Travellers' Tales
Visitors and guests tell us how they have been moved and inspired by our glittering collection of unique homestays by putting pen to paper to recall what was most magical about their stays.
Travellers' Tales
A fusion of two souls
Chloe and Mathieu reminisce on their wedding at Winterfell in the Lake District.
More from Travellers' Tales
From island to island: a day trip to the Isles of Scilly
In line with our monthly theme of journeys, our latest travellers´ tale is of a day trip over to the Scilly Isles; the UK´s answer to the Seychelles.
Riverside reverie at Atelier Rose
This travellers´ tale is of a family´s enchanted summer getaway; exploring Eardisland´s Tudor charm, picnicking by the river, and stargazing from a tin bath in the orangery.
A long distance love affair
We had our sights set on an intimate wedding. So, when we discovered The Stack, we knew it fit the brief: small, intimate, and unique, the kind of place you fall in love with at first sight.
House of Kundalini at Anthology Farm
"I want to feel part of the landscape, connected to the earth, to the trees, and to the sky when looking for the perfect space to hold a retreat." Step into the world of a yogi at Anthology Farm.
Musings from The Marlings
In a best-of-both-worlds escape to The Cotswolds, childlike nostalgia and sophisticated adulting come in equal measure.
Between the fells
"At Gaia Farmhouse, there’s notes of digital detox in every book and boardgame, which kept us chatting and laughing over brunches and candlelit eves." In this Travellers´ Tale, Elin dives into all the Lake District has to offer.
Birthday celebrations at glorious Gwendolyn
Having your birthday fall in January can feel like a disadvantage, what with the rest of the world mourning the festivities. But when a sepia-hued thatch overlooking the sea comes calling, all January blues are blown out the window.
A tale of two lovers
Marking the backdrop to two pivotal milestones in our lives, Unique Homestays has come to hold a special place in our family folklore; from coastal engagement to wisteria-clad vows.
A family first in Cornwall
After a long drive with a toddler and two dogs, it was a welcome relief to pull up outside the enchanting cottage that is The Fable. This break was extremely special and memorable; our first time away as a family with our little Rupert.
A rare weekend at Ukiyo
After bookmarking Ukiyo years ago as a must-visit Unique Homestay but finding it often fully booked, Ella checked the property page on a whim and luckily, found a rare weekend available.
The first day of spring at Little Red Lock
Travel creator Zanna Van Dijk shares her visit to Little Red Lock, a unique canal-side home in Oxfordshire.
A solo adventure through Ireland
Heart-thumping mountain drives, many servings of soda bread, and a County Kerry bath to last a lifetime; Kimberley shares her road-trip through Ireland.
A weekend well spent at Amaia
Throwing bags into the back of the car and excitedly setting off on an adventure, a last-minute escape to the south Cornwall coast was exactly what we needed.
Eclectic Escapism at Gulliver´s Hall
Straight out of the pages of your childhood favourites, Gulliver´s Hall takes Press Officer, Dan, on an adventure like no other.
At home at The Summer Folly
Join content creator The Slow Traveler on a tour of The Summer Folly, where the little touches and a little dash of magic combine to make this the best luxury homestay she´d ever seen.
An elopement in the Scottish Highlands
After a year of nos, guests of extraordinary chapel conversion, Supernova, hiked up the hills of Quiraing and said ´I do´. Here, Emily shares their picture-perfect elopement.
Wild West Cork
Ireland is having a bit of a moment. Gaelic glamour, Hollywood scenery and deserted white-sand beaches all coming into the limelight; this emerald island sparkles brighter than ever. Here we look back on last year´s visit to Skyros in County Cork.
Mindful mornings in the Cumbrian countryside
Down To Flow Escapes reflect on their yoga retreat last summer, hosted at our luxury farmhouse Figtree House in Cumbria.
A winter weekend at Ammonite, our home away from home
India Sehmi, London blogger and creator of The India Edit, heads to the East Sussex coast for a winter weekend at Unique Homestays’ rough-luxe cabin, Ammonite.
