Lifestyle -- 1 month ago
Words: Alex Woodhall
The ‘staycation’ is enjoying some time in the sun as the concept has begun to seriously resonate with Brits up and down the isles. Weary of exotic travel and looking for a heavy dose of relaxation without the inconvenience of a long-haul flight, the luxury rental market here at home has a number of gems that more than rival their continental counterparts. Here are 10 truly insane rentals that will make you want to shun the sun and spend some time both exploring and kicking back in a UK locale.
HEWER STREET – LONDON
This converted warehouse in Ladbroke Grove is an ideal four-bed London escape. Close to the vibrant Notting Hill and Portobello Road, the space itself is modern and open with an enormous atrium living area with open mezzanines and standout vaulted ceilings.
£POA from Quintessentially Villas
THE MANOR – SOMERSET
The best way to enjoy the country, this picturesque property overlooking the Blackdown Hills dates back to the 13th Century. Refurbished to the highest order, 11 luxurious bedrooms, a sauna, heated swimming pool, tennis court and preened gardens make for a spectacular spot for entertaining.
£POA from Quintessentially Villas
PENCALENICK HOUSE – CORNWALL
The model of modernism, this 6-bedroom retreat is nestled on the Cornish coast and offers all of the luxury of a 5 star hotel but with complete privacy. A dedicated chef, private motor yacht and house manager can be organised as supplement to the private beach and light-filled living space.
£8,960pw, from Quintessentially Villas
CAIRNS HOUSE – SCOTLAND
With 24 individually designed bedrooms, sleeping 55, Cairns House is the size of a hotel but very much a private rental. The mansion has undergone extensive refurbishment but many of the original architectural features have remained alongside the cinema and sauna. The peerless grand ballroom is unmatched as an entertainment area, whilst spilling out into the extensive garden area would never be a bad idea.
£16,800 – £28,800 from Oliver’s Travels
THE BOATHOUSE – LONDON
Bathed in opulence this Kensington Georgian property offers an ultimate, indulgent London getaway. Boasting unrivalled river views, a generous outdoor area, 6 bedrooms and a gym all dripping in classic elegance, it’s an idyllic haven within the capital.
£POA from Quintessentially Villas
BLACK MOON – CORNWALL
Situated as close to the coast as can be, this St Ives spot looks out onto the bay. Designed with a couple in mind, decadence is the order of the day as is a cosiness that can’t be matched. A private cave-cum-snug and ocean views for miles mean you’ll never want to leave.
£POA from Quintessentially Villas
ELKSTONES – COTSWOLDS
An elegant, thatched, Cotswold stone home surrounded by natural beauty could well be the perfect weekend country retreat. With a host of amenities from pool to sauna, cinema and an incredible outdoor dining area within this 5-bed, it’s the perfect place to host a couple of friends looking for a break from the Big Smoke.
£POA from Quintessentially Villas
LINTON LODGE – SCOTLAND
Set in over an acre of woodland surprisingly only 20 minutes from Edinburgh, the property which sleeps 24 is packed full of things to do. With a cinema room, games room, hot tubs, fully equipped gym and BBQ area, this prestigious estate is right up there when it comes to party houses.
£5,500- £6,540pw, from Oliver’s Travels
BORTH COTTAGE – WALES
Accommodating parties up to 12, this clean, modern property is both luxurious and simple, the ultimate space for some unadulterated rest and relaxation. Situated on the Llyn Peninsula in North Wales, satellite navigation isn’t entirely reliable in this remote locale; the helipad however, should make getting here a breeze.
£POA from Quintessentially Villas
SPITBANK FORT – HAMPSHIRE
Unique doesn’t quite do this rental justice, despite being just 2 hours out of London the repurposed sea fort has been refurbished as a luxurious escape. Requiring a private boat for access, the 8 bedroom sanctuary hosts a bar, fire pit, rooftop pool and spa, restaurant, ‘victory’ bar and unparalleled 360° ocean vista views.
£POA from Quintessentially Villas
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