Friday, 17 April 2026

The Old Piggery & Running Hare Barn, East Ruston, Norwich, Norfolk


The Old Piggery & Running Hare Barn offers self-catering accommodation on the outskirts of East Ruston, enjoying far-reaching views across the beautiful Norfolk countryside. These two charming properties provide an ideal base for those looking to relax in peaceful surroundings while remaining within easy reach of the historic cathedral city of Norwich.

Accommodation
Guests can choose from two characterful properties, The Old Piggery and Running Hare Barn. Both are thoughtfully furnished and designed to offer comfort and style, creating the perfect retreat from the pace of everyday life in a scenic rural setting.

The Old Piggery
The Old Piggery is a cosy barn conversion that sleeps up to six guests, making it ideal for families or small groups. This ground-floor property features a welcoming open-plan kitchen and dining area, fully equipped with an electric oven and hob, fridge, freezer, dishwasher, washing machine and microwave. A dining table provides a great space for enjoying home-cooked meals.

The separate sitting room offers comfortable seating, a wood burner for cosy evenings, and a large flat-screen TV with DVD, CD and home theatre system.

There are three bedrooms in total: one king-size room with an en suite bathroom featuring a large walk-in shower, one twin room (which can be arranged as a king) and one double room. A family bathroom includes a rainfall shower over the bath.

Outside, guests can enjoy garden furniture and a gas BBQ, perfect for al fresco dining.

Running Hare Barn
Running Hare Barn is a beautifully converted threshing barn that sleeps up to ten guests while retaining many original features alongside modern comforts. The spacious open-plan living area includes an oak-built kitchen with a Rangemaster electric range with double oven, dishwasher, washing machine, microwave and a full-size American-style fridge freezer.

A large wooden dining table, seating up to sixteen guests on oak church pews, creates a wonderful space for shared meals. The impressive atrium rises to the beamed roof, filling the space with natural light.

On the first floor, a sitting room provides a relaxing space with a 65-inch curved screen smart TV, DVD player and home theatre system, along with stunning countryside views.

The barn offers five bedrooms: two ground-floor king-size rooms, both with large en suite bathrooms featuring roll-top baths and separate showers. On the first floor, there is a master bedroom with a super-king zip-and-link bed and en suite shower room. The mezzanine level includes one king room and a room with two small double beds (with privacy curtains), sharing a family bathroom.

Outside, there is an enclosed garden and a spacious paved area with table, chairs and a BBQ, ideal for outdoor dining and relaxation.

Visiting the Area
The properties are perfectly located for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous countryside walks available directly from the doorstep. The nearby city of Norwich offers a wealth of attractions, including a magnificent cathedral, independent shops, restaurants, cafés and pubs, as well as the Norman Castle Museum and Art Gallery.

Other attractions in the area include:

  • East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden
  • Wroxham Barns
  • Happisburgh Beach
  • North Walsham & Dilham Canal
  • Bromholm Priory

For more information, please visit the website.

Rates: From £660 to £2499 per week depending on season and property.
Maximum occupancy of 16 guests.
Children are welcome.
Pets are welcome.
Disabled facilities are available by arrangement; please enquire for details.
Enclosed garden available.
Wi-Fi/internet access provided.
Off-street parking available.
Electric vehicle charging available by arrangement; please enquire for details.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/norfolk/17642

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Cripps Farm Holidays, East Huntspill, Somerset


Cripps Farm Holidays in East Huntspill offers luxurious self-catering accommodation, set within a picturesque area of the Somerset countryside. The collection of four cottages – Swallow, Kingfisher, Woodpecker and Barn Owl – provides an ideal setting for a relaxing and memorable stay.

Accommodation
The four cottages are tastefully furnished, each offering a warm and homely atmosphere. All properties feature an open-plan living area with a lounge, dining space and fully equipped kitchen, alongside a bathroom with a shower, washbasin and WC. Outside, each cottage benefits from a veranda complete with table and chairs, perfect for enjoying a morning coffee in peaceful surroundings.

Guests can also indulge in an exclusive spa experience at Cripps River Spa, which offers a range of spa packages and holistic therapies. Facilities include private use of a hot tub, sauna, shower and relaxation area.

