Pond View

Pond View works well for a couple or family of four wanting a genuine break from routine. The property sits on a 32-acre working farm where you have the run of shared grounds—woodland, a children's play area, and an indoor heated swimming pool open from 8am to 8pm. There's also a games room with pool and snooker tables, table tennis, and a selection of DVDs if you want to stay put.

The cottage itself has two bedrooms: one with a double bed and ensuite shower, the other with bunk beds. A main bathroom upstairs has a bath with shower. The kitchen is fully equipped for cooking—oven, hob, dishwasher, microwave and fridge—and opens into a dining area. A sitting room with woodburner, Freeview TV and Bluetooth speaker occupies the first floor. Essentials like electricity, bed linen, towels and Wi-Fi are covered; logs for the burner too. Outside is a patio with seating and a barbecue for warmer days.

A cot, highchair and stairgate are available if you're travelling with a small child. Do note there's an unfenced pond and stream 30 yards from the property, and water comes from a natural spring. The property is non-smoking. Parking for two cars is private to you; a bike store is on site.