Some of the most restorative holiday houses and countryside cabins in the UK
We love nothing better than a weekend away right here in the UK, with its abundance of charming holiday houses and countryside cabins available to book by the night or by the week. From the wilds of the Isle of Skye, to the sandy shores of north Devon, there are some real gems up and down the British Isles. Here are six such properties we’ve been poring over recently.
Kyle House Cottage, Sutherland, Scotland
A small but perfectly formed hideaway in the wilds of rural Scotland, Kyle House Cottage is a masterclass in pared back simplicity. Merging good design with striking architecture and local craftsmanship, the property sleeps two people in a remote, wild setting, at the southern tip of the Kyle of Tongue. We love its “Scandi-scot” modern interiors, its commitment to the use of natural materials throughout, and the magical views of solitude, stretching along the hillside to the sea loch. www.kyle.scot
Upcott Farm, Devon, England
The 500 year old Upcott Farm is home to the Lambshed and the Calfshed, two dreamy places to stay. Originally built to house the farm’s livestock, the buildings were converted using a combination of traditional and modern materials to create accommodation that is contemporary yet totally in harmony with its setting. Think linen sofas, Farrow & Ball tones of white and muted grey, wood burning stoves, polished concrete flooring and an abundance of light. The White Company have used the space to shoot their catalogue, it’s that perfect. What’s more, Upcott is ideally located to explore the delights of north Devon, with its beaches, walks, pubs and surfing all on your ever so chic doorstep. www.upcottfarm.com
Settle, Norfolk, England
With its wildlife and miles of forest and coastline to explore, Norfolk is up there amongst our very favourite parts of the UK for a weekend away. The newly opened cabin at Settle has got to be one of the most special places to stay. A handcrafted lakeside dwelling, the cabin is a real rustic luxury retreat, complete with freestanding stone bath, Aesop products galore and woodburner to keep cosy. Settle sits within 30 acres of gorgeous Norfolk parkland, and is also home to a lovely collection of similarly stylish repurposed railway carriages and luxe canvas safari tents - the whole site sleeps 13 if you want to bring a gang. www.settlenorfolk.co.uk
Life House, nr. Llanbister, Wales
Designed by John Pawson, Life House is a property based on the concept of a retreat, where calm contemplation is encouraged by the structure itself. There are three bedrooms each with a distinct theme - the library bedroom has shelves lined with mind-improving eastern and western literature, the music bedroom has a collection of therapeutic music and an audio system to immerse yourself in sound, and the bathing bedroom comes complete with bathing platform and sunken bath with Welsh valley views. With its remote setting in beautiful countryside, the house lends itself to a restorative holiday, rooted in the surrounding nature. A series of walks curated by the walking artist Hamish Fulton converge on the property for when you feel ready to step into the great outdoors. www.living-architecture.co.uk
Lake District Love Shack, Cumbria, England
Created in 2009, we only recently stumbled upon the Lake District Love Shack, a secret little bolthole with views of Lake Windermere. The owners made the “shack” for travellers looking to stay somewhere stylish yet understated, without a vast environmental price-tag. The RIBA-award winning building was built sustainably, with a moss roof and local timber cladding, and inside a mix of mid century modern furniture and bespoke pieces create a warm, relaxed feeling. We love the Japanese-style square bathtub and the woodland and lake views - and in warmer weather the double hammock out on the deck is a stroke of genius! www.lakedistrictloveshack.com
The Black Shed, Isle of Skye, Scotland
A magical place in all seasons, the Isle of Skye is a rugged beauty. Where better to enjoy this wild landscape than from a place that truly connects you to the landscape. The Black Shed is based on a working croft, and can be booked for weekly lets all year round. Curl up in front of the fire and disconnect from the world, or soak up the views and the wildlife right on the doorstep. Designed for two people, The Black Shed is far from your typical garden shed - there’s a wood burning stove, sleek fully-equipped kitchen, bedroom with king-size bed, a study space with a well stocked library and a generous shower room. On the north west peninsula, you’re well placed to explore the whole island, or hide away in the shed’s delicious solitude. www.blackshed.co.uk