Barn Owl Cottage
This ground-floor cottage includes a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge freezer, dishwasher, microwave, electric oven and washing machine. The cosy lounge features a TV, DVD player and comfortable seating. There are two bedrooms – one double and one twin – which share a bathroom.

Kingfisher Cottage
Kingfisher Cottage offers modern and comfortable ground-floor accommodation. The open-plan living area includes a TV, DVD player and seating area, while the well-equipped kitchen features a fridge freezer, dishwasher, microwave and electric oven. The bedroom can be arranged as a super king or twin on request, and there is a bathroom with a shower.

Swallow Cottage
This ground-floor cottage provides a welcoming open-plan living space with a TV, DVD player and comfortable seating. The kitchen is equipped with a fridge freezer, dishwasher, microwave and electric oven. The bedroom features a king-size bed, and there is a bathroom with a shower.

Woodpecker Cottage
Woodpecker Cottage offers spacious ground-floor accommodation with a fully equipped kitchen including a fridge freezer, dishwasher, microwave, electric oven and washing machine. The lounge includes a TV, DVD player and comfortable seating. There are two bedrooms – one super king (which can be arranged as twin beds) and one twin room – both sharing a bathroom.

Visiting the Area
Cripps Farm Holidays is ideally located for exploring Somerset, a county known for its variety of attractions including cathedral cities, Victorian seaside resorts, countryside landscapes and woodland walks. Nearby destinations include Burnham-on-Sea, Brean Sands and Weston-super-Mare.

Popular attractions in the area include:

  • Cheddar Gorge and Caves
  • Fleet Air Arm Museum
  • Wookey Hole Caves
  • Grand Pier
  • Puxton Park

For more information and rates, please visit the website.

Additional Information:
Maximum occupancy of 5 guests.
Children are welcome.
Pets are welcome in two of the cottages.
Disabled facilities are available by arrangement; please enquire for details.
Wi-Fi/internet access available.
Off-street parking provided.
Hot tub and sauna available.
Fishing on site.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/somerset/17656

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Derwent Water Marina, Portinscale, Keswick, Cumbria, Lake District National Park


Derwent Water Marina’s Stay by The Lake apartments are positioned on the edge of the stunning Derwent Water in the village of Portinscale, just outside Keswick in Cumbria. Each contemporary apartment benefits from uninterrupted views across the lake towards Catbells and the surrounding fells, offering ever-changing scenery throughout the year. With direct slipway access, complimentary Wi-Fi and private patios, the accommodation is ideal for family holidays, romantic getaways and outdoor adventures alike.

Family Apartment
The spacious ground-floor family apartment has been thoughtfully designed for families and small groups. It features three comfortable bedrooms – one king, one double and one twin – accommodating up to six guests. A bright open-plan lounge looks directly onto the lake through floor-to-ceiling doors, which open onto a private patio, perfect for relaxing after a day outdoors. The fully equipped kitchen includes an oven, hob, fridge-freezer, dishwasher and microwave, while two modern bathrooms (one with a bath and one with a shower) provide added convenience.

Studio Apartment 1 – Twin
This well-designed twin studio offers a light and modern space for two guests. French doors lead out to a private patio with a breakfast table overlooking the marina. Inside, a compact kitchenette includes a hob, microwave, fridge and kettle, alongside a small dining area. The contemporary shower room is finished in calming tones, with towels provided.

Studio Apartment 2 – Double
Ideal for couples, Studio Apartment 2 provides an open-plan living space with a comfortable double bed positioned to take full advantage of the lake views. The apartment includes a compact kitchenette, dining area and modern shower room. Outside, the private patio offers a peaceful spot to enjoy morning coffee while taking in the lakeside setting.

Studio Apartment 3 – Double
Studio Apartment 3 mirrors the layout of Studio 2, combining stylish décor with beautiful lake views. The double bed faces wide patio doors that frame Derwent Water, creating a relaxing and scenic retreat. The apartment also includes a kitchenette, dining area and modern shower room, along with a private terrace ideal for evening relaxation.

