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Netflix

Entertainment

Bathtub

Hair Dryer

Toiletries

Bathroom

Dishwasher

Microwave

Freezer

Fridge

Oven

Stove

Kitchen

Kitchen Utensils

Cooking Essentials

Kitchen & Dining

Washing Machine

Dryer

Iron

Ironing Board

Cot / Crib

Hangers

Extra Pillows and Blankets

Bedroom & Laundry

Wi-fi

Laptop Friendly Workspace

Internet & Office

Central Heating

Heating & Cooling

Parking Available

Free Parking On Premises

Private Entrance

Parking & Access

Balcony

Garden

Outdoor

Welcome Hamper

Nice to haves

Smoke Detector

Carbon Monoxide Detector

First Aid Kit

Fire Extinguisher

Other

Spread out across three floors in this modern townhouse. Unique wooden furniture imported from India adds a touch of elegance to the minimalist, white decor. Get together for movie night in the modern living area (there’s Netflix on the smart TV). Breakfast can be made that bit brighter by throwing open the French doors and letting the sunshine in. Or, take the whole show out to the patio on a summer morning. If the kids tire of playing in the Wendy House in the garden, there’s a play park just around the corner. Locally you’ll find a convenience store, café and gym. Walk a little further for a major supermarket, pubs and restaurants. Or jump in your car (there are four private parking spaces at your disposal, you don’t have to worry about parking) and you’re in the bustling heart of Reading town centre in just 10 minutes.

Teak On White

Board Games

Satellite / Cable TV

Library of Books

Piano

Ping Pong Table

Playground

Pod Coffee Machine

Coffee Maker

Kettle

Toaster

Black-Out Blinds

Cleaning Products

Drying Rack

Swimming Pool

Hot Tub

Exercise Equipment

Wellness & Fitness

Desk / Workplace

Air Conditioning

Self Check-in / Check-out

Free Parking On Street

Barbeque

Beach Essentials

Outdoor Seating

Outdoor Kitchen

Pets Allowed

Pets

Child Friendly

Safe

Nestled between two islands on the picturesque banks of the River Thames – this beautiful thatched Edwardian home built in 1903, under a fifteen-minute drive from Windsor, is the perfect riverside retreat. Watch the boats, ducks and swans on the river go by from your own private heated pool. Lawns stretch down to the water – perfect for a game of croquet or challenge someone to a game of table tennis. There’s also a multipurpose play area for any younger children.

Inside, you'll see more of those divine riverside vistas. There are two living rooms and plenty of space for entertaining your family or friends. We love the master bedroom’s balcony, but a real highlight of this home for us was the bedroom attached to the side of the house on stilts. It’s constructed out of 19th century beams from one of the last pioneering ships bound for Australia and contains beautiful carvings and unique features from this period.

When you want to explore, your hosts can help arrange River Thames boat trips to pick you and your guests up directly from the garden. There’s also a lovely pub in the nearby village of Wraysbury, a ten-minute walk away. As well as close proximity to Windsor and Eton, Ascot racecourse is just over twenty minutes in the car and Thorpe Park, a fifteen-minute ride, while Henley, which hosts the Royal Regatta is forty minutes. If you visit London, Slough train station (a fifteen-minute drive away) runs services to London Paddington, the fastest being fourteen minutes.



One of England's Watery Gems

Streaming Services

Single-Level Home

Free Parking

Throws

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live next door to a member of the royal family, this place might have the answers. Situated just a few metres from iconic Windsor Castle, this simple but stylish apartment is a great base for those looking to get up close and personal with British royalty, tucked just round the corner from the late Queen’s historic weekend home. 

Wander down the cobbled street and find yourself face to face with the oldest occupied castle in the world, then set off for a relaxing stroll along the river followed by a spot of window shopping in Windsor’s boutique stores. Then, when you’ve had your fill of being out and about, come home to your gorgeous apartment, where panelled walls and soft, wooden tones will make you feel as though you’ve stepped into your very own royal residence. 

