Cosy getaways

Imagine coming in from the cold, after exploring our UK winter wonderlands, to a crackling fire to nourish and warm the soul. Find rest and respite at these splendid hideaways. By Tess de Klerk

COSY WINTER STAYS

BAR LODGE, HELSTON, CORNWALL This picture-perfect lodge was built over a century ago, perched just above Loe Bar Beach. Head down to the beach for a stroll, and explore the woodlands behind the lodge before admiring the fabled Cornish sunsets from the roof terrace. Or stay in nice and cosy, playing board games in front of the multi-fuel stove. Bar Lodge is in a prime location for exploring some of Cornwall’s most stunning scenery. The Lizard and Kynance Cove are less than a 40-minute drive away. The Helford River, famous for its links with Daphne du Maurier, is a 40-minute drive to the east. Nearby Helston is interesting for its folk heritage and beautiful Georgian and Victorian architecture.

Sleeps 6, 3 bedrooms Minimum stay of 3 nights From £1,169 for 3 nights www.nationaltrust.org.uk/holidays/bar-lodge-cornwall TREEHOUSE LODGE

IRONBRIDGE, SHROPSHIRE Nestled in the treetops is this beautiful lodge for a perfect romantic retreat. It is small and intimate but with everything you might need for a comfortable stay whilst feeling fully immersed in the surrounding nature. Treehouse Lodge is hidden away on a working farm with cattle while being only 3.5 miles from the world-famous Ironbridge, where you can visit museums, independent shops, pubs and restaurants. Fishermen will appreciate the River Severn, walkers can enjoy numerous paths along the Ironbridge Gorge and in the Shropshire Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Sleeps 2, 1 bedroom Minimum stay of 7 nights 7 nights from £500 www.holidaycottages.co.uk

THE OLD OAK AT COLEMAN’S FARM

ONGAR, ESSEX Feel the heartbeat of the 500 year old oak around which this fairytale treehouse is built, its boughs and trunk twist through the centre of this storybook-worthy place. Soak in the bathtub while enjoying the view from the huge adjacent window and snuggle on the soft rugs in front of the fire. Head out onto the balcony to enjoy the sunsets and the starry skies. Listen as the wind blows through the leaves and watch as the wildlife gathers around the lake as the miles of Essex countryside disappear into the distance.

Sleeps 2, 1 bedroom £250-300 per night https://colemans-farm.co.uk/ accommodation/the-old-oakat-colemans-farm

DEVON DENS

BEAWORTHY, DEVON Leave the gadgets behind and experience nature at its finest with a stay at this award-winning, eco-hideout in the West Devonshire countryside. There is no wi-fi or mobile phone signal (landline is available), which guarantees your digital detox. Devon Dens have an uber-green ethos with solar power, dry toilets and wood burners. The cabin is a gorgeous space for families and friends to gather and feast with its own outdoor space, games, books and access to a wood-fired sauna.

Sleeps up to 6, 2 bedrooms Minimum stay of 3 nights From £140 per night https://devondens.co.uk/the-devon-den

❛❛ Row on the lake and explore the Surrey Hills by day before snuggling up in front of the log burner at night ❜❜

THE CABIN ON THE LAKE NEWDIGATE, SURREY

This rustic log cabin is perfect for romantic retreats or a countryside escape with the family. It is set on its own island in the middle of a fishing lake, accessed only on foot by a wooden walkway. Row on the lake and explore the Surrey Hills by day before snuggling up in front of the log burner at night.

Sleeps 4, 2 bedrooms Minimum stay of 3 nights £275-375 per night www.bestlogcabin.co.uk