of the house date as far back as the 15th century. This includes the Medieval Great Hall built by the Abbots of Benedictine monastery at Tewksbury. Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn were also believed to have stayed at the property in July 1535. The wing was added around 1890 by Philip Webb, the Arts and Crafts architect.
Layout:

Ground floor:

• Entrance lobby with wc and utility room leading to a staircase hall, adjoins oak-panelled drawing room with open fire
• External door leading to the rose garden from drawing room
• Dining room and breakfast kitchen

First floor:

• Master bedroom with a 6’ bed, simulated coal gas fire and en-suite bathroom (roll-top bath and separate shower)
• Double bedroom with a 5;6 bed, simulated coal gas fire and en-suite bathroom with shower over bath.
• Double bedroom with a 6’ zip and link bed (can convert to two 3’ singles upon request) and en-suite shower room)

Second floor:

• Double bedroom with 5’6’’ bed and en-suite bathroom with separate shower
• Twin bedroom with 3’6’’ beds and an adjoining wc and wash basin

About the location: The property is close to the west bank of the River Severn on the Gloucestershire/Worcestershire border.

House rules:

• Children over 12 years are welcome
• A dog is welcome
• Minimum three night stay

Key features & amenities:

• Open fireplace
• Aga
• Rose garden (fully enclosed, private walled, brick paved)
• Parking space for one car outside the front door and more space in adjoining garage yard
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Drawing room with oak panels
• Catering can been arranged (please give notice)
• Open fire in the drawing room
• Gas “coal-effect” fires in first two floor bedrooms
• Four oven Aga with two hot plates and a four ring gas hob attached, microwave, huge fridge/freezer, two dishwashers, washing machine, tumble dryer
• TV with DVD player
• Garden furniture and barbecue

Activities & things-to-do:

• Golfing
• Walking
• Boating
• Horse riding

Nearby attractions:

• The Lower Lode pub is only a half a mile walk away. There are lots of other pubs only a short drive away.
• Tewkesbury, the medieval town is only a few miles away with restaurants, pubs and shops.
• Cheltenham (12 miles away) offers literary and music festivals as well as a famous racecourse
• Gloucester and Worcester offer museums and cathedrals (25 minutes away)
• Malvern Hills and Bredon Hill provides walking opportunities
• 18-hole golf course at Puckrup (6 miles) and Tewkesbury Park (5 miles).
• Boating on the Severn and Avon at Tewkesbury
• Riding can be arranged locally
• Historic houses: Eastnor Castle near Ledbury and Sudeley Castle near Winchcombe
• Gardens of Kiftsgate and Hidcote

Price: lowest price from £1119

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25. Lower Farmhouse

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Lower Farmhouse, Todenham, Moreton-in-Marsh, Cotswolds" src="https://i1.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/lower-farmhouse-todenham-moreton-in-marsh-cotswolds.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="Lower Farmhouse, Todenham, Moreton-in-Marsh, Cotswolds" />Lower Farmhouse, Todenham, Moreton-in-Marsh, Cotswoldswood burning stove at Lower Farmhouse, Todenham" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/lower-farmhouse-todenham-moreton-in-marsh-cotswolds-ground-floor.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="Ground floor sitting room with wood burning stove at Lower Farmhouse, Todenham" />Ground floor sitting room with wood burning stove at Lower Farmhouse, Todenham

Todenham, Moreton-in-Marsh, Cotswolds (CO216)
Sleeps: 10
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 5
About the property: This is a 19th century stone holiday farmhouse and is a Cotswolds self-catering property with five bedrooms, all en-suite. There is also a large Inglenook fireplace with a wood burning stove and exposed beams. Also, a beautiful garden for spending times with friends and family, cooking on the barbecue or relaxing over a glass of wine.

Layout:

Ground floor:

• Contemporary kitchen with aga
• Separate electric hob and oven
• Utility room
• Dining room

First floor:

• One step down to the landing area
• Two steps down into the two twin bedrooms each with 3’ zip and link beds (can convert to 6’ doubles upon request) and each with en-suite shower room
• Double bedroom with a 6’ zip and link bed (can convert into two 3’ singles upon request with en-suite walk in shower)
• Double bedroom with a 5’ bed and an en suite-bathroom with shower over bath

Second floor:

• Double bedroom with a 6’ zip and link bed (two 3’ singles upon request) and bathroom with shower over the bath

About the location: Lower Farmhouse is located on Todenham Manor, a working farm just outside Moreton-in-Marsh.