Our first family holiday: a week of escapism at The Cotton Tree
Guest Rachael shares her first holiday as a family of three at Cornish beach cottage, The Cotton Tree.
City dwellers take on Herefordshire: a weekend at Atelier Rose
The Michalaks, a young family who share their life through cinematic-style videos, explore Herefordshire during a weekend at luxury medieval homestay Atelier Rose.
A little piece of paradise
Endless sea views, many gin and tonics in the sunshine and a cloud-soft bed; could a weekend be more perfect? Guest Kimberley shares her time at Cornish retreat Atlanta.
Memories of The Pomegranate Tree
Guests of North Devon retreat The Pomegranate Tree share memories of their summer getaway, where evenings were spent admiring Europe’s first Dark Sky Reserve.
Summertime soirées at 400-year-old Ellesmera Mill
Set amongst butterflies, a trickling stream, green valleys and a hidden cove, our stay at Ellesmera Mill was idyllic. We wanted something special for the whole multi-generational family to enjoy and this was our perfect summer playground.
The Dartmoor cottage made for languorous weekends
Tucked away between rolling hills and rugged moorland, we pulled into the drive and stepped out into crisp night air, the hooting of owls sounding our welcome at The Riddle.
A perfect weekend away at Guinevere
The Crown and Fast & Furious star, Vanessa Kirby recalls her perfect weekend away at Guinevere, a 16th century manor located in Surrey.
A Romantic Weekend at Little Scarlet
After model Andja Lorein visited our quintessential Cotswolds cottage, Little Scarlet this spring, we were curious to find out what she got up to during her stay and learn more about her successful modelling career.
A Festival Wedding at Figtree House
We arranged a viewing at Figtree House and when we arrived we just fell in love. It was everything we wanted and more, a completely blank canvas in the most beautiful surroundings.
Our Utterly Peaceful Yet Heart-Racing Weekend At Viola
The wooden gates opened to reveal Viola’s stunning grounds, bordered by rolling hills, every inch built for relaxation.
A Wild Hearted Wedding at Charity
There is something about the sheerness of the towering Offa´s Dyke behind the farm and breathtaking Olchon Valley that opens up from directly below the front lawn; simply magical.
A Weekend at Romany
Romany was without a doubt exactly what we both needed for some R&R, and to spend quality time together without any need to be anywhere else in the world.
A Fairytale Stay at The Fable
It’s so exciting when you arrive, isn’t it? The Fable really felt like home from the second we stepped in. We adored the vintage farmhouse interior and felt so cosy and looked after.
Birthday Celebrations at Scarlet Hall
We were warmly welcomed by Chris with Gail´s freshly baked chocolate cake and scones awaiting us! As well as such delights as artisan bread, local cheeses and Prosecco - it was the beginning of a very special time for us all.
Sea Air and Salty Dogs
There is a little corner of the East Sussex coast, just a little jaunt from the bright lights of London that sits happily on the seafront offering a quiet weekend of pared back designer homes, lengthy strolls, and evenings on the back porch.
On the Vintage Trail at Hollyhocks
What a dreamy weekend! I had the absolute pleasure of staying in Hollyhocks recently, where I indulged in my passion for all things vintage, reclaimed, reused and pre-loved.
A Whimsical Wedding at Winterfell
This was our first encounter of a Unique Homes Stays property and we were completely blown away by Winterfell; it’s majestic name didn’t let it down and we were so excited to see what our wedding clients, Lindsay and Matt, had planned for their day.
The World is Your Oyster at Skyros
Even after driving through peaceful Schull until the sight of the sea was clear and far-reaching, I was completely unprepared for the tranquility that awaited me at Skyros.
A Birthday Bolthole
Sitting proudly along the coastal path overlooking Trevaunance Cove is Sea Cabin, our home for the weekend and the most wonderful bolthole making the most of the inside and outside space, perfect for a couple and a dog.
Embracing Autumn at Maberly
We arrived at Maberly when the first threats of an autumn storm were beginning to lick at the fallen leaves. Hurrying inside before the rain began to fall, we were immediately enveloped in the house’s charm and glamorous intimacy.
