Epsom

Families and small groups will find Epsom works well for a Cotswolds base. The cottage has three bedrooms spread over two floors—a king with ensuite on the first floor, two singles, and another single four-poster—plus a family bathroom with bath and shower. Downstairs, the living room has a wood-burning fire and Freeview TV, while the kitchen-diner is fully equipped for cooking, with electric oven and hob, dishwasher, and American fridge-freezer. Doors open onto a terrace overlooking the garden, where there's a barbecue and pergola for outdoor meals.

This is part of Bruern Holiday Cottages, so you have access to shared facilities: an indoor heated swimming pool with changing rooms, a games room with pool table and table tennis, and a well-equipped gym. The grounds include children's play areas. Bikes of various sizes are available by arrangement. One dog is welcome. Wi-Fi, electricity, bed linen, towels, and logs for the fire are included; a welcome pack with local treats arrives on arrival. The location sits between Chipping Norton, Stow-on-the-Wold and Burford, putting you within reach of Cotswolds high street villages and walks. No smoking inside.