Nine weird and wonderful cottages within two hours drive of London
Whether you live in London and want a change from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life or you wish to visit the city but don’t want to stay too close, we’ve got a cottage just for you. From Hobbit Houses to Horseboxes, we’ve found a selection of weird and wonderful cottages that throw you into the countryside and let you experience nature and seclusion at its best,
1. Cottage in Sussex
Location: Sussex
Distance from London: Two hours
Sleeps: Two
Located near the town of Robertsbridge, Cottage in Sussex is not one of your typical cottages in Sussex; it’s actually a refurbished showman’s carriage from 1894. With mahogany furnishings, large mirrors and ornate ceilings, this carriage takes you back in time. Views from the carriage overlook an orchard and Bodiam Castle. You can relax on the leafy veranda in a quiet, peaceful setting. Traditional pubs and small villages are nearby, and you can easily explore the countryside. There is also a farm shop on site.
2. The Fishing Lodge
Location: Rochester
Distance from London: Just over one hour
Sleeps: Two
On the shores of St Andrew’s Lake lies The Fishing Lodge. Slightly over an hour’s drive to London but worth the extra mileage, the lodge immerses you in nature. Enjoy stunning views of a lake you can swim and fish in, as well a hot tub to relax. With a modern, well-furnished theme throughout the cabin, you can be sure to enjoy being inside this property just as much as being outside. Rochester is nearby, with days out to Rochester Castle and Cathedral readily available.
3. Greenwich Hall
Location: London
Distance from London: One hour
Sleeps: 24
Greenwich Hall is in the popular London suburb of Eltham. This property is for those who enjoy a bit of grand luxury. With panelled walls, chandeliers and welcoming staircases, it’s decorated in the style of an English country house. It also has modern luxuries such as a sauna, gym and games room. London’s attractions are only a short train ride away, so there is lots to do.
4. Kub House
Location: Tring
Distance from London: Just over one hour
Sleeps: Two
This curious, industrial-looking cube-shaped property is aptly named Kub House. It’s situated between Tring and Berkhamsted, just over an hour away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Surrounded by trees in a private garden, nature of all kinds roam free, as you observe through large windows. The property uses every inch of space in the most stylish of ways. with modern furniture and technology throughout.
5. Hobbit House
Location: Sussex
Distance from London: Two hours
Sleeps: Four
The Hobbit House in Robertsbridge, Sussex, is a strange but wonderful property to explore. Based on the Hobbit’s houses from J.R.R Tolkein’s imagination, this property has been carefully designed and constructed. Almost every wall in the property is curved, and the main living space is a large domed area with a starry ceiling. Nearby is Bodiam Castle, which could compare to Helms Deep. This property is very different and would be great for Lord of the Rings fans of any age.
6. Bumble Barn
Location: Kent
Distance from London: Two hours
Sleeps: Six
Bumble Barn is an ultra-modern eco barn based in Elmsted. The barn is surrounded by the Kent countryside, with views over lush green fields and not far from the North Downs, making it perfect for walks. The barn has a stylish interior with an open living space filled with light. With curved walls and modern technology, including infra-red floor heating, this is the future of eco-living. The nearest beach is nine miles away, and Canterbury is only a ten-mile journey, with the incredible cathedral to visit.
7. Secret Island Yurt
Location: Cotswolds
Distance from London: Just over two hours
Sleeps: Two
Just over a two-hour drive from London is the Secret Island Yurt. A well-furnished yurt on an island in the middle of a large lake, filled with wildlife. The island and lake are private to this property, which also comes with a boat so you can relax on the water. The yurt is two floors with amenities including a sauna, hot tub and king size bed. The real attraction for self catering in the Cotswold is the wildlife and a sense of being detached from the world. There are some wonderful villages to visit such as Stow-on-the-Wold.
8. Hattie the Horsebox
Location: Kent
Distance from London: Two hours
Sleeps: Two
Hattie the Horsebox has been transformed from a working horsebox to an ideal place to unwind and escape the everyday. Located in the Kent countryside, Hattie brings an alternative way of experiencing the outdoors. Inside the horsebox is a stylish living area, complete with a kitchen, bed and wood effect fire. Outside there is a gravel drive with a fire pit, hot tub, table and sun umbrella. It’s a five-minute walk to the local shops, and there is a lot of countryside to explore.
9. Ascot Manor
Location: Ascot
Distance from London: One hour
Sleeps: 30
Ascot Manor is based in the town of Ascot, best known for its horse racing events. This house is certainly different with a pool, jacuzzi and lake. With the main house sleeping 18 guests, the Gatehouse and Lodge sleep another 12. Inside, the furnishings are very much suited to a traditional manor, with luxury being the main focus. Nearby by are a selection of golf courses, Windsor Castle, Legoland, and the racecourse. This is a breathtaking property, perfect for a celebration.
