BEST BIG HOUSE STAYS

Emma Love

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For large groups of families and friends looking for somewhere to holiday together this summer, a house rental is often the answer. Unlike a hotel, there are no set mealtimes, meaning far more freedom when it comes to what you eat and when. Plus, there’s plenty of space for the whole gang to spread out and often, outdoor activities available onsite too. Here’s our pick of the best house rentals in the UK for exclusive takeovers.

Ormesby Manor, Norfolk

It’s hard to imagine that this grand, grade II-listed property with its imposing Italianate addition and circular tower was originally an 18th-century farmhouse. Arriving at the gate, the first building you see is Ormesby Saint Michael Parish Church, before the sweeping driveway winds through the 12 acres of grounds, past the wildflower meadow, towards the main house for rent (it sleeps 20). The location, in the Norfolk Broads National Park, is fantastic for exploring nearby sandy beaches, unspoiled fishing villages and coastal nature reserves. But there’s plenty to stay put for too: cosy movie nights in the Cinema Snug, afternoon tea in the Parlour and suppers in the Garden Room – you can opt to self-cater or the team can arrange chefs to provide everything from tasting menus to drop-off meals to pop in the oven. In the grounds, you’ll also find a walled garden, lake and additional accommodation in two-bedroom Well Lodge and three shepherds’ huts, each with its own hot tub and firepit.

Alexander House, Thorpeness

Set in the village of Thorpeness – perhaps best known for the boating lake The Meare, which was inspired by J M Barrie’s Peter Pan – this light-filled detached house to rent is perfectly placed to explore the Suffolk coast. It’s a short stroll to the beach, the large garden backs onto a golf course which welcomes guest players, and Aldeburgh is a five-minute drive away (don’t miss artist Maggi Hambling’s giant scallop sculpture on the shingle beach). The house itself sleeps 13: it has an open-plan ground floor that’s ideal for group gatherings with an aga in the kitchen and French doors that open directly onto the garden for long alfresco lunches. Plus, there’s a second sitting room with a wood burning stove and a television for downtime. Further along the coast is the RSPB Wildlife Reserve at Minsmere and Orford Ness Nature Reserve, which are both worth a visitInsert your text here

Lundin Farmhouse, Aberfeldy, Perthsire

The sensational views of Strath Tay and Ben Lawers gradually unfold as you approach this renovated Victoria farmhouse, just outside the village of Aberfeldy (keep eyes peeled for the Neolithic stone circle). It’s surrounded by a working farm and sporting estate which has its own lochan for fishing and paddleboarding, or simply take it easy with a stroll around the grounds and a picnic by the rockery while spotting curlews. There’s also a hot tub for starry night dips and a firepit in the sheltered courtyard. Inside, the heart of the house is open-plan living and dining area and a fully equipped kitchen (thoughtful kit includes an oyster knife and lobster crackers). There are also five bedrooms, a games room, a pair of woodburning stoves, a snug and sun room – plus a dining area with more of those fabulous views.

Chesthill House & Estate, Perthshire

Part of the South Chesthill Estate in Glen Lyon – which has six miles of river and 7,000 acres to explore – this recently renovated house sleeps 16 (there’s also Gardener’s Cottage, for four, and a hotel). Social spaces include a sitting room with a bar; a spacious dining room with a library and boardgames; and a games room. For active types, there is a badminton net, croquet and boules set, and road bikes, plus a fly-fishing kit and a pair of kayaks for use on the river. A daily housekeeper is provided and, if you don’t want to cook yourself, there is an ensuite bedsit for a chef to stay. The estate keeper is on hand for other outdoors activities – whether you fancy clay pigeon shooting, wild swimming, or need advice on the best hiking trails.

Fair Oak Farm, Mayfield

This family-owned 12-acre estate in the Sussex High Weald – which can be rented by up to 32 guests for exclusive takeovers – stands out for its various types of accommodation, from beautifully converted barns (including a grain store and cow shed) to a grade II-listed farmhouse with a fire pit in the courtyard at the back. Other placed to bed down are the wooden eco-lodge tree houses with valley views; shepherd’s huts in an orchard, each with a log burner; and an oast house - the most recent addition in 2021. As if that wasn’t enough, there are communal barns for dining, movie nights and games, plus an outdoor children’s play area. Children will love exploring the woodland and grounds in search of the roaming alpacas, sheep, and peacocks; for adults, there’s a relaxing sauna. A private chef can be arranged, as can bookings at nearby restaurants and spa treatments by local therapists.