12 of Our Favourite UK Countryside Homes

From magnificent stately homes reminiscent of those in an Austen novel, to cosy and quirky Victorian havens, and a modern coastal home Bruce Wayne would be jealous of - these are the hidden gems and crowning jewels of the UK countryside you need to visit, as painstakingly chosen by us here at Plum Guide.

Immerse yourself in Georgian romanticism at this historic Suffolk stately home, which is surrounded by vast manicured grounds for you to ‘take a turn around the garden’. There’s an opulent library, should you wish to do your Regency-era research and find some moments to act out from the novel the house is named after. There’s even a giant pool for you to recreate your very own Mr. Darcy moment. Okay yes, that’s a different Jane Austen book, but a similar vibe.

Ever wanted to sleep in a former barn? Then this is your lucky day. The Bronze Knight, once home to animals, is now a warm home-from-home for humans. The stand-out room is the dining room, featuring a long table flanked by bi-fold doors that open out onto a quaint courtyard - perfect for breakfasts and brunches. While away the hours by taking a dip in the private pool, or by listening to the jukebox - heck, go crazy and do both at the same time.

Welcome wild and free countryside living at Wild Furze. This unusual home boasts striking windows and architecture; both of which have breathed life back into the building, and allow the light to pour in and offer sublime views to be seen out. The coast isn’t really within walking distance, however, should you have a car, head to the Atlantic beach in Bude for some surfing, sunbathing, or a brisk seaside walk depending on the time of year.

A Victorian style of life springs to mind with this home, from its stunning period interiors and decor to its proximity to the sea (why sea-bathing is the cure for everything from general malaise to deadly diseases, my dear). Oh, and not forgetting that portrait of Vicky herself over the bath. There’s also a vast indoor jungle of plants, including a giant Calathea (the house is located in the garden of England after all). Calathea is just a short walk from the beach, but you’d be forgiven if you never wanted to leave.

Just one look at the enchanting entrance and door to Thyme & Sage and you instantly know you’re in for a magical and unique stay. The rose-covered stone house is built in a quintessential Cotswolds style and has been owned and treasured by host Gilly and her family since 1920. The 6-bedroom house is 15 minutes from Cheltenham should you want to pop to the old spa town or go shopping in the historic streets. With a swimming pool, tennis court, and even a zip wire in the garden, you might be alright just staying in though…

With a name like that you’d think it was Gwen’s portrait and Gwen’s alone that hangs in this warren-like home, but in fact, dozen (if not a hundred) of portraits line its walls. One of the home’s best secret features is its very own bar, so you can have a night on the antique tiles just several feet from your bed. For a day out, take a trip to Shakespeare’s birthplace Stratford-Upon-Avon, to learn all about the historic town and its famous playwright. If all else fails, study the family history at home on the walls (let us know if you find Gwen).

Be at one with nature and take a trip to the Jurassic coast to stay at this charming working farm, comprising a stunning farmhouse and two adjoining cottages. Immerse yourself in the outdoor bathtub and take the opportunity to really unwind in the natural surroundings. Breakfast each morning is an absolute treat - think lots of fresh farmyard produce, including fresh eggs, milk and butter. If you do get cabin fever, head out to the rolling Dorset downs for a brisk walk.

It may be more miniature than its contemporaries on this list, but this property is larger than life thanks to its uniqueness. Nestled in the Cotswolds countryside in Stroud, there’s plenty to explore inside and out at The Little House. Personally, we’d make a beeline for the hot tub spa in the garden and follow it with a nap in the garden tipi. There’s a hearth to warm yourself by and enjoy an evening glass of red, or you could venture out and visit one of the many charming pubs in the are.

The perfect blend of old and new can be found at this regal house, located at the edge of a wooded Cotswold hamlet. Part of an estate, it’s a treasure trove of rooms full of character and surprises, including The Silver Knight himself. We imagine you’ll want to spend a lot of time in the games room, the hot tub, and, if you can find it, the secret cinema.

There are stylish homes and then there’s The Early Risers. If Bruce Wayne had a house in Devon, we’re 99% sure this is what it would look like. Sleek, cool, and sophisticated - it’s beyond aesthetically-pleasing. There’s the gravity-defying fireplace, slick grey contemporary furnishings and finishes, an excellently stocked bar, and a phenomenal glass wall looking out to sea. Fix yourself a stiff drink and gaze out to the Woolacombe shoreline while you plot world domination (or just what you’re going to have for dinner. Fish and chips surely? Get Alfred on the case).

A weekend of wholesome delights awaits at The Potting Shed, a recently renovated 16th Century farmhouse – complete with a vegetable patch, crumbling romantic greenhouse, and original Victorian brickwork in the garden. Potter around the property’s patch of greenery and check out the pool, then keep on pottering down the road until you reach Sissinghurst gardens and castle - once the home of Virginia Woolf’s lover Vita Sackville-West and one of the most beautiful gardens in England (no offence to the Potting Shed).

Georgian elegance meets modern style at this majestic house in Holcombe, Somerset. Although named after a rather icy continent, there’s nothing cold about this home-from-home. Thoughtful design is the house’s life force - even the little wooden pagoda outside is beautifully adorned with bunting. The historic city of Bath is 12 miles away should you wish to venture out and visit Royal Victoria Park, or the Roman Baths and their hot springs, which date back to 44AD.