1. Shepherd Neame Brewery

Founded in 1698, Shepherd Neame is officially Britain’s oldest brewer. Set in the historic market town of Faversham, Kent, the fully-operational brewery offers a great selection of tours for fans of Kentish ale. Alongside sampling some malted barley and viewing traditional mash tuns, guests can experience some tutored tasting. There’s an evening tour that rounds off with a two-course supper, and new to 2013, a beer and food matching evening.

If you plan to visit Shepherd Neame why not make it a weekend gateaway and stay in one of our rental properties near Kent like King Johns Hunt Lodge.

2. Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm

Situated in the peaceful Cornish countryside, the traditional cider (or cyder as the locals call it) farm belonging to the Healey family was only established in the late 1980s, although many of the techniques and equipment date back hundreds of years. Guests can enjoy a tractor ride through the orchards, see the distillery and press house in action and sample Healey’s scrumpy, whiskey and apple brandy to complete their tour.

We’ve got a selection of luxury country homes near Cornwall which would make it the ideal base to explore the region.

(Penhallow, Truro, TR4 9LW)

3. Jennings Brewery

A large brewer based in the Lake District, Jennings was established in 1828 and moved to its current location in the historic city of Cockermouth, Cumbria in 1874. All of the beers produced on site are made from traditionally pure Lakeland water, drawn from the brewery’s own well. Ales – pale and dark – and bitters can all be sampled at the brewery’s Old Cooperage bar. With so much to explore in the region you may want to stay a couple days in one of our nearby luxury properties.

(Cockermouth, CA13 9NE)

4. Adnams Brewery

Although the process used by Adnams is less traditional than the others noted above, the advanced technologies used behind the Victorian walls of this Suffolk brewer help them to reduce their energy and water consumption, making them an eco-friendly option. The state of the art equipment adds an additional layer of intrigue to the tour too, particularly for those who have previously visited breweries, and the 30-minute tutored beer tasting is almost worth the admission alone. With so much cultural richness to appreciate. you may want to stay over in one of our Suffolk Luxury Properties (Southwold, IP18 6JW)

5. Westons Cider Tour

The name behind some of the UK’s most popular traditional ciders, Westons has been running since 1880 and their tours offers a real insight into large-scale cider making processes. Tours during their harvest period, from September through to December, are of particular interest and give visitors a chance to see the process from orchard to glass. The ideal way to explore the region is to stay in one of our nearby properties, in the South West.

(Ledbury, HR8 2NQ)

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A Reminder of why I got into this business

“Quite simply the best holiday we have ever had.”  With these words Mr Don Roles of Poole Dorset summed up the week that he and his wife Gaye had in Penbury cottage in April this year. They had spotted a magazine ad for Penbury Barn Estate and Cottages and, not being on the internet, simply rang up and booked.

My sister-in-law Liz and her husband Tim are the estate managers. Liz called me to say that Mrs Gaye Roles had left the cottage absolutely spotless and was very happy: “she spring-cleaned it for us!”.  I realized when she quoted Don that he truly meant it, “best ever”, and then I remembered why we decided to get into the holiday letting business; the greatest reward is not to make money but to make people happy. I also remembered how it was we ended up in Somerset, of all places. Let me try to explain.

Why You Should Visit Somerset

The Southwest of England is a wonderful place, with a great slower pace of life and fabulous countryside. Cornwall is a long long way from London and does not have the sheer variety of beauty that the counties of both Devon and Somerset do. Devon is very very good, myself and my wife are natives, but in summer in can be manic when the narrow roads clog up with caravans and camper vans. Now Somerset is just 2 hours from both Birmingham and London. It really is the hidden jewel in England’s crown. And it has everything – the utterly beautiful historic cathedral cities of Bath and Wells, geological wonders such as Cheddar Gorge and the Jurassic Pavement beach at East Quantoxhead (where you can also get, in a perfect setting probably the best clotted cream tea on the planet!), glorious woodland walks from Watersmeet to the sea at Lynton and Lynmouth, or scrambling over boulders in the Valley of the Rocks. There are also classic bucket and spade Victoriana English seaside resorts and beaches at Minehead and Weston Supermare.

Somerset is also famous not only because it gave the world Cheddar Cheese, it also has some of the best original and organic ciders in the world. The Quantocks, are one of England’s undiscovered secrets; gentle rolling hills, views as far as the Severn Bridge, Wales, Exmoor, Dartmoor and Glastonbury, and the area was designated as England’s first “area of outstanding natural beauty”. Penbury Court sits just off the Western slopes only 20 minutes from the M5 and Taunton but a perfect base for the whole southwest.

