Daffodils are starting to bloom and seas of snowdrops are poking their heads out from hibernation as the first glimpse of spring is visible on the horizon. Spring is a season of joy and at Unique Homestays we’re welcoming the longer days, picnics laid on fresh-cut grass and produce so flavoursome it makes the other seasons green with envy. As the first holiday since Christmas is almost upon us, we gather our top picks for homestays available this Easter, so you can make the most of the four day weekend.
The Fable
A sweet Cornish cottage that's at its prime in spring, when the sun shines through the tradescantia framed windows and the gardens are coming into bloom. Families and their pooches will love running wild on the dog-friendly beaches of Perranporth and Holywell Bay, just a few miles away. When Easter Sunday comes around, begin with an early morning walk around the surrounding countryside, picking wild garlic along the way for your afternoon roast chicken feast.
The Hop Store
For a slice of farm life this Easter, opt for this luxury homestay in Ledbury. After hours spent playing hide and seek in surrounding rolling meadows, fragrant apple orchards and 150 acres of hop yards, retreat to the garden room for a gin and tonic accompanied by floor-to-ceiling views of the Malvern Hills as the children hunt for chocolate eggs in the garden.
Pelsham Manor
Traditional, but never stuffy, this opulent East Sussex manor house near olde-worlde Rye caters for the most discerning of families, all the while showing its playful side with a tennis court and an ornamental maze garden for Easter egg hunts that will last all afternoon. Pelsham Manor is a haven for multi-generational groups. After outdoor explorations, why not hire a private chef to serve-up Sunday lunch in the grand dining room? Whether home-cooked or prepared by a professional, there’s nothing more special than family mealtimes beneath the twinkling chandelier with views of Pelsham Manor’s stunning private estate.
Ariabelle
This family-friendly French-style retreat is backed by West Sussex’s South Downs National Park; a sophisticated playground for adults and children alike. After outdoor adventures, come home to your very own indoor swimming pool and work up an appetite before the big Sunday lunch event.
Roserai
West Sussex may not be as popular a holiday destination as the South West, but its photogenic countryside, medieval villages and quiet coastline makes it a firm favourite for weekending Londoners. New to the luxury homestay scene and living up to its French name, this unique oast house near Waldron is a true gem. In spring the house flaunts blooming rose gardens, encouraging friends and family to wander the rose petal peppered private estate (all 10-acres of it!) and did we mention there’s a hot tub, sauna, heated swimming pool and boating lake?
The Creamery
If there was a heaven for ramblers, it would certainly look something like the Hartland Heritage Coast in North Devon. Only a short walk from the South West Coast Path, this detached former cattle shed has been transformed into a tranquil homestay. It’s a country dream; there’s a roll top in the master suite and the private garden backs onto sunny yellow fields of rapeseed, setting quite the ambrosial scene for Devon cream teas.
Secure your Easter retreat and discover the full collection.
