Tennyson House is a wonderful Cotswolds retreat for a large family or group of good friends. Little ones will love the games room, while the drawing room, kitchen and huge private garden are perfect for socialising
Tennyson House is one of twelve luxury holiday cottages set within the peaceful grounds of an historic country estate near Chipping Norton in the Cotswolds. It’s a very spacious property with five en-suite bedrooms, a games room, a drawing room, a dining room and a large kitchen, as well as front and back gardens that feature dining areas, a croquet lawn and even a small formal courtyard with box hedging. It’s a brilliant option for a multi-generational family holiday or a reunion with good friends and offers plenty of privacy. However, you’ll also have access to shared facilities in the estate grounds including the communal gardens, an indoor swimming pool, a gym and a spa, as well as a host of children’s play areas.
The moment you set eyes on the house you’ll know that your stay will be very special. The private driveway is flanked by yew hedges and leads to a delightful formal courtyard with box hedges and topiary.
Step inside the hall and you’ll feel the family home atmosphere, beginning with the rocking horse and doll’s house that are proudly on display.
The dining room is a wonderful place for evening meals and celebratory dinners around the 10ft-long antique table that seats 10 people. Meanwhile, the kitchen has everything you will need to cater for such occasions. There’s a large island unit with stools where people can help the cook to prep, while kitchen essentials include an American-style fridge/freezer with water dispenser and ice-maker, a separate fridge for drinks, a range cooker and two dishwashers. Both rooms have underfloor heating. Doors lead from the kitchen to one of the terraces that has a vine-covered pergola where you can dine al fresco.
There’s also a handy utility room with a washing machine and tumble dryer, as well as space to hang coats and store muddy boots.
Off the dining room is the games room, which features an 82″ flat-screen TV with surround sound, shelves filled with books, a cupboard full of children’s toys, beanbags and a play den under the stairs that’s full of dressing up clothes. There’s plenty of seating too and it is an ideal spot for gathering for drinks and laughter, whilst a French door leads out onto the north terrace.
If you’re holidaying with family and friends who have booked other cottages at the estate, there is the option to re-configure the games room into a large dining area for up to 20 people (or even 30 if you include the table for 10 in the kitchen). It’s perfect for celebrating a special occasion all together.
Meanwhile, the drawing room is an elegant and cosy place to spend time. The focal point is the Gothic arched stone fireplace, while the high-pitched ceiling and beams are equally impressive. There are views over the gardens, sofa seating, a TV and stunning details including a Savonnerie-style rug and antique buttoned French chairs.
Three of the bedrooms are downstairs. The double bedroom has a king-size, four-poster bed, a French door leading onto the south terrace and an en-suite shower room. The twin bedroom has a French feel with two 19th-century French beds and a Louis XVI chair and there’s an en-suite shower room. The third bedroom has twin, four-poster beds, French doors leading to the outside and an en-suite bathroom with a bath and a shower over. All these bedrooms have a sofa, chair and a writing table.
The other two bedrooms are upstairs on the first floor and occupy the full width of the house. These bedrooms are particularly tranquil spaces, so are ideal for those in the group that need their peace and quiet. The twin room is adorned with antique pieces including a campaign wardrobe and chest, plus a rare twin-basin vanity unit in the en-suite bathroom that also has a bath and a separate shower. The final bedroom has a 6ft-wide half tester bed, whilst a narrow set of stairs leads to the en-suite bath and shower room.
Outside, there are gardens and terraces to the front and back of the house, so depending on your preference you can find the sun or shade. There’s a barbecue area, seating and dining areas, a lawn to enjoy croquet on, an Italian-style courtyard, a hammock and, for little ones, a swing and a seesaw.
You’ll also have access to the estate’s stunning gardens which feature a mix of formal and informal elements, the perfect place for a quiet stroll. There’s also access to shared facilities including an indoor swimming pool, spa and gym, as well as several children’s play areas and the teens’ games room.
