Quirky features like exposed stone walls, a narrow layout and a Juliette balcony will make this pretty cottage a memorable base while staying in the sleepy Somerset countryside. Surrounded by National Trust properties and picturesque stone-built buildings with the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) within reach, you and your small family, including two beloved canine companions, will have plenty to keep you busy.
Make yourself at home in the cosy lounge with characterful exposed stone walls and put your feet up on one of the sofas while Fido curls up in front of the wood burner. Climb one step to reach the kitchen/diner, which is decorated with original flagstone floors which contrast with the contemporary, glossy fitted one-wall kitchen with tones of blue. After cooking a homemade meal, gather around the table with seating for four which sits beside the glass bi-folding doors that open onto the courtyard. Climb the cottage-style stairs to reach two king-size bedrooms and a family bathroom. The final double bedroom is in the eaves and has a Wii games console and games. Outside is a sheltered courtyard garden with a pond and furniture.
Enjoy a slice of country living during your stay in the small village of Montacute, where you can stroll to the historic country mansion decorated with Tudor art – National Trust Montacute House (0.5 miles). Soak up the countryside views from St Michael’s Hill, stop for some food at the local pub and see the historical Abbey Farmhouse, which are also in the village. Set tails wagging in the 390-acre Ham Hill Country Park (2 miles) or venture further afield into the Dorset AONB (7.5 miles) – where you can spend a day by the sea at the dog-friendly Cogden Beach (26 miles).