Alton Hall Cottage

A brook winds around this 18th-century cottage and adjoining barn, creating a genuinely secluded setting where the only sounds are water and birdsong. The property sits in open countryside with plenty of space between it and neighbours, though there are small steps inside and outside that affect accessibility. The grounds include a lawned courtyard garden, patio, firepit and a private hot tub for eight guests.

Four bedrooms and four bathrooms mean groups of ten can spread out comfortably. The ground floor has a living room with woodburner and bi-fold doors to the garden, plus a kitchen with a range cooker and coffee machine opening into the dining area. Upstairs, bedrooms range from super king to twin beds, each with its own shower room or ensuite. Essentials like heating, electricity, bed linen and WiFi are included, and logs for the burner are provided. A travel cot, highchair and stairgate are available if needed.

This works well for extended families or groups of friends after quiet time in the countryside rather than a village base. The property is large enough that people rarely get in each other's way. There's secure storage for bikes and parking for five cars. The cottage retains original features—beams, flagstone and exposed stone—alongside modern comfort. No smoking throughout.