Willoughby's

Willoughby's: Kent

This spectacular Jacobean manor blends a tapestry of rich history with a modern, eco-friendly future. Set in a 500 acre estate on an organic dairy farm, this house is a sanctuary for lovers of the English countryside and would be the perfect escape for large groups and families. Original 17th century facets like the thatched dining room, diamond pane and stained glass windows have been preserved. There are parlours and living rooms for every mood, from the library with crimson leather sofas to the wood panelled drawing room for cosy nights by the fire.

Similarly there is a dining room for each meal. Morning sun streams into the breakfast room, while you can live out period drama fantasies in the grand Jacobean dining hall. The kitchen is well suited for cooking big meals, equipped with an Aga and lots of worktop space. Each light-filled bedroom has its own character, oozing rustic English charm, and the beds can be separated into twins on request.

The natural surroundings will imbue you with a sense of peace. The house looks onto a pond and verdant gardens, and there are plenty of footpaths leading off the estate through the untamed countryside – some to excellent local pubs. Your hosts have made every effort for the estate to be eco-friendly, using green energy for heating and water and a rewilding project in the gardens. On warmer days you can enjoy Pimms and a barbecue on the lawn, surrounded by Arcadian beauty.

Home truths:
*Staff live in homes on the estate, however, groups will have the house and garden to themselves when they stay
*The home is part of a working organic farm – keep an eye out for tractors and farm machinery
*Well behaved dogs are welcome to accompany you
*The beds can be made up as singles upon request