The Pilgrim's Keep

The Pilgrim's Keep: Wiltshire

As unusual as it is unique, you can tell a designer has been working their magic at this exquisite Wiltshire retreat, set on a working family farm on the edge of historic Avebury.

Splashes of bright colours, rich textiles, and statement ceramics make this country bolt hole anything but twee. And thanks to its high vaulted ceiling, it’s a home flooded with natural daylight. Hunker down on the very-sinkable sofa with a good book. Get together for a hearty cook-up breakfast at the dining table –⁠ your host can deliver fresh farm produce right to your barn door. Or sneak back to the king-sized bed with tea and toast – the welcome hamper delivers all the goods.

When the charming shared landscaped terrace finally lures you outside, you’ll be in for a treat. There are plenty of sunny spots to relax in or step up the pace with a bracing walk around the unspoiled countryside – you’re right in the heart of a World Heritage site with paths leading from the farm. And no visit here would be complete without a pilgrimage to Avebury’s Neolithic stone circle (a three-minute drive away or twenty-five-minute stroll) – with a pitstop to the local inn afterward, naturally.

Home truths:
*You’ll check in with a lockbox and code
*There’s ample private parking
*The bedroom is on an open mezzanine floor reached via a ladder staircase
*There are five other holiday rentals on the site, as well as two buildings suitable for events – enquire with the host if you're interested in hiring the whole space
*If you're here as a larger group, there's a pergola in the courtyard so you can gather
*Up to two well-behaved dogs are welcome – they need to behave around farm animals and stay downstairs
*There's laptop-friendly space for remote working
*A child's cot can be provided on request
*A welcome hamper is provided
*There is a coal barbecue and firepit for guest's use but you’ll need to bring your own logs or charcoal