The Gate Lodge

Families and small groups will find The Gate Lodge works well as a self-contained base. It sleeps five across three bedrooms—a kingsize on the first floor, two singles, and one single—with a shower room and downstairs toilet. The ground floor holds the main living space: a kitchen with electric cooker, dishwasher and microwave opens to a dining room and sitting room with a smart TV. There is also a utility room with a washing machine. Heating, electricity, bed linen, towels and wifi are all included; a travel cot and highchair are available if needed.

The cottage is a restored 19th-century building at the entrance to a country estate in Latheron. It sits at the start of a private lane lined with mature trees, with a stream and small waterfall running alongside—a pleasant walk in itself. The 24-acre grounds are yours to explore, dotted with woodland and wild flowers; the owners also run a small café and craft business from the main house. One dog stays free. Outside, there is private parking for two cars and an enclosed garden with a seating area. Note that the entrance doors are low, and there is a step into the garden; an unfenced stream runs through the adjoining grounds, about 50 yards away. No smoking.