At Host Unusual we go out of our way to find you the mostunique, spectacular holiday properties to rent in the UK. February might not bea time of the year when you’re typically thinking of a staycation. But whatbetter way to show your partner how much you love them than by booking asurprise Valentine’s Day break for two at one of our featured romantic properties? FromPoldark country on the south coast of Cornwall to historic Pembroke and five-starretreats in the rugged Scottish Highlands, we’ve got the entire UK covered.
So, if you’re stuck for an original, inspired Valentine’sDay gift this year, take a look at this little lot.
HarbourLights: England/Charlestown, Cornwall
This 18th century former fish and net cellar inPoldark country was known as the ‘Loo with a View’ when it was convertedinto public conveniences. After another, more dramatic recent transformation it is now a luxurious, pet-friendlytwo-bedroom holiday home. With spectacular views over the bay and harbour ofpicturesque Charlestown on the south Cornwall coast, reclaimed timber décor, andunderfloor heating, it’s a spectacular property to wow your loved one thisValentine’s Day. Those in the know might remember seeing it featured on GeorgeClarke’s Amazing Spaces programme.
EastTower Gazebo: Wales/Pembroke,Pembrokeshire
Ever wanted to live insidean historic monument with its very own secret walled garden? That’s exactlywhat you get with this elegantly restored property, which sits on top of thetown walls in historic Pembroke. The castle town in south-west Wales was birthplaceto King Henry VII, and your loved one will feel like royalty as they luxuriatein surroundings that perfectly marry past with present.
Old Smock Mill: England/Cranbrook, Kent
If you’re looking for atruly unique property to take your partner’s breath away this Valentine’s Day,then look no further than the Old Smock Mill. This beautifully restored 19thcentury mill, later used as a gunner’s outlook during World War II, stillretains many of its original cogs, wheels and pulleys, alongside a cosy, woodburning-effect stove. It’s the perfect place to cuddle up for a romanticweekend this February.
The Stonehouses:Scotland/Ullapool, Western Ross
The Stonehouses – Curved StoneHouse and Treetop House – are a must for any couple looking for an eco break inbeautiful countryside, but with all the comforts of home. Both feature saunas,under-floor heating and wood burning stoves, with solar power used to heat thewater. Built out of stone, turf and glass as a labour of love by owners Gavinand Rachel and a team of local craftspeople, Highland breaks don’t get more spectacularthan this. And with Ullapool just a 10-minute walk away you’re never far fromlocal pubs, shops and restaurants.
Temple of Diana: England/Shifnal, Shropshire
Properties don’t get moreromantic than this architectural gem, nestled in the thousand acres ofShropshire’s Weston Park. It’s hard not to feel humbled by the lavishsurroundings as you relax in the stunning orangery, or sit down to eat in theoctagonal-shaped dining room. Built in the 1760s and designed by famedarchitect James Paine, it’s also an excellent base to explore the surroundingrolling countryside, or try your hand at one of many outdoor activities onoffer – including hot air ballooning and horse-drawn carriage rides.
Hex Cottage: England/Sibton,Suffolk
If you yearn for thesimpler things in life, and want a romantic break away undisturbed by modernstresses and strains, this is the property for you. Surrounded by woodland andset in its own meadow, the thatched-rooved Hex Cottage has no mains electricity- meaning you’ll pass the evenings by candlelight. An Esse wood-fired rangecooker supplies the cottage with heating and endless hot water, while an openlog fire, comfy sofa and fluffy rug complete the idyllic setting.
The Knoll Tower: England/Shifnal, Shropshire
A fairytale castle for yourdream Valentine’s break? Go on then. Built around 1865 as a hunting lodge forthe third Earl of Bradford, this three-floor property is filled with characterand charm. And with the lounge opening out onto a decked roof terrace, you’llbe able to take in spectacular views of the surrounding Weston Park and TempleWood, designed by non-other than famed English landscape architect CapabilityBrown.
Sound of Harris: Scotland/Isleof Harris
For some, a romantic break away shouldn’t bespoiled by any interruptions. Well, beautiful serenity in breath taking naturalsurroundings is exactly what you’ll get here. From your luxury, open planliving room – complete with vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows – youmight even be able to spot harbour porpoises, dolphins and grey seals in TheSound outside. The owners will source superb local seafood for you on request,or you can try your hand at fishing for something even fresher.
Elmley Nature Reserve Shepherd’s Huts: England/Sheerness, Kent
Only an hour from Londonbut a world away from the hustle, bustle and pollution of the Big Smoke liesthe UK’s only nature reserve which allows guests to stay overnight. Wake upwith the local wildlife of the beautiful Isle of Sheppey literally on your doorstep.This area has been the inspiration for photographers, artists and writers forhundreds of years. And the huts themselves take glamping to a whole new level,replete with fully fitted kitchen and en suite bathroom.
ChewtonGlen Treehouses: England/NewForest, Hampshire
Want to whisk your loved one away to a sensational treetopretreat? Then this is for you. Suspended 35 feet above ground, these luxuriousstudio apartments come with their own mini-kitchenette, flat screen TV andprivate outdoor hot tub, where you can soak away your cares with a glass ofbubbles as the sun goes down over the treetops. The hotel at Chewton Glen isjust a short walk away if you fancy using the spa, swimming pool or otherfacilities, and room service can be delivered to your treehouse, including ajam-packed breakfast hamper every morning.
Editor’s Choice
Our Top 10 Romantic Getaways for Valentine’s Day / In the mood for love!
4 January 2017
