Gothic & Gilt

This home boasts a vaulted library and drawing room that feels more country house than cottage – gothic stone fireplace, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, and all. The canopied main bedroom opens directly onto a terrace, while the estate's glass-roofed indoor pool means you can swim laps whatever the weather. Come evening, the shared games room and barbecue area give you plenty of reasons to stay in rather than venture out into the Cotswold countryside – though the estate's loan bicycles make it tempting.

Home truths:
* While babies are welcome, this home isn't suitable for toddlers or children. If you're travelling with a baby, your host can provide a travel cot, high chair, and stair gate on request. You'll need to supply your own cot linen.
* You'll have access to the on-site indoor swimming pool, gym, games room, and spa treatment rooms here. They're shared with the estate's other guests.
* Bruern is a rural hamlet with no shops within walking distance, so you'll want to arrive with provisions or plan a drive into Chipping Norton for restaurants and supplies.
* There’s free on-site parking here and a free electric vehicle charging point.