More Things to Do In Somerset

The West Somerset Railway line runs just 100m from the end of the garden and the lineside is reached along the Deane Way – which follows a path down the side of the property along the edge of Farmer Les’s field!

Penbury Court and its cottages are just 5 minutes from both the Bishop’s Lydeard depot and one of the West Country’s prettiest stations at Crowcombe, part of the West Somerset Railway.  A typical day out, after being pulled by the Norton Manor   can include lunch at the historic harbor in Watchet, (a classic Cornish or Somerset-made pasty!) or a tour of Dunster Castle, or a wander round the quaint high street of Dunster – you haven’t lived until you have tried honeycomb ice cream, with clotted cream on top!

Thank You Don!

“It was so quiet and so peaceful,” said Don. “And everything was just perfect, from the warm, personal and friendly welcome, to the complementary tea, coffee, biscuits and milk. We are coming again, in June. And me and Gaye, well we can’t wait.” Thanks Don. The pleasure was all ours.

Click Here for more information or to book the Penbury properties now!

The post Guest Post: The Ideal Property To Stay In To Visit Somerset appeared first on Stately Escapes Blog.

1. West Wales

Whether you’re looking for a more active escape from city life or some time to relax by the seaside, the west coast of Wales is an ideal mini retreat, especially the town of Aberystwyth. The recently renovated Mawr Mansion is located just 15 miles from this university town and includes 4.5 acres of grounds and a 40ft heated swimming pool, making it ideal for a family getaway.

If you’re looking for a cultural fix, head to the Aberystwyth Arts Centre and Ceredigion Museum, or for those who prefer stretching their legs, enjoy a cycle through the picturesque countryside. There’s a spectacular view of the town from Constitutional Hill that’s well worth the trip up the electric cliff railway, and you can also visit the Victorian camera obscura at the summit.

2. East Sussex

There are a multitude of places in East Sussex where you can unwind, with dozens of small towns and villages dotted along the lush, green Downs. If you’re looking for beautiful surroundings then the cosy town of Lewes is definitely worth a bank holiday visit. It’s great for the whole family, but also very close to lively Brighton, so you can easily change the pace of your weekend break.

The spacious, detached Burwash cottage, which sleeps up to 12 guests, has southerly views of the unspoilt countryside and is within close distance of many neighbouring villages. Spend a relaxed day in Lewes, with its fine range of small boutiques stocking antiques, crafts, books and vintage finds. For dedicated foodies, the weekly farmers’ market on a Saturday is a perfect opportunity to sample some local produce, whilst there’s also a fantastic collection of pubs, including the Snowdrop and the Pelham Arms, serving up delicious food and a variety of fine ales.

3. Lake District

The Lake District is famed for its breath-taking rolling hills, towering mountains and tranquil lakes. A vast area of natural beauty, it would be tricky for any family to take it all in over a long weekend, but the valleys of Borrowdale and Buttermere are quintessentially Lake District, and a good base for those who enjoy hiking, with a number of walking trails to explore. Visitors can also head to Ullswater for Victorian paddle steamer excursions around the lake, or alternatively hire out a canoe or sailing boat and plot your own route along the bank.

Whichever region you decide to visit, we have hundreds of beautiful luxury properties to make your bank holiday weekend extra special, from historic mansions to intimate cottages.

Credit:

Photos by MarilynJane

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After a long, grey winter and chilly spring, many of us will be looking forward to the summer sun and the world-renowned music festivals that come along with it. However, it must be admitted that few will relish the prospect of cold tents or queuing for Portaloos.

If you want to combine the festival circuit experience with all the comforts of home, Stately Escapes offers the perfect solution: luxurious large mansions for hire that offer plenty of space for groups of friends. Here are a few recommendations…

The Great Escape -

This May music festival paves the way for the rest of the summer’s big events. The Great Escape always has its finger on the new music pulse, and showcases fresh bands in venues across Brighton. Between the gigs, swap the seaside for the heated indoor swimming pool of pretty Winter Manor in the nearby Surrey Hills, with room for up to 12 guests.

Glastonbury Festival - Perhaps the most famous of the British music festivals, Glastonbury has been going since 1970 and still retains a slight hippy atmosphere that is lapped up by thousands every June. You’ll find an eclectic mix of world-famous performers of all genres, playing on mammoth stages on a quaint, Somerset farm. Head back to the elegant Polden Hills House at the end of each day, a short drive away. Up to 15 festival-goers can relax in style in this English country home.