A Cottage for all Seasons
Just an hour from the bustling streets of Dublin, tucked away in the trees on the calm shores of Lough Ree, sits the haven that is Walden Lakehouse. Not once did I turn to a television, but instead curled up with a book in the sunshine, letting the serenity of the wild wash over me.
A Midweek Home from Home at the Limit
Peeking out between the wild rhubarb, The Limit’s approach alone gives a sense of wonder, the feeling of being alone, finally, in this busy world of ours. The greatest part? Here there was no sound other than the birds, the sea, the wind whispering across the dunes.
Summer Stories of The Stack
It’s Friday the 13th July and Britain continues to bake in the longest heatwave since ´76. With not a drop of rain in the long range forecast, this weekend called for nothing but sea swimming and milling around in the Cornish sunshine.
A Quiet Place Somewhere
Because sometimes you just need that quiet place somewhere. To wake up on Friday morning, pack the essentials and disappear off the radar.
Atlanta in the Autumn
I was going to stay at Atlanta, the latest property arrival to join the Unique Home Stays portfolio. Overhanging the cliff at Freathy, Atlanta flaunts a stunning seascape over the fine sands of Whitsand Bay and out onto the horizon beyond - a fine treat for a weekend away with my plus one!
A Weekend at Serpentine
When my friends and I had the opportunity for a weekend getaway at Serpentine there was not a moment’s hesitation; supplies were packed, cars were fuelled, and we converged on the property from Cornwall, London, and the Midlands.
The Only Two People In The World
Turning off the country road and onto Wishbone’s long drive the two of us began to feel the magic happening. Rows of autumn trees offered their amber salutes as we pressed on, going through the gate, and pulling up outside the stables where a friendly nose poked inquisitively out of the window.
Clapper Bridge Cottage
We have long been lovers of Cornwall but with so many unique destinations to explore, we had never found the perfect area to live... until now! Our captivating stay at Clapper Bridge Cottage changed this and now our hearts belong to The Lizard Peninsula.
The Living is Easy
If you could imagine a quaint English village nestled on the banks of a Swallows and Amazon-esque river then you would have this little slice of paradise summed up perfectly. The creek upon which Beauport sits ebbs away at low tide revealing a walkway across to neighbouring Noss Mayo, making this the most wonderful destination for my recent staycation.
The House With The Round Window
Over four years ago I was looking on Pinterest for an idea about decorating and came across a photo of a bedroom with crisp white sheets and a view of the blue ocean through a perfect round window. I fell in love and that photo became my screen saver for years.
Holidaying on Home Turf
Flanked by flower-clad cliffs and crooked fisherman’s cottages, Boscastle is impossibly photogenic. There’s always been a ‘magic’ about the village. Having grown up here as a child, when Aphrodite joined the portfolio it was the most perfect excuse to visit my old haunt.
Family Time at Infinity
After a busy festive season we needed a break! As soon as January was upon us, we decided on a family holiday to Cornwall - always our destination of choice. Yes, it´s lovely to bask on the beach and eat as much ice cream as possible, but visiting outside the peak months meant there were quite different delights to uncover.
From The Vamps to The Wilds
Nestled up in the rolling hills of the Brecon Beacons is the most delectable barn conversion offering a two bed getaway haven.
A Jolly Weekend In the Country
We chose Bartholomew in Tresham for a short weekend stay earlier this Autumn, and we had the most wonderful time. The house and the location was everything we could have hoped for and more.
Spellbinding Charity
Hot tubs at dusk, snooker and movies into the evenings, good sounds, lounging around the fire enjoying convivial meals at the table. Everyone who stayed was reluctant to leave, all having completely fallen in love with the calm grandeur of the setting and Charity itself.
Three Have Fun in the Welsh Wilds
Our Friday afternoon arrival at The Wilds was full of eager anticipation, as we climbed the narrow mountain road before following the byway to the house, shimmering in the autumn twilight within the folds of the mountains, we had finally reached the Welsh wilderness.
