Snow-capped mountains, glistening lakes, and ancient forests alive with birds and butterflies; the UK abounds with breathtaking landscapes to soothe the soul and reawaken your connection to nature. In a world of deadlines, delays, and digital distractions, why not swap the hustle and bustle of the every day for fresh countryside air and a slower, more peaceful pace of life? Part of our Showcase Collections, our holiday cottages that are Closer to Nature offer a world-away escape, where you can wake to a dawn chorus of birdsong and sleep beneath a blanket of stars. Rediscover the simplest pleasures in life and enjoy a restorative staycation in the great outdoors in our special selection of rural retreats.
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The Scandinavian Lodge, North Yorkshire
Nestled within the verdant countryside of North Yorkshire, this rustic Scandinavian wooden lodge is just the ticket for outdoor-loving families looking to breathe in some crisp country air. Spend warm, summer days lounging with ice-cold drinks on the veranda, reading novels in the gently swaying hammock and dining alfresco amidst glorious views. Then, after windswept stomps along the North Yorkshire Heritage Coast or wild rambles through the North York Moors National Park nearby, nothing beats the comfort of returning to fluffy bathrobes and soaking under the stars in the private hot tub.
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Stargazy Cabin, Cornwall
Romantic and remote, this Cornish cabin is a welcome haven for couples wanting to drop off the radar for a while. Stitched into a colourful blanket of patchwork countryside and just a short drive from the coast, this is an idyllic retreat to reconnect with nature. Start your days with yoga on the decked terrace as the sun begins to rise and the air fills with the chatter of birds, and as dusk begins to fall, huddle beneath a blanket in one of the rocking chairs with a soothing glass of red. If you've relaxation in mind, then you'll lose many an hour from within the indulgent bubbles of the hot tub, watching local wildlife come and go.
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The Retreat – Avon, New Forest
Crafted from timber in an elevated position on stilts, this serene hideaway echoes its enchanting New Forest setting. Inside, thick blankets and sheepskin rugs encourage snug winter hibernation, while the wraparound deck outside begs for smoking BBQs, whilst you listen to the calming sounds of the breeze whispering through the leafy woodland. The sheltered sunken hot tub offers the ultimate way to enjoy the fresh air in all seasons and when the day begins to fade, the two cosy bedrooms beckon with fine linens and deliciously soft faux furs.
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The Cockerel - Exotic Animal Retreat, Forest of Dean
Offering a unique safari-style experience, this 17th-century rural retreat is tucked away within 60 acres of shared grounds that include a private animal rescue sanctuary. Amongst the fragrant English country gardens and swathes of woodland which you are free to explore, you’ll find a whole variety of exotic and farm animals, including lemurs, zebra, wallabies, reindeer, racoons and ponies. Enjoy sundowners in the African thatched hut, dive into the shared outdoor pool, and embrace the variety of country pursuits on offer in the surrounding Forest of Dean.
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Jimmys Barn, Cotswolds
Settled within rolling farmland without another dwelling in sight, this off-grid escape is an oasis for wilderness lovers who covet the finer things in life. Here you can disconnect from the outer world and relish in nature, wildlife spotting and embracing distraction-free together time in front of the flickering flames of the wood burner. Of course, the Cotswolds must be explored, and after a day of wandering the bucolic hills and drifting through honey-hued villages, an indulgent claw-foot bath offers rejuvenating warmth before snuggling up in one of the dreamy king-size bedrooms.
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Beeswing Lodge, Northumberland
Surrounded by acres of tranquil deer park, this secret hideaway in the Northumberland National Park provides a peaceful escape brimming with luxury. Sunny days are best spent thumbing a paperback on the patio amidst a melody of birdsong. Hopping hares provide entertainment in the garden, only rivalled by the sight of fallow deer grazing in the fields beyond. And when night falls, you can spend your evenings snuggled in blankets beneath starry skies in this International Dark Sky Park.
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Time in the great outdoors is time well spent, so why not treat yourself to one of these beautiful properties in our Showcase Collection: Closer to Nature? Seamlessly connecting you to the outside world, these rural hideaways offer a welcome dose of R&R in some of the most desirable locations in the UK.