Isle of Wight Festival - 

Massive international names like Bon Jovi, Blondie and The Killers join home-grown British sensations at the Isle of Wight Festival every year. Pamper yourself with rock star treatment and rent some super-exclusive festival accommodation – the incredible Napoleonic Fortress, for example, is completely surrounded by water, with room for up to 18 guests, several games rooms and even a wine tasting room. One of our other fantastic party houses to rent is Seascape House on the island itself, with gorgeous views of Gurnard Bay and room for up to 10 guests.

Reading and Leeds Festivals - Northern and southern siblings, Reading and Leeds offer the same line-up of mainly rock, indie, punk and metal on the same August bank holiday weekend. Get a big bunch of friends together (up to 30 guests) to stay at the splendid Carlton Manor House in the Yorkshire countryside while you live it up at Leeds Festival – the property comes with 250 acres of parkland to explore, including a vast lake.

Credit:

Photos by Neate

Photos by Davidcjones

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Nobody? very well then, you may read on! Our friends at Simplychateau have created a Facebook Quiz which could allow you to win a one week long stay for 8 in the villa, mansion or castle of your dreams in France, the UK or Italy!

Taking the Quiz could not be simpler, click the following link: http://www.facebook.com/simplychateauholidays find the quiz and answer a few questions (the Quiz takes less than a minute to finish) once completed the Quiz will identify which property suits you the best, this is the property you will be staying at should you be lucky winner!

And if you don’t win, why not turn to our Simply Concierge and ask him to organise an even better experience?

Links:

http://www.facebook.com/simplychateauholidays

http://www.simplychateau.com

http://www.simplychateau.com/#concierge

The post WIN A free Holiday! appeared first on Stately Escapes Blog.

Clevedon, Somerset

The Victorians flocked to this seaside town, just west of Bristol, and it’s easy to see why – quaint shops and restaurants, a pebbled shoreline and the Grade I Listed pier all add to Clevedon’s charm. To get the best view of the town and surrounding area, take a trip on the Waverly or Balmoral cruisers. These paddle steamers call at the town’s pier and travel down the picturesque Somerset and Devon coast towards Wales. There are plenty of luxury self-catering properties available close by, including the spectacular C17th Castle, a grand Grade II Listed property that sleeps 16.

Peak District

Active holidaymakers will love the range of hiking trails criss-crossing Britain’s first National Park. One of the premier routes is the ascent of Kinder Scout, a wild moorland plateau with unique rock formations and gullies. Now owned by the National Trust, this is the perfect place to begin on the Pennine Way. Rest your weary legs at the end of the day with a stay at Kinder Castle, located on the edge of Kinder Scout in its own private woodland.

As it happens Kinder Castle was also recently featured in a music video, so do not resist if you feel the urge to bust some dance moves in this fine setting. Click below to view the video [Warning: Not Suitable For Work]

Hinderwell, North Yorkshire

This area encompasses a number of sleepy hamlets, and is a perfect blend of rugged landscape and rural charm. Staithes, Runswick Bay, Roxby and Dalehouse are all located in the area between the coast and the North York moors, allowing access to lots of lovely walking trails. Make time to explore Staithes with its cobbled streets, historic pubs and 600ft Boulby cliffs nearby. The Ancient Moated Farmstead, currently available to rent, offers accommodation for up to 22 guests and is in comfortable walking distance of the fishing village.

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Hot on the heels of The X Factor comes a brand new ITV talent show from Simon Cowell, but this time the focus is on all things culinary. Food Glorious Food, a quest to find the best traditional regional dishes in the UK, is sure to whet the appetites of intrepid gastro-travellers, and fortunately the British Isles are home to a variety of delicious curiosities for all tastes. Here are just a few of our little-known edible treasures from around the country…

Wales

One of the stranger Welsh delicacies is ‘laverbread’ – surprisingly made from seaweed, as opposed to bread. Laver grows flat on rocks and is abundant off Wales’ southwest coast. It’s typically eaten as a side-dish to accompany lamb or fried bacon and has become a favourite with high-end London delis – though you’ll really need to visit Wales to find the genuine article.

Why not experience ‘the real thing’ and stay in the historic Berry Wood Barn on your Welsh break? Located in the stunning Black Mountains, with room for up to 10 guests, and the town of Abergavenny is just a 15-minute drive away, it’s the perfect base for sampling traditional fare at local pubs and restaurants. Don’t miss the annual Abergavenny Food Festival (taking place on 21-22 September this year) for delicious regional treats.