This place has everything you need for a relaxing evening in, so why not make the most of it? Run yourself a soothing bubble bath and unwind in the standalone tub or slip into your comfiest clothes and catch up on your favourite shows in the cosy living room. We don’t know about you, but we have a sneaking suspicion King Charles will be doing exactly the same thing next door. 

The Queen's Lodge

Parking On Premises

Patio / Terrace

This cosy home is the perfect rest point for a romantic getaway to the riverside town of Marlow. Snuggle up together on the sofa to watch a movie on the TV as the smell of a delicious homecooked meal wafts throughout the house. Enjoy your tasty plate of food at the dining table with a documentary on the screen as you socialise with your loved one, planning a fun itinerary of what you'll be up to in the town. If you're fancying a relaxing day in, get under the duvet to read a new book you picked up recently as you sip on a toasty cup of coffee. If weather permits, head out to the bench outdoors to dine alfresco with a hearty meal, washed down with a sumptuous glass of red – or sparkling bubbly.

Wander the streets of Marlow to see what you can find – there's a gorgeous Vietnamese restaurant nearby as well as a great selection of rustic pubs to unwind in as you enjoy a pint or two. A short drive takes you to the verdant Higginson Park where you get a fantastic view of the river and is a lovely spot for a picnic. 

River Rest

Heated Pool

Private Pool

Whisk your loved one away to this rural retreat on the outskirts of Hungerford, Berkshire. The countryside surroundings are idyllic, especially from the heated pool – it’s exclusively yours to use between June and September. Guests don’t have access to the gardens, though. Inside, there is a lot of room for just two people, but the living area is still cosy with plush sofas. Bear in mind that it’s not suitable for children, including babies. Location wise, Hungerford’s antique shops, unique boutiques, and friendly pubs are just 6 miles away. 

Rolling Rest

Trash Compactor

Balcony / Patio

Pretty as a picture, this period townhouse in the heart of Henley is just the ticket if you're looking for a quintessential English home. Set over three storeys and packed with character, it's a charming address that's rustic on the ground floor and more elegant on the upper levels.

Downstairs, the bare floorboards, botanical artwork and artfully weathered wood furnishings lend the feel of a country pile, and there's no shortage of natural light thanks to the huge skylights that line the ceiling at the far end of the space. The glass doors that sit underneath lead out to a green courtyard complete with seating and a barbecue — talk about being ready for summer.

Back inside, the boot room with a shower is perfect if you're thinking of heading into the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty at any point — less than five minutes' drive away, by the way — while the snug at the front of the house and the tub in the master bedroom are lovely places to rest sore limbs.

It's fair to say that you'll have everything on your doorstep here. Just three minutes' walk to the banks of the River Thames, there are also shops, restaurants and cafes aplenty, but — best of all — the host has an agreement with the pub next door which can provide room-service food and drink during your stay. Why not take the night off washing up?

Babes In Toyland

This home located just outside of Maidenhead is certainly one of the more pared-back properties in our collection, but it's so well-executed that we felt compelled to include it.

The ivory walls, shiny wooden floors and large windows combine together to make the interior feel bright and inviting. while there's plenty of sleek black surface space in the horseshoe-shaped kitchen to whip up family-sized feasts. Out through the French doors, there's a garden that runs around three sides of the house that could very easily be the site of summer lawn games.

The centre of Maidenhead sits about seven minutes' drive away when you fancy a meal out or a trip to the theatre. In the other direction, walking routes in the Chiltern Hills AONB can be reached in a similar amount of time.

Ebony & Ivory

Pool / Snooker Table

Sound System

Rain Shower

Cafetiere

Fireplace

Nestled away in rural Oxfordshire, you'll find this modern manor home that's sure to make any family get-together an unforgettable one. Everything feels super-sized here, from the generous bedrooms and sleek white kitchen complete with an island to the two separate living rooms. The design is rustic-inspired without feeling dated in any way, especially the bold print wallpaper and natural-themed artwork. Out through the glass doors, there's a large lawn, alfresco seating and even a hot tub, so you can truly soak up the tranquillity of these parts. There are two National Trust sites that can be reached in under ten minutes' drive, while the Warburg Nature Reserve takes sixteen minutes in the car. For a change of pace at any time, the town of Henley-on-Thames is fourteen minutes' drive away, where you'll find independent shops and riverside pubs.

