Lap up the life of luxury with a stay in this chocolate-box cottage at the heart of the North Wales countryside, enjoying waterside views of the Mere. Traditionally thatched and seemingly straight out of a fairy-tale, this 17th-century cottage sleeps four humans and an accompanying hound in enchanting surroundings. You’ll soon be enjoying lakeside walks and frolics through ancient forest, returning to bask in the sunshine with a garden picnic laden with fresh strawberries and local cream washed down with a refreshing summer cocktail.
This timber-framed cottage is just as charming on the inside, featuring wooden beams, ornate tiling, and an original inglenook fireplace, which hosts a crackling wood burner. Let sleeping dogs lie whilst you prepare the table for hearty family meals, transforming homegrown ingredients into fantastic feasts in the country-cottage style kitchen. Pour yourself a tipple and retreat to the lounge to snooze off your dinner, or call it a night and retire to the sanctuary of the beautiful bedrooms upstairs. Completing the property is an elegant shower-room on the ground floor. Outside, the garden is set against a stunning backdrop of serene water and is a tranquil place to sit and watch the world go by. There’s also parking for three cars, and a lock-up bike shed.
If you can tear yourself away from the pretty village of Hanmer, the English/Welsh border has plenty to entertain keen historians and aspiring foodies alike. The market town of Ellesmere is a short 7.5-mile drive away, where you can spot herons and other species of waterfowl on the meres, or enjoy a spot of fishing or boating. There are lots of independent shops and eateries to while away the hours, and you can also visit the popular deli to pick up a few tasty essentials.