Norfolk

East Anglia is home to a great many tasty dishes (including herrings with hot English mustard – Colman’s have their headquarters in Norwich), but one of the rarest these days is traditional ‘jugged hare’. This method of cooking a rabbit or hare whole – in an earthenware pot with a sauce containing red wine and the animal’s blood – may sound suspicious, but it’s a real treat for lovers of British favourites like black pudding and haggis.

Hunt down the hare in its native Norfolk by staying in Meadow
Manor – with room for up to 14 guests and boasting its own hot tub,
it’s ideal for a country house party.

Scottish Highlands

‘Cullen skink’ may not be the most promising of names, but this rich, comforting soup made from smoked haddock, onions, potatoes and milk is truly special. Originating from the town of Cullen, in Moray, on the northeast coast of Scotland, it’s well worth the trip north of the border in order to try true Scottish skink, hopefully made with Finnan Haddie smoked haddock.

If you like to be close to the sea, you can rent a family-sized beach-front house here at Stately Escapes, or pick from a wealth of wonderful large cottages if you’re keen to take a whole team of foodie friends.

The post Food Glorious Food: The UK’s Most Exciting Regional Dishes appeared first on Stately Escapes Blog.

Along with experiencing some free British culture, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your Stately Escapes break.

Luxury holiday homes, cottages, and castles are across the UK and Ireland are fantastic places to get away from the big city and enjoy some new experiences in the countryside.

Whether you are searching for Nessie in Scotland, hiking in the Lake District, or relaxing in the lush green countryside, there are lots of ways to explore your new environment.

Here is our quick guide of things to do in the British countryside.

Rambling

In many places you’ll have the ‘right to roam’ so keep an eye out for open access maps to see where you can make the most of your rambling efforts.

Walking and Hiking

Get out into the Great British wilderness and see what it has to offer. National Trails in England and Wales are long-distance walking routes and they are a fantastic way to explore the landscape.

In Scotland, the equivalent Long Distance Routes offer 1500 miles of paths from the Borders to the Highlands. Whether you’re expert or beginner, there is a route for you. These are a great way to get close to nature and enjoy your free fix of countryside.

Cycling

Many of these routes are also suitable for cyclists. Whether you’re on two wheels or two feet there is lots to see. Map your own route, find a local cycle path, or go and explore. National Trust also offer cycle hire and beginners’ lessons.

Wildlife

Indoors or out, the UK is filled with wildlife centres and zoos filled with plant- and wildlife from around the world. Check out the likes of Edinburgh Zoo and its pandas or Lonleat Safari Park in Wiltshire, or take the family out to one of many deep sea life centres across the country. Find your nearest zoo or wildlife park here.

Heritage

World Heritage sites are another great way to be at one with nature while getting a fix of culture. Find your local tourist information centre for guides, pamphlets, and advice, or you could even ask the locals for the lowdown. Visit Britain is also a useful resource, and has a great guide to everything from castles to ports.

Gardens

Finally, if you are closer to the city and feeling left out, check out some of Britain’s marvelous Botanic Gardens. The UK is filled with fine gardens like the Eden Project, the National Botanic Garden of Wales, and even the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew in southwest London. Find one near your destination at the Great British Gardens website.

Photo Credit: Paisley patches (coming and going)

The post Rambles and Brambles: A Casual Holiday in the Countryside appeared first on Stately Escapes Blog.

Where to visit…

Sumptuous Spas – personally I need no excuse for spending a day being pampered but a break away definitely provides a good opportunity, below are two that tickle my fancy.

Grayshott, just 16 miles from Guildford, this grand Surrey manor house dates back to 1867 with peaceful gardens offering tranquillity and surrounded by Heathland and the rolling Surrey hills this extensively refurbished building is the perfect place to head to balance body and soul.

Pennyhill Park is a beautiful country house set in over 100 acres of glorious Surrey parkland between Ascot and Sunningdale. Book a spa day here for the ultimate luxurious experience with The Latymer restaurant with its two Michelin starred chef Micheal Wignall – luxury treatments and foods are on tap!

History, Culture and the Arts

Brooklands Museum – Brooklands the birthplace of British motorsport and the home of Concorde – two great British phenomena! The museum showcases many motoring and aviation exhibits spanning many decades. Brooklands holds frequent event days so check their events calendar for what’s on during your stay.

Theatre enthusiasts will not be disappointed with plenty of theatres on offer providing some classic and contemporary productions – try Guildford’s Yvonne Arnauds theatre one of the UK’s leading regional theatres with many of its productions ending up in the West End.

Hampton Court Palace – with more than 500 years of Royal history there is much to learn and explore from this magnificent building and grounds. Henry VIII’s great hall – England’s greatest medieval hall and oldest theatre where gigantic and sumptuous tapestries adorn the walls and the feeling of grandeur emanates from nearly every room. The Chapel Royal is open to visitors and is ornately beautiful perhaps take part in a service as many queens and kings have over many decades.