The Coxswain

High Chair

Private Washing Machine

Private Dryer

Cloaked in soothing tones, this understated Eton home is the perfect setting for a relaxing staycation, situated within easy reach of Windsor’s most popular attractions. Whether you’re here for the town’s namesake castle or simply to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, you can’t do much better than this gorgeous, family abode which comes complete with its own private garden, perfect for letting little ones and furry friends roam free while you savour a well-deserved cuppa in the fresh air. 

Start your morning with a peaceful stroll along the river, then come home and refuel with a pastry or two at the stylish breakfast bar before setting off for a day of exploration with your fellow guests. With Legoland, Eton College, and Windsor’s famous Long Walk at your fingertips, there’s something for everyone here – though we wouldn’t blame you if all you wanted to do was find a nearby pub and unwind over a cold pint of your favourite beer. Either way, when it’s time to head back, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable stay, so why not treat yourself to a cosy evening in? After all, that Netflix show isn't going to binge itself.

Sunsets & Swan Feathers

Baby Bath

Changing Table

Bread Maker

Workplace

Fenced Garden

Outdoor Fireplace / Firepit

Sun Loungers / Beach Chairs

This country cottage is located in the picturesque Chilterns and offers uninterrupted views of the surrounding countryside. An eclectic decor with colourful furnishings and bold patterns perfectly complements the historic fabric of this old home – it’s certainly unique. Younger children are well catered for here with a sandpit, swings and climbing frame in the two acre garden, and books and toys in the house. Nearby, you’ll be able to enjoy walks in the Chiltern Hills, and Henley-on-Thames, famous for its annual regatta and Henley Festival, is just a three-mile drive away.

The Buttercup Cottage

Picture a quiet village in the Chiltern Hills, with a gorgeous redbrick house, clematis scaling its exterior and a bloom of white hydrangea to greet you upon entry. Fortunately, it’s not too good to be true, you’ll find this idyllic escape on the cusp of Sonning Common. Inside, it’s a sophisticated blend of modern touches and traditional country style, with carefully restored original timber beams for added charm. A light, bright kitchen gives way to the acre of gardens—the real star of the show. While the little ones are enthralled by the play area and the big kids are practicing their swings at the golf net, start up the wood-fired pizza oven or go apple picking in the fruit orchard. On balmy Thursday evenings during the summer, there’s a tractor trailer pub crawl but if you fancy staying closer to home, you’ll find a cosy inn just across the road. 

The Lark Ascending

Blender

Breakfast Included

Part of the historic Estate of Dorney Court, this timber-framed house dates back to the sixteenth century and is a magical blend of heritage and modernity.

The former great hall is emblematic of this. The thirty-foot-high ceilings remain, as do the wooden beams in the vaults, but there have been a few recent additions, from the glitzy chandelier and bovine-themed artwork to the huge kitchen complete with a range cooker. Elsewhere, you'll find two wood burners and an open fire, so guests will never be anything other than toasty. Plus, there's a range of vintage beds in the sleeping quarters, which bring a dash of aristocratic glamour to your slumber.

Surrounding the property are some large grounds with stables and English village life awaits just beyond the boundaries, with Dorney Common and the home of the London 2012 Olympics rowing events, Dorney Lake, only eight minutes' walk away. If you want to work up a hunger beforehand, there are some pretty walking routes running alongside the River Thames, which can be reached in about twenty minutes from the home, plus a pub and bakery taking barely two minutes' walk.

A Day at the Regatta

A five-minute walk from the heart of Henley-on-Thames, where you’ll find independent shops and eateries, this home couldn’t be more ideally located. If you fancy stretching your legs, the Chiltern Hills are a short drive away. Back at the pad, there’s a well-equipped kitchen for dining in and comfortable bedrooms for a good night's sleep. Outside is a courtyard with a snug – your host provides blankets, making it a lovely spot to enjoy an alfresco cup of tea or a glass of something bubbly all year round.

