If you are anything like me, the sunny, warmer days of this time of year spur me to spend more time outside and in nature. Whether it’s a long weekend or a day trip, there are so many beautiful places to see in the UK for a countryside escape from day-to-day life. Whilst the list could go on, here are our top 5 places to visit and stay!
The Newt in Somerset
Anyone who is a member of The Newt in Somerset will tell you how special the estate is, with gardens to explore, woodlands to trail, seasonal menus try, a farm shop and their very own cyder mill. The Newt have their Hadpsen house and Farmyard available to stay, with a range of luxury rooms to enjoy a long weekend at the estate. The Farmyard features “original farm buildings, with a delightfully golden patina, home to rooms, a pool, bar, snug and all-day kitchen.” Whilst you’re there, we recommend booking a cyder ‘tour and tasting’ to walk around the orchards and see the cathedral-like cellar dedicated to the golden drop!
Daylesford Farm cottages, Cotswolds
Daylesford Farm is a popular spot for a day trip, but the Daylesford cottages offer idyllic places to stay that have been beautifully restored. Set in over 2,500 acres of idyllic rolling organic countryside, The Wood Store and The Apple Store feature original exposed stone walls, oak beams, and open fires with a quintessential Cotswold charm! The Wood Store sleeps 6 with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, perfect for a family retreat. The Apple Store sleeps 4 with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom - originally the Daylesford farm storeroom for produce, this lovely little cottage is the ideal place to relax for a long weekend.
Fforest Farm, Wales
If you’re looking for a truly rural escape from busy everyday life, then Fforest farm is the place for you! “Fforest farm has been created as a place to enjoy the simplicity, pleasures and beauty of outdoor living in an outstanding natural environment.” Set in 200 acres of farmland minutes away from the West Wales coast, there are numerous magnificent beaches and coves to explore. Fforest have various types of accommodation to stay in, the Crog Lofts sleep up to 4 and “combines heritage quality restoration, natural materials and timeless design”. The Garden Shacs sleep up to 6 and feature charming pine panelling throughout, with an under-cover outdoor kitchen, borrowing the views of the surrounding landscape.
Petersham Nurseries, Richmond
Whilst Petersham Nurseries isn’t strictly in the countryside, it will take you no time to step away from the bustling city and embrace a slice of nature and calm. With a thriving seasonal nursery, café, restaurant, and shop, this is a favourite to escape and visit for a day! On Saturdays and Sundays there is also a unique Garden Afternoon Tea available; “Brimming with delicacies that reflect our spirited style, and exuding romance and character, inspired by the natural world, this is an Afternoon Tea that departs from the traditional, engaging with new ideas to present an entirely different experience.”
The Wild Rabbit cottages, Cotswolds
Finally, and by no means last, The Wild Rabbit nestled in Kingham, Chipping Norton, is known as a good country pub, offering fine dining and characterful building. A short walk from The Wild Rabbit you’ll find the Kingham village cottages, individually furnished and restored, offering a home-from-home. “Each self-catering cottage is unique, comprising from one to three double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, eating area and sitting rooms with open fires or log burning stoves.” These delightful cottages offer a wonderful base to explore the area, with The Wild Rabbit just a walk down the road for a quick drink or evening meal.
