Ivy Todd Barn

Ivy Todd Barn is a converted barn on a rural Essex property, outfitted for self-catering stays with everything from bed linen and towels to wifi and initial logs for the wood burner. The kitchen has electric oven and hob, dishwasher, microwave and fridge; the ground floor opens as one living space with a 56-inch smart TV and woodburning stove. Three bedrooms sleep up to six people: a double ensuite on the ground floor with bath and shower, a zip-and-link super kingsize ensuite upstairs with shower, and a galleried sleeping area above the kitchen with a day bed and single bed. A shower room serves the dining area. Electric underfloor heating and on-site parking for two cars are included.

The barn's exposed beams and high ceilings create a bright interior, and a small enclosed courtyard with garden furniture overlooks countryside. An enclosed pond is elsewhere in the grounds. The rural setting suits couples or small families looking for a quiet base; Saffron Walden medieval market town is nearby, as are Audley End House and its gardens. A pub lies a mile away and restaurants within two miles. Smoking is not permitted inside.