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.
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 |
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…
-
Tysoe Manor, Cotswolds — Sleeps 22. Pool, tennis court, games room… you’ll want to linger.
- Somerset Manor — Very large rooms, classic manor setting. Sleeps up to 26.
-
Tatham House, Somerset — Deluxe touches: indoor pool, hot tub, spacious rooms.
-
Tone Dale House, Somerset — More than just a house: a house with heart. Great for parties, big families.
- Cotswold Manor — Beautiful countryside vibes + the emphasis on comfort.
- And others… Cheltenham House, Padstow Manor, Cotswold Park, Painswick – Cotswolds, Stawley Barns, Dorset Lodge, Bampton Longhouse, Midlands House, Devon Farmhouse (16+). All waiting to deliver that quintessential big house stay. You can see them on our Our Big Houses page.
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
-
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.
-
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.
-
Think seasons — Winter stays = cosy fires and plush quilts; summer breaks = gardens, terraces, al fresco dining.
-
Plan communal meals — Big kitchens + long dining rooms = perfect for group cook-ups or hiring private chefs.
-
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.
