Tucked behind walls of scrambling roses, hidden in valleys and in woodland glades brimming with birdsong lie some of the UK and Ireland's most enchanting cottages, seemingly plucked from the pages of a fairytale. At these cottages, wildflowers sway in the gentle summer breeze as butterflies go about their day, fluttering from bloom to bloom, while time appears to stand still for all who enter into such whimsical dwellings.
Inside, the smell of homemade plum jam stewing on the stove tempts even the most lie-in loving of guests to slip out from beneath the covers to enjoy a breakfast of tea and toast beneath wonky timber beams and blousy florals. Even in the deepest of winter, thick blankets, roaring fires and kitchens worthy of sumptuous homemade cooking ensure a cosy stay, no matter what the weather. Here we round up five truly enchanted cottages to discover in all corners of the British Isles.
The Fable
A pretty thatch oozing with personality in North Cornwall’s ambrosial countryside, spend days at The Fable sipping freshly brewed coffee in the sunroom, taking siestas in the summerhouse and slinking into the hot tub before heading out for sundowners on one of the nearby beaches. Indulgent and pretty, here is a cottage where families, lovebirds and their beloved dogs will feel right at home.
Wildwood Holt
Settled in an enchanting secret garden near the Helford River, Wildwood Holt embodies the very essence of an enchanting cottage. Half clad in clapboard and half traditional cottage complete with powder blue front door; this unique dwelling truly embraces its sylvan setting. Inside, the exposed wooden beams which crisscross every bedroom, stairway and nook have been foraged from the surrounding woodland and handmade touches await at every turn. A stolen slice of Eden so far from reality, one could almost forget what lies beyond the rhododendron infused borders.
Little Portion
Crooked cob walls, a red tin roof and forget-me-not blue windows make the sweetest welcome at Little Portion near Cornwall's Holywell Bay. Inside, a modern rustic theme runs throughout with reclaimed flooring, vintage tiles and sumptuous velvet sofas for lounging on by the fire. In the walled garden, a hot tub and al fresco lounge ensure outdoor living is cosy all year round.
The Sorting Office
A gingerbread cottage on the edge of the New Forest where rural charm meets chic country living. Think cool whites, charcoal greys and aged timber beams throughout the interiors, while the small but perfectly formed garden offers unrivalled views of the surrounding countryside, along with some friendly horses poking their noses over the fence for good measure. The Sorting Office is as idyllic as idyllic comes.
Lost Cottage
Far away between the mountains of Ireland’s County Kerry, Lost Cottage can be found. Here, wild views, understated living and a sunken tub with an uninterrupted view of the skies ensure romance for any couples who venture beneath the red tin roof. After days spent walking the hills and wild swimming in Glenbeigh’s glut of lakes, retreat to the master bedroom to watch the stars light up the night through the enormous, floor-to-ceiling window.
Browse the full Enchanted Cottages collection.