Visiting the Area
Guests can step directly onto the shores of Derwent Water, where paddleboards, kayaks, canoes and rowing boats are available to hire on site, with residents receiving discounted rates on equipment and tuition. Footpaths lead from the marina, including a scenic 30-minute lakeside walk into Keswick, where visitors will find independent shops, the Theatre by the Lake and the popular Keswick Market. Walking routes such as Catbells can be accessed directly from the property, while cyclists can enjoy nearby Route 71. Additional attractions in the area include Keswick Launch cruises, Honister Slate Mine, Whinlatter Forest, and the historic houses of Mirehouse and Dalemain. After a day of exploring, guests can return to their private patio to enjoy the peaceful lakeside surroundings.

For further information, please visit the website.

Rates: From £550 to £1320 per week depending on season and property.
Maximum occupancy of 6 guests in the largest accommodation.
Children are welcome.
Pets are accepted by arrangement; enquiries are recommended.
Disabled facilities are available by arrangement; please enquire for details.
Wi-Fi access included.
Off-street parking available.

For more information please visit our website:

https://theholidaycottages.co.uk/cumbria/13440

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Wednesday, 15 April 2026

Ladywell House, Falkland, Fife


Ladywell House is a large and elegant country house set amidst hundreds of acres of farmland, offering self-catering accommodation in Falkland, Fife.

The property is ideal for large families and groups, accommodating up to 12 adults and 2 children across six bedrooms. There are three en-suite rooms and two family bathrooms. The house also features a dining kitchen with an AGA, a light and airy conservatory, a comfortable dual-aspect drawing room with an open fire, a TV room, and a dining room that seats up to 12 guests.

Accommodation

Each of the bedrooms is individually styled. The master bedroom, Shand Kydd, is a spacious double with a king-size bed and a large en-suite bathroom featuring a walk-in shower and roll-top bath. Palace is a twin room with stunning views and an en-suite shower room with shower, WC and wash hand basin.

Diana is a south-facing room with a yellow theme, offering a king-size bed and an en-suite shower room with WC and wash hand basin. Lomond is a large, bright twin room, also south-facing, with a family bathroom nearby that includes a roll-top bath, WC and wash hand basin.

Wills and Harry are located on the second floor. Both rooms are large and airy and share a family bathroom with bath, WC and wash hand basin.

All rooms are beautifully furnished with a mix of antiques and contemporary pieces, and include Sealy Posturepedic beds, electric blankets, and down duvets and pillows.

The kitchen is well equipped with everything needed for a comfortable stay, including an AGA, electric hob, microwave, toaster (including an AGA toaster), fridge/freezer, integrated fridge and dishwasher. There is also a washing machine and a drying room, ideal for coats, boots and outdoor gear. A WC with wash hand basin is located next to the kitchen.

The conservatory is spacious, west-facing and filled with natural light, making it a perfect spot for breakfast or afternoon tea. Double doors lead into the drawing room, a grand Georgian space with dual aspect windows and an open fire. Logs and coal are provided for the duration of the stay, with additional supplies available if required. The room is furnished with comfortable sofas and easy chairs.

The dining room is elegant and spacious, with a large table seating 12 guests, ideal for formal meals. Large windows offer views across north Fife.

The Steading

Located just 30 feet from the main house, The Steading can be hired for larger groups or private parties. It offers three bedrooms and two bathrooms, including one en-suite with bath and shower, and a family bathroom with a walk-in shower. The bedrooms consist of two doubles and a bunk room. The property also features a spacious kitchen/diner and a large sitting room with French doors opening onto a patio.

Local Area

Ladywell House is ideally situated for exploring the Fife Coastal Tourist Route, with a variety of attractions in each village along the way. St Andrews, with its world-famous championship golf course, is within a 30-minute drive.

Other nearby attractions within 20 minutes include Knockhill Racing Circuit, Crail Pottery, The British Golf Museum and The Scottish Deer Centre. For those wishing to explore further afield, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Balmoral, Braemar, Glamis Castle, Blair Atholl and Pitlochry are all within an hour’s drive.