House rules:

• Kid-friendly
• Suitable for children under five
• Smoking not allowed
• Pets not allowed
• Minimum three night stay

Key features & amenities:

• Inglenook fireplace with wood burning stove
• Aga
• Certain areas around the house are restricted since the property is situated on a working farm with livestock
• South facing garden with patio area
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Todenham Manor farm can deliver a box of fresh meat to your cottage
• Underfloor heating in parts of the cottage
• Oil-fired aga, electric hob and oven, microwave. Fridge, fridge/freezer in the utility room, dishwasher, washing machine.
• Flatscreen TV, and TVs in all bedrooms, Freeview, CD player, DVD player and iPod dock.
• Travel cot and high chair (available on request)
• Fixed stair gate on first floor
• Garden furniture and barbecue

Activities & things-to-do:

• Cycling
• Walking
• Gardens
• Restaurants
• Golfing
• Racecourse

Nearby attractions:

Price: lowest price from £1029

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26. Bellhouse

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Bellhouse, Near Nympsfield, Cotswoldswood burning stove at Lower Farmhouse, Todenham" />Ground floor sitting room at Bellhouse in the Cotswolds

Near Nympsfield, Cotswolds (CO229)
Sleeps: 8
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3
About the property: Bellhouse is a spacious house with lots of character, situated in a  quiet setting with lots of opportunities for long walks in the country. Bellhouse is the south-west wing of Woodchester Park House, a Grade II listed building. The property has private gardens and a patio area provides a great place for a meal with friends. The large lawn is surrounded by mature trees and great for children to play.
Property history: This property dates back to the 1860’s and retains many of its original features.

Layout:

Ground floor:

• Stone flagged entrance halls
• Fully fitted kitchen
• Larder and laundry room
• Large dining and sitting rooms (both with wood burning stove)
• Twin bedroom with 2 x 3’ beds
• Bathroom with bath and separate shower

First floor:

• Large double bedroom with 5’ bed and en-suite bathroom
• Large double bedroom with 6’ bed which can be made into twin beds upon request
• Smaller bedroom with two 3’ beds
• Bathroom with bath and separate shower

About the location: The garden and woodland boundary Woodchester Park, which is owned by the National Trust. From the house, it is possible to walk for miles without crossing a road or seeing a car. There is plenty of wildlife with five lakes running through the Park and the Cotswold Way passing nearby.

House rules:

• No pets allowed
• No smoking allowed
• Kid-friendly
• Baby-friendly
• Minimum two night stay

Key features & amenities:

• Wood burning stoves in both sitting room and dining room
• Access to gardens and parkland
• Two ponds on the grounds (child supervision required)
• On-site parking
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Grade II listed building with terrace and walled courtyard garden
• Lots of wildlife
• Electric cooker, microwave, fridge, freezer, dishwasher and washing machine
• Satellite TV and DVD player
• Two travel cots and two high chairs (available on request)

Activities & things-to-do:

• Golfing
• Walking
• Racecourse
• Swimming
• Bridwatching
• Cycling

Nearby attractions:

Price: lowest price from £747

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27. Hunter Court

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Hunter Court, Clanfield, Oxfordshire, Cotswolds" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/hunter-court-clanfield-oxfordshire-cotswolds.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="Hunter Court, Clanfield, Oxfordshire, Cotswolds" />Hunter Court, Clanfield, Oxfordshire, CotswoldsHunter Court in Oxfordshire" src="https://i2.wp.com/www.wegoplaces.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/hunter-court-sitting-room-clanfield-oxfordshire-cotswolds.jpg?resize=862%2C574" alt="Ground floor sitting room at Hunter Court in Oxfordshire" />Ground floor sitting room at Hunter Court in Oxfordshire

Clanfield, Oxfordshire, Cotswolds (CO215)
Sleeps: 8
Please note: Hunter Cottage is also within the grounds and offers additional accommodation for two guests.
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 1
About the property: This is a luxury Cotswold holiday house set in the village of Clanfield. The property offers a lot of space and is tastefully decorated with a homely feel. There are five acres of property with two fields (often with sheep) and a half an acre of walled garden.