A Wonderful Stay At Mackerel Skies
We enjoyed a wonderful stay at Mackerel Skies in July. This holiday home was truly unique and proved to be our little oasis near the sea.
A Jolly English Seaside Holiday
Never would I have thought I´d have the opportunity to stay in a WW2 guard tower but here I was, holidaying in one of the UK´s most unique and historical homes with my partner, and right on the seafront. How lucky we were!
Mrs Duck and a Crayfish
You really can’t believe you are staying on an island, but that is exactly what you find when you arrive at Filly Island. It’s located in South Cerney; a truly picture perfect village set in the heart of the Cotswolds.
An Ode to The British Countryside
Following the referendum, the question of British Identity has been brought into focus, my weekend homestay in the glorious British Countryside was the perfect staycation, an opportunity to reconnect with the motherland, all from the comfort and luxury of a Cornish stone barn, aptly titled Somerby.
Solving The Riddle
The Riddle in the idyllic Dartmoor village of North Bovey is quite simply the most perfect thatched cottage. As I drove to my home for the weekend I couldn’t wait to explore every nook and cranny...
A Cultured Weekend at Hummingbird House
Five of us arrived on a glorious sunny May afternoon at the gates of Hummingbird House – a quick call on the buzzer and the wooden gates swung opened to reveal a stunning wisteria-clad Wealden farmhouse in the most glorious of settings
A Slice of Heaven in Dartmoor
As soon as I arrived it was easy to tell that Sojourn was designed with pure relaxation in mind, the owners had everything covered down to the smallest details and I could not wait to slip into luxury holiday mode.
A Place for Friends to Reconnect and Rejuvenate
Phillimores near Kingsbridge was the perfect place for friends to reconnect and rejuvenate
1930´s Dreaming
My return to work after the Easter Bank Holiday weekend was made somewhat sweeter on Friday when I was presented with the ultimate treat – a short break at The Limit in Holywell Bay! The Limit is a short 15 minute drive from our countryside offices and having previously only seen pictures of this quirky 1930’s home, I was really intrigued to see it in the flesh.
Escape From The City
A weekend away at The Restoratory with friends was exactly what I needed for relaxation and rejuvenation. Coming down from London, we were on what felt like our own private beach in less than two hours – minus the hassle of airports and security queues.
A Luxury Break at Libertine
Since joining Unique Home Stays, Libertine was one of those properties that caught my eye right from day one with its wonderful interiors and brilliant location. So I was over the moon when I was invited to stay for a couple of nights!
Magical Millook
I fell in love with The Beach Hut the first time I visited Millook back in 2013, with its small, dark pebbled cove sheltering below the geometric rock formations, it seemed other-worldy! Little did I know I would get the chance to stay myself one day very soon.
Where My Girlfriend Agreed to Marry Me...
The rich spicy sweet scent of rose petals with their varying hues and silky nap adorned the floors. The glasses on the table fizzed delightfully and the fire glowed hot, representing our hearts content and warm within.
A Perfect Family Weekend in Porthcurno
We parked up on the driveway and stepped through the white double French doors into the light, bright and beautifully finished home. The children excitedly ran off to decide who was going to get top bunk!
Daydreaming
One thing I love about Unique Home Stays properties is that they each have the ability to make you feel utterly at ease, like the warm, welcoming homes of old family friends. Daydreamer was no exception!
Little Charcuterie; a Writer´s Retreat
Some of the greatest writers always talk about the importance of having a space to write. A sanctuary where they can create fantasy worlds through their words with no interruptions...
Our Firefly Experience
Having already stated our live feedback in the leather bound log book nestled in the bureau in the living room, we also wanted to write you this. Having provided daily support for the most iconic and established central London Hotels for some time now, we tell you this without agenda.
Mum’s Fabulous 50th at Mackerel Skies
When it came to organizing a weekend away for Mum’s 50th Birthday, we decided staying close to home would mean more time for relaxation and celebration. Our stay at Mackerel Skies was so wonderful, it made us realise that you don’t have to be a million miles from home to feel as though you are.