The King's Repose

Paid Parking On Street

Garden / Courtyard

Sitting slap bang in the middle of Henley-on-Thames, this four-person mews home is brimming with charm. Complete with a sunny patio, the modern pad has everything you need for a memorable stay in this pretty riverside town.

Enjoy continental breakfast alfresco using ingredients provided by your hosts – they can also arrange fridge fills and food delivery so you can settle in from the moment you arrive. Sink into the deep and inviting sofa, the French doors thrown open so you can feel the summertime breeze drifting in. Staying during the cooler months? It doesn't get cosier than this abode, where you can spend snug evenings in front of the flat-screen TV.

You're just three minutes from the waterfront here – enjoy leisurely strolls along the river before followed by a trip to one of the many traditional pubs nearby. When it comes time to return home, you won't have far to go before you can crawl into one of the comfy double beds and enjoy a peaceful night's sleep.

Good Mews

Sonos

Heated Towel Rail

Espresso Machine

Wine Cooler

Wine Cooler / Wine Cellar

Accessible Parking

Built back in 1861, this home was originally a vicarage to an adjacent church, which was demolished in the 1960s — there's a still small cemetery at the front of the property. Things have certainly moved on since the middle of the nineteenth century and the interior is a triumph of modern design. The two living rooms mix period features, such as the Victorian fireplace and crystal chandeliers, with contemporary flourishes, like the tufted furnishings, bold print wallpaper and the shaggy rugs. The kitchen is both huge and super-slick, and leads through to the conservatory, which is now home to a gym. Upstairs, the bedrooms are equally large and are full of quirky additions, from a red ball gown to an electric guitar. Somehow, the home's outside space manages to compete with what lies behind the front door. The first thing guests will be greeted with is a pretty alfresco dining spot sat underneath a pergola, but there's also ten acres of private woodland that is home to a children's play area and a zip wire. As if that wasn't enough space, there's also access to Windsor Forest, part of the Crown Estate. The town of Windsor itself is only a quarter of an hour away in the car, while Ascot Racecourse only takes ten.

The Belgian Ambassador

You’ll find this cosy apartment on a typically Tudor-style street in the idyllic Henley-on-Thames. Step out the front door and you’re on a charming road lined with boutique shops and cafes as bunting adorns the lamp-posts. It’s a three-minute stroll to the river, where the Royal Regatta takes place annually, and cruises drift up and down year-round. 

Aside from the excellent location, we love the comfortable and cosy interiors here, too. A big bay window bathes the living room in natural light and comfy leather and velvet sofas await weary legs at the end of the day. The original fireplace and small book library add a homely touch to the place, while quirky pieces like the cowhide rug and printed wallpaper add a contemporary feel. When you grow peckish, the kitchen is a vision of modern convenience, with all the bits and pieces you need to cook every meal of the day. Or, head out to the restaurants and pubs of Henley – you’re right in the heart of town after all.

A Royal Regatta

Whether you're visiting Henley for the famous regatta, or simply want to get to know the area, this apartment is a great place to call home during your stay. Treat yourself to a wonderful trip to this pretty English town, and you'll fall in love with its unique charms. 

The apartment is modern and cosy, with a welcoming ambiance that invites you to kick off your shoes and get comfortable. Sink into a buttery leather sofa with a cup of tea, or head outside onto the private terrace to sip a sundowner in the fresh air when the weather is warm. And, the sleek kitchen is a great place to prepare your favourite dishes when you get hungry – why not cook up a traditional Sunday roast to round off the weekend? 

From here, the River Thames is just a short stroll away – wander along the banks and admire the quaint scenery. If you fancy a round of golf then there's a course just outside the town where you can practice your swing. And, you can easily drive into the Chiltern Hills if you fancy doing some hillwalking, before enjoying a pint at one of the local pubs. 

