Top 10 Homes Away from Home
12th June 2014
“You treat this place like a hotel”
If you have ever trembled in your shoes at the sound of your parents screeching these all too familiar words at the top of their voice, fear not as I have gathered our favourite Top 10 Homes Away from Home so that you can behave just as you wish (well, within reason of course).
Just imagine a full few days without any washing up, cleaning, ironing or cooking on the roster. Pure bliss, I hear you cry!
Duisdale House
Now I know that not every family owns a yacht, but for those of you that do, this is the ultimate home away from home in the Isle of Skye. After spending the day sailing on a private yacht off the Skye coast, return to one of the cosy rooms, where fluffy towels, luxury toiletries and an inviting bath await you. (Surely you don’t want it running for you too?)
Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat
Everything about this hotel is welcoming, from the delicious afternoon tea with homemade cakes, to the ambient bedrooms that are furnished in earthy tones. But what I really love the most is the Snug, which is just as its name implies. This is a chilled out space where you can get together with a group of friends and indulge in some spa treatments. Sounds like a Saturday night in with the girls, only someone else does the pampering and cleaning up!
Highbullen Hotel
Because this is a family friendly hotel, you can escape with the kids but without having to worry about tidying up after them. All of the rooms are inviting and immediately make you feel at home. And with names such as The Snug and The Nest, you can understand why I have chosen this as a home away from home.
Hope House
From the outside, you would be forgiven for thinking that this is someone’s house rather than a hotel. Even the owner likes to call this “an ancestral home with rooms”. With thoughtful touches like a jug of Pimm’s on arrival, homemade cookies and shortbread in your room, Sky Television, IPod docking station with surround sound, and complimentary Wi-Fi, you will feel right at home here, only with Blenheim Palace on your doorstep.
The Crown
I absolutely love this characterful inn at Amersham. With homely additions in the rooms, such as rocking chairs, woollen blankets and Roberts radios, you will no doubt be stealing ideas for accessorising your home when you return. And the rest of the hotel is just as loveable, with open fireplaces, crooked floors and tasty home cooked food. Even your four legged family member can join you.
Paddocks House
If you have a soft spot for interior design and your home is filled with stylish furniture and the latest in technology, you will see why Paddocks House rooms instantly make you feel at home. Kick off your shoes, slip into the bathrobe and slippers and relax in front of the Smart TV with drinks and late night nibbles.
Poets House
Once home to a local author, this 20th century property has an ultra-stylish interior, (much like my own home – ahem!) whilst retaining a relaxed and comfortable feel. The hospitality here really is something else – it even beats my mum’s service, and that’s pretty impressive.
Black Horse Inn
This gorgeous village inn is bursting with homely charm. With such a warm and friendly atmosphere, you will feel like you have lived here all your life. Hearty, home cooked food made from local ingredients is perfect for helping you to settle in.
Calcot Manor
Think contemporary elegance meets rustic chic and you will have a fairly accurate picture of Calcot Manor. Subtle accessories make this adorable place really feel like home, with fresh flowers and fruit in the rooms. Simple yet delicious food is served in the restaurant and the traditional English country pub makes you feel like you never left home.
Natural Retreats, John O’Groats
Although these luxury eco lodges are self catering, you don’t have to do all the chores while you’re away (however, if this helps you feel more at home, then so be it!) There are several places nearby where you can eat out, and I’m quite sure the washing can wait until you get home. Cosy, stylish and with plenty of space for all the family, including the dog, you can enjoy precious time together and phenomenal scenery just outside your door.