A Foodie Fall Escape
This fall we wanted a large holiday house close to the coast. Close proximity to fresh scones, clotted cream and open countryside with plenty of muddy puddles for the children and dogs were a must. So with gorgeous bathrooms for post-walk pampering and a real fire to warm up by, Camassia Farmhouse ticked all the boxes.
A Dose of Vitamin Sea at Tempest
Walking inside Tempest took my breath away, resting on the cliff edge, the view was completely unbroken and the ocean unfolded in front of us. Tina kindly provided homemade scones with jam and clotted cream - and I couldn´t have thought of a better way to kick off a weekend in Cornwall!
Baby´s First Holiday
Searching for a place which combines the glamour and luxury of a boutique hotel with a new found need for an extra bedroom for a small person? We found it here at The Restoratory.
A Heart-Stirring Luxury Welsh Hideaway
Our time in Wales couldn’t have been more relaxing, our every need was catered for and we were left wanting for nothing.
On The Edge of a Winter Wonderland
We knew we´d chosen the perfect place to celebrate our recent engagement as soon as we hit those ´forgotten´ rugged cliffs of Whitsand Bay. We bumbled down a little coast path and a circular window reflecting patterns of the sea and sky caught my eye... we smiled at one another knowing we had arrived at The Edge.
A Summer Engagement at Twelve Penny Barn
My partner and I booked Twelve Penny Barn to celebrate our 10 year anniversary together. After a weekend of coastal castles, sea swimming and Wimbledon finals by the fire, little did I know what was in store for my last evening...
Halcyon Days at Goldhorn
Driving through the famous Barrington Court Estate as the day drew to a close, the late sun etched a dazzling golden outline of the ancient buildings into the skyline and I could tell that what awaited us at the end of this long sweeping driveway would be something quite special...
Relaxing at Swallowtails
Would I recommend a stay at Swallowtails? I would like to say absolutely not and keep it as a secret to myself but that is selfish so the answer is a big yes, absolutely, no hesitation, a must!
A Serene Dream
It is impossible not to notice the magic that is present in this delightful cottage situated right by the water’s edge. The cottage is a sensory delight, like taking wonderful mouthfuls of delicious food that bring alive all the senses. Beauport Cottage was everything I had hoped for, with special memories forever in my heart.
Waterstone Barn
I was visiting Waterstone Barn with my mum and hoped it would be the perfect place to spend some time together and really unwind.
Bluebell Grey
When the owner of Bluebell Grey went to check their treasured guest book, inside they found an endearing acrostic poem which had been written by a rather talented visitor…
My Great British Staycation at Pixie Nook
In searching for something different and wanting to combine local exploration with a comfortable weekend break, I happened upon Unique Home Stays. Like many travel secrets, bountiful once discovered, I had no idea there are an infinite array of rental properties in all shapes and sizes, scattered across the UK.
An Invitation I Could Not Refuse
When the owner of Pelsham Manor sent me an invitation to stay at The Madison, I simply could not refuse. It was a gloomy November morning, I swung my chair around to ask my fellow romanticist and ‘froleague’ Charlotte if she’d like to join me for a long weekend away in the country!
Wedding Planning at Aphrodite
Not knowing what to get my sister for an engagement present, I booked Aphrodite on a whim. I knew just how frenzied she would be in the lead up to the big day and thought a peaceful break at this rural retreat would allow us to indulge in some rest and relaxation before the wedding mania began!
Kingfishers and Quality Time at Colenso House
From the moment we arrived at Colenso House in Cornwall we were enchanted - which is somewhat of a feat for two world-weary parents and two twenty-something daughters (not to mention the two dogs)! We walked across the little bridge with the stream running underneath and it was like walking into a fairytale.
Once Upon a Honeymoon Time
The journey into Cornwall by train was a lovely experience; endless coastline and dramatic seascapes built up the suspense. Was Mousehole and our little holiday cottage going to be everything we wanted it to be in a magical honeymoon?