The Boat Race

Peace and quiet await at this eye-catching, 300-year-old barn. It sits on the lakeside in idyllic Sonning Eye, an eight-minute drive from the buzzing shops and pretty high street of Henley-on-Thames. The highlight is the vast outdoor space where lawns provide space for ball games and there’s a dedicated basketball court. By the lakeside, a fire pit and seating area is the ideal spot for sundowners and there’s plenty of space to dine on the huge patio. The vast open-plan kitchen, living and dining room is a fabulous spot to socialise of an evening and there’s a second seating area in the Asian-inspired sitting room. Each ensuite bedroom feels hotel-level lavish. 

Sonning Serenity

Perched in a serene setting, this gorgeous house in Henley-on-Thames provides an idyllic suburban escape amidst nature without being too far away from the hustle of central London (a forty-minute drive away). Set in Oxfordshire, the location is as blissful as they come and the perfect location for country walks and a quintessentially English experience. Step outside into the home's stunning backyard where you'll find a weeping willow romanticising the garden scene. With plenty of seating areas to choose from – enjoy sunny afternoons out on the patio by the fire pit, at the alfresco dining table or even swaying on the rope-tire swing on the lawn. Since the inside is just as lush as the outside, you'll be spoilt for choice when hanging out at home here. From the light and airy kitchen-diner with panoramic views of the garden through the French windows to the cosy living room with snuggly interiors centred around the wood log burner. We particularly love the cute little desk nook found under the stairs – it offers an extra little secluded spot to get down to some work when needed. And when you're all worked out – The Greyhound Pub (run by Anthony Warrell Thompson) is conveniently situated just a two-minute drive or a short walk away from your front door. The quaint cobble-stoned town of Henley-on-Thames also makes its mark on the sporting scene by hosting The Henley Royal Regatta – a world-famous rowing competition that sees thousands of visitors arrive to spectate more than 200 races (including Olympians among the participants). Frankly, we couldn't think of a more perfect base from which to enjoy the five-day sporting extravaganza. As from here, you'll lap up both a relaxing holiday and the buzz of the iconic event in full swing. 

In Full Swing

Bathed in natural light, decked out with comfortable furniture and blessed with a spacious open-plan layout, this flat in the centre of Maidenhead is perfect for anyone looking to explore the best of Berkshire.

A favourite among the Edwardian upper classes who didn't have the time or inclination to travel as far as Bath, Maidenhead is on the up and up. The soon-to-open Elizabeth line will also make getting into London a breeze, with a forty-minute train ride landing you at Tottenham Court Road.

Meanwhile, a visit to the nearby village of Bray is renowned for its Michelin-starred restaurants. In addition to Heston Blumenthal's Fat Duck and The Hind's Head, there's also Alain Roux's The Waterside Inn – you can't go wrong with any of them. 

Skindles

One of the many barn conversions peppered across the British countryside, this home is a fine example of the great sense of space and light that's typical of the very best of these former agricultural buildings.

Behind the front door, you'll find no clue as to the property's prior life – only stark white walls, shiny wooden floors and a super-sleek kitchen complete with a huge island that would happily slot into the most contemporary of city apartments. 

When it comes to keeping guests entertained, the pool table will help rainy afternoons fly by, while the large patio with a barbecue and trampoline will come in handy when the sun makes an appearance.

If you're lucky with the forecast, there are plenty of riverside walking routes in the local area and the historic town of Windsor with its famous castle is only ten minutes away in the car, too.

Nom de Plume

Smart TV

Cosy and comfortable, this family home has everything you need for a stay in the Berkshire countryside. We love the character here, especially the kitchen's exposed beams and stone walls. There's a garden for summer afternoons, a separate study for remote workers, and two sofa beds for flexible sleeping arrangements. Location-wise, you're just a short drive from the shops, restaurants and famous castle in Windsor. Or, stay local and enjoy walks along the River Thames – the perfect excuse to crawl into one of the village pubs on your way home.

Wraysbury Dream

Children's Dinnerware

Sitting on a quiet residential street in central Windsor, this beautiful upper maisonette offers a warm and welcoming base for those looking to experience the town’s rich and royal history, as well as the delights of nearby Eton, Ascot and Legoland. 

