Take the London train to Audley End (55 minutes), and this Georgian farmhouse retreat is then just a five-minute drive. It’s on the top of a hill with farmland all around and has been in the Duke family for over 100 years.
Bedrooms all have views of the pretty gardens full of mature trees and wildlife; there are stairs down to one of the bathrooms. Wake to birdsong and hop down for breakfast next to the Aga in the family kitchen; Kate gives you a full English with local produce (veggie options too). In the evenings, pick up a book and settle by the fire in the guest drawing room.
You’re on the border of Essex, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire, with heaps of history and culture to dip into; walkers can join the Icknield Way, which passes near the house. Back here explore the garden, meadow and bluebell woods, or sign up to one of Kate’s wellbeing sessions: yoga, acupuncture, meditation or massage – and bushcraft events, for children and parents, which are held down by the lake (check what’s available first).
Kate and Rob are great hosts. We felt at home and welcome from the moment we arrived. Excellent breakfast ,pretty well anything you want cooked to order. Elmdon Lee is a good place for Est Anglian touring and visiting with Audley End and Cambridge close by. We will return to this lovely Georgian farmhouse .