Time Out at The Beach Hut in Cornwall
Travelling has always been a big part of my life but since we welcomed our new family member (Errol the Golden Retriever) it has been much harder to pack up and fly somewhere, so this time I chose The Beach Hut in Cornwall.
Lovely Loventor
Little Loventor started life as an orangery in Georgian times, but has undergone a recent transformation into a luxury self-catering retreat welcoming it’s very first guests- and I was lucky enough to be one of them!
Babymoon at Stardust
I took my partner and baby bump on a journey from the tip of England’s toe right up to the Western Highlands of Scotland, to a place which felt like the gateway to the edge of the world...
The Beach Hut Weekend With My Sister
Weaving down the country lanes on a dusky spring evening with my sister and puppy Ted on board, we knew instantly when we’d found the secret spot.
Unique Affiliation with Jamie Oliver´s Fifteen Cornwall Restaurant, Watergate Bay
Luxury accommodation provider Unique Home Stays have teamed up with Fifteen Cornwall in Watergate Bay, to create the tempting High Life Romance Package to inspire lovebirds looking for a very special valentine´s break away.
The Magical Secret Holt
The Magical Secret Holt, The owl hoots, whispering trees and the stars viewed through the bedroom skylight took us back to a time when life was simple and we enjoyed wild camping, yet the mod cons and home comforts made us not want to leave the blissful sanctuary...
Cute As A Button
Button Barn was a truly romantic escape and made our anniversary a very special celebration. The barn is positioned in an ideal location in Warwickshire with a multitude of historical, cultural and entertaining attractions close by.
The Island Hideaway
In a peaceful area of the garden I used to dream about building a special place to retreat to, to read or paint or just to be. Inspired by a childhood love of beach huts, I set about designing what became the summerhouse...
Cornwall with Caroline Quentin
Cornwall with Caroline Quentin tv show, following the huge success of the first episode, luxury accommodation provider Unique Home Stays is set to make a return to the small screen in the second series of Cornwall with Caroline Quentin
On a bench in oh-so-quiet Cornwall
There is something special about a holiday break when you park the car on arrival and do not restart it until it is time to leave one week later. And so it was when we stayed at The Old Pilchard Press in Mousehole during September 2012.
(Out of) Season´s Greetings
Head towards the rugged coastline of the iconic Lizard Peninsula, towards the point where the fields meet the sea and you’re bound to find a charming fishing village nestled in a hidden cove or corner of a sweeping bay.
The Apple Store
“Wouldn’t you rather go somewhere else? Some place... warm? Sunny?” That’s what most people said when I told them my husband and I were going on holiday. In England. In October. “Oh, but the rain!” they said.
The Beach Hut
It was our honeymoon; we had spent the first week in New York staying in mid-town Manhattan. After 22 hours of travelling by bus, plane, train, taxi and car we arrived at The Beach Hut for our second week.
The Call of the Sea
To avoid the Summer throng of holiday makers in England means planning a holiday after the schools have returned and putting a date in the diary long after any chance of the sun appearing has passed.....we did both....by choosing late September
Unique Home Stays Wins First Prize
Luxury holiday accommodation specialist Unique Home Stays is awarded first prize for ‘Best Non-Agricultural Trade Stand’ at the Royal Cornwall Show 2012.
Unique Home Stays To Feature in New Primetime TV Documentary on ITV
Caroline Quentin presents ITV1 prime time show about Cornwall, featuring luxury accommodation provider Unique Home Stays. Cornwall show set to air on ITV1
Unique Home Stays Celebrates its Tenth Anniversary in Style
To mark the milestone, the company is throwing an autumnal rustic feast on 7th October 2011 at one of its exclusive unique country manor houses in Cornwall. Over 100 people, including staff, property owners and local press will attend the birthday bash which will feature live Celtic music and a traditional Cornish hog roast inside a tipi tent.
Unique Home Stays to star in new primetime TV documentary
Luxury accommodation provider Unique Home Stays is set to become a star of the small screen after being chosen to take part in a brand new eight part observational documentary.
