Living the Big House Experience: Escape to Grandeur & Cottage Charm

When was the last time you truly savoured the big house experience? When every room tells a story, every corner whispers comfort, and memories are made under a roaring fire or beneath starlit skies? If you’re yearning for something more than a typical holiday cottage, the big houses across the Southwest, Cotswolds, Dorset and Somerset offer just that—a fusion of rustic charm, opulent space, and that warm, cottagey feel that wraps you in peace.

At The Big House Co, our portfolio of big houses is specially chosen for discerning groups who crave space without sacrificing character. Think manor-style grandeur nestled in rolling hills, long dining tables for feasting, games rooms for laughter, soft rugs in cozy lounges, and huge gardens where dawn mist lingers over lush lawns. It’s where cottage comfort meets stately luxury—a true big house experience.

Luxury big house in the English countryside at sunset, golden light over gardens.
Luxury big house in the English countryside at sunset, golden light over gardens.

Why Choose a Big House over a Cottage?

Aspect A typical cottage A big house from The Big House Co
Space Intimate, charming, small group friendly Rooms upon rooms: grand dining halls, indoor pools, tennis courts, huge gardens
Group-Friendly Often for families or couples Ideal for reunions, retreats, big celebrations with friends, hens, stags
Facilities Basic kitchen, maybe single lounge Luxuries like hot tubs, indoor pools, games rooms, sauna; every amenity to make your stay indulgent and unforgettable
Privacy & Flexibility Often close neighbours, limited parking Secluded locations, plenty of room to spread out, so your rhythm is your own
Elegant living room at Tysoe Manor, Cotswolds with period furniture, chandelier and large windows — perfect for group gatherings and celebrations.

Highlight Properties for a True Big House Experience

Here are some of our most beloved big houses — each one has its own personality, all delivering that rare blend of magnitude and mindfulness. Click through to explore more, and keep reading to picture yourself already there…

  • Somerset Manor — Very large rooms, classic manor setting. Sleeps up to 26.
Luxury home cinema room at Somerset Manor with large projector screen and cosy seating — perfect for movie nights with family and friends.
Elegant living room at Somerset Manor with plush sofas, grand piano and bay windows overlooking the gardens.
Vibrant party space at Somerset Manor with bar stools, fairy lights and colourful disco lighting — ideal for evening celebrations.
Light-filled drawing room at Tatham House, Somerset with classic furnishings and large windows.
Luxury indoor swimming pool at Tatham House, Somerset with garden views and lounge seating.
Spacious bedroom at Tone Dale House, Somerset with exposed beams and crisp white linens, perfect for large group stays.
Grand living room at Tone Dale House, Somerset with elegant period décor, large windows and comfortable seating for groups.
Impressive dining room at Tone Dale House with long banquet-style table, perfect for large group meals and celebrations.
haracterful games room at Tone Dale House featuring a pool table and classic wood panelling — ideal for relaxed evenings.
  • Cotswold Manor — Beautiful countryside vibes + the emphasis on comfort.
Bright country kitchen at Cotswold Manor with wooden worktops, white cabinets and exposed beams — perfect for group cooking and dining.

Cottage Words That Feel Like Home

When you arrive at one of our big houses, you can expect those cottage-style touches that make every stay feel deeply relaxing:

  • Warm textiles: Sheepskin throws, woollen rugs, linen curtains

  • Fireplaces & woodburners: Crackling logs, glowing embers, marshmallows optional but strongly encouraged

  • Timeless interiors: Exposed beams, stone walls, soft lighting

  • Country gardens & woodlands: Dawn chorus, morning dew, evening fireflies

  • Homely kitchens: Big ranges, bulky pans, herbs growing by the window, long tables made for lingering

These little qualities make the big house experience more than just staying somewhere large—they make it feel like home, magnified.

Tips for Planning Your Big House Break

  1. Decide your ideal group size — Our big houses cater from 16 up to 32+ guests. Smaller groups might still prefer a big house for the space.

  2. Check facilities — Want an indoor pool? Hot tub? Games room? Dogs allowed? Use the feature filters on Our Big Houses to narrow down the right match.

  3. Think seasons — Winter stays = cosy fires and plush quilts; summer breaks = gardens, terraces, al fresco dining.

  4. Plan communal meals — Big kitchens + long dining rooms = perfect for group cook-ups or hiring private chefs.

  5. Pack for comfort — Soft slippers, favourite board games, and nature walks; these elevate the ambience.

The Big House Experience Awaits

Whether it’s a family reunion, a weekend with friends, a retreat with meaning, or just a spontaneous getaway, the big houses from The Big House Co offer something extraordinary. You’re not just booking a place to stay — you’re stepping into a setting made for laughter, togetherness, reflection, and that luxury-without-pretension feel.

Ready to plan your getaway? Browse more of The Big House Co’s stunning properties here and let us help you design the perfect escape for your group.

For enquiries and to discuss your specific requirements, simply visit our Contact Us page, email us at party@thebighouseco.com, or call +44 (0)1823 662673.

The Big House Company
Big enough for everyone. Personal enough to feel like home.