The gardens are simply stunning and the maze at Hampton court is renowned world-wide!

The Hampton Court flower show takes place this year from July 9^th – 14^th an acclaimed event that has been running since 1990, last year there were 600 exhibitors’ gardeners and flower lovers this is a must, with this most stunning of settings this is a day to remember. My favourite of exhibits at the event are the Roses just amazing beauty in its most natural form.

Festivals

Epsom racecourse hosts the Derby festival – the world’s greatest flat race takes place on Derby day which is the 1^st June – the day before is Ladies day so dust off your hats or perhaps make the most of shopping in Surreys’  Richmond, Guilford or Reigate and treat yourself to something new. A day at the races is always a good excuse to dress up and enjoy a glass of champagne whilst taking part in the excitement of picking a horse to take a flutter on.

Wings and Wheels festival – 24^th/25^th August at Dunsford Aerodrome home to the BBC’s Top Gear. A thrilling two days of motor and aviation displays. With so much to see and do the Wings and Wheels festival is a real all round family event. My eldest son described it as exhilarating!

Stag Hill Music and Beer Festival – taking place on Saturday 18^th May at the foot of Guildford Cathedral – a medley of live music from rock, acoustic and rock and roll to listen to whilst enjoying  a pint of one of the fine real ales that will be provided by The Hogs Back Brewery. Oasish, a tribute band to the one and only Oasis, will be headlining this year!

Where to eat and drink…

There are many good eating establishments around Surrey including gastro pubs, bistros, country pubs and fine restaurants. A couple of my favourites in Richmond are The Bingham which overlooks the river Thames and offers a menu of fine gastronomic dishes in sophisticated modern surroundings. The cocktails aren’t bad either! For tapas try the Rincon Bar Espanol style mouth-watering tapas in relaxed surroundings and great red wine!

The Running Horse a once 16^th century coach house is in one of Surreys most English of villages and is situated in the Surrey hills. Its independence gives it an individual feel, warm and welcoming with a great British menu using local produces with seasonal dishes.  There is a well-stocked wine cellar catering for all tastes.

Le Barbe is a French restaurant situated in the lovely market town of Reigate. Traditional French decoration and ambience gives a feel of the Provence. Beautifully prepared and put together French dishes are a delight and the wine list includes some fabulous French vintages. A real treat!

Surrey is a beautiful county and these are just a few of the highlights. Book your own stately home or country house and enjoy a wonderfully English break.

Written by Kirsti Banyard, a travel writer for HomeAway. For great accommodation visit Simply Chateau on HomeAway or Homeaway in Surrey.

The post Soaking-Up The Home Counties In Surrey appeared first on Stately Escapes Blog.

It’s Winter, Would Should I do?

During the cold winter months in Scotland it can
be easy to think about escaping for some winter sunshine, but if you
know how to make the most of it Scotland can be a fantastic winter
holiday destination! You may not get the sunshine but in the Highlands
you’re usually guaranteed some snow! This makes a winter sports break
become particularly appealing. So where should you head to in Scotland
for that luxurious winter sports holiday and retreat?

Cairngorm Mountains

There are few areas in the world more beautiful than the Cairngorm
National Park during winter. The snowfall the area typically receives
during winter also opens up a lot of winter sports activities for you
to enjoy. You can take in some of Scotland’s most incredible views
before you ski down some world class slopes.

Nevis Mountain Range

The Nevis Mountain Range is one of Scotland’s most popular ski resorts
and claims to be home to the UK’s only mountain gondola, something
which has the potential to give your winter break in Scotland the
unique factor. Nevis Mountain Range is also a good place for beginners
to learn to ski and snowboard, with many snow-sport schools (usually
from December to April depending on snowfall) opening up their doors to
people of all abilities during this time.

Glenshee Ski Resort

Glenshee is home to the largest ski resort in Scotland. The impressive
22 lifts and 33 runs offer a fantastic diversity of natural terrain for
all level of skiers and snowboarders. If you want to learn to ski or
snowboard here there are many learning options to choose from. You can
join a class, go private, hire an instructor for your group, or get
into race training.
Although Scotland may not have the sunshine and it may not be the Swiss
Alps as far as skiing is concerned, it can still offer you a top class
winter sports holiday and a beautiful setting for a luxury winter
retreat! If you’re based in the UK it is also somewhere you can visit
that is right on your doorstep. Sometimes the holidays at home can be
more rewarding than any other…

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