Laid out over three floors, you’ll find plenty of space to socialise as well as opportunities to steal yourself await for some relaxing privacy. We love the woodland palette of the living area with its jewel-toned accents – the ideal spot to kick back, whether on the plump sofa with a glass of wine or around the farmhouse-style dining table for a celebratory home-cooked meal. Upstairs, the three bedrooms each boast their own singular decor, from the claret and blue Britannia-themed one to the nature-inspired single bedroom and the stunning main bedroom with its large slanted window. Factor in the bathroom’s luxurious rainfall shower and you’ve got everything you need for a perfectly blissful stay. 

Outside of your home, you’ll find a couple of cosy pubs at the end of your road, as well as a supermarket a two-minute walk away. When you’re ready to soak up some history and culture, Windsor Castle, Windsor’s High Street and Alexandra Park are a five-to-ten-minute walk away, and Eton is a mere fifteen minutes away on foot. Elsewhere, Legoland is a ten-minute drive and Ascot is twenty minutes away by car. 


Britannia Jewel

Minutes away from central Windsor, this riverside apartment is in the perfect spot to discover the many shopping and restaurant areas on your doorstep. Although it isn’t the biggest apartment, and it being on the second floor may be difficult for those with limited mobility to access, multiple openings to the breezy balcony opens up the space when socialising with family or friends. Looking for a royally historic day out? This home is within a ten-minute walk to Windsor Castle and the Royal Borough Museum.

The Windsor Lookout

Set over five acres of beautiful Oxfordshire farmland, this cosy loft home is a lovely choice for a romantic getaway to the countryside. You'll be surrounded by landscaped gardens and unspoilt views towards the Goring Gap. Plus, Oxford lies just twenty minutes away by train while London Paddington is an hour from your door. Additionally, there's a pub within easy walking distance for effortless suppers after busy days spent traversing the fields. It's worth noting that babies in their own Moses basket are welcome to stay, though pets are not allowed due to the farmland animals. 

The Midsummer Song

A fifteen-minute stroll from the shop-lined High Street, you'll find Windsor Castle beyond – a must-see fortress for royal family fans. Fancy afternoon tea at a nearby racecourse? Or, how about exploring the Tudor grounds of Eton College? With free parking, this upstairs apartment promises easy access to all of that and more. Books and games are waiting in the colourful living room, and there's a handy workspace in the bedroom too. While six guests are welcome, you'll have to draw straws for seats at the dining table.

Pink Slice

Playstation

This home is a great option for groups looking for a centrally-located stay in Windsor. By day, you can enjoy all that the city has to offer on foot – Windsor Castle is a short walk away and you’ll find the river is within easy reach. Guests looking to explore further afield will also appreciate the private parking on the drive. Inside, the rooms are unfussy, bright and spacious, and the garden is a welcome addition for warm-weather gatherings. 

Gather & See

If you're in thrall to the English countryside but not so keen on the quintessentially rustic cottages that tend to be found there, this contemporarily styled home in a small Oxfordshire village may well appeal to you.

Rather than flagstone tiles and dusty ceiling beams, this home's design is dominated by stark white walls, smart wooden floors and large windows bringing in bountiful amounts of natural light. The kitchen and its sleek surfaces are a thing of beauty, as are the chic bathrooms complete with a few svelte tubs in which to luxuriate after a day out in the great outdoors.

Speaking of which, the address benefits from a large garden with a view of local farmland, as well as a terrace with seating from which to appreciate the tranquillity. If the weather's particularly good, you can fire up the barbecue for an alfresco banquet, but if the forecast isn't playing ball, you can make the minute's walk over to the local pub for a roast dinner.

The home actually sits within the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so guests can be assured that a wealth of scenic walking routes can be discovered nearby. The riverside town of Henley-on-Thames is only ten minutes' drive away too if you fancy a change of scenery.

Rural Yet Refined

Foosball / Table Football

Vacuum Cleaner

This pretty home is as quintessentially English as they come. It’s spacious and bright but has that cottage feel, with heaps of historic charm that blends with modern touches. This home is something really special. 