Layout:

Ground floor:

• Large kitchen with separate garden room for dining and sitting
• Family room off the kitchen
• Utility room
• Cloakroom with wc
• Large sitting room, dining room, conservatory, office

First floor:

• Master bedroom with a 6’ bed an en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower
• Double bedroom with a 6’ bed (can convert to two 3’ singles upon request) and an en-suite shower room
• Double bedroom with a 5’ bed
• Double bedroom with a 5’ bed
• Family bathroom with walk in shower
• Single bedroom with a 4’6’’ bed and en-suite shower room.

About the location: Hunter Court is only a two minute walk from 17th century pubs offering excellent food and roaring log fires (The Clanfield Tavern and The Plough Inn). The neighboring village of Bampton offers a supermarket, butchers, art gallery and a few pubs.

This is a great location for an outdoor break in Oxfordshire since there are plenty of walking, cycling, fishing and boating (Thames is only two miles away) opportunities. Burford is eight miles away, Cirencester 18 miles, Oxford 21 miles and Heathrow Airport one hour and ten minutes.

House rules:

• Children over 10 years are welcome
• Baby under six months is welcome
• Pets are not allowed
• Minimum three night stay

Key features & amenities:

• Open fireplace in the sitting room
• Wood burning stove in the family room
• Attractive, walled garden (half an acre with feature pond and trees)
• Parking for three vehicles
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Garden furniture and barbecue (available between April and October)
• Gas hob, electric oven, multi-functional microwave, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer
• Television with Sky
• Two fields (with sheep)
• Two minutes walk from pub with great food and open fires
• Conservatory and office
• Catering available upon request

Activities & things-to-do:

• Walking
• Cycling
• Fishing
• Boating
• Golfing

Nearby attractions:

• Clanfield, great for walking cycling, fishing and boating
• Roadcot, offers one of the oldest crossing points over the River Thames
• Burford (eight miles away), Oxford (21 miles) and Cirencester (18 miles)
• Heathrow Airport, one hour and 10 minutes
• Nearest railway station is Hanborough (13 miles) with Oxford (21 miles), Didcot (22 miles) and Swindon (17 miles)

Price: lowest price from £966

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28. Furlong Barn

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Furlong Barn, Itchington, Southam, WarwickshireSitting room at Furlong Barn in Warwickshire

Long Itchington, Southam, Warwickshire (CO244)
Sleeps: 7
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 1
About the property: Furlong Barn is a beautiful property that is situated in a secluded location and offers views across Warwickshire farmland. This property has been stylishly renovated and there is a great attention to detail in every room. The vaulted main bedroom, sitting room and dining kitchen offer exposed, limited timbers which are set off by oak or slate flooring.

Layout:

Ground floor:

• Kitchen/ dining room
• Sitting room
• Double bedroom with 6’ zip and link bed and en-suite bedroom with separate shower
• Double bedroom with 6’ zip and link bed and en-suite shower room
• Both bedrooms have french windows that open out into the garden
• Shower room

Staircase to first floor:

• Twin bedroom with one 3’ bed and one 2’6’’ bed
• Separate staircase to further twin bedroom with 3’ beds and en-suite shower room

About the location: Furlong Barn is on the edge of the village of Long Itchington, offering a pond and village green within walking distance. The Buck and Bell pub is on the green with local beers and great food. Also, Hilltop Farm is only a short car ride away where there is a farm shop and restaurant.

House rules:

• Baby-friendly
• Kid-friendly
• Pets not allowed
• Smoking not allowed
• Minimum three night stay

Key features & amenities:

• Property suitable for up to seven adults and one child
• Walled, gravelled courtyard with slate patio and lawned areas
• Parking (four vehicles)
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Electric rangemaster, fridge/freezer, washer/dryer, dishwasher, microwave
• 46 inch smart television with Freeview. DVD player, CD player with iPod dock
• Travel cot, high chair and stair gate (available on request)
• Garden furniture and barbecue

Activities & things-to-do:

• Walking
• Cycling
• Silaing

Nearby attractions:

Price: lowest price from £947

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29. Ivy House & Reading Room

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Ivy House and Reading Room, Wetton, Near Ashbourne, DerbyshireGround floor kitchen at the Ivy House and Reading Room in Derbyshire

Wetton, Nr Ashbourne, Derbyshire (DE006)
Sleeps: 10 (Ivy House sleeps six and Reading Room sleeps four)
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 3
About the property: The Ivy House and Reading Room are adjacent semi-detached holiday cottages next to the church in the centre of the village of Wetton. The property has been refurbished to modern standard and still retains many of its original features, including its exposed beams.

