Inspiration

Six of our favourite cottages in Somerset

Sawday's Expert

5 min read

From light-filled converted chapels to thatched farmhouses, here are a few of our favourite cottages in Somerset. Whether you fancy exploring golden orchards producing a staggering range of ciders or crooked medieval streets teeming with antique shops, you will find lots to discover in Somerset.

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Somerset

Old Priory Cottage, Dunster

This cottage was once part of a medieval Benedictine Priory and retains a lovely sense of calm. Wake to the peel of bells and spend your days exploring the village, with its castle, pubs, and tearooms, or borrow bikes and take an exhilarating ride through nearby Exmoor.

Inspected by Diana

‘Old Priory Cottage is a haven of peace in its colourful, walled garden bounding with fruit and veg. The ancient house is a home-from-home, full of warmth and character as is Jane, the owner, who lives next door.’

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Emmetts on Exmoor, Simonsbath

At 1,250 feet this is the highest farm on Exmoor and views onto the wild, unspoilt landscape are stunning. This spacious house is filled with history and bright and airy rooms, as well as cosy spots by the Aga and open fires. Outside there’s a big lawned garden, tennis court, and chickens to meet.

Inspected by Andrea

‘What a spectacular Exmoor estate, with the most delightful house situated overlooking such rugged and epic moorland. The lovely Grade II listed Georgian home feels warm and welcoming, and a place where memories are made! It can be enjoyed at any time of the year.’

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Chapel Studio, Downhead

At this charming Victorian former chapel, light pours in through arched windows and modern art enlivens the walls. Return from a day exploring nearby Frome or the idyllic Somerset countryside to this cool, arty bolthole, and sink into the deliciously comfortable bed.

Inspected by Elisa

‘Chapel Studio is small, romantic and stylish, located in the lovely hamlet of Downhead: the perfect location for couples who want to get away and relax in the country with lots to do in the area!’

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Courtyard Cottage, Broadway

This is Somerset at its most quintessential: a thatched roofed, honey-coloured Hamstone cottage with a pretty courtyard garden. You’re in the centre of quiet Broadway which has a village shop and two pubs, and close to Ilminster with its weekly farmer’s market on Thursdays.

Inspected by Andrea

‘This beautifully appointed 17th-century Hamstone and flint cottage is decorated and presented to the highest of standards. It ticks so many boxes; peaceful, foodie destinations on your doorstep, countryside walks, the list is endless. It’s so delightful!’

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The Dairy at Manor Farmhouse, Litton

The Dairy is utterly unspoilt with the original flagstones, low windows with deep sills facing the garden and a large stone Inglenook fireplace. In the kitchen, you’ll find a welcome hamper and a bottle of wine in the fridge, and outside there’s space for summer barbecue and a foot path leading onto the Mendips.

Inspected by Nicola

‘Come for a quintessentially English village with 14th-century church and an excellent pub. The Dairy is an attractive and very comfortable place to stay for two couples or a family.’

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Hemington Coach House, Frome

Owner, Emily, has thought of every comfort in this clever new build: vast windows allow light to pour in, underfloor heating keeps you warm, the lighting is intimate, and the artwork very good. A lovely space to come together for sociable cooking and dining and a perfectly situated base for exploring eastern Somerset.

Inspected by Nicola

‘Once here you can abandon your car and choose between walking into town for gorgeous independent shops, markets and food producers. Also some superb restaurants. Or you can stroll along by the river to investigate Mells or Great Elm, discovering some lovely pubs with lethal cider and some interesting local ales. Returning from your adventures to such a gorgeous space will be a joy.’

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Discover our special places to stay in Somerset here >

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Ruth Richardson

Sawday's Expert

Ruth loves a good story. Following a decade living in London and working in publishing, her ears are always pricked for a spicy plot twist or unforgettable character. She delights in meeting hosts and discovering the history that brought saffron to her spaghetti, the hiking detours that will lead to temple ruins, and why someone cares so passionately about their special corner of the world. She loves that as a marketer for Sawday’s she can share these stories with others too.

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