Ever thought about retreating from the hustle and bustle and moving into a cottage with character, charm and charisma? We’ve listed our top 10 cottages, all providing the perfect countryside escape.
Picture opening your front door, the fresh summer breeze grazes your face, water ripples in a nearby lake, birds sing from the trees, and there it is; nature’s tranquillity right at your doorstep. For those dreaming of their own quiet haven this summer, we’ve found 10 of our favourite quaint cottage homes in the UK.
1. Swanwick, Hampshire, 4 bedrooms
Anyone who appreciates charm and stately elegance will fall head over heels for this remarkable Grade II Listed thatched cottage. Dating all the way back to 1610, the abundance of windows provides stunning views over the garden while also enhancing the bright and airy feel of the rooms.
2. Braintree, Essex, 4 bedrooms
Situated in the highly regarded village of Great Bardfield, this cosy detached farmhouse offers a wealth of character and beauty with magnificent exposed beams, a feature brick Inglenook open fireplace and four spacious bedrooms with stunning views from every window. The property sits on a generous plot, approaching 2.25 acres of well-established gardens and is brought to life by a colourful array of fruit trees, hedgerows, and flowerbeds.
3. Hartlebury, Worcestershire, 3 bedrooms
Park Cottage is a gorgeous Grade II Listed three-bedroom detached cottage located down a quiet lane in the village of Hartlebury. Set amongst the tranquillity of the Worcestershire countryside, with a large front garden that overlooks the fields of Hartlebury Castle, this is such a charming home. Take in the glorious green views from the garden and savour a laid-back lifestyle with loved ones.
4. Westmill, Nr Buntingford, Hertfordshire, 3 bedrooms
Step straight into the fantasy with this beautiful detached three-bedroom country cottage. From glorious gardens that approach three-quarters of an acre to the home’s lengthy and fascinating history, the character and charm of this Grade II Listed detached home will inspire your love for the countryside.
5. Launceston, Cornwall, 3 Bedrooms
This quaint extended thatched cottage offers a wealth of character, from stunning first-floor vaulted ceilings to open fireplaces and exposed beams. Located in a small rural hamlet, this home offers the perfect summer feel with its window seats, exposed stonework and latched doors – perfect for light, breezy summer nights.
6. Eggington, Bedfordshire, 5 bedrooms
Obsborn Cottage is a Grade II Listed quintessential English country thatched cottage set in approximately 0.8 acres of mature grounds and situated in the heart of Eggington’s historic conservation area, with front and rear views over woodland. Built in the 17th century, the home is bustling with class and character, including the redesigned landscaped gardens which frame the property with their ever-changing hues throughout the seasons.
7. Barry, Wales, 3 bedrooms
Woodside Cottage has been in its current owner's family for over 150 years and truly is a unique property. The enchanting thatched cottage has been extensively refurbished over recent years, benefitting from a rear extension and offering well-planned, stylish living that captures the original charm of the cottage while tastefully incorporating a modern touch.
8. Edingale, Staffordshire, 3 bedrooms
Merchants House is a stunning 17th-century Grade II Listed three-bedroom detached cottage. Situated in the pretty village of Edingale, surrounded by beautiful Staffordshire countryside and just a short stroll to the banks of the River Mease, this property is truly idyllic.
9. Minehead, Somerset, 3 bedrooms
This quintessentially English “Chocolate Box” thatched Cottage is delightfully situated on the edge of a small hamlet with charming gardens with a stream boundary. The picturesque Grade II Listed, 17-century home is located off a country lane and offers generous accommodation, not always typically found in cottages, and has been lovingly restored whilst retaining its original character.
10. Barrowden, Rutland, 2 bedrooms
This charming property is situated in the heart of the highly sought-after conservation village of Barrowden. The stone cottage has two double bedrooms, a large but cosy sitting room, a kitchen breakfast room, bathroom and utility and a sheltered, private back garden. The Old Bakehouse is believed to be one of three original bakehouses in the village.
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