When the weather is fine, you’ll want to spend your time in the lush garden. There’s a barbecue that’s perfect for sunny afternoons, and plenty of comfy seats for alfresco dining. When the last sausages have been eaten, you might like to set up a game of croquet. Inside, there’s heaps of room for everyone to relax together, whether you’re curled up on the sofa reading or catching up on some work. 

In the morning, whip up a big family breakfast in the beautiful kitchen. There’s a lovely breakfast nook, as well as a more formal dining area. With full bellies, you can explore the surrounding area. It takes eleven minutes to walk into the centre of Henley-on-Thames, where you’ll find boutique shops and plenty of restaurants. You can hire boats from the side of the River Thames, just a nine-minute walk from the house – it’s a lovely part of the world to see from the water, so we’d pack a picnic and make a day of it. Hikers might like to set off into the Chiltern Hills, and will be happy to return to such a comfortable home. 


Cherry Blossom Corner

Despite being tucked away on the outskirts of Burnham village, it’s worth noting that this historic home is situated by the side of an – albeit fairly quiet – road. Although both cosy and capacious – featuring five bedrooms as well as separate breakfast, dining and sitting rooms – we’ll bet it’s this home’s four-poster bedroom and en-suite marble bathroom you’ll be fighting over. Nevertheless, in our opinion, the walled garden is the real showstopper – perfect for watching the kids play while enjoying alfresco drinks in the sun. Under an hour from London, this home’s location makes it ideal for daytrips to Windsor, Legoland and the Thames Valley.

Secret Garden Games

This might not be one of the prettiest homes in the riverside town of Henley-on-Thames, but it's a base that's solidly reliable for those who will be spending most of their time out in surrounding Oxfordshire.

The interior itself is bright and airy, thanks to the large windows and the open-concept layout in the main living area that allows natural light to flow about the space. When it comes to design, you won't be wowed, but equally, there's nothing offensive about the neutral colour palette and simple furnishings. We do reserve praise, however, for the kitchen, which is both large and well-equipped enough for whipping up hearty suppers.

When you want to see a little more of the locale, the banks of the River Thames take ten minutes to reach on foot and the Thames Path continues in both directions. The Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty can be reached in three minutes' drive and offers a wealth of walking routes and stately homes to explore.

Stroke of Inspiration

Stair Gates

If Windsor Castle is on your sightseeing list, then you've come to the right place. You'll be staying less than a ten-minute walk away, and near to the train station that can take you up to London in forty minutes. But this home is much more than just your average sightseeing base — spread across four floors with two living rooms and an abundance of space (including parking for up to three cars), this British beauty has plenty to offer. There are lots of soft textures and wooden surfaces that add a homely touch to the bedrooms, making you feel right at home. We also loved the sliding doors that lead out to the outdoor space, where you can relax in the fresh air with a cool G&T as the sun goes down. And, as you'll be staying right on Eton High Street, you can always choose between getting creative in the well-equipped kitchen or stepping out to explore the local restaurants and pubs.

Escapade

This charming wood-clad barn is tucked away down a tranquil private lane surrounded by idyllic Oxfordshire countryside. Inside, high vaulted ceilings and a log-burning fire bring the wow factor, and the green vistas seen through the floor-to-ceiling windows are a delight, whatever the season. Sleeping six guests, above the main bedroom, there’s an enclosed mezzanine twin room for children, while the final two guests will be sleeping on a sofa bed in the lounge. Fringing the sleepy village of Harspden, you’ll need to drive to get out and about. Get off to a flying start in the vibrant 13th-century market town of Henley-on-Thames – just a few minutes drive away.

Life in the Woods

Courtyard

This lovely flat in Rotherfield Greys is a dream come true for amblers, with woodland walks, cycling trails and bridleways practically on your doorstep. A haven for cyclists and ramblers alike, you can store your bikes securely in the garage at night. We can't think of a better spot to switch off and unplug – after all, who'd want to think of anything else when you could be soaking up the fresh air and admiring the bluebells from your own terrace? It's the perfect spot to sit back and relax with a cup of tea in the morning or a Pimm's come evening and relish in the peaceful garden. And trust us – that blissful feeling is pretty hard to beat.