Additional Information

Rates range from £2500 to £6500 per week depending on the season.
Short breaks are available from £1800.
Maximum occupancy is 20 guests, with larger parties accommodated using The Steading.
Hot tub hire is available by prior arrangement.
Children are welcome.
Pets are welcome.
Off-street parking is available.
Wi-Fi/internet access is provided.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/fife/13781

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Kippilaw House, Melrose, Scottish Borders


Kippilaw House is set in a beautiful part of Scotland, in Melrose within the Scottish Borders. This dream mansion enjoys a very private setting, secluded within its own enchanting woodland. The house combines an original 15th-century tower with an impressive Georgian frontage in the Palladian style.

About Kippilaw House

Many original features have been carefully preserved or lovingly restored by the current owners, maintaining the property’s historic charm while offering the comforts of a luxurious country home. The aim is to ensure guests feel as comfortable as possible, enjoying a welcoming and homely atmosphere surrounded by elegance and character. Kippilaw House is offered exclusively, with a flexible approach to ensure every stay is tailored and memorable.

The house features three reception rooms, including a panelled dining room, a rouge drawing room and an eggshell sitting/TV room. There is a grand hallway with a carved staircase and a toilet, as well as a ballroom complete with a Victorian club bar and three toilets, including disabled facilities. The country kitchen is equipped with an Aga and accompanied by a cosy snug room.

In total, the house offers between 12 and 15 bedrooms, ranging from a lavish master suite and family rooms to triples, twins, doubles and a cosy single room. Each room is full of individual character.

Outside, guests can enjoy three acres of private gardens and grounds, along with a private woodland. A south-facing veranda with seating and a BBQ provides the perfect setting for al fresco dining.

The nearby River Tweed, alongside the River Nith, offers one of the longest salmon fishing seasons in the country, running from 1st February through to 30th November, with fishing available Monday to Saturday.

Local Activities

The surrounding area offers a wide range of activities for guests to enjoy:

  • Golf – The Scottish Borders is home to a selection of welcoming golf courses, including both 9-hole and 18-hole championship courses. Many participate in the Freedom of the Fairways Golf Passport scheme, offering great value for visitors.
  • Clay Shooting – Suitable for all abilities, clay shooting is an enjoyable and engaging activity, ideal for groups and team-building experiences. All equipment and instruction can be arranged.
  • Horse Riding – Horse riding and pony trekking provide a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of the Scottish Borders, with opportunities for riding, trekking and trail riding along nearby forest bridle paths.

Additional Information

Rates range from £1360 to £1500 per week depending on the season.
Minimum stay is 2 nights.
Maximum occupancy is 40 guests.
Children are welcome.
Pets are welcome.
Wi-Fi internet access is available.
Off-street parking is provided.
Fishing is available on site.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/scottish-borders/13179

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Home Farm Holiday Cottages, Slingsby, York, North Yorkshire


Home Farm Cottages offers superb self-catering accommodation in Slingsby. The two cottages, located near York, have been sympathetically converted from traditional farm buildings, creating cosy and well-maintained homes from home. Both ground-level cottages provide an excellent base for exploring the beautiful surroundings of North Yorkshire.

The Arches

The Arches holiday cottage sleeps up to four guests and is comfortably furnished to a high standard. The accommodation includes an entrance hall, a sitting and dining room with patio doors and an open fire (as well as an electric fire), and a well-equipped kitchen.

There are two bedrooms: one double with an en-suite shower room, WC and wash hand basin, and one twin room. The main bathroom includes shaver points, a bath with shower over, wash hand basin and WC.

The cottage is very well equipped, offering a widescreen TV with Freeview, DVD player and immersion water heater. Pets are welcome in The Arches by arrangement.

The Stables

The Stables has been carefully converted from the original farm stables into a charming and characterful holiday cottage. It retains many original features, including high kitchen ceilings, exposed wooden beams and attractive stonework, while being furnished to a very high standard.

Sleeping up to six guests, the accommodation includes a sitting room with a wood-burning stove and patio doors leading into a conservatory with patio furniture. There is also a dining room with exposed stone walls and wooden beams, a well-equipped kitchen and a utility room.

The cottage offers three bedrooms: one double, one twin and one single with an additional hideaway bed. The main bathroom includes a bath with shower over, wash hand basin and WC, while a separate shower room provides an additional shower, WC and wash hand basin.

Outside, there is ample private off-street parking. The Stables is pet free.

