Spinks Nest, Norfolk
If you’re looking for one of the loveliest holiday cottages in Norfolk then look no further. Spink’s Nest has an old gardener’s cottage theme running throughout which will delight you from the minute you step through the door. Sit back and relax in the comfortable armchairs by the log-burner, cook up a bubbling stew in the kitchen and take a long hot soak in the sunken Japanese bath.
Ana has carefully sourced all sorts of reclaimed and vintage materials to kit the cottage out, including beautiful antique drawers, lamps, mirrors and trinkets. Weaved in with these are a great selection of houseplants that give the space a gorgeous greenhouse feel. You’re deep in the Glaven Valley so walks are glorious, but also close to the marshes at Cley and Salthouse for birdwatching. Spend your days at some of the nearby beaches, or go source your very own antiques in Norfolk’s picturesque towns.
Asphodel Cottage, Gloucestershire
The Cotswolds is brimming with stunning English country cottages, but Asphodel stands out with its hobbity stone and bushy cap of thatch. It dates right back to the 1600s, and since then little has changed outside. Inside, you’ll step into a warm living area with Indian rugs, Moroccan lamps, original artwork and a stone fireplace. The bedroom is up in the open rafters, with stunning exposed beams and wooden floorboards. A hanging chandelier, claw foot bath and cast iron bed make it feel hugely romantic.
It’ll be hard to drag yourself out, but do. Sit on the rattan seats and admire the stars, or head out over the lawn into a mini wild meadow with apples, plums and herbs to pick. There’s a lovely local pub nearby and plenty of countryside walks straight from the door. Or head out for the day and explore some of the Cotswolds’ beautiful villages.
Janie’s Cottage, Cornwall
Set back from the harbour in a cosy corner of Mousehole, this cosy granite coastal cottage has been renovated in a cool and calming style. It’s a sociable space – with the sitting room and fireplace one end, and a convivial kitchen-diner where you can sit around the large table and chat whilst others cook. The rooms feature eclectic interiors and a vintage charm; you’ll find printed curtains, old maps on the wall, antique chairs and pretty lamps.
The outside steps are a pretty spot for sitting with a morning coffee before a day of exploring. Stick to Mousehole for crabbing and cake shops, or head out along the South West Coast Path where you can walk to Newlyn and Porthcurno. There are lots of great pubs in this part of Cornwall, all of which are perfect for fuelling up after a day out on the coast.
Plum & Apple Cottage, Dorset
Two unique cottages set in an estate full of orchards and organic vegetable gardens. Exposed stonework reflects the 18th-century origins of these old Georgian gardeners’ cottages. Whilst inside, clean interiors reflect a more modern design. White washed walls act as a canvas for original paintings, sisal carpets, velvet sofas, vintage chairs and kilim cushions. Apple Cottage has a Inglenook fireplace, whilst Plum has a beautiful elm table for ten.
You’ll love cooking and eating in the modern country kitchens using herbs, fruit and veg picked from the private kitchen garden. A shepherd’s hut is something you wouldn’t expect to find alongside traditional holiday cottages, but Plum has its very own out in the garden. It features calming duck egg blue walls, a French enamelled wood-burner and up-cycled furniture. Eat delicious food at the estate’s very own cafe, take a wander around the surrounding countryside or visit the nearby Wimborne for a touch of history.
Wisteria Cottage, Derbyshire
High in the hills above Dovedale is one of the best dog-friendly cottages we ever did see. It’s a handsome 19-century former blacksmith’s workshop, covered in wisteria and with heavenly walks that start right from the door. There’s a walled garden at the back, with immaculately kept lawns, shrubs and French tables and chairs. Inside has a stylish New England feel, with open-plan living downstairs, a dreamy bedroom upstairs and a huge bath-tub for those cosy nights in. After busy days out on the hills, you’ll love crashing out on the sofas and getting toasty in front of the log-burner.
Take spectacular walks into the Dovedale Valley, Beresford and Wolfscote Dales. Or explore the market towns of Ashbourne, Leek, Buxton and Bakewell – renowned for antiques. The George lies across the road, a charming village inn where the chefs get creative with seasonal produce.
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Discover our brilliant collection of self-catering places to stay in the UK. Find traditional country cottages, renovated barns and converted chapels.
