A fabulous group rental with hot tub, sauna, heaps of space and killer views, near buzzy Bruton (sleeps 12)
Space & setting.
Hidden at the end of a winding track, high in the Somerset hills, this is an architectural love letter to the English countryside. Twenty years ago it was a crumbling 19thC stone barn before its imaginative owners, Helen and Roland, carefully restored and extended it into their dream family home. And what vision they had. Soaring timbered ceilings, flagstone floors and a double-height Great Hall create a dramatic first impression, yet Helen — formerly a theatre designer — kept it from feeling austere by adding eclectic furnishings they’d gathered over decades. Bed throws from Jaipur, vintage musical instruments, antique paintings and jewel-toned velvet sofas. The whole place has an easy, lived-in warmth that makes you feel instantly at home.
Outside, huge views and lawns which tumble into open fields, meaning kids and dogs can run free. Footpaths wind across the hills and over to The Newt in Somerset (as fabulous as the accolades suggest); in the other direction, Bruton’s galleries, farm shops and foodie restaurants are 5 mins by car. Though utterly secluded and bathed in silent, the house’s location couldn’t be better for exploring Somerset. A cedar hot tub is set for golden-hour soaks, a sauna for warming winter nights and 6 bedrooms allow masses of space for everyone to spread out. Group dinners couldn’t have lovelier settings either — under the olive trees, in the kitchen or more formally in the glass-walled dining room. It’s hard to imagine a better spot for a relaxed, easy holiday (Hugh Grant’s a fan), or a celebratory time with friends. We loved it!
Getting here: drive, or train to Castle Cary / Templecombe then taxi (12 mins / 20 mins)
Special touches.
A renowned party and events planner, Helen can arrange:
– Superb private chefs and local caterers
– Wine suppliers, festive cakes, and florists
– Massage therapists
– Intimate weddings and celebrations
– Holistic workshops, group activities and retreats
“In 1995, we transformed the barn from an ancient, crumbling, wind-blown stone monolith into a luxurious modern home for us and our 3 sons. The land was once part the Hadspen Estate – now home to The Newt – and parts of the original building date from the 1820s, but there is evidence to suggest a considerably older settlement, perhaps Saxon or Roman. A chief priority during restoration was to incorporate and preserve the building’s original features, retaining the ambience of an old English country dwelling so as to lend the modern house a measure of authenticity and fidelity to its historic roots. The land immediately surrounding the house was likewise redeveloped, to include spreading lawns, traditional estate railings, deciduous trees, and flower borders. When we’re not here we love to think of others enjoying the property. It’s a firm favourite for multi-generational family celebrations and for groups of friends who want to enjoy a rural retreat from the city, with complete privacy, for jolly reunions.” Owners, Helen & Roland
They love
“The location. Surrounded on all sides by open fields, the house has panoramic countryside views. Just breathing deep the hilltop air, and taking in the patchwork woodland copses that stud the distant horizon, will replenish even the most jaded spirit.”
We loved
With no light pollution, night skies here are jaw-droppingly clear — just one more reason to pour another glass and stay up late chatting!
You may not love
Set at the end of a half-mile rough track, not suitable for low-slung cars. A 3-night minimum stay. A security deposit.
Surrounds.
- There are wonderful walks fanning out from the front door (OS maps provided), or zip to vast Stourhead estate for forest strolls and lakeside loops (10 mins’ drive).
- Or walk over the fields to The Newt, for various restaurants and superb gardens (subject to an entry fee)
- Beautiful Bruton is 5 mins’ drive. We loved At The Chapel for gourmet pizza, cocktails and an excellent bakery; Hauser & Wirth, for its beautiful gardens and exquisite art exhibitions; Caro Somerset’s lifestyle store and Osip for a lovely atmosphere and Michelin-starred food.
- Adventurous families can head to Mill on the Brue: an outdoor activity center offering zip-lining, rock climbing, and raft-building (5 mins’ drive).
- Further afield, head to Longleat for a drive-through safari with lions, tigers and other exotic animals, and its award-winning spa.
- Nearby Frome is a must: a tiny market town with period architecture, buzzy creative energy, and winding streets lined with speakeasy-style bars. Almost every shop is an independent and there’s a vast market on the first weekend of every month.
- You’re also near Castle Cary (a charming market town), Shepton Mallet (designer shopping outlets), Wells (medieval streets and a glorious cathedral) and Bath (Georgian architecture and wonderful shops.>
Details.
- A secluded house hidden at the end of a track
- 6 bedrooms: 1 super-king, 4 x kings, 1 x twin
- 3 bathrooms: 2 with rainfall shower; 1 with shower / tub
- Noble Isle toiletries and bathrobes
- Additional sofabeds in the annexe for children only (extra cost)
- 2 travel cots and a highchair
- Amazing cooks’ kitchen/diner with Fisher Paykel fridge freezer, Aga (winter months only), RangeMaster, double electric oven with gas hob and griddle plate, microwave and Nespresso Virtuo
- Welcome hamper and basic ingredients
- Glass-walled dining room
- Living room with woodburner, 3 sofas & grand Bechstein piano
- Yoga mats and rowing machine
- Board games, DVDs, Smart TV & home cinema, table tennis
- Cedar hot tub and electric sauna
- Extensive gardens with various seating areas
- Gas BBQ and open-fire tripod
- Dogs welcome (see FAQ)
- Caretaker available by phone
- Walk to The Newt (20 mins) or into Bruton (45 mins); or drive (5 mins) for shops, pubs and restaurants
- Booking conditions: a 3-night minimum stay, rising to 4 nights over Christmas
- Remember to pack: swimmers for the hot tub, pods (large size) for the Nespresso; welllies/walking boots
Book your stay.
Surprise gift on arrival when you book with Kip!
30% deposit, with the balance due 8 weeks prior to stay.
Cancellations permitted 8+ weeks prior to stay, with deposit refunded minus a £30 processing fee.
No refunds if booking cancelled within 8 weeks of stay.
A £350 refundable security deposit is payable directly to the owner upon booking.
FAQs.
In 4pm / out 10am
Yes, dogs are welcome — £20/dog/night — but they must be kept downstairs. An antique mahogany sleigh dog bed is provided, plus dog treats.
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