The Old Rectory Cottage

*Brand new*

From the outside, this cottage gives very little away. But step inside and owner Debbie’s eccentric dolls-house vision presents itself: candy stripes and florals, raspberry pinks, yellow gingham, old wooden furniture, patterned lampshades and a nostalgic record player. It’s thoroughly playful but not remotely twee, and feels joyful to be in. There’s an old dining table for suppers and board games, a cosy sitting room with a woodburner and garden views. Upstairs, a pretty king and twin room make it perfect for friends or a family of 4, and there’s a sofabed for extra guests – although we’d be very happy holing up here as a couple and having the whole colourful little house to ourselves.

Outside sits a patio and hammock, then great sweeps of lawn and a field beyond – so plenty of room for children and dogs to race around . Debbie and her family live in the old rectory across the grounds, so you’re not entirely alone, but there’s a lovely sense of space around the cottage; at night it’s completely dark, and quiet enough to hear the owls. And you’re in a brilliant pocket of West Wight: 5 minutes from Yarmouth, with Freshwater Bay, Tennyson Down and the big, wilder beaches of the west coast all within easy distance.

Getting here: best to drive