One of the best romcoms of the noughties, ‘The Holiday’ may have had a great cast list – including Jude Law, Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslett and Jack Black – but one of the standout stars of the production was Rosehill Cottage. Many of the film’s most memorable scenes were shot at the rural location which, in the film, was home to Winslett’s character, Iris. In fact, Rosehill Cottage was a complete fabrication, built and landscaped within a matter of weeks for the film. Soon after filming ceased, the producers of ‘The Holiday’ tore down the structure which was little more than a shell anyway.
Unfortunately, many holidaymakers have understandably been looking for it as a place that they could potentially rent out for a break of their own. Although this is not possible, all is not lost. You may not be able to rent the exact image of Rosehill Cottage, but there are plenty of other rural idylls you can. Read on to find out about some of the best holiday cottages in the country which have the same ‘chocolate box’ appeal that Rosehill Cottage offered.
The Long House
Located in Great Torrington in Devon, this Grade II listed holiday cottage offers all of the charm of Rosehill Cottage as well as its splendid isolation. Part of the current structure dates back to the 1600s but it is very modern inside and even features a snooker room. Outside the property, there is a wonderful garden that adheres to the typical English cottage style. What’s more, there is even a small airport nearby so you can get to it by air if you don’t fancy the drive. The Long House has three bedrooms, sleeps six guest and is perfect for summer retreats or winter getaways, especially when you factor in the wood-burning stove which makes it great for cosy nights in.
Grigadale House
If you are after a rural retreat, then there are few more out of the way locations than the Ardnamurchan Peninsula on the west coast of Scotland. Not far from Fort William, this fantastic property is surrounded by truly stunning scenery. It sleeps six guests and has two bathrooms with three bedrooms. There is everything you might expect of a modern holiday cottage, with a dishwasher, broadband and an open fire. There is plenty of superb walking in the local area and a hike to Loch Grigadale or the nearby lighthouse is highly recommended. Whether you want to enjoy the family-friendly garden for an alfresco meal or eat in the large dining room, this is the perfect base for a British vacation.
The Retreat
Situated just a couple of miles from the Dorset coast, this Grade II listed former barn is partly thatched and sits prettily in lawned gardens. Perfect for a family getaway or a holiday with friends, this spacious holiday cottage sleeps 10 and boasts its own indoor pool and games room, perfect for keeping everyone entertained, whatever the weather!
The area has much to offer the holidaymaker. This is Hardy Country; visit Dorchester – Hardy’s Casterbridge – and the nearby Hardy’s Cottage, now owned by the National Trust. Explore the Jurassic Coast and Lyme Regis, famous for its historic Cobb harbour where ‘The French Lieutenant’s Woman’ was filmed. The Retreat is perfectly placed to visit all these places and more.
Groves Fishleigh
Situated near the pretty market town of Hatherleigh in west Devon, Groves Fishleigh is a thatched rural cottage where plenty of peace and quiet won’t be a problem. Inside, there is a large sitting room with more than enough space for the five guests the property can accommodate. It has a wood burner, too, the very thing to sit in front of after you return from exploring the popular Tarka Trail which is a stone’s throw from the cottage. The bedrooms on the first floor provide superb views of the surrounding farms and verdant rolling countryside. This is a good location if you like surfing because the beaches of North Devon and Cornwall are not far away by car. There is a charming front courtyard with a barbecue and what some visitors may find especially pleasing is that Groves Fishleigh is a dog-friendly place to stay.
Marian Farm
Another holiday cottage that has a very strong sense of character is Marian Farm, located on the island of Anglesey in North Wales. This former farmhouse dates back to the eighteenth century and it is certainly a quirky property to stay in, as it almost becomes part of the landscape that it occupies so majestically. It is exceptionally well decorated and maintained with plenty of modern conveniences so don’t let its age put you off! The cottage has three bedrooms and two bathrooms plus a great conservatory downstairs from which it is possible to see the Irish Sea. One of the key features of this holiday destination is the wonderful kitchen/diner which is double height and offers exposed beams throughout. Outside, there is a fire pit which you can cook on, ideal for a summertime barbecue in this little patch of Welsh heaven.
Beulah Cottage
Anyone who wants to stay in a quintessentially English cottage could do much worse than find one constructed from that most traditional material, Cotswold stone. Thankfully, Beulah Cottage offers that plus much more besides. With four bedrooms, it can accommodate more guests than most older properties, thanks to a smartly thought through interior. What’s more, the large lounge is sizeable enough that your party won’t feel cramped. Both of the main reception rooms have wood burners and there is even a downstairs walk-in shower room. Located in the Forest of Dean area of Gloucestershire, Beulah Cottage is light and airy throughout, something you cannot always say of older cottages. If you choose to stay here, then a trip to the nearby picturesque village of Newnham-on-Severn is a must, especially if you are into riverside walks in spring when the local bluebells are at their best.