Layout:

Ivy House ground floor:

• Sitting room with wood burning stove
• Dining room
• Kitchen
• Utility room

Ivy House first floor:

• Master bedroom with a 5’ poster bed
• Bedroom with 4’6” bed and an additional 3’ single bed (flexibility to use room as double ro twin) and an en-suite bathroom
• Small twin bedroom with 3’ beds
• Bathroom with a separate shower

Reading Room ground floor:

• Sitting room with open fire
• Kitchen with flagstone floor and dining table
• Twin bedroom with 3’ beds

Reading room first floor:

• Double bedroom with a 4’6” bed
• Bathroom with shower over the bath

About the location: These holiday cottages are located in Wetton and are tucked away deep in the Derbyshire Dales. The property is only 100 yards from the local village pub which serves excellent food, The Royal Oak.

House rules:

• Kid-friendly
• Baby-friendly
• Smoking not allowed
• Two well behaved dogs welcome (small fee)
• Minimum three night stay

Key features & amenities:

• Wood burning stove and open fire
• Small, fully enclosed gardens
• Off street parking

Additional features:

Ivy House:

• Four poster bed
• Fridge, freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer
• TV, video, radio/cassette/CD. Payphone.
• Travel cot and high chair (available on request)
• Charcoal barbecue and garden furniture

Activities & things-to-do:

• Walking
• Sailing
• Canoeing
• Boating
• Fishing
• Cycling

Nearby attractions:

• Only a few minutes walk from the upper reaches of Dovedale and Manifold Valley in the Peak District National Park with many footpaths for walkers
• Many opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking and power boating (can hire equipment from local companies)
• Haddon Hall, an English Tudor and country house
• Chatsworth House and its gardens
• Alton Towers
• Poole’s Cavern & Country Park
• The Heights of Abraham
• Rudyard’s Lake, where Rudyard Kipling’s parents met and named their son
• Blackbrook Zoo, with different species to admire

Price: lowest price from £1029

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30. Hillside Farm

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Hillside Farm, Littlebeck, Whitby, YorkshireGround floor sitting room at Hillside Farm in Yorkshire

Littlebeck, Whitby, Yorkshire (YO069)
Sleeps: 10
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 1
About the property: Hillside Farm is a detached farmhouse located in the heart of North Yorkshire Moors National Park. The property enjoys stunning views of the sea and Whitby, only a few miles away.

Layout:

Ground floor:

• Bespoke kitchen with aga and kitchen table
• Dining room, garden and utility room, boot room, wc, hall, TV room (wood burning stove)
• Double bedroom with 5’6” bed and en suite shower room
• Large beamed and galleried sitting room with wood burning stove

First floor:

• Master double bedroom with 6’ bed and an en suite bathroom
• Twin bedroom with 3’ beds
• Double bedroom with 6’ zip and link bed which can convert to singles on request
• Family bathroom with bath
• Double bedroom with 6’ zip and link bed which can convert to singles on request

About the location: Hillside Farm is two miles away from Sleights where there is a hotel and pub, both serving food. There is also a fish and chip restaurant, butcher/delicatessen, general store (open until 10pm) and a local bakery.

House rules:

• Kid-friendly
• Baby-friendly
• Pets not allowed
• Smoking not allowed
• Minimum three night stay

Key features & amenities:

• Two wood burning stoves
• Two tier garden with steps leading up to the lawned area
• Plenty of parking space
• Aga
• Access to property is steep (may not be suitable for low slung sports vehicles)
• WiFi

Additional features:

• Detached farmhouse set in centre of North York Moors National Park
• Views of the sea and Whitby
• Exposed beams
• Close to the beach
• Aga, electric hob and combination microwave/oven, fridge, freezer, dishwasher, tumble dryer, washing machine
• Two large flat screen TVs with Sky package, DVD player, CD player
• Travel cot and high chair (available on request)
• Outside furniture

Activities & things-to-do:

• Fishing (sea and river)
• Walking
• Cycling

Nearby attractions:

• River Esk (two miles away) most prolific sea trout rivers in England and the only salmon river between London and the Tees
• Salmon and sea trout fisher can be arranged with the owner (6th April to 31sts October)
• Coast to Coast and Cleveland Way paths offer amazing walking opportunities on nearby paths
• Whitby, Sandsend and Robin Hood’s Bay all nearby
• Dalby Forest offers mountain biking opportunities
• Grosmont
• North York Moors Railway
• Goathland

Price: lowest price from £713

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