A lot of my friends live quite a distance from me. Some are old friends and some newer blogging friends, that all seem to be dotted around the country; not to mention those who now live abroad. I love the idea of a big get together, kids and all! While day dreaming, I started perusing the Oliver’s Travels villa holiday expert site to look for possible venues and was amazed at some of the properties available. For a large group of friends, plus everyone’s children, a large house would be required. Even though these can be costly, when divided between all the guests, it becomes much more affordable and could well be a better option (and a lot more fun!) than a hotel. Lots of outside space is important too, for the children and the compulsory barbeques!.
As Mr Hubby will agree I am quite fussy where I stay, the aesthetics are so important to me, I won’t even eat in a restaurant that isn’t attractive. So it can be quite difficult to find somewhere that appeals to me, but Oliver’s Travels have so many properties that are individual, quirky and packed full of interesting features.
Here are my top 10 UK holiday homes.
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Granary Barn, Norfolk
Granary Barn is such a gorgeous conversion situated in a tranquil valley. The open plan interior would give all the children plenty of room to roam! With 6 double bedrooms, 1 twin, 4 bathrooms, 3 shower rooms and a separate toilet, there would be lots of space for us all.
The open layout also means that it is a great house for socialising. When Mr Hubby is cooking we can still chat to him! The built-in outdoor table seats 14 and with the built-in BBQ we would be all set for a summer get together.
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Blossom Hall Devon
Blossom Hall is an eighteenth century thatched barn conversion, which is so beautiful. Offering a wonderful mix of modern and traditional, Blossom Hall also boasts open plan living and stunning views, which I am sure we would make the most of.
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Penbury Barn Estate – Somerset
Penbury Estate is made up of a 200-year-old barn and 3 cottages. Together they can sleep 20 people and the large enclosed garden would mean a little bit of relaxation for us parents. The hot tub would be even more of a bonus!
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The Old Stables Wales
The Old Stables comprises of four luxurious apartments overlooking the stunning Dyfi Estuary. Just look at those views! The lovely large decked area makes the most of them too. We would be treated to underfloor heating, which let’s face it might be necessary in Wales.
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Cornish Beach House Cornwall
On my! The views across Whitsand Bay from the property are simply breathtaking and this heavily glazed house makes the most of every inch! This new house is situated 30 metres from the beach, how perfect. There is every mod con and even a sunken hot tub! The games room, would be a great place to put all the kids toys out of sight.
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Glade Barn Isle Of Wight
The seven large bedrooms all with en-suites would make this a fabulous choice for a get together. The three reception rooms can all be opened up, to function as one big 80 foot room, great for a celebration. Each of the seven bedrooms features a 20″ flat screen tv, which would certainly keep the men folk happy!
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Lovegrove Mansion Devon
This Grade 2 listed country manor looks like it’s straight out of a Jane Austin novel. Gorgeous period features with luxury as far as the eye can see, would make this an amazing venue for a get together. The King or super king sized beds would mean there’s lots of room for invading children!
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Scottish Castle Scotland
Who wouldn’t want to stay in a castle! This castle is divided into three apartments and the tower house. Set in its own estate which would be ours to have fun in, I think this would be the place the children would pick.
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Argyll Barn Scotland
This recently restored luxurious property is situation ten minutes from two lochs and benefits from shared access to a tennis court and indoor swimming pool! Set in 20 acres of woodland meaning there would be plenty of space for the children to let of steam!
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Muddy Manor Barn Somerset
Muddy Manor Barn is positioned in the grounds of a country manor. The renovated property has kept hold of its beautiful exposed beams and inglenook fireplace. Guests can enjoy a walk around the estate and even to the local pub, which would get my vote. There is enough a hot tub big enough for six! The games room, complete with pool table would be a sure-fire hit.
Which would be your favourite? Have you ever done something similar with a big group of friends?
Disclosure: This post is made in collaboration with Oliver’s Travels














Comments 6
I’m with you on the asthetics of holiday homes; the prettier the better! We’ve stayed in a few on our travels around the UK and my heart has always been stolen by the ones with beautiful decor and surroundings.
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It matters so much doesn’t it?! xx
In love – We are looking to go away after Bluestone or early next year – will look at these first. Ha ha I am like you, needs to be aesthetically pleasing. xxxx
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They are such amazing properties, so beautiful xxx
Gosh there are some lovely ones there Abi — I wouldn’t want to come home again!! 😉 Totally agree though — HOW much fun would a bloggers weekend — with the kids — be? It would be SO much fun!! Definitely something to think about for the future!! 🙂 x
Caro | http://www.thetwinklediaries.co.uk
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It would be amazing wouldn’t it?! x