We can’t quite believe it’s August already, but maybe it’s because we’reso busy searching around the clock to find new and unusual places for our discerning Host Unusual followers to enjoy!
Ever stayed on a mannequin recycling site? Us neither – but with a gorgeous log cabin in this most unique setting we want to now, and we are sure you will too! Two new forest spots have also arrived on the website this month, as we head into the woods in Norfolk and Hampshire to see what exciting thingsForest Holidays have planned. Lastly, a TV comedy icon enjoys a renaissance with her historic cottage which retains its quirky nostalgic style in a scenic riverside conservation area in Yorkshire – can you guess who it is?
Probably one of the quirkiest settings you could think of for an unusualplace to stay – a commercial mannequin recycling yard! There will be photo oppportunities a-plenty at The Mannakin Cabin. This unique log cabinis expertly crafted and inside the bright decor is complemented by sofas, a wood burner – and of course the occasional mannequin! An east-facing deck looks out over the pretty Lincolnshire Ridge, and onsite stabling means you can even bring your horse along to explore thearea on horseback; there are some fantastic riding spots directly accessible from the cabin’s site. Keep a look-out too for some of the owner’s friendly felines who may pay you the occasional visit.
Forest Holidays Blackwood Forest
Our first of two Forest Holidays destinations takes us to beautiful Hampshire and a towering forest of beech trees, perfect for a spot of late summer forest bathing. Blackwood Forestcomprises Oak, Birch and Beech cabins, along with Treehouses, fusing beautiful design with luxury touches, yet all perfectly in tune with their surroundings. Eco-friendly Anyah amenities, outdoor decks and BBQs, hot tubs, hammocks; you name it, you’ll find something to entice you here. Take guided tours with your very own Forest Ranger, enjoy an in-cabin massage, or maybe head out and explore the New Forest or Highclere Castle – a Jacobethan country house and filming location for Downton Abbey! Save 10% on holidays taken before the end of 31 Dec 2017 at this location – see the listing for more details.
Another woodland hideaway designed by architects for Forest Holidayswith plenty to offer – this time in popular Norfolk, close to the Suffolk border. Thorpe Forestis located on the banks of the River Thet, and is a wonderland of pines, broadleaf trees and open heathland. The accommodation offers a similar mix of cabins and treehouses to the Blackwood Forest site, and the setting is equally magical. A truly wild terrain, here you can spot Muntjac deer, pheasants and tawny owls, or enjoy some of the excellent activities on offer such as canoeing, geocaching or clay pigeon shooting. That’s before you even leave the grounds of the site, where you’ll discover glorious beaches, BeWILDerwood and quaint villages closeby. Save 10% on holidays taken before the end of 31 Dec 2017 at this location – see the listing for more details.
A timewarp trip now to the Yorkshire Dales and the chance to stay in oneof the most famous households in British TV comedy. Nora Batty is fondly remembered as the formidable, iconic battleaxe in the popular series Last of the Summer Wine, and now her Holmfirth homeis open to holidaymakers for a truly unique vacation experience! On heading up those familiar stone steps and through the famous front door you’ll discover a quaint and nostalgic vintage retreat, just as Nora left it herself. This surprisingly spacious three-storey cottage has twobedrooms sleeping up to four guests, and fans of the long-running series will be delighted to discover Compo’s underdwelling below Nora’s steps, which now forms part of an exhibition next door dedicated to the programme!
