Nadder Valley Barn, Barford St Martin, Wiltshire - Explore & Book
"Decades ago, this was a horse barn, home to a pony and trap for the Main House, with a stable lad sleeping in the eaves. It was then used to house livestock, and later filled with junk; when owners Clare and Barnaby bought it – along with their beautiful Georgian house – it was practically derelict. But with admirable vision, they've completely rebuilt the old barn into a timber-clad structure, with a soaring pitched roof above the most amazing open-plan living area, and a contemporary wing of black corrugated steel housing 2 bedrooms. Stylewise, it's a stylish haven of boho-chic fabrics and antique furnishings. The original brick floor (now with underfloor heating), is softened by geometric rugs, while battered leather armchairs are made cosy with Moroccan cushions and Indian throws. Everywhere you look there's something of interest: a floor-to-ceiling dresser of mismatched crockery, vintage signs in the utility room, and a deep-blue hallway with rustic garden furniture and sprawling plants. Out in the garden, there are spots for sitting and dining whilst soaking in the views of the patchwork of green and golden fields. There's even a natural swimming pond for refreshing morning dips. And with lots of foodie pubs, charming villages, and iconic Stonehenge and Salisbury nearby, the Nadder Valley is the ideal backdrop to a quintessentially English holiday. Highs A plunge in the natural 18m swimming pond is the perfect way to start the day Sweeping views from endless windows, out over thatched rooftops to the green Nadder Valley A suntrap terrace for lazy lunches The incredible master bedroom, with a four-poster bed, palm-papered dressing room and rolltop bath There's tons of space both indoors and out; even with 5 people you won't feel remotely cramped Lows No restaurant within walking distance but self-catering here is a joy The second bedroom is a small double in the eaves, with a child's bed alongside it. It has its own bathroom, though Note that the owners' house is on the road below, and the 2 gardens connect, though you're completely private No dogs permitted" - Liz Simpson
