Together By The River

Together By The River: Hertfordshire

Set in three acres of private gardens, this Regency period home is the best of country and village living. Towering oaks and evergreens line the manicured lawn, so it feels like you’re completely secluded from the world. Dotted throughout the gardens you’ll find plenty to entertain the kids – a slide, trampoline and sandpit. Let the kids run free on the lawn as grown-ups enjoy a cool drink on the terrace, or perhaps head down to the comfy sofa seats right by the river at the bottom of the garden. Inside, a wall of bookshelves and a wood-burning stove in the living room keep things cosy and there’s a fully-stocked pantry. Chefs will be in their element in the big, family kitchen where a chrome range cooker and huge fridge wouldn’t look out of place in a professional kitchen. Should work, or a work-out, call there’s a dedicated office upstairs with a Peloton bike and exercise balls for those sticking to a strict schedule. In terms of location, you’ve got woodland walks right on your doorstep (just cross the wooden bridge from the garden) and you’re in the heart of charming Standon village. Cosy country pubs, bakeries and shops are an easy walk, and it’s an hour’s drive from London if you crave a day in the big city.

Home truths:
*The sixth bedroom has a permanent cot set up for infants and can accommodate a couple on an airbed if necessary
*There is also a high chair for infants and plenty of toys for children
*Your host can arrange for caterers and beauticians to come to the house if you like
*The host kindly requests that outdoor noise be kept to a minimum after 9pm
*This is a lived-in family home so some of the owners' personal belongings are stored here
*Security cameras are in operation outside this home
*There is plenty of free parking on premises