Visiting Slingsby & Exploring North Yorkshire

The village of Slingsby offers a pub, sports and social club, and a children’s play park. Nearby market towns include Malton, Kirkbymoorside, Pickering and Helmsley, while York and the East Coast are within easy reach.

Popular attractions in the area include:

  • York Minster
  • JORVIK Viking Centre
  • York Castle Museum
  • The Shambles
  • York City Walls

Additional Information

Rates range from £525 to £925 per week depending on the season.
Short breaks are available with a minimum stay of 3 nights, from £320.
Maximum occupancy is 6 guests.
Limited mobility access is available on the ground floor.
Children are welcome.
Pets are welcome by arrangement in The Arches only.
Off-street parking is available.
4 Star Gold Visit England rating.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/north_yorkshire/10504

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Lakewood Cottages, Galgate, Lancaster, Lancashire


On a small working farm, a traditional stone barn has been thoughtfully converted into four self-catering holiday cottages. Set within a picturesque lakeside and woodland setting, the cottages are ideal for families of varying sizes and are designed to offer guests maximum peace and relaxation.

Although Lakewood enjoys its own rural idyll, it is perfectly positioned for exploring the attractions of Lancashire, Yorkshire and the Lake District throughout all seasons.

Each cottage combines character and comfort, featuring eco-friendly biomass central heating, exposed beams, natural timber finishes and impressive stone fireplaces with wood-burning stoves. Three of the cottages have private cobbled backyards, while The Stable benefits from its own patio with a private hot tub overlooking the surrounding countryside. Guests can also enjoy the shared lawned area by the lake, complete with garden furniture, perfect for relaxing, wildlife watching or enjoying a barbecue.

Lakewood offers ample parking, and heating, lighting, bed linen and towels are all included. Each cottage is equipped with a colour TV, video and DVD player with a selection of DVDs, CD player, electric hob and oven, microwave, washer/dryer, dishwasher and fridge/freezer. Cots and highchairs are available on request.

The Granary
The Granary is a one-bedroom cottage featuring a spacious upstairs living room and a private balcony overlooking the lake. Furnished in a contemporary country style, it offers either a super-king size bed or twin beds to suit guests’ requirements. The kitchen is fully fitted with modern appliances while retaining a traditional country feel. The bathroom includes a WC, washbasin and a multi-jet shower designed for relaxation.

Mill Cottage
Mill Cottage sleeps up to four guests. An entrance hallway leads to an open-plan lounge, dining area and kitchen. French doors open onto a small patio area with views of the lake. Upstairs, there is a double master bedroom with a king-size bed, en-suite shower room and lake views, along with a twin bedroom and a house bathroom featuring a large corner bath with shower over, WC and washbasin.

The Stone Barn
The Stone Barn accommodates up to six guests. It includes an entrance hallway with a downstairs WC and washbasin, leading into a spacious open-plan lounge, dining area and kitchen. French doors open onto a patio area with lake views. Upstairs, there is a double master bedroom with en-suite shower room, two twin bedrooms, and a family bathroom with a large corner bath, shower over, WC and washbasin.

The Stable
The Stable is situated opposite the lake and features a private patio with panoramic countryside views, complete with a hot tub for exclusive guest use. The open-plan lounge, dining area and kitchen open onto the patio through French doors. The spacious master bedroom includes a Juliet balcony with extensive countryside views and leads to a large bathroom with a corner bath and multi-jet power shower. A twin bedroom is located downstairs, complete with an en-suite shower room and walk-in wardrobe, as well as views over the patio and surrounding countryside.

Additional Information

Rates range from £390 to £835 per week depending on the season and cottage.
Maximum occupancy across all cottages is 16 guests.
Children are welcome.
Sorry, pets are not accepted.
Limited disabled facilities are available by prior arrangement (The Stable suitable for limited mobility).
Gold Award 4 Star Visit England rating.
Private hot tub available in The Stable.
Wi-Fi/internet access is provided.
Electric vehicle charging point available.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/lancashire/3126

The Holiday Cottages is a user friendly online directory for self catering accommodation in the UK & Ireland. To keep up to date with properties on our website join us on our social media pages below:

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