When you're not roaming around the countryside, make yourself comfortable in the charming living area. With squishy sofas, well-thumbed books and a table perfectly placed in the bay window, it's the definition of cosy. You'll find plenty of cookware in the kitchen to rustle up whatever you fancy, be it scrummy baked goods or mouth-watering roasts. Or wander over to the village pub for dinner and drinks – a short walk over the fields will bring you to The Malsters Arms, a recently-refurbished traditional country pub warmly hosted by Brian and his son Ben. Next door and well worth a visit is St Nicholas Church which featured on the show "Who Do You Think You Are" in early 2022.

Speaking of location, you're in a prime spot to explore Henley-on-Thames – it's about five minutes by car (and an hour on foot). Head there for independent boutiques, delicious restaurants and walks along the river. The Mill at Sonning is a short eighteen-minute drive away, an ideal day out for any thespians. Also worth a visit is the Grey Court National Trust, easily reached on foot. 

Your host Anne provides small maps of the area and can suggest some great walking routes for you to explore, having recently organised a 3 hour circular walk crossing the National Trust land and the Fleming Estate. Of particular note are the walks around Nettlebed, after which Anne highly recommends grabbing a toasted bite at the Cheese Shed.

Every Wild Bluebell 

Located just a short drive from the centre of Window and its famous castle, this two-storey suburban spot is a homely base for excursions. The bedrooms are on the plain side, but the large garden is great for kids – let them tire themselves out as you enjoy alfresco dining on the terrace. The large, folding French doors in the kitchen and dining area let in a breeze on warmer days. The biggest draw for us was that location – nearby, you'll find reservoirs, theme parks, and plenty of history.

The Windsor Crown

Placing you right in the heart of Warfield, this home provides a practical yet cosy space from which to explore the Berkshire countryside. There are forest walks and cycle trails within easy reach, while it’s just a five-minute drive to the shops and restaurants of the Lexicon – a great option for family entertainment. At full occupancy, one guest will be sleeping on a pull-out bed which might not be ideal for longer stays, but it has all the other essentials you could need for everyday comfort. We like the little garden – a great spot for summer evening drinks. 

Joy & Ease

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This elegant 19th-century home is nestled within the grounds of the former Old Windsor Tapestries factories. It's surrounded by well-maintained communal gardens, but you'll have your own private terrace, too. The main staircase is rather narrow and a little steep, so guests with limited mobility might be better off looking elsewhere. But pets are welcome, and the nearby River Thames offers plenty of walking trails. There are several local restaurants within easy walking distance, and it's only a short drive from Heathrow Airport and Windsor Castle.

The Whistler

Situated in a residential area, around a ten-minute drive from Reading’s shops, bars and restaurants, this apartment is perfect for families and friends who are always on the go. If you have the little ones in tow, Legoland is reached in thirty minutes by car. While the place does lack some homely touches, it functions just fine for quick trips. There’s a fully equipped kitchen, and the living area is spacious enough for spending time with your loved ones.

Spending Time

Gather up your nearest and dearest and escape to this handsome Edwardian home set in the village of Harpsden, fringing Henley-on-Thames. Perfect for a multi-generational family stay, there’s a place for you all around that banquet-worthy dining table in the orangery and two cosy sitting rooms to spill out into. Seeking a little more independence? Ask your host about the two separate annexes delivering the same exquisite interiors, which are available to hire, too. Encased by sprawling gardens and private woodlands, you could easily fill your day with country walks or golf at the nearby course. Although, with wood stacked by the fires at home and family games aplenty, we wouldn’t blame you for staying put.

Harpsden Haven

Footsteps from the shops, restaurants and cafes that line Eton High Street and a ten-minute walk from Windsor Castle, this cottage suits families, friends and couples alike. Inside, the design blends character with contemporary style, and it's packed with everything you'll need for a comfortable stay. At capacity, two guests will be on the sofa in the living area, though – something to bear in mind if you’re planning an extended stay or want plenty of space for socialising. That said, there is a private patio with a seating area, so you can enjoy refreshments alfresco when the sun shines.

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